Nikon Z6 vs Z7: Pros & Cons and Final Verdict

Nikon knocked it out of the park when it comes to their Nikon Z series of cameras. If you’re a newbie in the world of cameras or just checking out Nikon for the first time, discerning the differences between the Nikon Z6 and Z7 can be very challenging.

At first glance, they are pretty much identical cameras. However, there are plenty of significant differences under the hood. Let’s explore all of that and more in this article review of the Nikon Z6 and Z7.

How We Started

In late 2018, Nikon announced two full-frame mirrorless cameras; the Z7 with 45.7 megapixels and the more affordable Z6 counterpart with 24.5 megapixels. The lineup was also joined in 2019 by the z50 model, the more mass consumer-orientated variant.

For this article, we’ve bought our own Nikon Z6 and Z7 to truly understand the differences between the two. We’ve conducted multiple tests on the features of each one, referred to many documentations about the cameras, and talked to industry experts.

We’re here to find out which one is suited for which person, the not so obvious differences, and which one do we think is the winner between the two. These differences may not be as easily recognizable by everyday people who aren’t into cameras that much. This is why we’ve gathered all the information you will need to make the right choice.

If you’re on the fence between buying the Nikon Z6 vs Z7, this article will surely help you get on one’s side. We strongly believe that an informed customer will come out with a satisfied one. Let’s look at the different categories and features the Z6 and Z7 are similar and very different.

Similarities and Differences

There are plenty of similarities and differences between the Nikon Z6 and Z7. The major similarity anyone would realize is their appearance. The Z6 and Z7 pretty much look identical to each other. Both of the models were also announced on the same date too, August 23, 2018.

These are the only similarities that anyone could figure out. For major differences, the first one would be the Nikon Z6 is used more for general-purpose, casual mirrorless-camera. On the other hand, the Nikon Z7 is considered a premium version of the Z6.

For a more in-depth look, let’s explore what each model offers in terms of specifications and features. We’ll outline each of the specs and explore what each model camera can offer on the table.

Overview of Nikon Z6 vs Z7: Essential Specs

In this section, let’s look at a quick overview of the specifications of each model and where they differentiate from each other.

These are all the essential specifications of Nikon Z6 and Z7. It’s clear that these two cameras are quite similar in a low of ways.

Design and Dimensions

When it comes to design, the Z6 and Z7 are fairly similar. The Z70 could be considered as the mirrorless version of the Nikon D850 DSLR. The Z6 could also be the mirrorless equivalent to the Nikon D750. However, both the Z6 and Z7 are smaller than these DSLRs. The Z6 and Z7 share a similar look and feel to Sony’s A7 full-frame and mirrorless series. 

Without the lens, both the Nikon Z6 and Z7 weigh a comfortable 675 grams. This is relatively manageable and lightweight. These models pretty much have identical dimensions, with just a minuscule difference. The Z7 is a compact 134x101x68mm while the Z6 is 134×100.5×67.5mm, a very small difference.

Even though the overall design is compact, both these models still feature an AF-on button located on the backplate and a convenient thumbstick for moving the focus point around. This feature is widely popular among sports photographers. 

The Nikon Z6 and Z7 also share a feature that’s a first for the Nikon brand; in-body camera stabilization. This feature provides the equivalent of five stops, which can help reduce shake and adds balance when using longer lenses. Overall, the design and dimensions of the Z6 and Z7 are pretty much indistinguishable from the outside.

Both feature excellent weather sealing and magnesium alloy bodies. They also have the same button layout, grips, and feel. Nikon even claims that the Z6 and Z7 models have a shutter life of 200,000 shots.

Sensors

The most significant difference between the Z6 and Z7 is their sensors. Although, they offer the same full-frame photography bonus. This means that their sensors are the same size as the frame of a 35mm film. These full-frame chips also ensure that the image quality of the Z6 and Z7 is higher compared to a standard APS-C sensor DSLR. The quality increase is even more evident when you combine it with a compatible full-frame “Z” format lens. 

With similarities aside, let’s go on the main difference between the Z6 and Z7; the resolution of their sensors. The Z7 can dish out 45.7 effective megapixels, this means that you can take photos in extremely sharp detail. This level of resolution is perfect for super huge image prints such as gigantic screens and billboards for advertisements.  

On the other hand, the Z6 offers 24.5 effective megapixels, which is still very impressive for a more budget camera. Many experts and enthusiasts recommend the Z6 if you want faster capture speeds; sacrificing the ultra-resolution. However, you should know that both of these cameras feature the newest EXPEED 6 processor.  

This processor assists in the speed of image delivery. The Nikon Z series offers a new and very sophisticated on-sensor phase-detection system. For the Z7, a very impressive 493 AF points can cover 90% of the available image area. It is also compatible with most contrast AF systems.  

