When it comes to mirrorless cameras, Nikon has earned a well-deserved reputation for being an industry leader in the production of high-quality equipment that is designed to meet the requirements of both experienced photographers and photography amateurs. The Nikon Z5 and the Nikon Z30 are two of Nikon’s most popular mirrorless camera models, and we’re going to do a deep dive into the comparison between the two of them in this post.
We will go through their most essential characteristics, technical specifications, and performance so that you are able to make an educated choice based on the criteria that are unique to your photography.
Design and Build Quality
Because of their little size and low weight, the Nikon Z5 and the Nikon Z30 are ideal for travel and can be utilized for long periods of time without becoming cumbersome. The Z5’s body is made of magnesium alloy, which not only makes it more durable but also better seals it from the elements. In contrast, the Z30’s structure is made of polycarbonate, which is also quite sturdy.
Because of the Z5’s ergonomic grip, it is possible to maintain a pleasant and stable grasp on the camera even during extended shooting sessions. On the other hand, the Z30 has a grip that is just a tad bit smaller, making it maybe more appropriate for people who have hands that are on the smaller side.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon Z5 is equipped with a full-frame CMOS sensor that has a resolution of 24.3 megapixels, which results in excellent picture quality with a wide dynamic range and low noise performance.
The Z30, on the other hand, has a little smaller 20.9-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor than the Z5, which still delivers excellent pictures but may have significantly lower low-light performance than the Z5.
Autofocus System
Both of these cameras are equipped with Nikon’s cutting-edge hybrid autofocus technology, which combines phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus in order to achieve both precise and rapid focusing.
In comparison to the Z30, which has just 209 focus points, the Z5’s autofocus system covers a higher proportion of the frame with its 273 focus points, making it more thorough than the Z30’s. When photographing subjects that are moving quickly or under difficult lighting circumstances, you may find that this disparity in focus spots is more prominent.
Video Capabilities
Both the Nikon Z5 and the Z30 are equipped with excellent video recording capabilities, which enable users to take breathtaking videos. While the Z5 can record 4K Ultra High Definition video at a maximum of 30 frames per second, the Z30 can record 4K Ultra High Definition video at a maximum of 60 frames per second.
Both cameras come with a variety of choices for connecting an external microphone, giving you the ability to record better-quality audio for your films.
ISO Range and Low-Light Performance
The Nikon Z5 has an expanded ISO range of 100-51200, thanks to its bigger full-frame sensor. This gives the camera great low-light performance and the ability to take crisp photos in complex lighting settings. The APS-C sensor of the Z30 results in a slightly reduced ISO range of 100-25600.
While this is still an excellent range for a camera in this class, it may be marred by somewhat increased levels of noise at higher ISO settings.
Burst Shooting and Buffer Capacity
Both the Nikon Z5 and the Z30 include a variety of burst shooting modes that may be used to capture action that is happening quickly. The Z30 delivers a quick burst rate of roughly eight frames per second, which is approximately twice as fast as the Z5’s burst rate of approximately 4.5 frames per second.
Additionally, the Z5’s bigger buffer capacity enables longer continuous shooting, making it better suited for recording a succession of high-speed photos. This feature makes the Z5 superior to its predecessor in this regard.
Display and Viewfinder
Both cameras come equipped with rear LCD displays and electronic viewfinders (EVFs) that have high quality. The Z5 comes equipped with a tilting touchscreen that measures 3.2 inches and has 1.04 million dots.
This makes it possible to take photos from a variety of angles and utilize touch-based controls. The Z30, on the other hand, has a fixed LCD screen that measures 3.0 inches and has 1.04 million dots. This screen still provides a viewing experience that is crystal clear and vivid, but it does not have the tilting flexibility that the Z5 has.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Nikon Z30 | Nikon Z5 |
|---|---|---|
| Announced | June 2022 | July 2020 |
| Camera Type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Sensor Type | BSI CMOS | CMOS |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 6 | EXPEED 6 |
| Resolution | 20.9 MP | 24.3 MP |
| Pixel Dimensions | 5568×3712 | 6016×4016 |
| Sensor Dimensions | 23.5 x 15.7 mm (APS-C) | 35.9 x 23.9 mm (Full Frame) |
| Sensor Pixel Size | 4.2µ | 5.95µ |
| Low Pass Filter | No | Yes |
| IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) | No | Yes |
| Base ISO | ISO 100 | ISO 100 |
| Max Native ISO | ISO 51,200 | ISO 51,200 |
| Extended ISOs | ISO 100-204,800 | ISO 50-102,400 |
| High-Resolution Sensor Shift | No | No |
| Focus Stack Bracketing | No | Yes |
| Pre-Shoot Burst Mode | No | No |
| Fastest Shutter Speed | 1/4000 | 1/8000 |
| Longest Shutter Speed | 30 seconds | 30 seconds |
| Continuous Shooting (Mechanical) | 11 FPS | 4.5 FPS |
| Continuous Shooting (Electronic) | 11 FPS | 4.5 FPS |
