Upgrade guide · updated 5 November 2026

Should I upgrade from the Nikon D5600 to the Nikon Z50 II?

Verdict

Upgrading is likely worth it. Nikon's FTZ II adapter gives autofocus with AF-S and AF-P lenses; older screw-drive AF-D lenses focus manually.

What you gain

  • faster bursts (30fps vs 5fps)
  • better video (4K 60p (crop) vs 1080p 60p)
  • cleaner high ISO
  • a mirrorless electronic viewfinder showing the exposure before you shoot, and modern subject-detection autofocus
  • 8 years of newer processing and autofocus (2016 → 2024)

What you give up

  • lower resolution (21MP vs 24.2MP)
  • a heavier body (550g vs 465g)

What it costs

Z50 II new£839
Z50 II used (MPB, typical)£640
Your D5600 trade-in (rough estimate)≈ £210
Net cost buying used≈ £430

Trade-in estimates assume about two-thirds of the typical MPB resale price; real offers vary with condition and shutter count.

Other upgrade paths

Frequently asked questions

Should I upgrade from the Nikon D5600 to the Nikon Z50 II?

The upgrade is likely worth it. You gain faster bursts (30fps vs 5fps), better video (4K 60p (crop) vs 1080p 60p), cleaner high ISO, a mirrorless electronic viewfinder showing the exposure before you shoot, and modern subject-detection autofocus, but you lose lower resolution (21MP vs 24.2MP) and a heavier body (550g vs 465g).

How much does it cost to upgrade from the D5600 to the Z50 II?

The Z50 II costs £839 new and about £640 used at MPB. Trading in a used D5600 might bring roughly £210, so the net cost is around £430 buying used (a rough estimate: get quotes from MPB, Wex and Park Cameras).

Will my D5600 lenses work on the Z50 II?

Nikon's FTZ II adapter gives autofocus with AF-S and AF-P lenses; older screw-drive AF-D lenses focus manually.