Nikon’s Z series mirrorless cameras have shaken up the photography world. With pro-grade performance packed into smaller form factors, the Z7 and Z6 II represent the pinnacle of Nikon imaging technology.
But should you choose the 45.7MP Nikon Z7 or the more affordable 24MP Z6 II? This comprehensive 2100 word guide compares every major feature and capability. Read on for the full breakdown of Nikon Z7 Vs. Z6 II to make the right decision for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Nikon Z7 | Nikon Z6 II |
| Sensor Resolution | 45.7MP | 24.5MP |
| Continuous Shooting | 9 fps | 14 fps |
| AF Points | 493 | 273 |
| Video Resolution | 4K cropped | Full width 4K |
| Max Video fps | 30p | 60p |
| Card Slots | 1 XQD | 1 XQD, 1 CFexpress |
| Battery Life | 360 shots | 410 shots |
| Current Price | $2,996 | $1,996 |
Nikon Z7 Overview
First, let’s recap the key features of the flagship Nikon Z7:
- 45.7MP BSI full frame sensor – Offers extraordinary resolution for landscapes, commercial work, cropping flexibility and more.
- Up to 9 fps continuous shooting – Decent burst speed considering the high megapixels. Good buffer depth too.
- 493 point hybrid AF system – Sophisticated autofocus covers 90% of the sensor for great subject tracking.
- 5-axis in-body stabilization – Up to 5 stops of VR performance with any lens for tack sharp images.
- 4K 30p video – Quality 4K/UHD capture, but with 1.7x crop. 10-bit external output.
Pros
- Best-in-class resolution
- Excellent image quality
- Superb in-body and lens stabilization
- Future-proofed with firmware updates
Cons
- Lower burst rate than Z6 II
- Cropped 4K video
- Single XQD card slot
- Battery life just OK
Nikon Z6 II Overview
Now let’s look at the highlights of the Z6 II:
- 24.5MP BSI full frame sensor – Lower resolution than Z7, but outstanding image quality. Ideal for most users.
- 14 fps continuous shooting – Blazing fast burst speed. Huge buffer for extended high speed bursts.
- 273 point hybrid AF – Wide coverage with excellent subject tracking and eye AF.
- 5-axis in-body stabilization – Up to 5 stops of VR performance like the Z7.
- 4K 60p video – Oversampled, full width 4K up to 60 fps. 10-bit external output.
Pros
- Lightning fast 14 fps burst speed
- Class-leading 4K video features
- Dual card slots (XQD + CFexpress)
- Larger battery for better endurance
Cons
- Resolution less than Z7
- Buffer clearing could be faster
- Lacks top LCD display
Also Read: Comparison Between Nikon Z50 And D7500.
Key Differences Between Nikon Z7 And Z6 II
Now let’s do a detailed feature-by-feature comparison between the two cameras.
Image Sensor and Resolution
- The Nikon Z7 has a 45.7MP sensor, the highest resolution full frame sensor Nikon has ever put in a mirrorless camera. This lets it capture incredible detail.
- The Z6 II has a 24.5MP sensor with great dynamic range and low light ability. While lower resolution than the Z7, 24MP remains more than enough for most people’s needs.
- For commercial applications, billboard work, landscape photography and heavy cropping flexibility, the Z7’s sensor gives you more freedom. But the Z6 II resolution is very usable for the majority of photographic scenarios.
Continuous Shooting Speed
- The Nikon Z7 can shoot at up to 9 fps, which is respectable considering the high megapixel count. The buffer allows up to 77 12-bit RAW images.
- The Z6 II is the clear winner for action and burst shooting with its 14 fps continuous speed. The buffer is massive too, with over 100 photos possible in a burst. This makes the Z6 II preferable for sports, wildlife, kids, and any fast action.
Autofocus System
- Both cameras use Nikon’s advanced hybrid phase and contrast detect AF systems. The Z7 has 493 AF points, while the Z6 II has 273 points.
- AF performance between the two cameras is fantastic. Subject tracking works beautifully, with reliable eye AF for both people and animals. The Z7 may have a slight edge in accuracy in extremely low light.
- For most real world usage, the autofocus capabilities are essentially on par. The wider spread of points on the Z7 doesn’t make a major difference. Both lock focus extremely quickly and reliably track erratic subjects.
Video Capabilities
- The Nikon Z7 can shoot high quality 4K video, but with a 1.7x crop. 120 fps slow motion is available at 1080p. 10-bit N-Log external output is supported.
- The Z6 II offers full width, oversampled 4K video up to 60 fps, making it one of the best full frame cameras for videography. It also supports 10-bit N-Log out.
