Nikon Z6 vs Nikon Z6ii Comparison

Last Updated on December 7, 2023 by Sharon Advik

Nikon Z6 vs Nikon Z6ii Comparison:

Overview:

I started taking street photos since they allowed me to take pictures daily in different locations, settings, and climates.

I enjoy noticing people go about their daily lives. I enjoy documenting their thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

Each piece of street photography tells a unique tale. I adore taking candid pictures of strangers, animals, kids, adults, and teenagers without their knowledge.

I can travel and take more risks in life because of street photography.

Every morning, as I get out of bed, I take my “Nikon Z6” camera and stroll the streets of California.

With my Nikon Z6, street photography is like a fun game.

I wanted to keep honing my eye for street photography.

I thought I had been waiting too long for a particular vacation to take pictures, and fortunately, I got one.

The “Nikon Z6ii,” which I had read was one of the best cameras for street photography, was what I intended to use this time.

After using it on vacation, I was pleased with this “Nikon Z6ii” and its street photography skills.

Still, it serves the same purpose as my “Nikon Z6.”

I wanted to know more about this super “Nikon Z6II” camera, so I started using it more often and comparing it with my previous Nikon Z6. I think it was worthwhile to purchase this “Nikon Z6ii.

Date of launch:

Two enthusiast cameras, the Nikon Z6 and the Nikon Z6 II, were publicly unveiled in August 2018 and October 2020, respectively.

The Z6 and Z6 II are mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses and a full-frame sensor.

The 24.3-megapixel resolution is available on both cameras.

Specifications:

Body Comparison:

When I compared the two cameras’ sizes, they were nearly identical.

In this situation, the Nikon Z6 and the Nikon Z6 II have the same width and height and, as a result, have identically sized bodies.

But compared to the Z6, the Z6 II weighs 4% more.

I could utilize both cameras in challenging situations or inclement weather because they are dust and splashproof, which is essential in this context.

Weight and size are significant considerations when looking for the right camera for your purposes.

In this section, we’ll compare the Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z6 from the front, back, and top to show how their relative sizes compare.

The external measurements of the Nikon Z6 II are 134 x 101 x 70 mm (5.28 x 3.98 x 2.76′′), and its weight is 705 g (1.55 lb / 24.87 oz) (including batteries).

The Nikon Z6 is 675 g (1.49 lb / 23.81 oz) in weight and has external measurements of 134 x 101 x 68 mm (5.28 x 3.98 x 2.68′′). (Including batteries).

Weight is crucial when choosing a camera you want to carry all day.

Although the Nikon Z6 is 30g lighter than the Nikon Z6 II, we don’t believe this will make a noticeable difference.

I had the impression that to fully understand the size and weight of the two camera systems; I might need to research and contrast the features of various lenses.

I also learned that since the Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z6 both feature full-frame-sized sensors and the identical Nikon Z lens mount, the system’s total size will not be affected by the lenses.

Lenses:

I was thrilled to see that the lenses in both cameras are identical, saving me money by allowing me to utilize my existing Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z6 II lenses instead of purchasing new ones for my new “Nikon Z6 II.”

The number of lenses available is crucial when selecting an interchangeable lens camera.

The Nikon Z lens mount is used by the Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z6 cameras, making 33 native lenses available.

Each of these lenses covers the Full frame sensor.

The accessibility of image stabilization is an additional crucial element.

All lenses will stabilize these bodies because the Nikon Z6 II and Z6 have sensor-based image stabilization.

Sensor Comparison:

A key factor affecting image quality is the imaging sensor’s size.

Larger individual pixels on a sensor with the same technical generation will typically give higher low-light sensitivity, a more comprehensive dynamic range, and richer color depth.

Moreover, a big sensor camera will give the photographer more options for using shallow depth-of-field to separate a subject from the backdrop.

Consequences of larger sensors include more prominent, more expensive camera bodies and lenses.

