The best Nikon mirrorless camera (or Nikon Z camera) is the Z9. It is a full frame model with high resolution, a fast burst rate, and excellent autofocus (AF). But it’s a little on the heavy side!
Nikon Z9
After that comes a pair of mid-market Nikon cameras. The Z7 II offers higher resolution, while the Z6 II offers a higher frame rate. But if you’re looking for a full frame, entry-level model, the Z5 might suit you.
Or there are several crop sensor (or DX-format) cameras. These include the Z50, Z fc, and Z30. But there aren’t many suitable lenses for these models. And the Z30 doesn’t offer 4K video.
What Is the Best Nikon Mirrorless Camera?
Here’s a quick look at all seven Nikon mirrorless Z series cameras—full frame and APS-C. (This list excludes the original Z7 and Z6, which improved models have replaced.)
- Ultra-fast image processor
- High, 120 fps compressed frame rate
- No visible rolling shutter
- Excellent battery life
- 8K/60p Ultra HD video
- Unlimited low-resolution recording
- High-resolution image sensor
- Rapid 1/8000 s shutter speed
- Excellent AF system
- Dual memory card slots
- Great 4K video at 60 fps
- Excellent low-light focusing
- Lightweight and portable
- Superb low-light dynamic range
- Dual memory card slots
- Brilliant 273-point autofocus (AF) system
- Fantastic expandable ISO range for low-light shooting
- In-body 5-axis image stabilization
- High-resolution electronic viewfinder
- A more affordable mirrorless option
- Nice to handle and use
- Relatively lightweight and not too bulky
- Solid 4K video performance
- Face- and eye-detect AF for humans and animals
- Lots of easy-access control dials
- Attractive and stylish design
- 4K video capabilities
- Compact and lightweight body
- Responsive and accurate AF with eye detection and tracking
- Wide ISO range with excellent low-noise performance at the top end
- Vari-angle screen is perfect for videos and vlogging
- Environmental sealing for outdoor shoots
7 Best Nikon Mirrorless Cameras in Detail
Now we’ll look at all the full frame (FX) and crop-sensor (DX) options in more detail. Jump to our FAQ section at the end if you need more information about Nikon mirrorless cameras.
1. Nikon Z9
Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
Megapixels |
Megapixels
46 MP |
Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
|
Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
30 fps |
Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
493 |
- Ultra-fast image processor
- High, 120 fps compressed frame rate
- No visible rolling shutter
- Excellent battery life
- 8K/60p Ultra HD video
- Unlimited low-resolution recording
- Only 11 MP files at the highest frame
- You can only shoot RAW files at 20 fps
- Tracking can fail with erratic movement
- IBIS not as good as Canon R3
- Autofocus isn't as good for video
- The screen doesn't fully articulate
The Nikon Z9 is a top-of-the-line full frame (FX) mirrorless camera for professional photographers. It’s a good choice for capturing stunning images in different scenarios.
This camera packs a lot of features that make. And it competes directly with the flagship Sony a1 and the Canon R3 and R5.
One of the key features of the Nikon Z9 is its high resolution. This camera features a 45 MP sensor that captures images with incredible clarity.
This means you can capture photos with a lot of fine detail. That’s especially useful for landscape, architecture, or portrait photography.
The autofocus system of the Nikon Z9 is another highlight. It’s fast and reliable and has 1053 points. That makes tracking and focusing on your subject easy throughout the frame.
The autofocus (AF) system is highly customizable. So you can choose the focus points and alter the tracking speed and sensitivity to taste.
This Nikon also has an impressive frame rate. It can shoot up to 20 fps. It doesn’t quite match the Sony a1 or Canon R5. But along with a fast AF system, it’s easy to capture fast-moving action.
The Z9 features a sturdy, weather-sealed body. So it’s built to withstand harsh shooting conditions.
Plus, the camera grip fits comfortably in your hand, making it easy to handle and control. But it makes this mirrorless rather big and heavy!
It also features a variety of customizable buttons and dials. These allow you to adjust camera settings quickly while shooting, giving you more control.
