Capturing the world through a Nikon lens
Guide

Nikon Z5 Vs D5200: Which One Should You Buy?

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively...

What To Know

  • Additionally, the Z5 features a variety of video-centric features such as focus peaking, zebra stripes, and an external microphone input, making it a more versatile choice for videographers.
  • It has a larger and heavier body, but it also features a comfortable grip and a variety of physical controls that some photographers may prefer.
  • The D5200, on the other hand, is a more affordable option with an APS-C sensor and a simpler autofocus system.

Embark on a photographic journey as we delve into the captivating world of Nikon’s Z5 and D5200 cameras. In this comprehensive comparison, we meticulously analyze the intricacies of these two remarkable devices, unveiling their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting, this in-depth exploration will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision about which camera best suits your creative vision.

Image Quality:

At the heart of every camera lies its image quality, and both the Nikon Z5 and D5200 deliver impressive results. The Z5 boasts a 24.3MP full-frame sensor, capturing stunning images with exceptional detail, dynamic range, and low-light performance. On the other hand, the D5200 features a 24.1MP APS-C sensor, producing sharp and vibrant images, albeit with a slightly narrower field of view. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Sensor Size and Resolution:

The Nikon Z5’s full-frame sensor offers several advantages over the D5200’s APS-C sensor. Full-frame sensors typically provide better low-light performance, shallower depth of field control, and a wider dynamic range. However, they also tend to be more expensive and require larger and heavier lenses. APS-C sensors, on the other hand, are more compact and affordable, making them a popular choice for beginners and enthusiasts.

Autofocus System:

The Nikon Z5’s autofocus system is a significant upgrade over the D5200’s. It features a hybrid autofocus system with 273 phase-detection points and contrast-detection points, enabling fast and accurate focusing even in low-light conditions. The D5200, on the other hand, has a more basic autofocus system with 39 phase-detection points, which may struggle in low-light situations.

Video Capabilities:

Both the Nikon Z5 and D5200 offer video recording capabilities, but the Z5 has a clear advantage in this area. It can record 4K UHD video at 30p, while the D5200 is limited to 1080p Full HD video at 60p. Additionally, the Z5 features a variety of video-centric features such as focus peaking, zebra stripes, and an external microphone input, making it a more versatile choice for videographers.

Design and Ergonomics:

The Nikon Z5 and D5200 have distinct designs that cater to different preferences. The Z5 is a mirrorless camera with a compact and lightweight body, making it easy to carry around. It also has a large and bright electronic viewfinder (EVF), which provides a clear and immersive shooting experience. The D5200, on the other hand, is a DSLR with a more traditional design. It has a larger and heavier body, but it also features a comfortable grip and a variety of physical controls that some photographers may prefer.

Battery Life:

The Nikon Z5 has a slightly better battery life than the D5200. The Z5 can capture up to 470 shots on a single charge, while the D5200 can capture up to 500 shots. However, it’s important to note that battery life can vary depending on factors such as the shooting mode, temperature, and frequency of use.

Price and Availability:

The Nikon Z5 is a more expensive camera than the D5200. The Z5 typically retails for around $1,400, while the D5200 can be found for around $500. However, it’s worth noting that the D5200 is a discontinued model, so its availability may be limited.

The Final Verdict:

The Nikon Z5 and D5200 are both excellent cameras, but they cater to different needs and budgets. The Z5 is a more advanced camera with a full-frame sensor, a hybrid autofocus system, and 4K video recording capabilities. It’s a great choice for photographers who want the best possible image quality and performance. The D5200, on the other hand, is a more affordable option with an APS-C sensor and a simpler autofocus system. It’s a good choice for beginners and enthusiasts who are looking for a capable camera without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Consider the factors discussed in this comparison and choose the camera that best aligns with your photographic goals.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q1. Which camera has better image quality, the Nikon Z5 or the D5200?

A1. The Nikon Z5 has better image quality than the D5200 due to its larger full-frame sensor.

Q2. Which camera has a better autofocus system, the Nikon Z5 or the D5200?

A2. The Nikon Z5 has a better autofocus system than the D5200, with 273 phase-detection points and contrast-detection points compared to the D5200’s 39 phase-detection points.

Q3. Which camera has better video capabilities, the Nikon Z5 or the D5200?

A3. The Nikon Z5 has better video capabilities than the D5200, with the ability to record 4K UHD video at 30p compared to the D5200’s 1080p Full HD video at 60p.

Was this page helpful?

Lindsey

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively testing and reviewing Nikon's latest mirrorless cameras like the Z5, Z6, Z7 and Z50 on her blog. Through her writing on lindseyshoots.com, Lindsey aims to help other photographers make the transition from DSLRs to mirrorless. She shares detailed hands-on reviews, comparisons between different mirrorless camera models, tips for beginners, and photo tutorials. When she isn't testing cameras, Lindsey enjoys landscape, street and travel photography. Her work has been published in several magazines and online publications. Lindsey is also a member of the Nikon Professional Services program.
Back to top button