The full-frame sensor and format factor (also known as “crop factor”) of 1.0 are shared by both cameras under consideration.

It positions the review cameras in the large-sensor category of cameras, which strive for the highest image quality.

The sensors on both cameras have a natural aspect ratio of 3:2 (sensor width to sensor height).

Resolution:

In addition to having the same sensor size, the two cameras under comparison both have a resolution of 24.3 megapixels.

So, both will provide my street images with the same pixels.

The Z6 and Z6 II are believed to have the same pixel density and size due to the similarities in sensor specifications.

The Z6 II, in contrast, is two years and one month more recent than the Z6; as a result, its sensor will have benefited from technological advancements during this time.

Sensitivity range and DXO:

The Nikon Z6 features an expandable native sensitivity range of ISO 50-204800 and a native range of ISO 100-51200.

The same ISO settings are available on the Nikon Z6 II.

Backside Illuminated Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor, or BSI-CMOS, sensors are used in both cameras.

Both cameras use a Bayer filter to record the RGB colors on a square grid of photosensors.

Most digital cameras use this configuration.

Since 2007, DXO Mark has generated sensor performance measurements using a standardized process.

This service, which is based on laboratory testing, rates each camera sensor overall and provides ratings for its dynamic range (“DXO Landscape”), color depth (“DXO Portrait”), and low-light sensitivity (“DXO”) (“DXO Sports”).

These two cameras under my examination found identical Overall DXO scores, indicating that they provide equivalent image capabilities.

I am glad that I got the chance to use these two super versatile cameras in my life.

They made my life so much fun and easy and motivated me to pursue street photography with even more passion.

Viewfinder:

Since a viewfinder helps me take steady photographs, I was very interested in comparing the viewfinders of the two cameras.

To my surprise, the “Nikon Z6 II” has the same viewfinder as my “Nikon Z6,” which I was highly aware of while comparing.

The Z6 and Z6 II have an electronic viewfinder, which helps frame photos in direct sunlight, making them comparable.

Additionally, both of their viewfinders have 3690k dot resolutions.

It could be challenging to see the LCD monitor, such as in bright sunshine, but its built-in electronic viewfinder makes it simpler to take pictures.

The distance between the viewfinder and the eye point is 21mm.

To accurately frame my photos and reduce the need for post-image cropping, 100% coverage ensures that what I notice in the viewfinder when shooting corresponds perfectly to what I will get in my image.

0.8x is the viewfinder’s magnification ratio (35mm equivalent).

LCD Screen:

The 3.20-inch LCD tilting screen on the Nikon Z6 features a 2,100k-dot resolution.

In contrast to fully articulated panels, which videographers strongly favor, tilting screens are more suited to photography.

The 3.20″ screen of the Nikon Z6 is more significant than typical, and its resolution aligns with class norms.

Since the LCD is a touch screen, I may adjust the settings and choose the focus point with my fingers.

Unfortunately, my Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z6 don’t have a selfie-friendly screen.

Intervalometers built-in:

Intervalometers are incorporated into the Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z6 II.

Due to this, I can take photographs of time-lapse sequences while walking through the lovely streets of California, such as a flower blooming, a sunset, or the rising of the moon.

I do not need to buy an external camera trigger or additional software.

Regular internal timers cannot finish the job.

You can shoot several pictures using an intervalometer without touching the shutter button.

They are ideal for time-lapse photography, therefore.

A camera intervalometer is a must-have if you want to take long-exposure photos.

You can use it as a helpful camera accessory.

The shutter remains open for an extended time when taking long-exposure photographs.

Memory card:

I detest it when, while completely immersed in the people, moments, and streets I photograph, my camera abruptly displays the “no more storage” message.

But not any longer.

Thanks to my Nikon Z6II.

The Z6 sends its imaging data on XQD cards, whereas the Z6 II uses CFexpress (type B) or SDXC cards.

As I was comparing the memory card, I was relieved that my money was not wasted.