The Nikon Z9 has impressive video capabilities. These include 8K recording at up to 30 fps (frames per second) and 4K recording at up to 120 fps.
It also has advanced AF, IBIS, and a range of other video-focused features. So If you can afford it, this Nikon mirrorless camera does everything!
2. Nikon Z7 II
Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
Megapixels |
Megapixels
45.75 MP |
Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
|
Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
439 |
- High-resolution image sensor
- Rapid 1/8000 s shutter speed
- Excellent AF system
- Dual memory card slots
- Great 4K video at 60 fps
- Disappointing battery life of 420 shots
- Tilt screen has limited flexibility
- Limited lens range
- Slow frame rate of 10 fps in continuous shooting speed
The Z7 II is an impressive full frame camera. It offers excellent performance and image quality.
And it’s a great choice for serious photographers who want a versatile, high-end model with decent sensor resolution.
One of the main advantages of the Nikon Z7 II over the Nikon Z6 II is its 45.7 MP sensor. It offers exceptional detail and clarity. And this makes it perfect for landscape and portrait photography.
The autofocus system is also impressive. It’s fast and reliable, with 493 focus points across the frame. And it’s also highly customizable.
This Nikon Z camera also has a decent frame rate for capturing fast-moving action. At 10 fps, it’s faster than the D850, Nikon’s flagship DSLR.
But it’s still only half the speed of the Z9. And that’s only using AF-S (single autofocus).
In terms of handling, the Nikon Z7 II is comfortable and easy to use. Nikon has a reputation for comfortable grips, and this is no exception.
Plus, its customizable buttons and dials are like those on the Z9. And It features a sturdy, weather-sealed body that can withstand harsh shooting conditions.
The Nikon Z7 II also offers 4K video at up to 60 fps with advanced AF and In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS). And it also has external microphone and headphone jacks.
3. Nikon Z6 II
Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.5 MP |
Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
35.9 x 23.9 mm
|
Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
14 fps |
Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
273 |
- Excellent low-light focusing
- Lightweight and portable
- Superb low-light dynamic range
- Dual memory card slots
- Autofocus can be slow
- Relatively short battery life
- Lower MP count than main competitors
- Needs more customizable buttons
The Nikon Z6 II is a high-end full frame mirrorless camera. It’s aimed at serious photographers who value frame rates above resolution. And it’s quite a bit cheaper than the newer Z7 II.
The 14 fps burst rate beats the Z7 II’s 10 fps. So it is especially well-suited to capturing fast action. But this is only available if you use AF-S and create 12-bit RAW files.
It features a 24.5 MP sensor that captures images with excellent detail and color accuracy. But it’s not quite as high-resolution as the Z7 II.
The autofocus of the Nikon Z6 II is also impressive. It features a fast and reliable AF system that uses 273 focus points covering a large area of the frame.
Again, that’s slightly down from the Z7 II. But it’s still easy to focus on and track your subject. Plus, you can also customize the AF settings.
In terms of handling, this Nikon mirrorless camera shares exactly the same dimensions and weight as the Z7 II. It has the same weather-sealing and the same customizable buttons.
The Nikon Z6 II also has impressive video capabilities. It offers 4K video at up to 30 fps with advanced AF and in-body image stabilization. And it also has external microphone and headphone ports.
4. Nikon Z5
Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
Megapixels |
Megapixels
24 MP |
Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
|
Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
4.5 fps |
Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
273 |
- Brilliant 273-point autofocus (AF) system
- Fantastic expandable ISO range for low-light shooting
- In-body 5-axis image stabilization
- High-resolution electronic viewfinder
- Autofocus loses accuracy in low light
- Limited 4.5 fps burst with AF support
- Fewer Z-mount lenses than F Mount
- 4K video is cropped
The Nikon Z5 is an entry-level full frame camera for anyone wanting to improve their photo skills. It offers excellent image quality and performance.
It has a 24.3 MP full frame sensor that offers stunning detail and color accuracy. While not the highest resolution sensor on the market, it’s still enough for most purposes.
The camera’s ISO range is also wide enough to work in low-light conditions. And the autofocus system is fast and accurate.