Being on the cheaper side, Z6 comes with a 273-point phase-detection AF. Do note that this spec is still very impressive. The Z6’s sensor also covers 90% vertically and horizontally. The Z7 can provide 21 effective megapixels more than the Z6. Depending on the type of photography you do, this can be a huge advantage or just unnecessary extras.  

Another significant difference to take note of is that the Z7 doesn’t have a low-pass or anti-alias filter. The lack of a low-pass filter will increase the level of detail and sharpness of the image. However, with this comes a downside. It increases the chances of the moire effect to occur in certain shots or scenes. 

For new photographers or hobbyists, you should know that the max sensor resolution isn’t the only factor that determines the performance of a camera. Other factors include pixel size, low-pass filters, the sensor technology used, and optical elements all affect the final resolution of a captured image. 

Auto Focus System

Creating the best Auto focus System is the current trend among camera manufacturers these days. Nikon didn’t skimp on their opportunity to show off their latest take on AF system technology with the Z6 and Z7. Nikon has decided to up their game when it comes to the Auto Focus feature on these cameras.  

Do note however that because of the lower price point, the Z6 will inevitably contain fewer AF points compared to the more expensive Z7. As stated in the previous Sensors section, the Nikon Z7 features a very impressive 493 phase-detection AF points which cover 90 percent of the image area.

It also works hand in hand with a contrast AF system to produce a high-quality, hybrid, and full-frame auto focus system. Both the Z6 and Z7 models are Nikon’s first real attempt at tackling full-frame mirrorless cameras.  

For their first attempt, Nikon really hit the nail on the head with the Z7’s AF performance. The Z6 still features impressive specs. It has a 273-point phase-detection AF system. The Z6 is about just around half of the Z7’s AF points, however, you shouldn’t underestimate it. The Auto Focus performance of both these cameras is outstanding.

It’s responsive, very fast, and on top of it, super quiet. The silent nature of these cameras can help when shooting a video. The Z6 and Z7 have multiple settings that will allow you to customize the focus area. We’ve also found that both cameras excel in subject-tracking and feature face detection focus; perfect for both video and still photography of someone special.

Video

Video quality from both Nikon Z6 and Z7 is nothing short of excellent. Both are capable of capturing in 4K with a max Frames Per Second (FPS) of 29.97 FPS. These two models can also record high-quality, full HD footage at 120P. This is great news if you’re interested in taking many slow-motion shots. 

A huge advantage the Z6 and Z7 have is that they’re capable of capturing and extracting still frames when filming videos in full HD or 4K resolution. Nikon themselves recommended oversampling from 8k is enabled. This is to provide 4K footage with impeccable detail.

Wedding photographers will love this feature as they can capture those genuine moments in ultra high-quality; whether in video or photo form. Both the Z6 and Z7 features the latest EXPEED 6 processor. This spec will aid videographers immensely in producing more high-quality videos. EXPEED 6 will help prevent the moire effect and clean up lines and noises.  

Despite these great similarities, there are huge differences that shouldn’t be ignored. Many experts and hobbyists regard the Z6 as better than the Z7 when it comes to film or video-making. This is because the Z6 provides un-cropped, full-frame 4k videos which are down-sampled from oversampled 6K footage. Unlike the Z7, which significantly crops the 4K video. This can reduce video quality by a little bit, making the Z7 less desirable for shooting 4K videos. 

What we loved about both these models is that they feature reduced focus “breathing”, smooth focus shift when zooming, and very silent auto focus. All of these features will ensure that these cameras are flexible and competent enough when shooting creative videos as well as when shooting still pictures.              

Burst Shooting (FPS)

When it comes to Burst Shooting or Continuous Shooting mode, both the Z6 and Z7 are quite different. The Nikon Z7 is very capable of shooting in 9fps in burst shooting mode. This is quite impressive, given the higher resolution, it is working with.

However, many prefer the Z6 in this department. Because the Nikon Z6 is working with a lower resolution, it doesn’t have as much data to process, meaning it can reach speeds of up to 12fps. This makes the Z6 amazing at wildlife or sports photography compared to the Z7.  

The Z6 does win when it comes to speed, but, we felt like the buffer capacity is pretty average or could be better. You can’t capture more than 37 raws files during its 12fps burst captures. You also can’t capture 44 full-resolution JPEG files. You’re going to need to select a lower frame rate to be able to use continuous shooting mode for more than 3-4 seconds. This may be a con for burst shooting enthusiasts, but not a major one. 

You should also take note that both of these models rely only on XQD cards, while also having only one card slot. The design philosophy is that XQD cards are the go-to for high-end cameras and are for high-end customers only. This means that you’re going to need to invest in an XQD card if you only have older CF or SD cards available. 

