Almost a decade after the launch of its mirrorless cameras, Nikon finally launched the new full-frame mirrorless cameras in the form of Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z7. The cameras have been almost similar in most aspects – at least from the looks of it. However, you will find a huge list of differences under the hood (Nikon Z6 vs Z7). So, if you are thinking of opting for either Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z7 – we will provide you a complete comparison between the two devices.
Related: Nikon D850 vs D750 vs D810
Nikon Z6 vs Z7 – The Comparison
Like we said already, they share most of the features between them. With a few exceptions, they have almost everything in common. The memory card slot, the button layout, the touchscreen and USB charging are a few features that will make them look identical.
However, understanding the differences based on a few parameters will be helpful in letting us find the exact comparison.
Sensor Comparison
Both Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z7 come with the same 35 mm sensor and offers a back-illuminated functionality. This is helpful in getting more light into the sensor than the conventional sensors. However, there is a massive difference in the resolution. The Z6 comes with a resolution of 24.5 MP, and the Z7 offers you a pixel count, that is two times the value at 45.7 MP. Another difference between the two is the Z6 comes with the low pass filter, while the Z7 has no low pass filter.
ISO
The ISO sensitivity and values are better for the Nikon Z6. It offers you the lowest ISO value of 100 and goes up to 51200 in standard mode. There is also an extended ISO value ranges from 50 to 204800. The Nikon Z7, on the other hand, begins a native ISO range from 64 and reaches up to 25600. The corresponding ISO values would be 32 to 102400. This should ideally make the Nikon Z6 a better option for the low light photography – But it is not!
4K Video Shooting
Both the cameras are capable of 4K video shooting. Of course, the difference in the sensor resolution can differentiate wholly. The Z7 can do a DX mode and “Line Skipping” in the full frame mode. This will mean you may not get better sharpness at the higher ISO values. The Nikon Z6 delivers the highest quality in both FX and a full frame mode.
Autofocus
You have access to a hybrid autofocus functionality on both the camera options. You have access to both contrast, and phase detection focus and the detection points cover 90 percent of the sensor area. The Nikon Z6 offers you a total of 273 detection points regarding autofocus and the Nikon Z7, on the other hand, comes with 493 points. There is also an option for face detection if you are looking for it.
Continuous Shooting performance
The Nikon Z6 has an advantage of having a lower megapixel count here. It can shoot at up to 12 fps, while the Nikon Z7 can handle it only up to 9 fps. The RAW format may just be available up to 12 bit. The buffer depth is almost similar across both the models.
Battery Performance
The official specifications have been entirely forthcoming concerning the battery performance expected from the two cameras from Nikon. The Nikon Z6 appears to be a little more power hungry and thus provides you around 310 shots per single charge. The bigger sibling Nikon Z7 comes with a slightly better performance at 330 shots per single charge. Please note that these figures may be the minimum standard you would be able to achieve. The actual shots per load will be more than those values. You should be able to use the older batteries like EN-EL15a/EN-EL15, but Nikon suggests opting for the new 15B types. Both of them have USB charging and come with a specialized charger.
Tabular Comparison – Nikon Z6 vs Z7
The side by side comparison should ideally provide you with an excellent option for the two cameras so that you will be able to choose the right kind of device based on your actual preferences.
| Features / Particulars | Nikon Z6 [amazon_link asins=’B07GPH7M5X’ template=’PriceLink’ store=’foi04-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’ad1c385f-87f4-442d-92a9-aedf149d20f6′]
| [amazon_link asins=’B07GQ3HVW1′ template=’PriceLink’ store=’foi04-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’7b7908bc-8da8-41e7-8cf6-cfc1a94e79e5′]
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| Sensor resolution | 24.5 MP | 45.7 MP |
| Low pass filer availability | Yes | No |
| Image stabilization | Available, 5-axis | Available, 5-axis |
| Sensor size | 35.9 x 24. Mm | 35.9 x 23.9 mm |
| Image Size | 6000 x 4000 | 8256 x 5504 |
| Sensor type | BIS CMOS | BIS CMOS |
| Storage media | XQD cards | XQD cards |
| Continuous shooting speed | 12 fps | 9 fps |
| Maximum Shutter speed | 1/8000 sec | 1/8000 sec |
| Minimum ISO | 100 | 64 |
| Minimum extended ISO | 50 | 32 |
| Maximum ISO | 51200 | 25600 |
| Maximum extended ISO | 204800 | 102400 |
| Autofocus system | Hybrid Phase detection, contrast | Hybrid phase-detection contrast |
| Autofocus points | 273 | 493 |
| Maximum video resolution | 4K @ 24/25/30 fps, 1080p @ 120fps | 4K @ 24/25/30 fps, 1080p @ 120fps |
| LCD | 3.2″ Diagonal LCD | 3.2″ Diagonal LCD |
| LCD articulation | Yes, tilting | Yes, tilting |
| Resolution of LCD | 2100000 dots | 2100000 dots |
| GPS | No | No |
| Battery type | EN-EL15b | EN-EL15b |
| Battery backup | 310 shots per charge | 330 shots per charge |
| Weather sealing | Yes, available | Yes, available |
| Connectivity options | WiFi and Bluetooth | WiFi and Bluetooth |
| Weight | 585 grams | 585 grams |
| Physical Dimensions | 134 x 100.5 x 67.5mm (5.3 x 4.0 x 2.7″) | 134 x 100.5 x 67.5mm (5.3 x 4.0 x 2.7″) |
As is evident from the above table of comparison, both the Nikon Z6 and Z7 come with almost similar features and functions. Of course, there are a few features that make them stand slightly apart.
The Concluding Thoughts
Well, both Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z7 are the first attempts of Nikon at the full frame mirrorless cameras. In terms of ergonomics and design language, you will find both the devices equally capable. The fact that both the cameras share most of the features should make it a great choice by every standard. The final decision rests on three major vital points – sensor resolution, continuous shooting performance, and the price.
Choose the right camera depending on your preferences based on those key points and share your opinions and experiences with us.