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.
Nikon Z9
Capture stunning photos and videos in all weather conditions with this powerhouse mirrorless camera.
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
- 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
Highly Recommended
Nikon Z7 II
- High-resolution image sensor
- Rapid 1/8000 s shutter speed
- Excellent AF system
- Dual memory card slots
- Great 4K video at 60 fps
Highly Recommended
Nikon Z6 II
- Excellent low-light focusing
- Lightweight and portable
- Superb low-light dynamic range
- Dual memory card slots
Highly Recommended
Nikon Z7
- 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
Highly Recommended
Nikon D6
- Advanced 105-point AF system
- Excellent ISO range and low-light performance
- Extra-capacity dual card slots
- Weather-sealed, durable body
- Long-lasting battery life
Highly Recommended
Nikon D850
- Fantastic overall image quality
- Excellent 3D continuous AF tracking
- Long, 1,840-shot battery life
- Durable, weather-sealed construction
- Sharp 4K/30p Ultra HD video
Highly Recommended
Nikon D780
- Long-exposure presets
- Plenty of autofocus (AF) points
- Nice, uncropped 4K video capabilities
- Dual memory card slots (UHS-II)
Highly Recommended
Nikon D5
- 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
Highly Recommended
Nikon D810
- 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
Highly Recommended
Nikon Z50
- A more affordable mirrorless option
- Nice to handle and use
- Relatively lightweight and not too bulky
- Solid 4K video performance
10 Best Weather-Sealed Nikon Cameras (in Detail!)
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 |
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
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 |
Pros
- High-resolution image sensor
- Rapid 1/8000 s shutter speed
- Excellent AF system
- Dual memory card slots
- Great 4K video at 60 fps
Cons
- 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.
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 |
Pros
- Excellent low-light focusing
- Lightweight and portable
- Superb low-light dynamic range
- Dual memory card slots
Cons
- 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.
4. Nikon Z7
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
45.7 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
9 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
493 |
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
5. Nikon D850
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
 DSLR |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
45.7 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
7 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
153 |
Pros
- Fantastic overall image quality
- Excellent 3D continuous AF tracking
- Long, 1,840-shot battery life
- Durable, weather-sealed construction
- Sharp 4K/30p Ultra HD video
Cons
- 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!
6. Nikon D780
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
DSLR |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
25 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
12 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
51 |
Pros
- Long-exposure presets
- Plenty of autofocus (AF) points
- Nice, uncropped 4K video capabilities
- Dual memory card slots (UHS-II)
Cons
- 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.
7. Nikon D5
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
DSLR |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20.8 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
12 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
153 |
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
8. Nikon D810
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
DSLR |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
36.3 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
24 x 35.9 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
5 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
51 |
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
9. 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 |
Pros
- A more affordable mirrorless option
- Nice to handle and use
- Relatively lightweight and not too bulky
- Solid 4K video performance
Cons
- 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.
10. Nikon D500
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
DSLR |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
20.9 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
15.7 x 23.5 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
153 |
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
Nikon Z9
Capture stunning photos and videos in all weather conditions with this powerhouse mirrorless camera.
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!