To put it simply, when it comes to high-speed photography such as sports, wildlife, or action, the Z6 is the go-to model. The high-detail and huge resolution of the Z7 aren’t as important as the speed of the Z6 when it comes to these types of photography. However, don’t think that you can just haphazardly shoot dozens of images in one continuous burst with the Z6.

LCD and Viewfinder

When it comes to the viewfinder and LCD, the Z6 vs Z7 competition isn’t as intense compared to their sensors. These models offer an electronic viewfinder instead of an optical one. The Z6 and Z7 also have a 3690K-dot resolution, 100% coverage, eye-level EVF. This is complemented by a 3.2-inch LCD touch screen that is located at the rear. This LCD touch screen is also vertically tilting compared to a vari-angle. The LCD touch screen can be used to fire the shutter with only a finger tap. You can also use it to set the focus point. 

Both models feature a monitor on the adjustable back plate which has a resolution of 2.1 million dots. This delivers the best possible image when you’re composing a shot or reviewing a recently taken one. It’s perfect for both still captures or videos. 

Composing shots using the Z6’s or Z7’s EVF is so high-quality that you might even forget you’re using an electronic viewfinder instead of an optical one. The digital nature of its electronic viewfinder is only really obvious when you move the camera around very quickly. This can result in some blurring or image lag occurring.

Even so, these aren’t as obvious or apparent compared to other rival cameras we’ve tested that have electronic viewfinders. It is very obvious that Nikon has placed the quality of both model’s viewfinders at the top priority. For the viewfinder’s eyepiece, it uses fluorine coatings and an aspherical element.            

Battery Life

Mirrorless cameras are known that have inferior power performance compared to a DSLR. This is because mirrorless cameras have smaller dimensions, which can lead to smaller batteries. We regret to inform you that neither the Z6 nor the Z7 excel at battery life. The Z6’s battery performance is pretty weak for our taste and needs.

The Z6’s  EN-EL15b battery can also manage 310 shots from a fully charged battery. In comparison, the Z7’s battery life only barely improves. It uses its own custom EN-EL15b, which can manage up to 330 shots from a full battery. 

These power performances are weak in comparison with more beefy models such as the D850. Nevertheless, the Z6 and Z7’s battery life is still pretty comparable when up against its competition in the market of mirrorless cameras. Battery life is one of the major areas where both models could be improved. For longer usage, users are advised to bring a spare battery to avoid situations where you need the camera the most but it’s at zero percent.            

Other Features

There are also some notable features that the Z6 and Z7 offer. With both the models, Nikon has made the debut of a brand new lens mount. This lens mount’s flange to sensor distance is about 16mm, a little bit shorter than the normal Nikon F mount.

Because of this shorter distance, there is plenty of space for Nikon’s FTZ adapter. You can use this FTZ adapter to be able to use the camera with 90-odd Nikon optics. You will achieve both full auto focus and auto exposure simultaneously. 

The most controversial feature on the Z6 and Z7 is its hard limit of just one XQD memory card slot. Many experts think this was a poor choice where a second memory slot for more common SD cards may have been better for more accessibility. We agree with this statement.

Price

The competition between Z6 vs Z7 is a very close one. These cameras are very similar in a lot of ways yet different enough in terms of specs. For most people, the pricing becomes the final determining factor when choosing which one to get.  

The Nikon Z6 is being sold for $1999, body-only. If you add the Nikkor Z 24-70mm F4 S lens into the mix, you’ll have to put down $2599. Additionally, if you also buy the $249 FTZ adapter together with the others, Nikon will take out $100 off the price.

As for the Nikon Z7, it’s sold at $3400, for body-only. If you purchase the Nikkor Z 24-70mm F4 S lens alongside the Z7, it’s going to cost you $2599. Just as with the Z6, purchasing the FTZ adapter alongside everything else will get you a $100 off discount.           

Who Should Get This

Choosing which model to get will largely depend on your photography needs or wants. If you’re a portrait or landscape photographer, you may want the amazing detail and huge print capability of the Z7. This model has a better resolution and image quality compared to the Z6, no question at all. 

However, if you’re more of a filmmaker or a continuous shot photographer, such as a wildlife, sport, or action photographer, the Z6 might be the better camera to go for. The Z6 has faster FPS with 12fps continuous shooting and full-frame 4K videos. Know what you prioritize and make your choice accordingly.  

Our Pick

Both of these models are an excellent example of what Nikon can do with full-frame mirrorless cameras. Despite appearing to be inferior to the Z7, our pick between the two is the Nikon Z6. It is more affordable while being still quite versatile, in our opinion.

The Z6 does sacrifice resolution but it makes up for it in various other parts. These include improved sensitivity and larger pixels. Filming videos are also arguably better on the Z6 than the Z7.