If a memory card dies, the dual card slots on the Z6 II can significantly assist.

The Z6, meanwhile, has just one place.

More storage space and a greater interval between card swaps are the two most apparent advantages of dual card slots in your camera over a single one.

However, using two cards offers additional potential uses besides only tripling the amount of accessible data.

Card #1saves still photographs, whereas Card #2 stores video files; thus, I’m thrilled with this.

Connectivity Comparison:

The capability of a camera to interact with its surroundings might be a key consideration for various image applications.

The built-in Wi-Fi (802.11ac + Bluetooth) connectivity of the Nikon Z6 II and Z6 allows me to transfer your images to compatible devices without needing a physical connection.

The Nikon Z6 and Z6 II Bluetooth connectivity feature helps tether other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Our favorite feature of the Z6 and Z6 Mark II is the ability to control them with our smartphones.

Utilizing a remote-control app, I may adjust the camera’s settings, press the shutter, examine the LCD screen, and transfer files.

I can connect to compatible devices using the HDMI or USB ports on the Z6.

Nikon’s Z6 and Z6 II cameras also include USB charging capabilities, allowing me to use a USB cable to charge your camera without taking out the battery.

Nikon’s current product lineup includes a new model called the Z6 II.

At the same time, the Z6 has been dropped in comparison (but can be found pre-owned on eBay).

The Nikon Z6 II superseded the Z6 as a replacement in the same range of cameras.

Battery:

I get giddy while roaming unfamiliar city streets, which I love.

I plan to record as many details as possible about that city, the cuisine, and the streets with my camera.

As a result of not having to bother about the battery life of my Z6II since I started using it, I can complete this task even more efficiently.

To hold a camera with a dead battery is the worst feeling in the world.

No matter how expensive your digital camera is, it would be beneficial if you still had a storm.

Most modern cameras need a certain kind of battery for that particular model.

Different camera models and brands use different battery types.

The EN-EL15c battery that powers the Nikon Z6 II has, by CIPA standards, a battery life of 410 shots.

Considering that the battery life of mirrorless type cameras is 377 shots on average, it is about average in its class; nonetheless, getting extra batteries for extended photo excursions is still advisable.

The EN-EL15b battery that powers the Nikon Z6 has, per CIPA standards, a battery life of 330 shots.

Considering that the battery life of mirrorless type cameras is 377 shots on average, it is about average in its class; nonetheless, getting extra batteries for extended photo excursions is still advisable.

Focusing:

Since my street photos without focus may not be apparent or detailed, the focus is crucial in photography.

In a photograph, I can employ a guide artistically to draw attention to my subject and draw the viewer’s eye while reducing the less significant components of the image.

The Nikon Z6 II and the Nikon Z6 include autofocus (AF) systems that use phase and contrast detection to focus quickly and accurately in most circumstances.

Two hundred seventy-three points are available for selection in the AF system.

Face detection AF is another function of the Nikon Z6 II, which uses intelligence to recognize faces in the picture and automatically lock the focus.

Eye Tracking AF, a more advanced technology that complements face detection AF on the Z6 Mark II and Nikon Z6, precisely detects and locks focus to the subject’s chosen eye while tracking their movement.

The Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z6’s eye-tracking autofocus are excellent tools for taking portraits and are particularly helpful when using fast lenses and a shallow depth of field.

Shutter Speed:

Despite having a maximum continuous shooting rate of 14.0 frames per second and a full shutter speed of 1/8000 seconds, the Nikon Z6 II and the Nikon Z6 can only do so at a top rate of 12.0 frames per second.

By selecting a higher (or faster) shutter speed, less light can reach the camera sensor or film strip (if using an analog camera).

However, the contrary is also true; a slower shutter speed allows light to enter your camera.

You can determine a base shutter speed using the focal length of your camera’s lens.

So, getting this Nikon Z6II for my street photography over my Z6 was a complete win.

