What to know
- If you’re torn between a bridge camera and a mirrorless camera, the Nikon Coolpix P950 and Nikon Z50 are two excellent choices to consider.
- While the Z50 is more expensive, it offers a number of advantages over the P950, including a higher-resolution sensor, faster autofocus, better video capabilities, and a more compact design.
- The Nikon Z50 has a wider dynamic range and a faster autofocus system, making it better suited for low-light photography than the P950.
In the world of photography, choosing the right camera for your needs can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of specifications and features. If you’re torn between a bridge camera and a mirrorless camera, the Nikon Coolpix P950 and Nikon Z50 are two excellent choices to consider. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two cameras, helping you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon Coolpix P950 boasts a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Nikon Z50 features a 20.9-megapixel CMOS sensor. Both sensors are capable of producing sharp and detailed images, but the Z50’s higher resolution gives it an edge in capturing fine details. Additionally, the Z50’s sensor has a wider dynamic range, allowing for better control over highlights and shadows.
Lens and Zoom Range
One of the key differences between the P950 and Z50 is their lens systems. The P950 features a built-in 24-2000mm equivalent zoom lens, offering an incredible 83x optical zoom range. This makes it an ideal choice for wildlife photography, sports, and other situations where you need to capture distant subjects. On the other hand, the Z50 is a mirrorless camera that requires interchangeable lenses. It comes with a 16-50mm kit lens, which offers a more versatile focal length range for everyday photography.
Autofocus and Performance
Both the P950 and Z50 have advanced autofocus systems, but they differ in their implementation. The P950 uses a contrast-detect autofocus system, while the Z50 utilizes a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase-detect and contrast-detect technologies. The Z50’s autofocus system is generally faster and more accurate, especially in low-light conditions.
Video Capabilities
Both cameras offer video recording capabilities, but the Z50 has a clear advantage. It can record 4K UHD videos at up to 30fps, while the P950 is limited to Full HD (1080p) videos at 60fps. Additionally, the Z50 has a built-in microphone input, allowing you to connect an external microphone for improved audio quality.
Size and Weight
The Nikon Coolpix P950 is a relatively large and heavy camera, weighing in at 1020 grams. Its large size and weight may make it less convenient to carry around for extended periods. The Nikon Z50, on the other hand, is significantly smaller and lighter, weighing only 450 grams. Its compact design makes it a more portable and versatile option for travel and everyday photography.
Price and Value
The Nikon Coolpix P950 is priced around $800, while the Nikon Z50 with the 16-50mm kit lens costs approximately $1,000. While the Z50 is more expensive, it offers a number of advantages over the P950, including a higher-resolution sensor, faster autofocus, better video capabilities, and a more compact design.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The Nikon Coolpix P950 is an excellent choice for photographers who need a versatile camera with an incredible zoom range. It is ideal for wildlife photography, sports, and other situations where you need to capture distant subjects. The Nikon Z50, on the other hand, is a more well-rounded camera that offers superior image quality, faster autofocus, and better video capabilities. It is a great choice for photographers who want a compact and portable camera for everyday photography, travel, and other creative pursuits.
The Final Verdict
Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize zoom range and versatility, the Nikon Coolpix P950 is a great option. However, if you value image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and portability, the Nikon Z50 is the superior choice.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which camera has a better autofocus system?
A: The Nikon Z50 has a more advanced hybrid autofocus system that is faster and more accurate than the P950’s contrast-detect autofocus system.
Q: Can I use interchangeable lenses with the P950?
A: No, the P950 has a built-in lens that cannot be removed or replaced.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Nikon Z50 has a wider dynamic range and a faster autofocus system, making it better suited for low-light photography than the P950.
Q: Which camera is more portable?
A: The Nikon Z50 is significantly smaller and lighter than the P950, making it more portable and convenient to carry around.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Nikon Z50 has superior video capabilities, including 4K UHD recording and a built-in microphone input.