The Nikon Z50 II might look like a boring camera among the retro contingent, but it’s a diamond in the rough

The Nikon Z50 II might seem like just another camera in a sea of retro models, but it's actually a hidden gem. Rumors about a high-end Nikon Z70 have been circulating, but the Z50 II holds its own quite well. Despite its retro appearance, this camera is surprisingly capable for its price point. Currently, you can find it body-only for $956.95 at B&H Photo or £839 at Wex Photo Video.

At under $1,000, this camera falls into a lower price bracket, but that doesn't mean it's a beginner's device. It stands next to other high-end models such as the OM System OM-5 Mark II, Canon EOS R10, and Sony A6700.

What makes the Nikon Z50 II stand out is its 20.9MP APS-C sensor, coupled with Nikon's latest image processor. It also boasts an OLED EVF, a max burst shooting rate of 30fps (JPEG only), and a 4K 60p (cropped) video capability. Perhaps the most appealing aspect of this camera is its access to Nikon's impressive lineup of Z-mount lenses. With the Nikon FTZ Adapter II, users can even attach older Nikon DSLR lenses, many of which are now quite affordable.

While 20.9MP might not seem like a lot by today's standards, Nikon's Z-series APS-C cameras still produce high-quality RAW images and JPEGs. For most photographers, this sensor size is more than sufficient, and the smaller file sizes are a bonus in post-processing. Plus, with memory being quite expensive, smaller files are definitely a plus.

So, despite lacking the retro-chic appeal of the Fujifilm X-T30 III or the computational features of the OM System OM-5 Mark II, the Nikon Z50 II offers great value for money, access to Nikon's Z-mount lenses, and some solid specs.