Additionally, it has a good autofocus system for both photos and videos and a fast shooting speed, making it simple to capture and maintain focus on moving subjects. With a guide mode to walk new users through its settings and features, its menu system is simple to use and intuitive. Although the camera is very comfortable to use, carrying it around is difficult due to its weight. Overall, the video quality is passable, and the in-body video stabilization function does a good job of reducing camera shake. Similar improvements are available, such as an extra memory card slot, improved overall response, and more capable vertical shooting grips. However, they don’t offer quite as much to customers without a closet full of Nikkor lenses as they do to event photographers and Nikon SLR owners looking to make the switch to mirrorless. also, you can learn our article on Nikon Z 6II review.
Nikon Z 6II review: Design
From a design standpoint, the Z6 and this second iteration are nearly indistinguishable from one another. The same body parts, grip, and weather-resistant body are used, and it has a sturdy and durable feel that, despite feeling slightly heavier than its close competitors, provides a comforting feel in the hand. Although the body is fairly small, there is enough room for a sizable top screen that shows important information and an impressive tilting LCD touchscreen at the back, similar to other cameras of a like nature. The camera is very enjoyable to use and the command dials feel like they were made with quality. Although the Z6 II has slightly higher weight and size stats than the original Z6, Nikon has made it work well and made sure that it feels a little more upscale. We warmly welcome additional, more useful design modifications. The Z6 II now has a second card slot, which was absent from the first model. It is CF Express compatible, so when paired with a regular SD, there are significant capacity and speed improvements to be had. All the buttons are in their proper locations, which will reassure users familiar with the overall Nikon mirrorless ecosystem and control layout. This is especially true of the AF-On switch, which enables photographers to quickly and easily move among the camera’s 270+ focus points.
Features
Similar to the Z 7II, the majority of the Z 6II’s changes are made internally, while many of the most important and useful features are carried over from the original Z6. We already know from our review of the original that this camera’s 24.5 megapixel full-frame sensor will perform admirably. But there are now two Expeed 6 processors, which contributes to a number of other enhancements. You can now shoot at a more practical 14 frames per second for sports and action photographers. Even though this is not on the same level as cameras like the Sony A1, it is important to keep in mind that this is a much less expensive camera and should be adequate for the majority of enthusiasts. Additionally, there is a better buffer, which refers to how quickly the camera clears images so you can continue shooting for longer bursts. Although using the same 273-point system as the Nikon Z6, the addition of Animal Detection AF and improvements to tracking performance have also improved autofocusing. Nikon directly responds to some of the most vehement criticisms of the original Z series by including a second memory card slot. In contrast to the primary XQD/CF Express slot, which is much larger, the second slot is an SD slot. This means you don’t have to rush out and buy an expensive XQD / CF Express card and reader in order to start using the camera, which is good news for enthusiasts who already have a stock of SD cards ready to go. The second slot can be used for a variety of purposes, including backup (obviously for those recording especially important moments), overflow, or recording in a different format from the first slot.
Connectivity
A few Nikon apps can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play and used with the Z6 II via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. We tested SnapBridge, which uses Bluetooth to automatically transfer photos to smartphones, and Nikon’s Wireless Mobile Utility, which turns your device into a WiFi hotspot so it can be used as a remote control or review screen. Both allow you to immediately send what you shoot via email or to social media. also, you can check our article on Nikon Z 6II review.
Nikon Z 6II review: Image quality
As we’ve already mentioned, the Z6 II uses the exact same sensor as the Z6. This is good news because the Z6’s results were essentially best in class. The Z6 II’s full-frame 24.5MP BSI sensor captures details with exceptional clarity. The 45.7MP sensor in the Z7 II (or the D850) may appeal to you if you frequently need to print larger than A3; otherwise, the resolution offered here should be sufficient for the majority of shooters. The Z6 II sensor performs admirably across the sensitivity range and produces excellent results at higher ISOs in part because of the back-illuminated technology used in its construction. However, if you’re shooting JPEGs, it’s important to keep in mind that the default noise reduction can be a bit strong at higher ISOs, which can result in the unnecessary loss of detail. If you shoot in raw, your dynamic range is also very good, giving you plenty of flexibility in post-production to bring back highlights and recover shadow detail. The 24-70mm f/4 is a reliable option that performs admirably, but Nikon’s S-series lens lineup has significantly expanded since its launch more than two years ago and now includes some outstanding f/1.8 primes and f/2.8 zooms.
