2025 felt like the year that camera brands broke convention and prioritized feel over function, with memorable new models including the Sigma BF, Fujifilm X half, OM System OM-3, Canon PowerShot V1 and Polaroid Flip.
There were standout pro models too, especially the powerful Sony A1 II and the surprisingly affordable (but still pricey) Hasselblad X2D II. However, it's an arguably run-of-the-mill camera that scoops our top Camera of the Year 2025 prize at the TechRadar Choice Awards 2025, the Nikon Z5 II.
There's no specific Z5 II attribute to get excited by, but no other camera blurs the lines so effectively between affordability and performance – the Z5 II is a distinctly mid-range feeling full-frame mirrorless camera, with entry-level pricing and positioning in Nikon's range.
Nikon's aggressive pricing, which also extends to its other 2025 models – the beginner Z50 II and recent Nikon ZR cinema camera – is a welcome relief from otherwise rising camera prices, and a big reason why Nikon won our Camera Brand of the Year award too.
Is the Z5 II exciting? Perhaps no. Is it effective? Definitely. It well and truly raises the bar for entry-level full-frame cameras. Let's take a deeper dive into why the Z5 II beat off stiff competition.
An outlier camera brand leading the way for value
The Nikon Z5 II feels anything but entry-level. It’s basically a Nikon Zf without the retro looks, lavished with a heap of upgrades including the same Expeed 7 processor as found on recent higher-end Z-series camera bodies.
It's equipped with in-body image stabilization, Nikon's best subject-detection autofocus performance, 30fps JPEG continuous shooting (or 12fps in raw format) and the same tried-and-tested 24.5MP back-illuminated sensor that previously appeared on the Z6 II.
In fact, as a Z6 II use myselfr, the Z5 II ticks all five of the upgrades I hoped for (and which came) in the Z6 III – yes, the Z5 II is a complete upgrade of a previous generation camera that's the next model up in the range. A camera which, by the way, I use for professional work.
Naturally, the Z5 II isn't for everyone, especially if video is your primary focus over photography. It’ll capture 4K at 60fps but with a 1.5x crop and 4K 30fps in 10-bit, but it's the 12-bit N-RAW photo skills that stand out. These specs are a lot beefier than what you’d normally associate with budget-friendly cameras.
Here's what our very own Alex Whitelock, had to say about the Z5 II, following his in-depth review:
I shot over 1,000 images with the Nikon Z5 II and was blown away by how much of an upgrade it was over the previous iteration
Alex Whitelock, TechRadar Retail Editor
"As soon as I got my hands on the Nikon Z5 II I knew it was a superb camera. Coming from one of the brand's older bodies, I knew to expect a rugged and well-thought-out design, but it's the Z5 II's bang-for-the-buck that makes it stand out. Simply put, you're now getting pro-level autofocus in a camera that barely breaks a mid-range price point. While rivals scrimp on things like IBIS or a decent EVF, the Nikon Z5 II manages to pack everything into an incredibly well-rounded and uncompromized body.
"Yes, it's a little pricier than the previous generation, but you get so, so much more. Autofocus, for one, can keep up with the likes of the Z8 or Z6 III, and the superb EVF and IBIS make it a beautifully usable camera. Video specs don't quite hold up against the Z6 III, but as an everyday hybrid shooter, it blows away the likes of the Canon R8 and Sony A7 III.
"I shot over 1,000 images with the Nikon Z5 II and was blown away by how much of an upgrade it was over the previous iteration – it's a quantum leap in terms of performance over the Z5. With cutting-edge autofocus that brings the fight to the likes of Sony and Canon, the Nikon Z5 II now seems like the obvious choice in the lower to mid-range mirrorless market. Other cameras may have it beat on specific categories like video or burst rates, but the Z5 II is an excellent all-around package thanks to its 24.5MP full-frame sensor, excellent IBIS, and quality EVF."
So there you have it. The TechRadar Camera of the Year 2025 goes to the Nikon Z5 II. I've included a selection of Alex's photos, taken with the now award-winning Z5 II, below, plus links to the best deals.
What do you make of our decision to award the Z5 II the Camera of the Year 2025? Let me know in the comments below.
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