Nikon Z7 II
A modest update, but still a very compelling performer.
We were blown away by the original Nikon Z7, which arrived alongside the Nikon Z6 in 2018 as the company’s first full-frame mirrorless cameras. For a first generation, both were instantly competitive, even class-leading in some areas, but neither was perfect – hence the arrival of the Nikon Z7 II and Z6 II.
This second generation brings a sense of tweaking and refinement, along with a slight reorientation to address the critics. For instance, the Nikon Z7 II now has dual cards slots and twin Expeed 6 image processors to help enhance performance.
High-speed 10fps burst rates are sustained for longer, while autofocus is more versatile, even if we’re not quite in pro sports territory here. Video features have been improved too, with internal 4K 60fps and Full HD 120fps possible.
Elsewhere, much of what we love about the original Nikon Z7 remains. There’s still the excellent form-factor and handling – you’d struggle to tell the Z7 II and Z7 apart – plus those gorgeous 45.7MP photos.
The Z7 II is less bold than before, because we’re not treading new ground. However, there’s something more reassuring going on here – the camera is more versatile and, crucially in those two years, the Nikon Z system has matured.
There are more Z lenses and better accessories (including a new vertical grip). And with these refined cameras, surely most doubters must now be considering Nikon Z as a safe system to adopt, even making the switch from
DSLR to mirrorless.
We respect that Nikon has brought in the Z7 II at a considerably lower price than the Z7 at launch – its body-only tag of $5,499 is aggressive compared to the competition. In addition, the Z7 II uses both SD and CFexpress memory cards that are significantly cheaper than the XQD card type of the Z7 (though the Z7 II will still take XQD cards, too).
You could save money on the cheaper, two-year-old Nikon Z7 – and for the most part, you’d enjoy a similar shooting experience. However, in the scheme of things, the outlay when buying into the system will likely end up the same.
Overall, the Nikon Z7 II is a modest refresh, but the dual processors, two card slots, improved autofocus and deeper buffers all help to keep it competitive with its slightly pricier rivals. The bigger picture is bright, too – Nikon has a respectable track record of improvements via firmware updates, while the growing Nikon Z system looks the business.
The Nikon Z7 II is a subtle evolution of the original Z7, thanks to its two card slots and dual processors that boost its all-round performance. Elsewhere, it’s wonderfully familiar territory, and the Nikon Z system is steadily growing. We’d like to have seen a more significant upgrade, but that switch to Nikon mirrorless looks safe now – if you have the money.