Video quality
When it launches in February, we’ll have to wait before passing judgement on the promised 4K 60p shooting, but it’s already disappointing that this will result in a 1.5x crop rather than a full-sensor readout. In-camera 8-bit with a flat video profile or 10-bit via HDMI with N-Log and HLG are your options for the Z6 II’s 4K 30p video. But you’ll still have to pay $200 for the ProRes RAW upgrade if you want to record external 12-bit RAW video. Thankfully, you won’t run into the same strict 4K limitations as some other cameras; we were able to continuously record 1h 17m 29s of 4K 30p video before the camera shut down due to heating. Video files are subject to the standard 29m 59s recording limits. The outstanding AF performance is carried over to video, and Animal eye-AF is now available when recording the previous Z6 could only track whole animal faces, rather than their eyes, when taking video. IBIS isn’t a panacea for eradicating camera shake, as was the case with the real camera, but once you get used to how the camera adjusts for low frequency movements, you can get in tune with it for gimbal-like performance in some situations. Timecode and the ability to support assists like peaking and zebras are always appreciated, but the Z6 II’s tilting screen is a major flaw. Video shooting would have been greatly improved by a fully articulating LCD, but as it stands, this somewhat restricts the camera’s versatility, especially for vloggers and content creators.
Nikon Z 6II review: Battery life
You won’t likely run out of battery life because the Z6 II can manage its power, sleeping, and waking as you go. Another battery can be charged with the included MH-25A external charger while you are taking pictures. However, there are times when a shoot day is too busy or too demanding for a second battery. When compared to using the camera battery alone, the MB-N11 battery grip can provide an additional 1.9x battery performance. Additionally, it enhances the system with vertical shooting controls that portrait photographers may find appealing.
Performance
The original Z6 provided an excellent mirrorless experience and was not to be taken lightly in terms of performance or quality. The Z6 II has some small but significant performance upgrades that, if you look closely enough, significantly enhance how it is used in general. The first is the addition of a dual image processor, which is responsible for the majority of the advancements and allows for an increase in the camera’s burst rate from 12FPS to 14FPS. Although it is less than the Canon R6, the camera’s direct rival, it is unquestionably a step in the right direction. Furthermore, the autofocusing process has become faster overall. Although it has the same number of autofocus points as the Z6, it is somehow quicker and more responsive. Additionally, there is a wider range of shutter speeds, which astrophotography’s will be eager to explore further. you can read our article on Nikon Z 6II review. The original Z6 has always been strong in terms of video, but the addition of 60 frames per second at 4K has increased its appeal. Only slightly diminished, perhaps, by the Z6 II’s heavier weight, is a dynamic and enjoyable video experience. The improvements brought about by the dual processor should also be music to your ears if you’re serious about shooting on a fixed base rather than handheld. This makes the camera a formidable filmmaker’s companion.
Price
Along with the Nikon Z7 II, the Z6 II was introduced in October, and it is now on sale. The excellent Nikon 24-70mm f/4 S standard zoom is available with the Z6 II for $2,600, £2,549, or AU$4,399. For $2,000 / £1,999 / AU$3,399, you can purchase the Z6 II body alone if you’re looking to upgrade or invest in a second body. Those who want to use the Z6 II with their F-mount DSLR lenses can purchase the FTZ lens adapter for about $150 / £150 / AU$250. Naturally, the Sony Alpha A7 III will be compared to the Nikon Z6 II, and with the release of the Canon EOS R6, many will also view that camera as a significant rival. The Sony 24-105mm f/4 G, which is a little more adaptable than Nikon’s kit lens, costs around $2,880 / £2,650 / AU$4,640 with the A7 III, which is now almost three years old but still packs a serious punch.
Conclusion
Action video does not suit the Nikon Z 6II. It is not waterproof camera, and it is not intended to be mounted on a helmet or another action camera accessory. However, because it is weather-sealed, it can tolerate some wind and rain. Additionally, it can shoot at 120 fps in FHD and up to 60 fps in 4k to capture fast action or create slow-motion video. Additionally, it has in-body video stabilization, which generally does well in minimizing camera shake. Nikon’s Z6 II is a capable all-around performer that has a lot to offer enthusiast photographers as far as mirrorless cameras are concerned. The Z6 II is at home shooting landscapes, portraits, documentaries, and social photography. With its enhanced AF, the Z6 II will perform admirably for sports and wildlife.
