The Nikon Z5 has been a go-to choice for photographers looking to step into the world of full-frame mirrorless cameras without breaking the bank. Now, its successor—the Nikon Z52—takes things up a notch with enhanced features, improved performance, and even better value. Here’s my in-depth review on why the Z52 might be your next favorite camera.
Design and Handling: A Familiar Feel with Smart Upgrades
Staying true to Nikon’s ergonomic design philosophy, the Z52 feels as intuitive and comfortable as models like the Z6 III. Some key upgrades include a 3.2-inch fully articulating touchscreen (2.1 million dots) for more flexible shooting angles and a brighter 3.69M-dot EVF (up to 3,000 nits) for crystal-clear composition. It also features dual UHS-II SD card slots—a rarity in budget-friendly cameras—offering more flexibility for professionals. Plus, the EN-EL15c battery ensures you can shoot longer without worry.
Designed for photographers transitioning from DSLRs or entry-level mirrorless setups, the Z52 strikes a perfect balance between portability and robust controls. With its weather-sealed body and intuitive button layout, it’s a solid choice for everything from casual travel photography to intense outdoor shoots.
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Stabilization: 7.5 Stops of IBIS for Sharper Images
One of the standout improvements in the Z52 is its in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which offers up to 7.5 stops of shake reduction. It even adapts stabilization based on your focus point, making handheld shooting smoother than ever—especially in low light. Pair that with -10 EV low-light autofocus, and the Z52 becomes a powerhouse for astrophotography and night scenes.
Autofocus and Burst Shooting: Speed and Accuracy Combined
Borrowing Nikon’s advanced EXPEED 7 processor and autofocus technology from the flagship Zf, the Z52 delivers fast and precise focusing. It features eye, face, animal, and bird detection, ensuring you never miss a shot, whether you're capturing portraits, wildlife, or action.
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11 FPS mechanical shutter bursts (14 FPS in JPEG) make it great for sports and wildlife photography.
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3D Tracking locks onto moving subjects seamlessly.
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Pre-production tests showed minimal buffer lag, even in extended shooting sessions.
While the sensor isn’t stacked, rolling shutter in electronic mode is well-controlled for most use cases.
Video Capabilities: A Major Upgrade
The Z52 addresses the video shortcomings of its predecessor with oversampled 4K/30p (full-width) and 4K/60p (APS-C crop). While the 1080p/120p quality is just average, the autofocus performs well, smoothly tracking subjects in both bright and low-light environments.
A game-changing addition is 4K RAW video recording directly to SD cards, giving creators more flexibility in post-production. Additional pro-level features like 10-bit N-Log support and a dedicated red-light display mode (to preserve night vision) make this camera even more appealing for videographers.
How the Nikon Z52 Stacks Up Against the Competition
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Panasonic S5 II: Offers superior video stabilization but has weaker autofocus.
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Canon R8: Lacks IBIS and dual card slots.
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Nikon Zf: Features a retro design, while the Z52 offers a more practical grip.
At under $2,000, the Z52 positions itself as a versatile all-rounder, ideal for both enthusiasts and semi-professionals.
Should You Buy the Nikon Z52?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly full-frame camera that still delivers professional-grade features, the Z52 is an excellent choice. With improved autofocus, stabilization, and video capabilities, it’s a worthy successor to the Z5 and a strong competitor to alternatives like the Canon R8.
Best for:
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Photographers upgrading from APS-C or DSLRs.
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Hybrid shooters who need reliable photo and video performance.
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Adventurers who want a durable, versatile camera for various conditions.
Final Thoughts
The Nikon Z52 isn’t just another minor update—it’s a statement. Nikon has packed pro-level features into an accessible and affordable body, proving that great performance doesn’t have to come with a sky-high price tag. Whether you're capturing Utah’s stunning red rocks or everyday moments with your family, the Z52 makes sure you get the shot—without compromise.
