The Nikon Z 6II mirrorless camera is a powerful upgrade for photo and video enthusiasts. This full-frame powerhouse boasts a 24.5-megapixel sensor for superb image quality, even in low light. It features blazing-fast autofocus and improved video capabilities over its predecessor, making it ideal for capturing everything from action shots to cinematic masterpieces. Plus, it has dual card slots and a comfortable grip, perfect for photographers and videographers who demand professional-level performance.
Key Features
Model No: 1659
- 24.5MP FX-Format BSI CMOS Sensor
- Dual EXPEED 6 Image Processors
- UHD 4K30 Video; N-Log & 10-Bit HDMI Out
- 14 fps Cont. Shooting, ISO 100-51200
- 273-Point Phase-Detect AF System
- 3.6m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
- 3.2″ 2.1m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- 5-Axis In-Body Vibration Reduction
- Dual Memory Card Slots
- REVIEW
- SPECS
Nikon Z 6II: A Refined Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera for Photo and Video
The Nikon Z 6II is a successor to the well-regarded Nikon Z 6. It offers an improved feature set designed for photo and video enthusiasts who value excellent image quality, fast performance, and enhanced usability. In this review, we’ll explore what the Nikon Z 6II brings to the table.
Improved Full-Frame Sensor and Superb Image Quality
The Z 6II features a 24.5-megapixel FX-format (full-frame) CMOS sensor, similar to the Z 6. However, it boasts improved low-light performance and image processing due to the new dual EXPEED 6 image processors. This translates to cleaner images in dimly lit environments and faster overall camera performance.
Enhanced Hybrid Autofocus System and Faster Performance
The Z 6II features an improved hybrid autofocus system with 273 phase-detection points covering a wide area of the frame. This system offers excellent autofocus speed and accuracy, especially when tracking fast-moving subjects or capturing unpredictable action. The dual EXPEED 6 processors ensure significantly faster image processing and continuous shooting speeds of up to 14 frames per second, surpassing the Z 6.
4K Video Recording with Improved Options
The Z 6II offers 4K UHD video recording at up to 60 frames per second with full sensor readout, catering to videographers who require high frame rates for slow-motion effects. It also allows for 10-bit N-Log recording for greater color grading flexibility in post-production. Additionally, the camera includes features like F-Log profiles and headphone jacks, making it suitable for professional video applications.
In-Body Image Stabilization and Weather Sealing
Similar to the Z 6, the Z 6II features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system to minimize camera shake and produce sharper images, particularly at slower shutter speeds. The camera also boasts a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body for durability and protection when shooting in challenging outdoor conditions.
Improved Tilting Touchscreen LCD and User Experience
The Z 6II features a larger and higher-resolution tilting 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD monitor compared to the Z 6. This allows for comfortable framing from various angles and intuitive touch controls for navigating menus and selecting focus points. The button layout and ergonomics remain similar to the Z 6, offering a familiar user experience with some improvements.
Is the Nikon Z 6II Right for You?
The Nikon Z 6II is an excellent choice for photo and video enthusiasts who want an upgrade over the Z 6 or similar cameras. The improved low-light performance, faster performance, faster continuous shooting speeds, and higher frame rate video options make it a compelling choice for various shooting scenarios. However, those on a tight budget might find the Z 6 to be a more affordable option, and professional photographers might consider higher-end Nikon Z series models for specific needs.
In Conclusion
The Nikon Z 6II is the next newer model and carries a higher price tag than the Z 6. It’s important to consider your budget and specific needs when choosing between the two cameras. While there are newer Nikon Z series models, the Z 6II remains a well-rounded and capable option for photo and video enthusiasts.
