Nikon 1 J5
Announced April 2, 2015
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Good
The Nikon 1 J5 is a compact mirrorless camera that balances improved image quality and rapid burst shooting with a more ergonomic, enthusiast-focused design. While it offers impressive speed and portability, the camera is hampered by limited 4K frame rates and sluggish processing times.
Weighted from 15 reviewer scores
Pros
- Extremely fast autofocus and high-speed burst shooting capabilities
- Enhanced ergonomics featuring a more secure grip and intuitive physical controls
- Versatile tilting touchscreen LCD for varied shooting angles
- Compact, portable form factor with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC
- Upgraded 20.8-megapixel sensor with improved dynamic range and color
Cons
- 4K video recording is restricted to a limiting 15fps frame rate
- Slow processing speeds and buffer clearing times
- Short battery life and lack of USB charging
- Missing essential features like an electronic viewfinder, focus peaking, and hot shoe
- Unconventional use of microSD cards and difficult access to the battery compartment on a tripod
- Launch price $499 (USD)
- Sensor 20.8MP 1-inch CMOS
- Video 4K 15p
- Burst 60 fps electronic
What the Reviewers Say
All 15 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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The end result of the wide variety of changes and improvements is a camera that performs well on its own, but is also well-suited to be a complementary compact camera for Nikon DSLR users.
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The Nikon 1 J5 is [...] good value for money as none of the competition offers as quick performance as this camera.
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While the ability to capture 4K video footage may make all the headlines, the Nikon 1 J5's change in focus to a more prosumer, enthusiast camera is actually the bigger story.
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Moving on to the camera's performance, it's clear that the improvements Nikon has made to the Nikon 1 J5 sensor has had a significant impact on image quality.
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If you're not a serious shutterbug, you'll appreciate the ease of using the fast-shooting Nikon 1 J5 mirrorless camera. Images, and the devices that capture them, are my focus.
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Nikon has once again produced a very capable camera for its compact system camera range.
- Digital Trends 8/10
With a new 20.8-megapixel sensor and a faster processor, the Nikon J5 takes an astonishing leap in quality -- we recommend it wholeheartedly.
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The J5 is a relevant update to the Nikon 1 series. It is the first J version that I’ve found more comfortable to use thanks to its new design and more complete interface.
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The Nikon 1 J5 is a highly capable, intuitively controllable compact mirrorless camera.
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We’ve grumbled quite a bit in this review, but the J5 is a perfectly respectable camera.
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The Nikon 1 J5 delivers a huge improvement in terms of usability compared to its predecessor. There are still areas worthy of improvements but the J5 is certainly more efficient.
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Honestly, it's not a bad camera for vlogging; it's probably not the greatest for photography, but it's light, it's compact, it'll do.
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To me, the J5 is a compromise too far.
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The J5 is a leap in the right direction – adding desirable features to an already great camera. With improved image quality and controllability, it’s exactly the kind of capable, compact camera I’d love to throw in my bag and take anywhere and everywhere with me.
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Yeah, all in all, not a bad camera.