Like the Z6 II, it has 273 focus points to track and focus on your subject. This lets you capture sharp, well-focused images in different shooting scenarios. The AF system is also highly customizable.
In terms of frame rate, the Nikon Z5 is not as fast as some other cameras in its class. It can only shoot up to 4.5 fps, which is too slow for fast action.
But like the other Nikon Z Series cameras, it is comfortable to use and user-friendly. It also has a weather-sealed body and plenty of customization options.
The dimensions are the same as those of the Z6 II and Z7 II. But it’s an ounce (30 g) lighter.
Lastly, the Nikon Z5 offers 4K video recording at up to 30 fps and Full HD recording at up to 60 fps. And it features advanced AF and in-body image stabilization.
5. Nikon Z50
Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
Megapixels |
Megapixels
21 MP |
Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.5 x 15.7 mm
|
Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
209 |
- A more affordable mirrorless option
- Nice to handle and use
- Relatively lightweight and not too bulky
- Solid 4K video performance
- 20.8 MP sensor resolution is lower than many close competitors
- Poor battery life
- Only one memory card slot
- Limited native APS-C lenses
The Z50 is a crop sensor (DX) version of the Z5 aimed at enthusiasts who want to step up their photography game. It offers excellent image quality and performance, both for stills and video.
It features a 20.9 MP APS-C sensor offering excellent detail and color accuracy. While not as high-resolution as some other cameras in its class, it has a wide ISO range for low-light work.
The range of 100 to 51,200 ISO is the same as the Z5. But the highest expanded ISO of 204,800 is twice as high.
The AF system of the Nikon Z50 is fast and reliable, using 209 focus points to acquire and track your subject. That’s slightly fewer than you get on the Z5.
But you can still capture sharp, well-focused images in different shooting scenarios. As usual, the autofocus system is highly customizable.
This Nikon Z camera can shoot up to 11 fps, making it a good choice for capturing fast-moving action using AF-C.
The Nikon Z50 weighs nearly 10 oz (278 g) less than the Z5. And it features a compact and lightweight body that’s easy to handle and control with a selfie-friendly LCD.
The grip fits comfortably in your hand, making it easy to shoot for long periods. It also has a variety of custom buttons and dials.
The Nikon Z50 has decent video features. It offers 4K video recording at up to 30 fps and Full HD recording at up to 120 fps (for slow-motion footage).
It also has an external microphone input and a built-in microphone. These make it a good camera for vlogging and other video projects.
6. Nikon Z fc
Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
Megapixels |
Megapixels
21 MP |
Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.5 x 15.7 mm
|
Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
209 |
- Face- and eye-detect AF for humans and animals
- Lots of easy-access control dials
- Attractive and stylish design
- 4K video capabilities
- Slow performing kit lens
- No optical image stabilization
- It lacks a built-in flash
- No joystick
- Battery life isn't great
The Nikon Z fc is a stylish crop sensor (DX) camera with a classic, retro look. It’s a versatile model offering high performance for both stills and video.
It features a 20.9 MP APS-C sensor. And it captures excellent detail and color accuracy despite the lack of resolution.
The camera’s ISO range is the same as that of the Z50. So it lets you capture high-quality images even in low-light conditions.
And the autofocus system is the same as the Z50, too, with 209 focus points to track and focus on your subject. It also has the same burst rate of 11 fps.
This is a stylish Nikon mirrorless camera with a retro look. It has good ergonomics and similar levels of customizability to the Z50. But it has an old-fashioned silver top plate and dials that contrast with the black body.
The Z fc offers decent video capabilities. These include 4K video recording at up to 30 fps and Full HD recording at up to 120 fps. It also has advanced autofocus and in-body image stabilization.