Specifications
| Lens Mount | Nikon Z |
| Sensor Type | 35.9 x 23.9 mm (Full-Frame) CMOS |
| Sensor Resolution | Actual: 25.28 Megapixel Effective: 24.5 Megapixel (6000 x 4000) |
| Crop Factor | NaN |
| Aspect Ratio | 1:1, 3:2 |
| Image File Format | JPEG, Raw |
| Bit Depth | 14-Bit |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis |
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 100 to 51200 (Extended: 50 to 204800) |
| Shutter Speed | 1/8000 to 900 Seconds Bulb Mode |
| Metering Method | Center-Weighted Average, Highlight Weighted, Matrix, Spot |
| Exposure Modes | Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority |
| Exposure Compensation | -5 to +5 EV (1/3, 1/2 EV Steps) |
| Metering Range | -4 to 17 EV |
| White Balance | Auto, Cloudy, Color Temperature, Direct Sunlight, Flash, Fluorescent, Incandescent, Preset Manual, Shade |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 14 fps at 24.5 MP for up to 124 Frames |
| Interval Recording | Yes |
| Self-Timer | 2/5/10/20-Second Delay |
| Recording Modes | H.264/MOV/MP4 4:2:0 8-Bit UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.976p/25p/29.97p Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 23.976p/25p/29.97p/50p/59.94p/100p/119.88p |
| External Recording Modes | 4:2:2 10-Bit UHD 4K (3840 x 2160)Full HD (1920 x 1080) |
| Recording Limit | Up to 29 Minutes, 59 Seconds |
| Video Encoding | NTSC/PAL |
| Audio Recording | Built-In Microphone (Stereo) External Microphone Input |
| Audio File Format | AAC, Linear PCM (Stereo) |
| Focus Type | Auto and Manual Focus |
| Focus Mode | Continuous-Servo AF (C), Full-Time Servo (F), Manual Focus (M), Single-Servo AF (S) |
| Autofocus Points | Phase Detection: 273 |
| Autofocus Sensitivity | -6 to +19 EV |
| ISO Sensitivity | Auto, 100 to 51200 (Extended: 50 to 204800) |
| Shutter Speed | 1/8000 to 900 Seconds Bulb Mode |
| Metering Method | Center-Weighted Average, Highlight Weighted, Matrix, Spot |
| Exposure Modes | Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority |
| Exposure Compensation | -5 to +5 EV (1/3, 1/2 EV Steps) |
| Metering Range | -4 to 17 EV |
| White Balance | Auto, Cloudy, Color Temperature, Direct Sunlight, Flash, Fluorescent, Incandescent, Preset Manual, Shade |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 14 fps at 24.5 MP for up to 124 Frames |
| Interval Recording | Yes |
| Self-Timer | 2/5/10/20-Second Delay |
| Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder Size | 0.5″ |
| Viewfinder Resolution | 3,690,000 Dot |
| Viewfinder Eye Point | 21 mm |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 1 |
| Viewfinder Magnification | Approx. 0.8x |
| Diopter Adjustment | -4 to +2 |
| Size | 3.2″ |
| Resolution | 2,100,000 Dot |
| Display Type | Tilting Touchscreen LCD |
| Built-In Flash | No |
| Flash Modes | First-Curtain Sync, Off, Rear Curtain/Slow Sync, Rear Sync, Red-Eye Reduction, Slow Sync, Slow Sync/Red-Eye Reduction |
| Maximum Sync Speed | 1/200 Second |
| Flash Compensation | -3 to +1 EV (1/3, 1/2 EV Steps) |
| Dedicated Flash System | iTTL |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Media/Memory Card Slot | Slot 1: CFexpress Type B / XQD Slot 2: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II) |
| Internal Memory | NaN |
| Connectivity | 3.5mm Headphone, 3.5mm Microphone, HDMI C (Mini), Nikon DC2, USB Type-C (USB 3.0) |
| Wireless | Wi-Fi Bluetooth |
| GPS | No |
| Operating Temperature | 32 to 104 F / 0 to 40 C |
| Operating Humidity | 0 to 85% |
| Battery | 1 x EN-EL15c Rechargeable Lithium-Ion |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 5.3 x 4 x 2.7″ / 134 x 100.5 x 69.5 mm |
| Weight | 1.4 lb / 615 g (Body Only) |
| Package Weight | 2.86 lb |
| Box Dimensions (LxWxH) | 8.7 x 7.3 x 5.2″ |
