Are you looking for a weather-sealed Nikon camera for your next adventure? We’ve rounded up the 10 best weather-sealed Nikon cameras to buy in 2023, including mirrorless and DSLR options.
Before we look at each one in detail, here’s an overview of our top choices. They are in order of the highest-scoring cameras in our database:
Our Top Choice
Nikon Z9
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Highly Recommended
Nikon Z7 II Specs And Features
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Highly Recommended
Nikon Z6 II
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Highly Recommended
Nikon Z7
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Highly Recommended
Nikon D6
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Highly Recommended
Nikon D850
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Highly Recommended
Nikon D780
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Highly Recommended
Nikon D5
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Highly Recommended
Nikon D810
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Highly Recommended
Nikon Z50
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10 Best Weather-Sealed Nikon Cameras (in Detail!)
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 46 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 30 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 493 |
- Ultra-fast image processor
- High, 120 fps compressed frame rate
- No visible rolling shutter
- 8K / 60p Ultra HD video
- Unlimited low-resolution recording
- Excellent battery life
- 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 mirrorless camera. Its 45.7MP sensor and fast and accurate autofocus system offer excellent image quality and performance. Its weather-sealed body makes it ideal for shooting in challenging conditions.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45.75 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 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 Nikon Z7 II is a powerful and versatile weather-sealed camera. It features a 45.7MP full-frame sensor, dual EXPEED 6 image processors, and a wide ISO range of 64-25,600. It has a fast and accurate autofocus system with 493 focus points and a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.5 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 35.9 x 23.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 14 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 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 great choice for outdoor photographers. It features a 24.5MP full-frame sensor, 4K video recording, and a fast and accurate autofocus system. It also has dual card slots for added storage and a weather-sealed body for shooting in any environment.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45.7 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 9 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 493 |
- 46 MP high-resolution sensor
- Rapid shutter speed of 1/8000 s
- Fast and sophisticated AF system
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Wide +5 EV AE bracketing range
- Slow 9 fps max continuous shooting speed
- Unreliable battery life
- Single XDQ card slot
- Limited Nikon Z-mount lenses
The Nikon Z7 is a great choice for photographers looking for a high-end mirrorless camera. It features a 45.7MP full-frame sensor, a fast and accurate autofocus system, and a wide range of features and settings.
Its robust weather-sealing system makes it perfect for shooting in challenging conditions. This system includes a rubber gasket around the lens mount and rubber sealing around the memory card slot and battery compartment. This ensures that the camera is protected from dust, moisture, and other elements.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45.7 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 153 |
- Fantastic overall image quality
- Excellent 3D continuous AF tracking
- Sharp 4K / 30p Ultra HD video
- Long, 1,840-shot battery life
- Durable, weather-sealed construction
- No customizable shooting presets
- Slow autofocus in Live View
- Needs an expensive XQD card
- Rolling shutter noticeable in 4K video
- Slow 7 fps or 9 fps with an expensive battery grip
The Nikon D850 has a 45.7 megapixel full-frame sensor, 4K video recording, and a fast and accurate autofocus system. It also has excellent weather sealing, making it a great choice for outdoor photography. With its high resolution and fast performance, the Nikon D850 is an excellent choice for any photographer. Try our full Nikon D850 review for more info!
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 25 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 51 |
- Long-exposure presets
- Plenty of autofocus (AF) points
- Nice, uncropped 4K video capabilities
- Dual memory card slots (UHS-II)
- Relatively expensive
- No built-in image stabilization
- Noise reduction can be harsh
- No built-in GPS
The Nikon D780 features a 24.5MP full-frame sensor, fast and accurate autofocus, and a wide ISO range. It also has a tilting touchscreen LCD, dual card slots, and 4K video recording. Plus, it is weather-sealed, so you can take it out in any weather conditions without worrying about damage.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.8 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 153 |
- Advanced 153-point AF system
- Excellent ISO range and low-light performance
- Extra-capacity dual card slots
- Weather-sealed, durable body
- Long-lasting battery life
- Very expensive camera
- No sensor-shift image stabilization
- Heavy camera body
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- Short 4K video recording time limit
The Nikon D5 is a top-of-the-line DSLR camera that offers professional-level performance. It features a 20.8 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, 4K UHD video recording, and an advanced 153-point autofocus system. It also has excellent weather sealing, making it ideal for shooting in challenging conditions. Its fast burst shooting speed and excellent low-light performance make the Nikon D5 a perfect choice for any photographer.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 36.3 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 5 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 51 |
- Outstanding image quality from the FX-format sensor
- Wide ISO range and great low-light performance
- Fast and accurate AF system that works well in dark conditions
- High-quality pentaprism optical viewfinder
- Sluggish 5 fps max shooting speed at full resolution
- Heavy camera body
- LCD screen isn't a touch screen and there's no screen articulation
- No Wi-Fi connectivity built in
- No 4K video quality, only Full HD
The Nikon D810 is a great choice for photographers looking for a high-quality and reliable camera for shooting outdoors. It features a 36.3 MP full-frame sensor, fast autofocus, and a wide ISO range. It also has excellent weather sealing, making it a great choice for outdoor photography.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 21 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.5 x 15.7 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 11 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 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 Nikon Z50 is a great mirrorless camera. It features a 20.9MP DX-format CMOS sensor and EXPEED 6 image processor. It also has a fast and accurate autofocus system, 4K UHD video recording, and a tilting touchscreen LCD. Plus, it has weather sealing, so you can take it out in any weather conditions without worrying about damage.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.9 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 15.7 x 23.5 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 153 |
- Excellent low-light performance
- 10 fps RAW burst with 200-image limit
- Weather-sealed body
- Long-lasting battery life
- 4K video with ports for external sound recording
- Low resolution for an APS-C Sensor
- No advanced bird or animal AF
- Slow AF in Live View
- Heavy DSLR body
- 4K video is cropped
The Nikon D500 makes for a powerful and reliable outdoor camera. Its weather sealing makes it ideal for shooting in rough conditions. The 20.9MP sensor and EXPEED 5 image processor allow you to capture stunningly detailed images. It also has a fast and accurate 153-point AF system and 10 fps continuous shooting. This makes it perfect for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Our Verdict
Looking for a reliable camera that can withstand the elements? Weather-Sealed Nikon Cameras are an excellent choice for outdoor photographers. The Nikon Z9 is our top-of-the-line weather-sealed camera that can handle any situation.
So, what is the best camera to buy?
This post has highlighted the highest-scoring weather-sealed Nikon cameras in our database. Ultimately, that decision comes down to personal preference and intended use.
We hope you found it helpful! If you have any questions about finding the right camera or choosing the best settings for your purposes, don’t hesitate to reach out. We love talking cameras! If you’re looking for more information, try our recent articles on the best sunset photography settings or the best time of day for outdoor photography next!