| Notes for High FPS Shooting | 12-bit raw at 11 FPS | None |
| Buffer Size (Raw) | 35 frames (11 FPS) | 100 frames (4.5 FPS) |
| Autofocus System | Hybrid PDAF | Hybrid PDAF |
| Autofocus Points | 209 | 273 |
| Max Low-Light AF Sensitivity | -4 EV | -3.5 EV |
| Standard Flash Sync Speed | 1/200 | 1/200 |
| Curtain to Protect Sensor at Shutdown | No | No |
| Video Features | ||
| Max Video Bit Depth (Internal) | 8 bits | 8 bits |
| Max Video Bit Depth (External) | 8 bits | 8 bits |
| Raw Video | No | No |
| 4K Max Framerate | 30 FPS | 30 FPS |
| 1080P Max Framerate | 120 FPS | 60 FPS |
| Additional Video Crop Factor | No | 1.7x crop at 4K |
| Chroma Subsampling | 4:2:0 | 4:2:0 |
| Video Recording Limit | 125 min | 30 min |
| Physical and Other Features | ||
| Card Slots | 1 | 2 |
| Slot 1 Type | SD (UHS-I) | SD (UHS-II) |
| Slot 2 Type | N/A | SD (UHS-II) |
| Rear LCD Size (Diagonal) | 3.0 in | 3.2 in |
| Rear LCD Resolution | 1.04 million dots | 1.04 million dots |
| Articulating LCD | Fully Articulating | Single Axis |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Viewfinder | None | EVF |
| Viewfinder Magnification | N/A | 0.8x |
| Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 3.69 million dots |
| Viewfinder Coverage | N/A | 100% |
| Voice Memo | No | No |
| Headphone Jack | No | Yes |
| Microphone Jack | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Flash | No | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| USB Type | Type C 3.2 Gen 1 | Type C 3.1 |
| Battery Type | EN-EL25 | EN-EL15c |
| Battery Life (Viewfinder) | N/A | 390 frames |
| Battery Life (Rear LCD) | 330 frames | 470 frames |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (Body Only w/ Battery + Card) | 405 g (0.89 lbs.) | 675 g (1.49 lbs.) |
| Dimensions (LxHxD) | 128 x 74 x 60 mm (5.0 x 2.9 x 2.4″) | 134 x 101 x 80 mm (5.3 x 4.0 x 3.1″) |
Connectivity Options
When it comes to connection, both the Nikon Z5 and the Nikon Z30 provide a variety of choices that make it easy to transfer and share your photographs.
Both of them include built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, which make it possible to send images wirelessly to mobile devices in order to quickly share them on social media or to manage the camera remotely.
Battery Life
The duration of the battery life is a vital aspect to take into consideration, particularly for long periods of shooting or when traveling. Because the battery life of the Nikon Z5 is so amazing, at roughly 470 photos per charge, you will be able to take a large number of pictures without having to worry about having to recharge the device.
Because of its more compact size, the Z30 has a battery life that is around 360 shots less per charge than its predecessor, the Z10. It is essential to keep in mind that the battery life of your camera can be negatively impacted by a variety of things, including continuously shooting, recording video, and utilizing functions that need more power.
Price and Value for Money
When contrasting the Nikon Z5 with Z30, price is an essential factor to take into account. The Nikon Z5 is a higher-end model than the Z30, and as such, it often has a price tag that reflects this position. However, for photographers who want great image quality and performance, the Z5’s extra features, including a full-frame sensor and a more powerful focusing system, justify the camera’s higher price.
The Nikon Z30, on the other hand, provides a low-cost entry point into the Nikon mirrorless ecosystem without sacrificing any of the vital capabilities, which makes it an appealing choice for novice photographers or photographers working with a limited budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Nikon Z5 and Z30 are both outstanding mirrorless cameras that each come with their own set of benefits and qualities that set them apart from one another. Photographers that place a high value on image quality and adaptability will find the Z5 to be a fantastic choice since it features a full-frame sensor, an improved autofocus mechanism, and strong build quality.
On the other hand, the Z30 is an attractive choice for novice photographers as well as experienced photographers who are looking for a camera that is more portable and affordable. Its small size, competitive price point, and reliable performance all contribute to its overall appeal. Determine which camera is most suitable for your photography adventure by carefully weighing your own requirements, tastes, and preferences against your financial constraints.
FAQ
Q: Can I use my existing Nikon lenses with the Z5 and Z30?
A: Yes, both cameras are compatible with Nikon’s Z-mount lenses as well as F-mount lenses via an adapter.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording, the Z5 or Z30?
A: The Z30 offers higher frame rates for 4K UHD video recording, making it a more suitable choice for videographers requiring smoother motion capture.
Q: Are the Z5 and Z30 weather-sealed?
A: The Z5 features weather sealing, providing added protection against dust and moisture. The Z30 does not have weather sealing.
Q: Can I use the Z5 and Z30 for professional photography?
A: While the Z5 is better suited for professional use due to its full-frame sensor and advanced features, the Z30 can still deliver impressive results for various photography genres.
Q: Do the Z5 and Z30 have image stabilization?
A: Yes, both cameras feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), allowing for sharper handheld shots and compatibility with non-stabilized lenses.
