Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 85
SCORE
|
✓ WINNER
 87
SCORE
|
|
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | Z7 II | Z9 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2020 | 2021 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
14/10/2020 | 28/10/2021 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 134 x 101 x 70 mm | 149 x 150 x 91 mm |
| Camera weight | 705 g | 1340 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
45.75 MP050 | 46 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
8256 x 5504 | 8256 x 5504 |
Sensor type ⓘThe camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. |
CMOS | CMOS |
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 | 23.9 x 35.9 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Full Frame | Full Frame |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. |
10 fps045 | 30 fps045 |
Lens mount ⓘThe lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. |
Nikon Z | Nikon Z |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Dual Expeed 6 | Expeed 7 |
Aspect ratio ⓘThe aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |
3:2 | 3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
6430200 | 6430200 |
Max ISO ⓘRefers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. |
256003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
Min ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. |
3230200 | 3230200 |
Max ISO (expanded) ⓘExpanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. |
1024003003280000 | 1024003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 90044080 |
Max shutter speed ⓘThe maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. |
800080032000 | 3200080032000 |
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. |
4390300 | 4930300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘIn-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |
✓ | ✓ |
Viewfinder type ⓘThe viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. |
Electronic | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | 369000009900000 | 368640009900000 |
| Video | ||
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |
✓ | ✓ |
Max video resolution ⓘThe best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |
4K | 8K |
Max video format ⓘVideo resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. |
3840 x 2160 | 7680 x 4320 |
Max video frame rate ⓘHow many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. |
120 fps | 120 fps |
Timelapse built in ⓘA built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |
✓ | ✓ |
Video file format ⓘDifferent cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. |
MOV, MP4 | MOV |
| Features | ||
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |
✗ | ✗ |
External flash ⓘExternal flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |
✓ | ✓ |
GPS ⓘGPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |
✗ | ✓ |
Weather sealing ⓘWeather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |
✓ | ✓ |
| Screen type | TFT LCD | LCD |
Touch screen ⓘTouchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |
✓ | ✓ |
| Screen size | 3.2" | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
21000001150001500000 | 20889601150001500000 |
Flip screen ⓘA flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |
✓ | ✓ |
Live view ⓘLive View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |
✓ | ✓ |
Wi-Fi ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. |
✓ | ✓ |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |
✓ | ✓ |
| Storage & battery | ||
| Memory card | SD, CFexpress Type B / XQD (UHS-II compatible) | CFexpress, XQD |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery type | EN-EL15c | EN-EL18d |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
420 shots1505000 | 740 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✓ | ✓ |
The Nikon Z9 takes the lead with a score of 87/100, while the Nikon Z7 II trails close behind with 85/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similarities in specifications. They were announced and released within a year of each other, with the Z7 II in 2020 and the Z9 in 2021.
The Z9 outperforms the Z7 II with a higher launch price of $5500, compared to $3399 for the Z7 II. The Z9 is also larger and heavier, measuring 149 x 150 x 91mm and weighing 1340g, which may appeal to users seeking a more robust camera.
On the other hand, the Z7 II has its advantages, being lighter at 705g and more compact with dimensions of 134 x 101 x 70mm. This makes it a more portable option for photographers on the go.
Considering these factors, the Nikon Z9 is the superior camera with a higher score, but the Z7 II offers a more affordable and lightweight alternative for those who value portability.
The Nikon Z9 outperforms the Nikon Z7 II in optics with a score of 88/100, compared to the Z7 II’s 86/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, Nikon Z lens mount, and image stabilization. These common features contribute to the high-quality optics of both cameras.
The Z9 has a slight edge over the Z7 II due to its higher megapixel count (46 vs. 45.75) and significantly faster shooting speed (30 vs. 10). The Z9’s advanced Expeed 7 processor also contributes to its superior performance, allowing it to process images more efficiently than the Z7 II’s dual Expeed 6 processors.
However, the Z7 II has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor (100 vs. 98), which means it could potentially produce better image quality in certain situations. Despite this advantage, the Z9’s overall performance in optics remains superior due to its higher megapixel count and faster shooting speed.
The Nikon Z9 is the better camera in terms of optics, with a higher score and more advanced specifications. The Z7 II, while not as powerful, still offers excellent performance and could be a suitable choice for those who prioritize sensor quality. Both cameras provide outstanding optics, making them suitable for a variety of photography needs.
The Nikon Z9 outperforms the Nikon Z7 II in video capabilities, boasting a perfect video score of 100/100 compared to the Z7 II’s 91/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, including a maximum video frame rate of 120fps and built-in time-lapse functionality. Despite these similarities, the Z9 emerges as the clear winner in this comparison.
The Z9’s superior video performance can be attributed to its impressive maximum video resolution of 8K, which is double the 4K resolution of the Z7 II. This translates to the Z9 having maximum video dimensions of 7680 x 4320, a significant improvement over the Z7 II’s 3840 x 2160 dimensions. With the Z9’s higher resolution and video dimensions, users can capture more detailed and sharper footage, providing a more immersive viewing experience.
On the other hand, the Z7 II does not offer any notable advantages in video capabilities over the Z9. Its lower resolution and video dimensions make it less suitable for high-quality video production. However, it is worth noting that the Z7 II still delivers solid video performance with its 4K resolution, which may be sufficient for casual users and some professionals.
Considering the above points, the Nikon Z9 is the superior choice for those seeking advanced video capabilities. Its 8K resolution and larger video dimensions provide a noticeable improvement in video quality, making it an ideal choice for professional videographers and content creators. While the Nikon Z7 II may be suitable for users with less demanding video requirements, the Z9’s unmatched performance makes it the clear winner in this comparison.
The Nikon Z7 II and Nikon Z9 both have a feature score of 87 out of 100, making them equal in this regard. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3.2-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screen functionality, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity. Despite these similarities, each camera has its own advantages and disadvantages.
The Nikon Z9 has an edge over the Z7 II due to its GPS functionality. This feature allows users to geotag their photos, making it easier to organize and locate images based on location. This can be especially useful for photographers who travel frequently or enjoy documenting their adventures.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z7 II boasts a slightly higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, compared to the Z9’s 2,088,960 dots. While this difference may not be significant for some users, it does provide a marginally clearer and more detailed image preview on the camera’s LCD screen.
Despite these minor differences, both cameras are highly capable and offer a range of features suitable for various photography needs. The choice between the Nikon Z7 II and Nikon Z9 ultimately depends on the individual’s preferences and specific requirements. For those who value GPS functionality, the Nikon Z9 is the better option. However, if a slightly higher screen resolution is more important, the Nikon Z7 II may be more suitable. Regardless of the choice, both cameras deliver excellent performance and features that cater to a wide range of photography styles and preferences.
The Nikon Z9 wins in storage and battery with a score of 79/100, while the Nikon Z7 II scores 71/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and support USB charging. The Z9 accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress, and XQD memory cards, while the Z7 II accepts SD, CFexpress Type B/XQD (UHS-II compatible) cards.
The Z9 outperforms the Z7 II in battery life, offering 740 shots compared to the Z7 II’s 420 shots. This significant difference is due to the Z9’s EN-EL18d battery, which is more powerful than the Z7 II’s EN-EL15c battery.
The Z7 II has no advantage over the Z9 in terms of storage and battery. The Z9’s superior battery life and broader memory card compatibility make it a better choice for photographers who require extended shooting sessions and flexible storage options.
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Z7 II or the Nikon Z9:
