Nikon Z6 Mirrorless Digital Camera Review

Zoe Dumas Avatar

Written by:

Updated 11:22 pm

Expert Rating

96

The Nikon Z6 mirrorless digital camera takes fantastic photos regardless of lighting conditions due to the full frame BSI CMOS sensor. The Z6 mirrorless camera does sometimes have issues tracking faster-moving subjects despite the 273 AF points, and the battery isn’t the best. When it comes to our pick for the best digital camera for filmmaking and the best digital camera, the Nikon Z6 can’t compete with the Sony Alpha A7 III mirrorless digital camera.

Why We Like It – Nikon Z6 Mirrorless Digital Camera

The Nikon Z6 Mirrorless digital camera is a great full frame camera that works well for someone searching for a high quality all-around digital camera. The Nikon Z6 boasts a 24.5 mp CMOS image sensor and 273 AF points that capture excellent pictures and videos, especially in low light.
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  • Super-fast AF, including several area AF modes, that help catch fast motion
  • Native ISO from 100-51200 for fantastic low light images
  • In body image stabilization keeps everything clear and in focus, even video recording

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  • SnapBridge image transfer system is pretty slow and clunky
  • Single memory card slot is only compatible with XQD cards
  • Battery meter doesn’t accurately reflect battery life

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Image Quality

Many reviewers report superb image quality from this mirrorless camera: low light photos come out consistently great. The new full frame CMOS image sensor has 273 AF points over the majority of the image area. For most, this system proved itself as fast and accurate in still images and video recording. This camera takes high-quality, full resolution stills, 4k ultra HD video, 6k time-lapse video, and 120fps slow-motion video. The Z mount on this and other Z series cameras from Nikon can be adapted for third-party lenses, which helps considering that the selection of Nikkor lenses is relatively limited.

Ease of Use

Overall, the Z6 mirrorless camera is easy to use and learn, just not so much as the Canon EOS Rebel SL3. Still, this camera should prove fairly easy to learn for anyone already familiar and comfortable with Nikon DSLRs. Nikon users will also be familiar with the SnapBridge image transfer system, which can be rather slow and clunky. The Z mount is compatible with Nikon’s Nikkor lenses, which might be annoying for anyone who already has a large collection of F mount lenses. Many users might also be bothered that third-party accessories like batteries and flash aren’t usable either.

Battery Life

The battery life on the Nikon Z6 mirrorless digital camera isn’t the worst we’ve seen, but it’s also not the best. This camera is CIPA certified to take about 310 pictures per charge, which is less than other mirrorless cameras like the Sony A6100. Several reviewers noted that the rechargeable lithium-ion battery this camera uses does charge very quickly. This will come in handy because the battery indicator is fairly inconsistent at accurately reflecting the remaining battery life.

Durability

With the Z6 mirrorless camera, Nikon opted for a more functional look than some of its DSLR models. That being said, the Z6 has a great build that fits nicely in your hands. The grip is textured, large, and comfortable, making the camera body very easy to hold for extended periods. The magnesium alloy body feels solid and sturdy, and the great weather-sealing ensures this mirrorless camera will stay safe in a variety of shooting conditions.

Value

For less than $2000, this full frame digital camera is one of the best on the market. The image quality is excellent for full resolution stills and video recording. The relatively new Z mount doesn’t have many native lenses and does require an adapter to use F mount lenses, which is something to consider if you already have a fairly sizable kit. The single memory card slot, which only supports XQD cards, is a point of contention for some users as well considering these cards are significantly more expensive than SD cards. Because the camera has been out for some time at this point, it should be reasonably easy to find some good deals on it, including free shipping.

Nikon Z6 Mirrorless Digital Camera Wrap Up

The Nikon Z6 mirrorless digital camera is pretty popular with reviewers for its ability to capture high quality images and video. There are some frustrating aspects to this digital camera, particularly its less-than-stellar battery, single memory card slot, and SnapBridge image transfer system. That being said, this camera has a lot going for it for a decent price: photography enthusiasts are sure to love this one.

Zoe Dumas Avatar