As always, there is the conflict of interests involved in seeing a product that “I want” as well as considering "I need", and the Nikon Z fc very definitely falls into the highly desirable category of "I want".

Beautiful retro design, Control via analogue dials, Fast and accurate AF, Very high build quality, Excellent ergonomics, Good quality video, Excellent EVF

No inbuilt VR, No weather resistance, Some controls too easily nudged

We thought this retro camera was going to wow us. Instead it's rather proven that sometimes ideas from the past are best left there. Clearly there's future potential here, but the lens range needs to further develop before there will be the maturity that could allow the Fc to proudly hang its hat on the Nikon FM2 of years past.

Fairly priced entry into Z mount; Decent image quality potential - if you invest in the right lens; Retro dial-based controls;

Plasticky build quality; Slow kit lens doesn't represent camera's true capability; Autofocus not a patch on Canon's EOS R; Not full-frame - just to avoid any doubts;

Introduction; Sample photos; Build quality and handling; Buffer depth; Image quality; ISO control weirdness; Cold ducks; Lens options; Autofocus; Video performance; Should you buy it?;

Introduction; Sample photos; Build quality and handling; Buffer depth; Image quality; ISO control weirdness; Cold ducks; Lens options; Autofocus; Video performance; Should you buy it?;

If you are buying your very first camera with interchangeable lenses, the Nikon Z fc is a solid choice. It will take excellent, perfectly exposed pictures in nearly any situation. And it will earn you some oohs and aahs because of the cool retro styling.

It should come as no surprise that Nikon, one of the original 35mm film SLR makers, made such an enjoyable, timelessly classic camera as the Nikon Z fc

Impressive photo & video quality, Timeless design & good user experience, Solid durability, Portable & versatile, Competitive value among retro style category & price point

Adequate autofocus & speed, could be improved, Native Z-mount lens selection is still limited, but expanding, Battery life is adequate, in-camera charging is usable

The Nikon Z fc is good for travel photography. It's lightweight and easy to travel with, though it lacks a handgrip and isn't the most comfortable to use for long periods. Its overall image quality is excellent, with very solid low-light performance for an APS-C sensor.

Excellent image quality., Great autofocus., Fairly portable.

No handgrip., Mediocre battery life.

The Nikon Z fc is a desirably retro-fashioned yet affordable entry point into Nikon’s growing Z series mirrorless camera lineup, providing access to a growing number of lenses and accessories.

Stylish design, Growing lens lineup, Manual controls, Touchscreen

‘Only’ an APS-C sensor, Lacks the waterproofing