Nikon Z6 vs Nikon Z6II (Comparing Two Giants)

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z6 vs z6ii

It is pleasing to say that the camera market finally feels like it is going somewhere, and for all the right reasons. However, the thing that most people do not understand is that these comparisons eventually end up with the products that are not properly sorted, and things can be confusing.

Take the Nikon Z6 vs Z6II, for example, an otherwise simple comparison that has confused the life out of so many people, and to break that down, we are going to try and look at some of the differences that these cameras share so you have a better idea.

Nikon Z6 Vs Nikon Z6II: Specifications Comparison

To make things easier for everyone, we are going to start by looking at the specifications and how they are different from each other. Remember that both of these cameras were released a little over two years apart from each other, so a lot of similarities could be under tow.

Let’s look at what the Nikon Z6 brings to the table.

  • 25-megapixel full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor.
  • ISO 100-51,200 (expandable to 50- 204,800)
  • Nikon Z Mount.
  • Sensor shift Image stabilization.
  • 3.20-inch tilting screen.
  • 3690k dot Electronic Viewfinder.
  • 12 FPS continuous shooting.
  • Up to 4K video recording.
  • Built-in wireless.
  • 675g. 134 x 101 x 68 mm
  • Weather sealing.

As you can tell, the Nikon Z6 is certainly an impressive camera. But what about the Nikon Z6II? Well, let’s have a look.

  • 25-megapixel full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor.
  • ISO 100-51,200 (expandable to 50- 204,800)
  • Nikon Z Mount.
  • Sensor shift Image stabilization.
  • 3.20-inch tilting screen.
  • 3690k dot Electronic Viewfinder.
  • 14 FPS continuous shooting.
  • Up to 4K video recording.
  • Built-in wireless.
  • 705g. 134 x 101 x 70 mm
  • Weather sealing.

You can see both cameras are a lot more similar than what you might have expected. So, let’s move forward and see what else is different.

Nikon Z6 Vs Nikon Z6II: Sensor, Autofocus, And Video

Moving further, we are going to start looking at the sensor, autofocus, and video on the Nikon Z6 and the Nikon Z6II. Although it might seem like something that should not be of concern considering how similar these cameras are, you would be surprised to know that they are a lot more similar than you might think in the first place.

The Nikon Z6 offers a slightly better color depth by just 0.3 bits, whereas the dynamic range is slightly less by 0.1 Evs. Similarly, the low-light ISO tops at 3,299.

close up image of Nikon Z6II
Credits: Cristhian Adame

For the Nikon Z6II, you are looking at a color depth of 25.0 bits, a dynamic range of 14.4 Evs, and 3,303 as the low-light ISO. Not a lot of difference here, but the difference is clearly there.

The autofocusing is the same on both cameras, and if you are looking for something that delivers excellent results, then you would be more than happy to know that both of these cameras are excellent in all cases.

Moving further, the video is also excellent on both cameras, with both of these cameras able to deliver the type of video one would want from a good hybrid camera. If you have been looking to get your hands on something that works really well, both cameras will do just fine.

Nikon Z6 Vs Nikon Z6II: Memory Card Slots And Size

Moving onto something that is a lot more important to people than they let other people believe, and that is the number of memory card slots and the size of the camera.

First things first, it is safe to assume that these things do not matter to people, but that is not the case in the first place. For instance, the original Nikon Z6 was criticized for having just a single SD card slot. This was strange for a higher-end hybrid camera.

However, the good news is that the Nikon Z6II comes with two memory card slots; the first slot can take CFexpress and XQD memory card slots while the second can take both UHS-1 and UHS-II compatible card slots, which makes the overall experience better.

As far as the size is concerned, both the Nikon Z6 and the Z6II are almost identical in terms of the size, with the Nikon Z6II being heavier at 705 grams instead of the 675 grams of the original.

Nikon Z6 Vs Nikon Z6II: Processing Engine And Battery

Moving on, we are going to talk about the processing engine and the battery that you can find on the Nikon Z6 and Z6II. Now, on paper, you will be surprised to know that both these cameras are a lot similar to each other, but to be honest, it is not the case.

Yes, the Nikon Z6 and Z6II are using the same sensor, but the latter (Z6II)has two EXPEED 6 processing engines, which means that the Z6II is a much better overall camera in terms of performance and speed, as well.

close up image of Nikon Z6 camera

As far as the battery is concerned, both cameras are using slightly different batteries, meaning that you will not be able to interchange them. However, the difference is not as big as the Z6 is rated for 310 shots, whereas the Z6II is rated for 340 shots.

When you start digging deeper, you realize that the Z6II is much, much better, even if the differences are not apparent right away.

Nikon Z6 Vs Nikon Z6II: Video File Formats & Coding

Considering how both the Nikon Z6 and Z6II are hybrid cameras, it is safe to say that a lot of people using these cameras would want to use these for recording videos as well; this makes the whole thing more important to look into.

Now, as far as the video is concerned, both the Nikon Z6 and Z6II can shoot in 4K. However, the Z6II shoots 4K up to 60 frames per second, whereas the original one tops at just 30 frames per second.

image comparison of nikon z6 vs z6II

However, when shooting at 4K/60FPS, you are going to have a 1.5x crop on the Z6II, so it is worth noting. The biggest difference here is that when you are talking about videos, the Z6II supports HLG/HDR out, whereas the original one simply doesn’t.

It really should not come as a surprise to anyone that both cameras are very, very capable, and although the differences are there, the performance remains excellent as long as the person handling the camera knows what they are doing.

Nikon Z6 Vs Nikon Z6II: Low Light And Stabilization

Moving further, we are going to take a look at the performance when it comes to low light and image stabilization. Considering how these cameras are both hybrid shooters, having access to proper low light and stabilization is good.

Thankfully, both the Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z6II are excellent when you are talking about low-light performance, and if you are in situations where the ISO needs to be cranked up, you can easily go as high as 3,000 without really running into digital noise or other such issues that plague pictures or videos that are taken in higher ISOs.

As far as the stabilization goes, both cameras have sensor-shift stabilization, which is another word for image stabilization or optical image stabilization. Both of them are extremely effective and work really, really well. So, you really o not have to stress over it or the performance, for that matter.

Nikon Z6 Vs Nikon Z6II: Viewfinder And Screen

Moving further, we are going to talk about the viewfinder and screen on both cameras. This is actually very important for most people whenever they are buying a camera.

After all, the whole experience depends on these small things. Thankfully, you would be glad to know that the viewfinder on the Nikon Z6 and the Z6II are much, much similar.

Screen of nikon z6

They actually have the same viewfinder and screen; they articulate just fine, they are bright, and they are big enough for everyday use.

I cannot really find anything that is specifically different between these cameras or, at least, the way they look. So, you are good to go regardless of the device you pick up.

Nikon Z6 Vs Nikon Z6II: Design and Features

The last point that we are going to touch upon refers to the design and features of both cameras. Over the past couple of years, the design of a camera has become just as important as other factors about the camera, so if you are looking for something that is genuinely good, then it is better to pay attention here.

Nikon Z6II up close image

Thankfully, the Nikon Z6 and Z6II both offer extremely ergonomic and lightweight designs even though the Z6II is slightly heavy, but the benefit is clearly there, and you will not have any issues either, that I can assure you.

As far as the features are concerned, both the cameras share a lot of similar features, with some differences being there, too. It all comes down to the user preference at this point, but the Z6II does bring more features to the table, and we cannot ignore that.

Final Verdict:

Going through this article, it is safe to say that you have had a lot easier time to decide that you are looking at great cameras through and through. The purpose of this article was to help everyone decide what they should be picking.

Both the Nikon Z6 and the Nikon Z6II are a lot more identical than some people might believe, but at the same time, they do share some differences. These differences can be big or small depending on who’s using the camera.

However, with this guide, we have decided to help you out choosing the right camera so you do not have to spend hours trying to figure out what you should be getting your hands on.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is the Z6 II that much better than the Z6?

When comparing both cameras side by side, you will realize that although the Nikon Z6II is better than the original, the difference is not big enough to warrant a direct upgrade. If you have the original Z6, then the Z6II is not something I’d suggest.

Is Nikon Z6 good for street photography?

Yes, the Nikon Z6 is an excellent camera for street photography, and with the right lens, you can get some amazing results, and that, too, with ease.

Is Nikon Z6 good for professional photography?

Yes, a lot of people have been using camera for professional photography. Thanks to its full-frame sensor, excellent low-light performance, lens support, and small form factor, the Nikon Z6 makes up for an excellent camera for professional use.

Is Nikon Z6 II worth buying?

That depends; if you already have a Nikon Z6, then upgrading to the Z6II makes little to no lens. However, if you are still using an older camera, then the Z6II makes more sense.

Where is Nikon Z6II made?

All Nikon cameras are made in Japan, ensuring that the cameras meet the highest quality standard and are able to serve users for years to come.

Is Nikon Z6II waterproof?

The Nikon Z6II, as well as the Nikon Z6 are both weather sealed. However, every camera company advises against fully submerging the cameras in water without protective gear.

Is Nikon z6ii good for street photography?

Yes, the Nikon Z6II is an excellent camera for street photography and any other photography types that you might have to get involved in.

Why is the Z6 better for video?

The reason why Nikon Z6 is such a good camera for video is because it is a hybrid shooter, but at the same time, it has really good high ISO performance, the dynamic range is good, and you are also getting sensor-shift image stabilization.

Does Nikon Z6 shoot 4K?

Yes, the Nikon Z6 does shoot 4K at 30 frames per second.

Is the Z6 good for portraits?

Yes, with the right lens, the Nikon Z6 shoots excellent portraits.

Is Nikon Z6 II good for wildlife photography?

Yes, the Nikon Z6II makes up for an excellent camera for wildlife photography.

How long does Nikon Z6 II battery last?

According to the official rating, the Nikon Z6II should last you for 340 shots. But real-life scenarios can be different.

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  • Celebrating childhood in photographs and emotions through photos. My aim is to transfer all my photography experience by sharing useful camera-related guides and individual reviews so you can get an idea about everything before buying.

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