CameraReview
ROUNDUP · BUYING GUIDE

7 Best Nikon Mirrorless Cameras (Nikon Z Camera) in 2024

By Nick Dale · Writer
Updated January 2024 ·  3 min read
ON THIS PAGE
What Is the Best Nikon Mirrorless Camera?7 Best Nikon Mirrorless Cameras in DetailOur VerdictBest Nikon Mirrorless Camera FAQs
Compare two cameras
Put any two side by side across the full spec sheet, with live prices.
Open comparison →

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!

FEATURED IN THIS ROUNDUP
Nikon Z9
Nikon
Nikon Z9
87
SCORE
$5,296.95 →

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.

Best Nikon mirrorless camera Nikon Z9 on blue patterned background

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.)

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.

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).

FEATURED IN THIS ROUNDUP
Nikon Z9
Nikon
Nikon Z9
87
SCORE
$5,296.95 →

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.

A woman standing in a field outside over the best Nikon mirrorless camera (Z9) with a lens and microphone attached
Our top choice, the Nikon Z9

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!

Written by Nick Dale for CameraReview. Updated January 2024.
All Guides
Related guides