Video Feature:

People can view video images within a video recording thanks to video resolution.

A video’s clarity and sharpness will increase with its resolution value, measured in megapixels.

With the Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z6, I can record videos at bit rates of up to 144 Mbps at the highest resolution of 3840 x 2160 at 30p, 25p, and 24p frames per second., and I can save them in MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs.

In consumer video, 4K is the de facto industry standard resolution.

With the Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z6, I can use my lens’s focal length when recording video at the highest possible resolution of 4K (UHD).

The stereo microphone and mono speaker on the Z6 Mark II and Z6 are built-in.

The Nikon Z6 II also features a connector for an external microphone and a headphone port for attaching external headphones, making it an excellent camera for high-quality filming.

Photography Features:

Other than street photography, I also utilized my Nikon Z6II in a few different types of photography to compare it to my earlier Nikon Z6 and see if it differs or improves in those categories.

Portrait Photography:

Portraiture is so popular because a portrait can convey so much in such a straightforward way.

Because the main objective of painting and self-portrait photography is to tell a story gracefully, setting up the proper position and lighting are essential elements of this strategy.

Nikon Z6 II and Z6 scored 76 for Portrait Photography, making them good candidates for this type of photography.

Sports Photography:

The camera must meet high standards for a respected sports photographer.

You must have a sharp, non-fuzzy image. Face: Specifically, the athlete’s eyes and expressions are discernible.

An emotional or athletic performance is currently underway.

The athlete is holding a few pieces of equipment, notably the ball.

Also required to record all of these is a professional camera.

The Nikon Z6 and Nikon Z6 II score 77 and 78, respectively, for sports photography, which qualifies them as GOOD candidates for this kind of photography.

The Nikon Z6 II will meet the majority of your needs.

Landscape Photography:

Particularly for landscape photographers, I can capture the world.

They portray emotion through their images rather than just the events they recount.

The Dawn Wall’s splendor and Victoria Falls’ majesty may be seen in all their majestic splendor thanks to them.

There is landscape photography for people who like being outside.

The Nikon Z6 II and the Nikon Z6 have average scores for landscape photography—51 for the Nikon Z6 and 51 for the Nikon Z6 II—making them both candidates for this genre of photography.

What advantage of Nikon Z6?

• It has a more significant discount: it has been around for much longer (launched in August 2018)

Why should one favor the Nikon Z6 II?

• Enhanced video: higher framerates for movies (4K/60p vs. 4K/30p).
• Faster burst: Shoots more frequently (14 vs. 12 flaps/sec) to catch the crucial second.
• More shots can be taken (410 instead of 3010) on a single battery charge, making it last longer.
• It supports a more recent USB protocol, which speeds up data transfer (3.2 vs. 3.1).
• An additional card slot is provided as a backup in case the memory card fails, giving you greater peace of mind.
• Modernized: Reflects two years and one month’s technological advancement since the Z6’s debut.

Price:

Naturally, relative costs are a consideration in any camera decision.

The model’s market position is determined by its retail prices at the time of the camera’s debut compared to other models in the producer’s lineup and the competitors.

The two cameras under scrutiny shared a market niche and were released at the same price.

Retail pricing typically begins close to the initial cost before decreasing after a few months.

More discounts and stock clearing deals usually cut the camera price later in the product cycle, especially when the successor model emerges.

Conclusion:

The Nikon Z611 is the perfect camera if you’re interested in street photography and want something stylish for your shots.

The Z6 II is the contest’s undisputed victor when using the count of comparable strengths (bullet points above) as a yardstick (6 1 matter).

When considering and selecting a new camera, you may choose to use your weighing system for the summary points because the importance of each photographer’s unique strengths will vary.

A professional wedding photographer will regard the differences between cameras differently from a travel photographer, and a cityscape photographer will have different needs than a macro photographer.

Because of this, selecting the most incredible and valuable camera is typically an individualized procedure.

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