Big test
PERFORMANCE: NIKONZDX 16-50MMF/3.5-6.3 VR
Optically, this Nikon lens is a pretty good performer – probably better than you might expect from a kit lens, especially at the shorter focal lengths.
Maximum aperture at 50mm is a modest f/6.3; this value, together with f/8, gave the best sharpness – but perhaps this showing didn’t reach the heights of shorter focal lengths.
The lens retracts when it is not in use, and you get a warning when turning the camera on and the lens isn’t ready. Turn the zoom ring and the lens glides into action, growing by about 2.5cm, so it nearly doubles in length from its rest position. However, even here it’s not much bigger than a typical 50mm f/1.4, so it’s still compact and a good partner for the Z fc – and the Z 50. Fit it to a full-frame Z and it automatically switches the camera to the APS-C/DX format. This is a handy lens in more ways than one. It’s small, and covers a useful range, equivalent to 24-75mm in the 35mm format – perfect as a walkaround lens for general photography. If there is a downside, it’s the modest maximum aperture: the price you pay for compactness. In terms of features, there’s in- lens optical stabilisation with a 4.5EV benefit. With the Z fc not having an
in-body image stabiliser, this feature is a useful benefit and can be turned on or off via the camera menu. The focusing barrel is lovely and smooth, and as a default you get full-time manual focus override. AF is good, speedy and silent. Responsiveness is impressive, too – when the Z fc has people/animal focus AF engaged. At the 16mm setting and wide open, centre sharpness is very good, dropping off gradually as you move towards the edges. Close down to f/5.6 and the edges improve significantly, with fine details looking crisp. F/8 looked the best aperture for good quality across the frame. The lens delivered a similar performance at 28mm. Quality was decent in the centre at f/4.5, with the edges lagging behind slightly. Stopping down to f/8 helped the edges and kept the central area looking good.
SPECS › Price £329 › Format DX format only,
effective 24-75mm in full-frame › Construction Nine elements in seven groups (four aspherical, one ED) › Aperture range F/3.5-6.3 to f/22-40 › Focusing Autofocus, internal, silent, manual › Minimum focus 25cm at 16mm, 23cm at 50mm › Filter size 46mm › Image stabiliser Yes, 4.5EV benefit › Weather resistant No › Dimensions (dxl) 70x32mm (lens retracted) › Weight 135g
16MM
28MM
50MM
F/3.5
F/3.5
F/4.5
F/4.5
F/6.3
F/6.3
Final word
Verdict In a market where, to the typical consumer, one camera looks very much like another, having a point of difference is a good thing. The Nikon Z fc certainly has that, with its retro styling, although this might not have universal appeal. The fact that its design concept comes from an iconic camera matters not a jot to many people, but its look undoubtedly offers something extra. Beauty is more than skin deep, though, and this camera is also a very capable performer. Better yet, it comes in at a competitive price. 23 /25 FEATURES Decent megapixel count, articulating monitor and retro design, so plenty for such a reasonably priced camera 23 /25 HANDLING Rates highly, with a top-plate that promotes involvement – but there’s the option of keeping it simple, too 23 /25 PERFORMANCE The Z fc produces high-quality pictures, helped by capable autofocus and exposure systems
F/4
F/4
F/5.6
F/5.6
F/8
F/8
F/5.6
F/5.6
F/8
F/8
F/11
F/11
F/8
F/8
F/11
F/11
F/16
F/16
F/11
F/11
F/16
F/16
F/22
F/22
24 /25 VALUE FOR MONEY
Really good, and for £1039 you get a terrific camera/lens kit that gives fine images – and its throwback style offers added appeal
93 /100 OVERALL
THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO MAKE GOOD USE
Nikon has taken a gamble with the Z fc, but it could be on to a winner – and it certainly rates as a leading performer for the money
Where will your kit go next? Inspire others, earn some extra cash and make a difference. Sell your used kit and let someone else love it as much as you have. Make good use of your used gear. Sell yours today at mpb.com/sell
PROS Compact, produces fine images, fully articulating touch monitor, good to use, responsive AF, retro look CONS Small f/number window, no lock on the compensation dial
46 Photography News | Issue 92
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