- Retro Design, Modern Tech – A rangefinder-style mirrorless camera with an EVF on the left, blending classic looks with digital performance.
- Sensor & Lens Options – Expected APS-C or full-frame sensor with either a fixed lens (like Fujifilm X100V) or Z-mount compatibility.
- Release & Competition – Rumored for late 2024 or early 2025, likely competing with Fujifilm X100V and Leica Q3.
What is the Nikon ZS?
Nikon might be making a new rangefinder-style camera. People are calling it the Nikon ZS. If the rumors are true, this camera will blend old-school design with modern features.
A rangefinder camera lets you frame your shot through a small window on the side. It’s popular for street and travel photography because it’s small, quiet, and fast.
Nikon fans have waited a long time for a compact mirrorless camera with a retro feel. If the ZS is real, it could go up against Fujifilm’s X100V and Leica’s M-series.
Leaked Features and Specs
There’s no official info yet, but some leaks suggest these features:
- Sensor – Nikon might use an APS-C or full-frame sensor. APS-C would keep it small and affordable. Full-frame would make it sharper and better in low light.
- Viewfinder on the side – Unlike most Z-series cameras, this one could have an electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the far left, just like classic film cameras.
- Compact body – Nikon may design it for street and travel photographers who want something small and easy to carry.
- Z-Mount Lenses – If it’s an interchangeable lens camera, it will likely use Nikon’s Z-mount. But some rumors say it could have a fixed lens like the Fujifilm X100V.
- Manual controls – Expect retro dials for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO.
- Fast autofocus – It might borrow the hybrid autofocus from other Z-series cameras, making it great for quick, sharp shots.
If Nikon nails these features, the ZS could be a game-changer for photographers who love small, powerful cameras.
How Does It Compare?
If Nikon releases the ZS, it will have to compete with other compact cameras. Here’s how it might stack up:
- Fujifilm X100V / X100VI – Fujifilm’s X100 series is the king of compact street cameras. If Nikon offers a bigger sensor or better autofocus, it could steal some fans.
- Leica Q3 – The Q3 is full-frame and high-end, but it costs over $5,000. If Nikon delivers similar quality for less money, it could be a hit.
- Ricoh GR III – The GR III is tiny and has a great APS-C sensor. Nikon would need to match its size and speed to compete.
Nikon has the tech and experience to build a strong competitor. But the biggest questions are:
- Will it be full-frame or APS-C?
- Will it have a fixed lens or interchangeable lenses?
- Will it be affordable?
Expected Release Date
Right now, there is no official release date. Nikon hasn’t confirmed the ZS, but leaks and rumors suggest we could see it by late 2024 or early 2025.
Nikon often announces new cameras in the fall. The Zf was announced in September 2023, and the Z9 came out in October 2021. If they follow this pattern, we might hear about the ZS around September or October.
Until Nikon confirms anything, all we can do is wait and see.
Is the Nikon ZS Worth the Hype?
If the Nikon ZS is real, it could be one of the most exciting cameras of the year. Many photographers want a compact, high-quality camera with a classic look.
The biggest factors that will decide its success are:
- Size and weight – It needs to be small and light, or it won’t stand out.
- Sensor choice – Full-frame would be amazing, but APS-C would make it cheaper and more compact.
- Price – If it’s too expensive, people might stick with Fujifilm or Ricoh.
For now, we wait. But if Nikon gets this right, the ZS could be a huge hit.