The next-gen Z series has arrived

The Nikon Z 6II is a new and improved fullframe mirrorless camera for enthusiasts

Nikon has just launched the Z 6II and the Z 7II, the latest iterations of two of its hugely popular full-frame mirrorless cameras. The Z 6 and Z 7 were received to great acclaim two years ago, but Nikon has made a range of compelling improvements to both models that weren’t feasible at the time they were first launched.

We’ll take an in-depth look at the Z 7II in the next issue of DigitalCamera, so now let’s focus on the Z 6II. While the Z 6 had a single card slot, Nikon has listened carefully to feedback so the Z 6II sports a pair of card slots; one XQD/CFexpress and one SD UHS-II – the fastest variant of this format. So in addition to offering the peace of mind of in-camera backup, the dual slots allow access to a more affordable recording medium – and one that many upgrading users have already invested in. As well as improved storage capabilities, the Z 6II features a pair of EXPEED 6 processors. This major boost in processing power sees the max frame rate increase to a blistering 14fps (from 12fps). The max burst has also increased, and shooters can capture up to 200 JPEGs or 112 raw files.

4K video footage on the Z 6II is doubled to 60fps, arriving via a firmware update in February 2021, and animal eye-AF can be used when shooting video – a result of the Z 6II’s sheer processing power.

Fans of the Z 6 are likely to get even more from the next-generation model.

The range of Nikon Z lenses will only grow, and with native ‘trinity’ lenses now available – the 14-24mm, 24-70mm and 70-200mm – Nikon DSLR users might just be tempted into moving over to the brand’s acclaimed Z mirrorless system, too.

Nikon Z Creator Andrew Barber has made the switch already – will you?