CameraReview

Nikon Z30 vs Nikon Z50 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Nikon Z30
Nikon
Nikon Z30
Mirrorless · 20 MP · APS-C · 4K video
72
SCORE
$706.95
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✓ WINNER
Nikon Z50
Nikon
Nikon Z50
Mirrorless · 21 MP · APS-C · 4K video
85
SCORE
$686.46
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General
Brand NikonNikon
Model Z30Z50
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20222019
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
29/06/202210/10/2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 128 x 74 x 60 mm127 x 94 x 60 mm
Camera weight 405 g450 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20 MP05021 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5568 x 37125568 x 3712
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
23.5 x 15.723.5 x 15.7
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
11 fps04511 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Nikon ZNikon Z
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 6Expeed 6
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
512003003280000512003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1003020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
20480030032800002048003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000400080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
20903002090300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
NoneElectronic
Viewfinder dots N/A236000009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
3841 x 21603840 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
120 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4, MOVMPEG-4, MOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type TFT LCDTFT LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000010400001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL25EN-EL25
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
330 shots1505000320 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z50 edges out the Nikon Z30 with a score of 73/100 compared to the Z30’s 72/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share some similarities in size and weight, with the Z30 measuring 128 x 74 x 60mm and weighing 405g, while the Z50 measures 127 x 94 x 60mm and weighs 450g.

The Z50 stands out with its slightly higher score, which is attributed to its better overall performance. It was released in 2019 with a launch price of $859, making it a bit more expensive than the Z30, which was released in 2022 at a price of $710.

On the other hand, the Z30 is lighter and more affordable, making it a suitable option for those who prioritize budget and portability. Despite its lower score, the Z30 still offers reliable performance and quality for its price range.

Taking all factors into consideration, the Nikon Z50 is the better camera due to its higher score and performance. However, the Nikon Z30 remains a viable option for those seeking a lighter, more budget-friendly alternative.

Nikon Z30 vs Z50 Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z30 and Nikon Z50 share the same score for optics, both receiving 72/100. This indicates that these cameras have similar optical capabilities. They share common specifications, including an 11 frames per second shooting speed, a CMOS sensor type, an Expeed 6 processor, a DXOMARK score of 97 for the sensor, an APS-C sensor size, a Nikon Z lens mount, and no image stabilisation.

The Nikon Z50 has a slight advantage in terms of megapixels, with 21 compared to the Z30’s 20. This means that the Z50 can capture slightly more detail in images, which may be beneficial for photographers who require high-resolution images for large prints or cropping. However, this difference is minimal and may not be noticeable for most users.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z30 does not have any significant advantages over the Z50 in terms of optics. Both cameras share the same score and have nearly identical specifications, so it is difficult to determine any areas where the Z30 outperforms the Z50.

Taking these factors into account, it can be said that the Nikon Z50 is slightly better in terms of optics due to its higher megapixel count. However, this advantage is minimal, and both cameras are quite similar in their optical capabilities. Users should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras, as the difference in performance is negligible.

Nikon Z30 vs Z50 Video Performance

The Nikon Z30 and Nikon Z50 both have a video score of 91/100, making them equally impressive in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras share many common specifications, which include a maximum video resolution of 4K, maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.

Since the two cameras have the same score, neither can be declared a clear winner. However, there are some minor differences that set them apart. The Nikon Z30 has a slightly higher maximum video dimension at 3841 x 2160, which is a negligible difference but still worth mentioning. This difference in maximum video dimensions does not significantly impact the video quality or performance of the camera.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z50 does not have any specific advantages in terms of video capabilities over the Nikon Z30. Both cameras have the same video score, and their specifications are almost identical. This means that the Nikon Z50 is not better than the Nikon Z30 when it comes to video performance.

Given the identical video scores and similar specifications, both the Nikon Z30 and Nikon Z50 are excellent choices for video enthusiasts. The minor difference in maximum video dimensions between the two cameras does not significantly impact their overall performance. Therefore, potential buyers can confidently choose either camera, knowing that they will receive top-notch video capabilities.

Nikon Z30 vs Z50 Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z50 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 86/100, while the Nikon Z30 scores slightly lower at 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. Neither camera includes GPS functionality.

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Z30 in a few aspects. The most notable difference is the screen size, where the Z50 has a 3.2-inch screen compared to the Z30’s 3-inch screen. Both cameras have the same screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, but the Z50’s larger screen offers a better viewing experience.

In contrast, the Nikon Z30 has no significant advantages over the Z50 in terms of features. Both cameras have the same screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, and connectivity options. The Z30’s slightly lower feature score indicates that it might lack some additional features that the Z50 possesses, but this does not necessarily make it an inferior camera.

To conclude, the Nikon Z50 is the better camera in terms of features, primarily due to its larger screen size. The Z30, while lacking any distinct advantages, still provides a solid set of features that are comparable to the Z50. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, but the Nikon Z50 has the edge in this comparison.

Nikon Z30 vs Z50 Storage and Battery

The Nikon Z30 and Nikon Z50 both have a storage and battery score of 35/100, showing no difference in this aspect. They share common specifications in terms of memory card slots, with each camera having one slot. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, with compatibility for UHS-I. Furthermore, they both use the EN-EL25 battery type and have USB charging capabilities.

In terms of battery life, the Nikon Z30 holds a slight advantage, providing 330 shots per charge, compared to the Z50’s 320 shots. This difference, however, is minimal and may not significantly impact the user experience.

Since both cameras have equal scores and very similar specifications, neither camera stands out as a clear winner in terms of storage and battery capabilities. Users can expect a comparable experience with either camera.

Nikon Z30 vs Z50 Alternatives

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