- Nikon expected to launch compact full-frame fixed-lens camera
- It could have a format similar to that of the Nikon ZR, that is to say without a viewfinder.
- This is despite it supposedly being intended for photography, with no video capabilities.
Nikon could be working on a compact fixed-lens camera to rival popular models like the Fujifilm
That’s according to Nikon Rumors, which suggests Nikon will launch a full-frame compact this year, having changed course from earlier in the year when it suggested a photography-focused variant of the Nikon ZR mirrorless cinema camera was on the way.
The article then details a surprising list of features that, when combined, make for curious reading. It was the potential omission of a viewfinder that sparked a strong reaction among fans in the comments section.
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One Nikon fan reacted by writing, “It’s not a stills-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 gaping hole in the high-end compact camera market. Here’s why…
The gap
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Ever since high-end fixed-lens compact cameras have been all the rage, thanks in large part to the Fujifilm X100 series, I’ve been keeping my eye on Nikon to get in on the action, especially knowing how cheap it can be.
It also has a lesser-known history in this area: its Coolpix A (long-discontinued) was a small fixed-lens compact with a 28mm f/2.8 lens and a 16 MP APS-C sensor, similar to the Ricoh GR series (I attended the product launch in 2013, long before my TechRadar days).
The latest rumors suggest that my wait for a modern Nikon fixed lens compact may soon be over and it could be a full frame model.
This would give it a sensor size advantage over the Fujifilm X100VI and Ricoh GR IV with their APS-C sensors, and I predict an affordable angle over the Sony RX1R III and Leica Q3, which are extremely expensive full-frame compacts.
All of these high-end compacts are hugely popular and fabulous – I should know, I’ve tested them all – but there’s one obvious gap that I think Nikon could fill: an affordable full-frame option. I predict this camera could cost up to half the price of Sony and Leica cameras.
The supposed 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 kind?). Additionally, a slim body measuring between 22 and 25mm in depth looks downright tiny (although the built-in lens probably sticks out).
I’m less excited, however, about the prospect of no in-body image stabilization and no viewfinder. And most surprising of all is the suggestion that this mystery camera won’t have video recording.
Let that sink in. It could be a camera reserved for photography, but without a viewfinder. In a recent viewfinder survey, I asked our readers if they would buy a camera without a viewfinder, and the majority said no.
That being said, rumors suggest that a hotshoe will feature and accept an optional EVF accessory. It looks like Nikon might prioritize compact dimensions and low price over some built-in features, instead offering them as options, like a detachable EVF.
There could also be a tilting touchscreen, which for me is preferable to the fixed screens on the Ricoh GR IV and Sony RX1R III. Despite all my concerns, I’m still excited about the camera’s potential.
What do you think about the Nikon fixed-lens compact camera rumors? Is this the kind of camera you would like to try? Let me know in the comments below.
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