- Nikon expected to launch compact full-frame camera with fixed lens
- It could have a similar form factor to the Nikon ZR, i.e. without a viewfinder.
- This is despite the fact that it is supposedly for photography, without video capability.
Nikon could be working on a compact fixed-lens camera to compete with popular models like Fujifilm X100VI, Ricoh GR IV, Sony RX1R III and Leica Q3, and its rumored specs make for, shall we say, interesting reading.
This is according to Nikon Rumors, which suggests that Nikon will launch a full-frame compact this year, having changed course since earlier this year when it was suggested that a photography-focused variation of the Nikon ZR mirrorless cinema camera was on the way.
The post then details a surprising list of features that, when combined, make for curious reading. It’s the possible omission of a viewfinder that has sparked a strong reaction among fans in the comments section.
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One Nikon fan reacted by writing, “It’s not a photo-oriented camera if it doesn’t have a viewfinder,” while another simply wrote, “No viewfinder, no deal.”
I’m still intrigued by Nikon’s fixed-lens full-frame compact potential and think it could fill a big gap in the premium compact camera market. Here’s why…
the gap
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Ever since premium compact cameras with fixed lenses became a trend, thanks in large part to the Fujifilm
It also has a lesser-known history in this space: its Coolpix A (long discontinued) was a small fixed-lens compact with a 28mm f/2.8 lens and 16MP APS-C sensor, similar to the Ricoh GR series (I attended the product launch in 2013, long before my days at TechRadar).
The latest rumors suggest that my wait for a modern fixed-lens Nikon compact could soon be over and it could be a full-frame model.
That would give it a sensor size advantage over the Fujifilm
All of those premium compacts are wildly popular and fabulous (I should know, I’ve tried them all), but there’s one obvious gap that I think Nikon could fill: an affordable full-frame option. I predict that this rumored camera could cost up to half the price of Sony and Leica cameras.
The rumored features, however, leave me with mixed feelings. I like the sound of a high-resolution full-frame sensor (maybe the current 45MP one found in the Z8 and other models, but not the stacked type?). Plus, a slim body measuring between 22 and 25mm deep sounds positively small (although presumably the built-in lens will stick out).
However, I’m less excited about the prospect of having no in-body image stabilization and no viewfinder. And most surprising of all is the suggestion that this mystery camera will not have video recording.
Let that sink in. This could be a photography-only camera, but without a viewfinder. In a recent survey about viewfinders, I asked our readers if they would buy a camera without a viewfinder and the majority said no.
That said, rumors suggest that a hot shoe will include and accept an optional EVF accessory. It seems that Nikon might prioritize compact dimensions and low price over certain built-in features, offering them as optional extras, such as a removable EVF.
There could also be a tilting touchscreen, which, for me, is preferable to the fixed screens of the Ricoh GR IV and Sony RX1R III. Despite all my concerns, I’m still excited about the potential of the rumored camera.
What do you think of the rumors about Nikon’s compact fixed-lens cameras? Is this the type of camera you would be interested in trying? Let me know in the comments below.
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