Mirrorless Camera News

Nikon has introduced a new Z series mirrorless camera that will sell for under $860. This new budget-oriented camera is the Nikon Z50, which uses an APS-C sized (aka DX-format), 20.9MP sensor.

While the new Nikon Z50 features some of the same basic features as its more expensive siblings – the Nikon Z6 and Z7 – including the large Z lens mount to let in more light, when the Z50 goes on sale in November 2019, it will retail for $859.95, body only. In contrast, the 25.4MP Z6 sells for $2000 and the 45.7MP Z7 sells for $2800, body only. The main difference with those models though is that they both feature full frame (aka FX-format) image sensors.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z50 is being marketed as a less expensive, lightweight camera that's aimed at a broader swath of photographers, from beginners to more advanced shooters who might want a second lightweight body in their bags. The Nikon Z50 weighs just 14 ounces (body only) and is small enough to slide into a coat poacket.

The Nikon Z50 is being sold with two new companion Nikkor Z DX lenses: the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR and Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR. The 16-50mm lens is extremely compact for its zoom range, almost resembling a pancake lens.

Photographers will be able to buy the Nikon Z50 as a one-lens kit with the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm lens for $999.95, and as a two-lens with the Nikkor Z 16-50mm and NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm for $1349.95.

Here's a rundown of the key features of the new Nikon Z50 mirrorless camera and Nikkor Z DX lenses:

• Features a DX-format (APS-C) 20.9-megapixel CMOS sensor

• Has a lightweight and compact body with a magnesium alloy frame for increased portability and durability

• Includes a 209-point Hybrid AF System with Eye Detection AF

• Features a native ISO up to 51,200 and is capable of up to 11 fps of continuous shooting

• Offers 4K video capture with built-in 120p slow-motion, time-lapse, an interval timer as well as in-camera video trimming

• Includes Creative Picture Controls and Special Effects modes for a unique shooting style and Scene mode to streamline controls for beginners

• Features a 3.2-inch LCD flip-down screen ideal for selfie taking and vlogging

• Offers a silent shutter function for discrete shooting

• The Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR and Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR lenses boast ultra-compact designs, a 16mm flange focal distance, and in-lens optical Vibration Reduction (VR) technology

• The Nikon Z50 will be available November 2019 for an SRP of $859.95 (body-only), $999.95 (one-lens kit with the Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm lens), and $1349.95 (two-lens with the Nikkor Z 16-50mm and Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm)

We've included some exclusive photos with this story showing off the Nikon Z50 and the two new lenses, which should give you an idea of the compact size of this camera set-up.