- For professional-level video needs, the Z6 II is easily the better choice thanks to full width 4K, higher frame rates, and superior autofocus in video mode.
Image Stabilization
- Both the Z7 and Z6 II are equipped with 5-axis in-body stabilization providing up to 5 stops of compensation. This gives you stabilization with any lens.
- Real world performance of the IBIS systems is excellent on both models. Handheld shots down to 1/10 second are possible with steady hands and a stabilized lens.
- For handheld shooting, especially at slower shutter speeds or longer focal lengths, the Z6 II and Z7 are effectively equal when it comes to stabilization.
Ergonomics
- The physical design of the Z7 and Z6 II is nearly identical, with excellent comfort and handling for most shooters. The bodies are weather sealed.
- The control layout allows easy access to settings while looking through the crisp 3.6 million dot EVF. There are dual command dials and a joystick controller.
- The primary ergonomic difference is the top LCD panel, which is omitted on the Z6 II. This isn’t a major sacrifice, but some photographers accustomed to a top display may prefer the Z7.
Also Read: Comparison Between Nikon D5300 And D5600
Other Considerations
- The Nikon Z7 has a single XQD card slot, while the Z6 II has one XQD and one CFexpress slot. Dual slots provide more safety and flexibility.
- Battery life is slightly better on the Z6 II at 410 shots per charge Vs. 360 on the Z7 with the EVF. Real world performance is similar.
- Both cameras produce outstanding still image quality with gorgeous color rendition and fine detail. You can’t go wrong with either sensor.
- The Z7 has a higher resolution EVF which may provide a slightly clearer view, but the Z6 II EVF remains excellent.
Also Watch This Review Video:
Nikon Z7 Vs. Z6 II: Which Should You Get?
So which is the better camera for you? Here are some key factors to help decide between the Nikon Z7 and Z6 II:
Shooting Needs
- For commercial photography, landscapes, architecture, or other applications requiring maximum resolution and cropping ability, the 45.7MP Z7 is ideal.
- If you frequently photograph fast action like sports or wildlife, the faster 14fps drive and huge buffer of the Z6 II are better suited for capturing fleeting moments.
- For general purpose or travel photography, the Z6 II’s well-rounded feature set and smaller file sizes may be preferred.
Video Use
- The Z6 II’s full width 4K 60p and excellent autofocus in video mode make it the top choice for dedicated videography with a Nikon mirrorless camera.
- For occasional video clips, the Z7’s 4K is very usable despite the crop. But videographers will get more from the Z6 II.
Budget
- With an MSRP $800 lower than the Z7 originally, the Nikon Z6 II is the more affordable option in the lineup.
- That said, current street prices have the Z6 II and Z7 much closer in cost. Either provides incredible value versus resolution and features offered.
Lens Pairings
- Higher resolution sensors like the Z7 benefit more from high end lenses to take advantage of the sensor’s capabilities.
- Both cameras can make great use of pro-level Nikkor glass like the new S-line primes and zooms or the F-mount F2.8 trinity with the FTZ adapter.
Ultimately, choosing the Z7 or Z6 II comes down to weighing your resolution needs, desire for speed, video requirements, and budget. For most buyers, the Z6 II strikes the better balance of features and affordability. But the Z7 remains an ideal choice for photographers needing more megapixels.
Also Read: Is Nikon D750 Better Than D7500?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Nikon Z7 Vs. Z6 II:
The Z6 II has advantages over the Z7 when it comes to speed, video, and buffer depth. But the Z7 provides substantially higher resolution and slightly better ergonomics. There is no clear winner – it depends on shooting priorities.
The Z7 II incrementally improves some specs like buffer depth over the original Z7. But the upgrade is minor for most people. The Z6 II makes a bigger leap in speed and video, making it the better value especially at current prices.
Yes, the Z6 II offers pro-grade performance in nearly every aspect including autofocus, image quality, 4K video, and durability. Many professionals use the Z6 II as their primary mirrorless camera.
The Z6 II is the superior choice for serious video work thanks to its full width 4K at up to 60 fps, plus excellent live view AF. The Z7 can shoot great video too but its cropped 4K and slower live view AF make the Z6 II more capable overall for dedicated videography.
Also Read: Comparison Between Nikon Z9 And D850
Conclusion
The Nikon Z7 and Z6 II are both astounding full frame mirrorless cameras. The Z7 provides game changing resolution in a smaller body.
And the Z6 II blends speed, video chops, and an affordable price. Depending on the type of photography and videography you do, one may be the better fit over the other.
By weighing their respective strengths and key differences, you’ll be equipped to pick the right model to match your creative vision.