CameraReview

Nikon Z fc vs Nikon Z50 — Which Is Better?

Nikon Z fc versus Nikon Z50
Side by side47 specifications
Nikon · Mirrorless · 21 MP · APS-C · 4K video Nikon Z fc
72
SCORE
Nikon · Mirrorless · 21 MP · APS-C · 4K video Nikon Z50
85
WINNER
Nikon Z fc
Nikon Z50
General
Released
ⓘ
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20212019
Announcement date
ⓘ
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
July 29, 2021October 10, 2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 135 x 94 x 44 mm127 x 94 x 60 mm
Camera weight 445 g450 g
Optics68/10072/100
Read the Optics Comparison

Nikon Z fc vs Z50 Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z fc and Nikon Z50 both receive a score of 72/100 for optics, indicating that they are evenly matched in this aspect. Both cameras share several specifications, including 21 megapixels, an 11 FPS 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 stabilization.

Despite the identical scores, there are areas where one camera may appear to have an advantage over the other. However, the specifications listed above show that there are no significant differences in the optical performance of the Nikon Z fc and the Nikon Z50. Both cameras provide the same level of image quality, speed, and sensor performance.

It is important to note that the score does not determine the quality of the camera, but rather the camera is awarded a higher score because of its better performance. In this case, both cameras have the same score for optics, meaning that neither camera outperforms the other in terms of optical specifications.

Taking all of these factors into account, it is clear that the Nikon Z fc and Nikon Z50 are on equal footing when it comes to optics. The identical features and performance of both cameras make it difficult to declare a winner in this comparison. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will come down to individual preferences and needs, such as design, ergonomics, and other features not directly related to optics.

Megapixels
ⓘ
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
21 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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 236000009900000236000009900000
Video91/10091/100
Read the Video Comparison

Nikon Z fc vs Z50 Video Performance

The Nikon Z fc and Nikon Z50 both have a video score of 91/100, indicating that these cameras have similar video capabilities. They share common specifications such as 4K max video resolution, max video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, and a max video frame rate of 120fps. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.

Despite having the same video score, there are areas where one camera may outperform the other. The Nikon Z fc has specific features that make it a better choice for certain users. However, the Nikon Z50 also has its own advantages, making it a suitable option for different users.

The Nikon Z fc is known for its retro design and superior ergonomics, making it more comfortable to hold and operate for extended periods of video shooting. This makes it an ideal choice for users who prioritize comfort and ease of use while capturing video.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z50 is a more compact and lightweight camera, making it a better option for those who need a portable and travel-friendly camera for their video needs. The smaller size of the Z50 allows for easier transport and storage, which is essential for users who are constantly on the go.

Both the Nikon Z fc and Nikon Z50 offer excellent video capabilities, and the choice between them depends on the user’s preferences and needs. The Z fc is ideal for those who value comfort and a retro design, while the Z50 is perfect for those who require a compact and lightweight camera for their video requirements.

Video
ⓘ
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
YesYes
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.
3840 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.
YesYes
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
Features70/10086/100
Read the Features Comparison

Nikon Z fc vs Z50 Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z50 takes the lead in the features comparison with a score of 86/100, while the Nikon Z fc follows closely with a score of 83/100. Both cameras share several features, ensuring a strong foundation for their performance. These common specifications include a 1,040,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen capability, flip screen, absence of GPS, and the presence of both WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Nikon Z50 comes out ahead with its larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the Nikon Z fc’s 3-inch screen. This additional screen real estate allows for easier framing, reviewing, and editing of photos, providing a better user experience.

On the other hand, the Nikon Z fc does not surpass the Z50 in any specific feature; however, it closely matches the Z50’s performance with only a slight difference in the overall score. This indicates that the Nikon Z fc is still a strong contender in the features department.

To conclude, the Nikon Z50 emerges as the winner in this comparison due to its larger screen size, offering a better viewing and user experience. The Nikon Z fc, though not surpassing the Z50, remains a competitive option with a near-identical feature set. Ultimately, both cameras provide a solid foundation of features for photographers to work with, and the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.

Builtin flash
ⓘ
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
NoYes
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.
YesYes
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.
NoYes
Screen type LCDTFT LCD
Touch screen
ⓘ
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
YesYes
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.
YesYes
Live view
ⓘ
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
YesYes
Wi-Fi
ⓘ
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
YesYes
Bluetooth
ⓘ
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
YesYes
Storage & battery29/10035/100
Read the Storage & battery Comparison

Nikon Z fc vs Z50 Storage and Battery

The Nikon Z50 emerges as the winner in the storage and battery comparison, scoring 35/100 while the Nikon Z fc scores 29/100. Both cameras share common specifications such as a single memory card slot, compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I) memory cards, the use of EN-EL25 batteries, and USB charging capabilities.

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Z fc in battery life, offering 320 shots per charge compared to the Z fc’s 260 shots. This advantage allows users to capture more images before needing a battery replacement or recharge, making it more convenient for extended photography sessions.

The Nikon Z fc, despite having a lower score, does not offer any advantages over the Z50 in terms of storage and battery. Both cameras share the same memory card compatibility and charging options.

In this comparison, the Nikon Z50 clearly provides better battery life than the Nikon Z fc. As a result, the Z50 is more suitable for photographers who require longer shooting times without the need to change or recharge batteries.

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.
260 shots1505000320 shots1505000
USB charging YesYes

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