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Which Nikon APS-C Mirrorless Camera is Best?

Which Nikon APS C Mirrorless Camera is Best image

Nikon Z fc

 So, after some research, you’ve decided you want to get a Nikon APS-C mirrorless camera. However, you still aren’t 100% sure which is the best fit. Does that sound like you? If so, you’re in the right place! 

In this Nikon camera comparison guide, we’ll look at three of the most sought-after Nikon APS-C mirrorless cameras on sale today. We’ll explore their strengths, weaknesses, best uses, and more. Additionally, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier than it is today.

 Who is MPB? They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at unbeatable prices. Better yet, all their cameras and lenses are carefully hand-inspected by highly-trained product specialists with years of experience and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

Over the years, we’ve saved thousands of dollars upgrading our photography kits by buying, selling, and trading in camera equipment on MPB’s online marketplace. If you want to save money, too, visit their website today. That said, it’s time to find out which Nikon APS-C mirrorless camera is best for you!

Check out the video above by Tony & Chelsea Northrup to compare and contrast different Nikon mirrorless cameras. 

Table of Contents

A Good Nikon APS-C Mirrorless Camera

Nikon Z30 image

Nikon Z30

The first camera we want to share with you is the Nikon Z30. It came out in the summer of 2022, making it the newest Nikon APS-C mirrorless camera. Moreover, retailing for around $600, it’s also Nikon’s cheapest APS-C camera. The body is built around a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor and an Expeed 6 image processing engine.

While the Z30 takes good still photos, it was designed primarily with vloggers, YouTubers, and social media influencers (TikTok, Instagram, etc.) in mind. It possesses 4K/30p video and 1080p/120p Full HD video capabilities. Other powerful vlogging features include a fully articulated rear screen, no recording time limit, solid battery life, and a compact/portable design.

On the flip side, the biggest weakness of the Z30 is it doesn’t have a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). This isn’t a problem if you only shoot video, but we find the lack of an EVF annoying when taking photos. 

Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of the Nikon Z30: 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.9MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 100 - 51,200 (expandable to 100 - 204,800)
  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z Mount
  • Speed: 11.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 209 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/120p
  • Size/Weight: 128 x 74 x 60 mm / 405 grams
  • Battery Life: 330 shots
  • Stabilization: No
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Weather-Sealed: Yes
  • Used Nikon Z30 Price: $494

A Better Nikon APS-C Mirrorless Camera

Nikon Z50 image  

Nikon Z50

Next up is the popular Nikon Z50. It debuted in 2019 and was the first Nikon APS-C mirrorless camera featuring the Z lens mount system to hit the market. Similarly to the Z30, it hosts a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor and an Expeed 6 image processing engine.

The Z50 is a hybrid mirrorless camera that excels during both photo and video capture. An easy-to-use switch on the camera's top lets you quickly and easily switch between photo/video modes. On the back of the camera, you will find a 3.6M-dot EVF (good for photos) and a large 3.2-inch LCD (good for videos). 

Other pros are its great dynamic range, 4K video capabilities, and fun special effects modes/creative picture controls. Alternatively, we don’t love the tilting screen and 30-minute recording limit. The Z50 is ideal for beginners and people who want a lightweight, everyday camera. 

Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of the Nikon Z50: 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.9MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 100 - 51,200 (expandable to 100 - 204,800)
  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z Mount
  • Speed: 11.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 209 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/120p
  • Size/Weight: 127 x 94 x 60 mm / 450 grams
  • Battery Life: 320 shots
  • Stabilization: No
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Weather-Sealed: Yes
  • Used Nikon Z50 Price: $494 - $584

Learn More:

The Best Nikon APS-C Mirrorless Camera

Nikon Z fc image

Nikon Z fc

Last but not least, there’s the Nikon Z fc. It was released in 2021, and just like the previous two cameras, it has a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor and an Expeed 6 image processing engine. However, unlike the Z30 and Z50, the Z fc has a gorgeous silver and black design. Furthermore, two useful shutter speed and ISO control dials mirror those found on classic film cameras.  

While the exterior gives the camera a retro look and feel, the inside is jam-packed with modern technology. The Z fc has excellent image quality, uncropped 4K/30p video, reliable autofocus, and fast continuous shooting (11 fps). These powerful tools make it a perfect choice for everyone, from photography enthusiasts to professional event/wedding photographers. 

There is no built-in flash, but courtesy of the camera’s wide ISO range and optically stabilized lens lineup, the Z fc's low-light performance is better than most of its peers. And if you do want to shoot flash photography, you can always purchase an external flash. 

Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of the Nikon Z fc: 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.9MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 100 - 51,200 (expandable to 100 - 204,800)
  • Lens Mount: Nikon Z Mount
  • Speed: 11.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 209 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/120p
  • Size/Weight: 135 x 94 x 44 mm / 445 grams
  • Battery Life: 300 shots
  • Stabilization: No
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Weather-Sealed: Yes
  • Used Nikon Z fc Price: $724

Recommended Nikon Z Mount Lenses

Nikon Z50 with 16 50mm lens image

Nikon Z50 with 16-50mm lens 

Here’s a short list of some of the best Nikon lenses for photo and video to pair with these Nikon APS-C mirrorless cameras. 

Final Thoughts on Nikon Mirrorless APS-C Cameras

Thoughts on Nikon Mirrorless APS C Cameras image

Nikon Z fc 

Here are our final recommendations when it comes to Nikon APS-C mirrorless cameras. Entry-level photographers should go with the Nikon Z50. Vloggers and video creators should opt for the Nikon Z30. And professionals and semi-professionals should buy the Nikon Z fc. 

Not sure a Nikon APS-C mirrorless camera system is right for you? No worries! Check out the list below to view the full lineup of Nikon full-frame mirrorless cameras currently available at MPB: 

Learn More:



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