The Nikon Z 6II succeeds the Nikon Z 6 and offers similar performance and features, with some minor improvements. It improves on its predecessor in some respects, such as the addition of a second SD memory card slot and the implementation of a dual 6 processor. Otherwise, like its predecessor, it is a full mirrorless camera versatile format that delivers excellent image quality, with sharp, detailed photos even at higher ISO levels.
The Nikon Z6 II is the brand’s full-frame mirrorless camera, replacing the original 2018 Nikon Z6. Because it features a 24MP sensor, striking the ideal balance between resolution and processing power, many users consider it an improvement over the pro-level Nikon Z7 II, which has about twice as much megapixels.
Since the original Z6 met most needs, what we see here is primarily an improvement rather than a fundamentally different vehicle. In response to user feedback and criticism of the initial iteration of the camera, Nikon made minor changes to the speed and usability of the camera.
Design
It’s been a little over two years since the release of the Z6, and Nikon has decided to keep the design of the new camera nearly identical to that of the Z6. The Z6 is one of the most convenient mirrorless cameras on the market, with controls that fit naturally in the hand and easy-to-reach key settings, so Nikon’s use of the same body might seem unimaginative on Nikon’s part, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. . The joystick, also known as the sub-switch, has adequate heft, while the large, comfortable grip and distinct thumb rest complete the design.
The Z6 II uses the same tilting screen as the Z6, however, due to the similar design. If you’re primarily capturing stills, that shouldn’t be a problem, but videographers (and self-shooters in particular) may be annoyed that the Z6 II’s design doesn’t include a fully articulating Varian gular display. That complaint aside, the Z6 II has the same exceptional level of weather sealing as Nikon’s professional DSLR, the D850, and feels quite sturdy thanks to its magnesium-alloy top, front and rear covers.
Features
Nikon has decided to use the same 24.5 MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor found in the Nikon Z6 for the Z6 II. This allows an extended ISO range of ISO 50-204,800 to be used in addition to the native ISO range of ISO 100-51,200. Nikon was able to put a second EXPEED 6 processor in the Z6 II while keeping the same sensor.
This results in a number of improvements, the most obvious of which is the increased burst shooting speed, which hits an impressive 14fps over the Z6’s already fast 12fps. The Z6 II’s 273-point AF system is the same as the Z6’s, but a few improvements have been made as well. Despite a drop in overall performance, detection of human or animal eyes/faces is now more accurate.
Image quality
Over the past decade, Nikon has focused on developing full-frame digital cameras with image quality that exceeds or roughly compares to the best sensor technology currently used in full-frame cameras. Things like dynamic range, noise levels, vibrancy and overall color accuracy were, well, stunning and pleasing whether the image quality was at low ISO or very high.
The Z6 II is no exception: from incredibly sharp photos at ISOs such as 6400 and 12800 to truly insane shadow recovery capabilities, the Z6 II’s image quality is on par with the best cameras on the market. However, it corresponds to the following under real shooting conditions.
Video quality
With the Z6 II, you can power the camera with a USB-PD power bank, and with PD’s higher voltage and amperage, you can shoot without ever drawing power from the internal battery. . If you’re a video or time-lapse photographer, you’ll appreciate many aspects, not just the video quality and specs per se. Instead of spending $72.95 for a Nikon EN-EL15c battery, you can easily shoot a multi-day time-lapse or record 4K video for a full day’s work with an Anker USB-PD 20,000mAh battery.
Performance
Although the Nikon Z6 II is capable of shooting at 14 frames per second, the tech specs state that at this maximum speed the only options are 12-bit raw files and a single AF point. The speed drops to a still very respectable 12fps if you want to use the Z6 II’s tracking autofocus.
That’s faster than the Alpha A7 III’s 10fps and on par with the EOS R6’s 12fps (although the R6 can take up to 20fps using the electronic shutter) . The buffer should also be sufficient for most situations; at maximum frame rate, the Z6 II can handle 200 JPEG data or 124 12-bit raw data.
Competing Z6 II systems might be preferred by those who primarily shoot people (or animals), as they’re a bit more advanced in eye and face tracking, but the Z6 II still performs admirably in this area, engaging quickly and correctly the lenses we tested on. With the Z6 II, Nikon has made significant improvements to the battery.
Battery life
The new EN-EL15c battery comes with the Z6 II. It is a variant of the 15b supplied with the previous model, but with 20% more capacity. Although newer EN-EL15 batteries work much better with the camera, the camera is still compatible with older EN-EL15 batteries. The only units that support USB charging are type b and c.
According to the manufacturer, the camera is capable of taking 340 photos using the viewfinder and 410 photos using the rear LCD screen. These figures, as always, are based on extremely demanding use, and depending on how you use the camera, it’s not uncommon to get at least twice as many shots per charge in real-world use.
For a dedicated shooting day or a weekend of moderately demanding photography, we often find that a value of around 400 is adequate. However, without recharging and carrying spares, this value is insufficient for a demanding photographic activity like a wedding. If you need more power, you can use the camera’s USB-C port or purchase the MB-N11 Battery Grip, which can accommodate an additional hot-swappable battery.
Price
The Z6 II and Z7 II, the fourth and fifth cameras in Nikon’s Z lineup respectively, debuted in late 2020. Its performance is admirable compared to rivals such as the $2,500 Canon EOS R6 and Sony A7 IV. With a price tag of $2,000, the Z6 II sits in the middle of Nikon’s professional mirrorless lineup. The soon to be released Nikon Z9 supports 8K,
Last words
The Z6 II is a very powerful camera that can assist the photographer in almost any circumstance. It’s easy to use, produces excellent photos, has a powerful AF system and can record high quality video. It’s not a significant improvement over the original Z6, but the inclusion of a second card slot and the ability to attach a battery grip with vertical controls only add to its already extensive functionality. . With these changes and the many small improvements we noted, we can recommend the Z6 II for a variety of photographic activities, including family portraits, weddings and sports photography.
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