7. Nikon Z30
Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
Megapixels |
Megapixels
20 MP |
Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.5 x 15.7 mm
|
Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
209 |
- Compact and lightweight body
- Responsive and accurate AF with eye detection and tracking
- Wide ISO range with excellent low-noise performance at the top end
- Vari-angle screen is perfect for videos and vlogging
- Environmental sealing for outdoor shoots
- Has no viewfinder, only an LCD screen
- No electronic shutter for quicker burst or silent shooting
- Video is cropped 1.3x when using the electronic vibration reduction system
- The battery life is disappointing for a Nikon camera
The Z30 is a compact and lightweight crop sensor (DX) camera. It’s a Nikon aimed at beginners. And it’s especially for vloggers and streamers.
It offers a good balance of features and ease of use, making it an ideal camera for those new to photography.
It has a 20.9 MP APS-C sensor that captures similar images to other cameras in its class. And the camera’s ISO range is the same as the Z50’s, allowing you to capture high-quality images even in low light.
The autofocus system of the Nikon Z30 is also fast and reliable. Like the Z50, it has 209 focus points and similar customization options.
In terms of frame rate, this Nikon Z mirrorless can shoot up to 11 fps, which is enough for most photography needs. It’s not as fast as some other cameras in its class. But it’s still fast enough to capture most action shots.
This Nikon Z camera is also designed for ease of use and portability. It features a compact, lightweight body that’s easy to handle and control with a vlogger-friendly flip screen.
And you can even use a selfie stick to shoot videos. The camera features a variety of customizable buttons and dials, but it doesn’t have an electronic viewfinder (EVF).
Finally, the Nikon Z30 offers 4K video recording at up to 30 fps, plus 1080 video at up to 120 fps (for slow motion). And it has advanced autofocus and in-body image stabilization.
Our Verdict
The Z9 is Nikon’s flagship full frame mirrorless camera and performs exceptionally well. Its only real weaknesses are its size and weight, and the frame rate doesn’t quite match its nearest competitors.
If you’re looking for something smaller and more affordable, the updated full frame Z7 II and Z6 II are good options, followed by the Z5.
After that come the crop sensor models. These cameras still offer high resolution, decent frame rates, acceptable autofocus, good handling, and 4K video (apart from the Z30).
Nikon Z9
Best Nikon Mirrorless Camera FAQs
We answer some frequently asked questions about Nikon Z cameras to help you with your buying decisions.
Which Is the Best Mirrorless Camera in Nikon?
The best mirrorless camera in Nikon depends on your needs and budget. The high-end Nikon Z9 is the flagship model, offering advanced features and performance.
For those on a tighter budget, the Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II are great choices with excellent image quality and autofocus.
The Nikon Z50 and Z5 are popular options for a more affordable entry into mirrorless photography.
What Is the Best-Value Mirrorless Nikon Camera?
The Z50 is the best-value mirrorless camera from Nikon, offering great features and affordability. It has a 20.9 MP APS-C sensor, a fast autofocus system, and 11 fps continuous shooting.
It’s also lightweight and easy to handle. So it’s a great choice for beginners or those looking for a more portable camera.
Which Nikon Camera Has the Best Image Quality?
The Nikon Z9 currently has the best image quality in the range of Nikon mirrorless cameras. The full frame 45.7 MP sensor delivers high resolution with rich detail and accurate color reproduction.
It also offers an advanced AF system, high-speed continuous shooting, and a durable weather-sealed body.
Which Nikon Cameras Are Mirrorless?
The Z Series has seven Nikon cameras, including the high-end flagship Z9, the mid-range Z6 II and Z7 II, and the more affordable Z50, Z5, Z fc, and Z30.
All these cameras feature a mirrorless design. That means they use an EVF instead of a traditional optical viewfinder.
Mirrorless cameras are more compact and lightweight than their DSLR counterparts. That makes them a popular choice for travel and street photography.
Is the Nikon Z System Worth It?
Nikon Z Series cameras offer advanced features and performance. But they are smaller and lighter than DSLRs.
The system offers a range of cameras to suit different needs and budgets. But there aren’t many Nikon DX lenses on the market.
Nikon Z mirrorless cameras offer excellent image quality, fast autofocus systems, fast burst rates, and 4K video capabilities. But it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Check out our articles on Sony vs Nikon mirrorless or Canon vs Sony mirrorless cameras next!