Is the Nikon Z6 Still a Good Camera in 2024?
The Z6 was released in Nov. 2018, meaning it’s only about 5 years old now. (Damn, how the time has flown by!) Five years may not really seem like a long time, but in terms of technology, a lot has changed and cameras have evolved. So, the real question is: Is the Nikon Z6 Still a Good camera in 2024?
As some of you may know, I’m not buying a new camera body every year. I purchased my Z6 camera body in the beginning of 2019, when I was living in New York. I needed a camera that shot great images, captured quality 4K video and was within my budget (under $2K USD). Moreover, the Z6 checked all of those boxes and allowed me to use the Nikon glass I already owned.
Nikon Z6 Photo Specs
The Nikon Z6 is a little powerhouse in a compact package. The photo specs, in my opinion rival anything released recently, and are more than enough for high-quality prints or social media publications. The 273 autofocus points are more than enough, and I find the Z6’s AF to be quite snappy and accurate — even in low light conditions. Overall, I’m rarely concerned about getting an out-of-focus shot with the Z6.
- 24.5 MP Full-Frame Sensor
- Weight: 1.5 lbs with the battery. (675g)
- 12 FPS (Full Frame) Still Photographs
- ISO Range: 100-51,000
- Tilting 3.2” Touch Screen
- 273 AF Points
- Hybrid Autofocus (phase detect and contrast detect)
- Update Subject Tracking, Eye-Detect and Animal Detect AF (Firmware 3.0 update)
- In-Body Stabilization
- Silent Mode
- Weather Sealing
So, in terms of photo specs, the Z6 absolutely keeps up and even out-performs many cameras in its class today. The 24.5 Megapixel sensor is plenty, making this camera my go-to for most portrait work.
Nikon’s 2023 Firmware Update
In July of 2023, Nikon released a new firmware upgrade for the Nikon Z6 AND Z7, which includes:
- Improved Focus Tracking
- Animal Tracking
- Additional Z Lens Support
- CF-Express Support
Here’s the Firmware 3.0 Link for the Z6 and Z7 on Nikon’s website. I’ll need to do some more testing with the new firmware, but I’ve heard great things from other photographers, especially about the auto focus upgrades.
Z6 Video Review
The Nikon Z6 shoots 4K (3840×2160) video at 24, 25 and 30 frames per seconds. One of my biggest gripes with the camera is that it doesn’t have a 4K 60 FPS option. Even my GH-5, released in early 2017, has a 4K60 option. However, this is one of the major upgrades included in the Z6 II.
Additionally, N-Log (Nikon’s version of LOG recording) can only be unlocked when using an external recorder like the Atomos Ninja V. Again, a little frustrating when most, if not all other brands offer internal LOG recording. That being said, the video quality is great and performs quite well in low-light conditions. I’ve shot a few shot films, music videos and hundreds of hours worth of B-Roll with my Z6 — it’ll get the job done, every time.
Now, for a cool $200 (plus shipping) USD, you can ship your Z6/Z6II or Z7/Z7II to Nikon for a RAW video firmware update. Again, you’ll need an external recorder to use this feature… RAW Video Output Update from Nikon. I’ll likely opt for this firmware upgrade in the future, versus upgrading cameras.
Who is the Nikon Z6 for?
So, who is the Z6 for? In terms of photography it’s a great portrait camera. Paired with a fast prime like the Nikkor Z 85mm f/1.4, you’re going to be blown away by the images it captures. Even the less expensive Nikkor AF-S 50mm f/1.8 is a fantastic option for portraits. You won’t be disappointed. Check out my Instagram if you want to see more portraits taken with the Nikon Z6.
You can’t go wrong with the Z6 as a landscape or street photography camera. It’s compact and inconspicuous. Being that it’s so light-weight, it makes for a great travel partner. I’ve also shot multiple weddings with the Z6 as my primary and secondary camera body. The long battery life makes it hard to beat.
Now, if you’re a run and gun filmmaker, the Z6 is still a top option. I’ve never had to worry about this camera over-heating, like so many of its competitors. I’m never afraid to bump up the ISO, because it handles low-light so well. Also, be sure to check out my Review on the GH6.
Conclusion: Is the Nikon Z6 Still Good in 2024?
In my option the Nikon Z6 is absolutely still good in 2024, and will be long into the future. The Z6 kicks ass and takes names when it comes to photography and videography. I’d highly recommend the Z6 as a great hybrid photo & video capable camera, and great as a 2nd body to have. I hope you found this post informative on the Nikon Z6, and whether it’s the camera for you, or not. Be sure to drop a comment here, or on the video to let me know! Also, Subscribe to the blow below.
Until next week, get out and go shoot!
