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Nikon Z6

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery
Nikon Z6
81%
General
81%
Price
Brand
Nikon
Model
Z6
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2018
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 23, 2018
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon Z6 scores an impressive 81/100 in our evaluation. Launched in 2018 with a price tag of $2000, this mirrorless camera boasts a compact size of 134 x 101 x 68mm and a lightweight build of 675g or 1.49lbs. In today’s competitive market, the Z6 stands strong with its combination of performance, size, and affordability. This camera proves to be a reliable choice for both amateur and professional photographers alike.

Nikon Z6 Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z6 receives an optics score of 83/100. It features a 24.5-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, providing high-resolution images. The camera’s shooting speed is 12 frames per second, allowing for swift capture of fast-moving subjects. Utilizing the Expeed 6 processor, the Z6 delivers fast performance and excellent image quality. The camera’s DXOMARK score for its sensor is 95, indicating strong performance in today’s market.

The Nikon Z6 is equipped with a Nikon Z lens mount, offering compatibility with a wide range of high-quality lenses. The camera’s built-in image stabilization ensures sharp and steady images, even in challenging shooting conditions. With an aspect ratio of 3:2, the Z6 produces well-balanced compositions suitable for various applications.

The Nikon Z6 proves to be a strong contender in the current market due to its impressive optics and advanced features. Its high-resolution sensor, fast shooting speed, and wide compatibility with lenses make it a reliable choice for photographers seeking top-notch performance.

Optics
Optics
83%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.5 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6048 x 4024 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
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 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full Frame
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
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
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 6
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
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
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.
51,200
Minimum 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.
50
Maximum 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.
204800
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30 s
Maximum 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.
1/ 8000 s
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
In-body Stabilization
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
Viewfinder Resolution
3,690,000 dots

Nikon Z6 Video Performance

The Nikon Z6 boasts a video score of 83/100, reflecting its impressive capabilities in this area. The camera offers a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160, ensuring high-quality video output. Additionally, it supports a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, allowing for smooth motion capture and stunning visuals.

A noteworthy feature of the Nikon Z6 is its built-in time-lapse functionality, which enables users to create captivating time-lapse videos with ease. Comparing these specifications to other cameras in today’s market, the Nikon Z6 stands out as a strong contender for those seeking excellent video performance.

The Nikon Z6’s video capabilities make it a top choice for both amateur and professional videographers. Its high-quality video output, combined with its smooth frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality, ensure that this camera is a solid investment for anyone seeking outstanding video performance.

Video
Video
83%
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
Max Video Dimensions
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 px
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.
60 p
Time-Lapse 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

Nikon Z6 Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z6 scores an impressive 87/100 in the features department. With a 3.2-inch screen size and a resolution of 2,100,000 dots, the display is clear and vibrant. The camera offers touchscreen functionality, making it easy to navigate menus and controls. However, the Z6 does not have a flip screen, which may be a limitation for some users.

In terms of connectivity, the Nikon Z6 is well-equipped with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing for easy sharing of photos and remote control of the camera. Despite these advanced features, the Z6 lacks GPS functionality, which could be an important feature for some photographers.

Considering these specifications, the Nikon Z6 holds its own in today’s competitive camera market. Its combination of a high-resolution touchscreen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth make it a strong contender for those looking for a feature-rich camera. However, the absence of a flip screen and GPS may be a drawback for certain users.

Features
Features
87%
Built-in 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
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"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2,100,000 dots
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
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.

Nikon Z6 Storage and Battery

The Nikon Z6’s storage and battery performance receives a score of 35/100. This camera has only one memory card slot, which accepts XQD cards. In comparison to other cameras in the market, the single slot may be limiting for some users. The battery life of the Nikon Z6 is 310 shots, powered by an EN-EL15b battery. This battery life falls short when compared to other cameras, but the Z6 compensates with USB charging capability.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
35%
Memory Card
XQD
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL15b
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
310 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
95%
Portrait (Color Depth)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.'
25.3 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.'
14.3 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better'
3299
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video

Nikon Z6 Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Nikon Z6 compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Nikon Z6 photographed on a colored background

Nikon Z6 FAQ

Does the Nikon Z6 Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

Yes, the Nikon Z6 features a built-in 5-axis image stabilization system, providing up to 5 stops of shake correction for sharper photos and videos.

Does the Nikon Z6 Support 4K Video Recording?

Yes, the Nikon Z6 supports 4K UHD video recording at up to 30 frames per second, offering high-quality video capabilities for professional and enthusiast videographers.

What Size Sensor Does The Nikon Z6 Have?

The Nikon Z6 has a full-frame 24.5-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, providing exceptional image quality, low-light performance, and dynamic range.

Does the Nikon Z6 Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

No, the Nikon Z6 has a single XQD memory card slot, which offers high-speed performance but lacks the redundancy and flexibility of dual card slots.

Does the Nikon Z6 Have a Touch Screen?

Yes, the Nikon Z6 features a 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, allowing for easy navigation, focus point selection, and image review.

Does the Nikon Z6 Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

Yes, the Nikon Z6 offers both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless image transfer, remote camera control, and seamless integration with Nikon’s SnapBridge app.

Does the Nikon Z6 Have GPS?

No, the Nikon Z6 does not have built-in GPS functionality. However, location data can be added to images using a connected smartphone via the SnapBridge app.

Is the Nikon Z6 Weather Sealed?

Yes, the Nikon Z6 is weather sealed, featuring dust and moisture resistance for reliable performance in challenging environments and weather conditions.

Does the Nikon Z6 Have a Built-in Flash?

No, the Nikon Z6 does not have a built-in flash. However, it is compatible with a range of external flashes via its hot shoe mount for added lighting control.

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