Brands that ‘listen to their customers’ is becoming something of a well-used phrase of late. Taking comments directly from their legions of loyal customers, Nikon has revisited their original Z series models and today, proudly announce the Nikon Z 6II and Nikon Z 7II. What is it that makes these new models stand out from the crowd? Read on for more.

For the first time, Nikon has made cameras with dual Expeed 6 processors. What this means for users out there is you can expect a faster and more reliable AF system out of the two new models. Nikon has rated their lowlight AF system down to -6 EV at F2. Translated that’s being able to focus on a subject using only the moon for lighting, to go even further the -6 EV means you’d only need a quarter of the moonlight!

Before we begin let’s address the specs that haven’t changed on either of the Nikon Z models:

• Battery 
• Monitor
• ISO ratings
• Sensors

In general practice, we’d expect most of us to be nailing focus every time and with that, they have also introduced human and animal eye-tracking, also available in the video. This really brings Nikon up ranks in the fight with Canon and Sony who have both, have made exceptional AF tracking cameras.

DUAL CARD SLOTS ARE BACK!

Yes, you read that right, they’re back. No, you won’t need to buy another XQD of CFexpress card, you can continue to use SD cards as Nikon is offering both formats in their new cameras. As mentioned Nikon will be allowing CFexpress on the latest models. For those who don’t know, currently CFexpress is the faster of two based on its design whereas XQD is currently a tad slower. Still faster than your SD cards though.

Let’s have a look at what Nikon has done to the Nikon Z 6II:

• 24 Megapixel Sensor
• 14fps [120 RAWs & 200 Jpegs]
• Slightly Larger Body
• Improved AF
• Human and Animal Eye Tracking
• Weather-Sealed Body
• 4K video [1:1 pixel read out]
• 4K 60fps [In firmware update coming Feb 2021]
• 120fps in 1080p
• 8 Bit internal and 10 Bit external video
• New EN-EL15C battery [Allows for USB-C Charging]
• SD and XQD Dual Card Slots

A very impressive update with very practical benefits. On top of these updates, Nikon will also be allowing both models to have their Firmware updated through the Snapbridge App. It is to be confirmed if other Z series cameras will have this feature enabled. If you are looking to buy the Z 6 II for video, it would be wise to wait until February 2021 when the firmware update becomes available but Nikon did say they don’t expect to be shipping anytime soon.

Looking at the Z 7II we can see similar upgrades but they certainly are focussing this camera to be more of a photo-based camera rather than an all-rounder like the Z 6II. Most users who own a Z series camera already probably won’t upgrade to the ;atest models. These models are simply to entice current DSLR users to mkae the switch, offering features that kept them away from the Z series. It appears as Nikon is planning to push its Mirrorless family to the forfront and slowly faze out its DSLR models but at this moment its only a speculative comment.

Nikon Z 7II Specs

• 45 Megapixel Sensor
• 10 fps [50 RAWs & 200 Jpegs]
• Slightly Larger Body
• Improved AF
• Human and Animal Eye Tracking
• Weather-Sealed Body
• 4K video [cropped]
• 120fps in 1080p
• 8 Bit internal and 10 Bit external video
• New EN-EL15C battery [Allows for USB-C Charging]
• SD and XQD Dual Card Slots

In Summary

The main takeaway from both cameras is the performance boost, more reliable AF as well as the 3D eye-tracking which has been missing from Nikon’s arsenal. Along with that is the new grip, the MB-N11 to increase the shoot time with your chosen camera. This grip will not fit the older Z 6 & Z 7 as the bodies are slightly smaller. We believe the reason for this change would be the extra processor and the added SD card slot. 

Overall Nikon has delivered two practical cameras that seek to fit the needs of its users. We look forward to testing the cameras and seeing just what you can get out of them and if the improvements are enough to sway its current DSLR users.

To see more of what Nikon has to offer check out the link here where they will be livestreaming the event at 2:00pm BST.

Pricing and availability

Sales Start: Winter 2020 – Nikon Z 7II – from £2,999. Nikon Z 6II – from £1,999. MB-N11 – £359 | €412.19