Nikon Z 8 Mirrorless Camera

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85%
93%
Image Quality
96%
Video Performance
88%
Autofocus Performance
90%
Build Quality
82%
Ease of Use
91%
Low-Light Performance
74%
Battery Life
78%
Portability
82%
Value for Money
89%
Compatibility with Lenses
87%
Connectivity Features
80%
Price to Performance Ratio
70%
Customer Support
More

Overview

The Nikon Z 8 Mirrorless Camera offers a combination of high-end performance and versatility. With its 45.7MP full-frame sensor and advanced EXPEED 7 processing engine, it captures stunning, detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. This camera also stands out for its internal 8K/60p video recording and smooth 4K/120p capabilities, making it a go-to choice for both professionals and content creators. Its compact, weather-sealed body ensures durability, allowing for use in diverse shooting environments.

Features & Benefits

This mirrorless camera excels with its powerful EXPEED 7 image processing engine, delivering fast, precise autofocus for both stills and video. The autofocus system, with its 493 points, is designed to detect and track a broad range of subjects, making it incredibly reliable for action shots. Additionally, the camera supports 12-bit N-RAW and ProRes RAW formats, offering professional-grade video quality. With dual memory card slots for XQD and SD cards, this camera provides flexibility and convenience for extended shoots.

Best For

The Nikon Z 8 is ideal for professional photographers and videographers who require top-tier image and video quality. Its 120 fps continuous shooting makes it perfect for high-speed action, while content creators will appreciate its ability to record in both 8K and 4K. Whether you’re a filmmaker or a photographer, the Z 8’s versatile features and compact design make it suitable for various production environments. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a high-performance camera that handles both stills and video with ease.

User Feedback

The Nikon Z 8 has garnered praise for its fast autofocus, especially in difficult conditions like low light and fast-moving subjects. Many users have highlighted its superior video performance, with 8K and 4K recording proving to be standout features. Its compact design and build quality are also frequently mentioned as strong selling points. However, some users have noted the high price point as a barrier, and the absence of a built-in flash can be inconvenient for certain users looking for a more all-in-one solution.

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Pros

  • This mirrorless camera delivers exceptional image quality thanks to its 45.7MP full-frame sensor.
  • The fast autofocus system tracks moving subjects with impressive accuracy, even in challenging lighting.
  • It supports 8K/60p and 4K/120p video recording, making it a powerful tool for professional filmmakers.
  • The compact and weather-sealed design is perfect for outdoor shoots and demanding environments.
  • Dual memory card slots provide versatile storage options, supporting both XQD and SD cards.
  • The EXPEED 7 processor ensures fast image processing and reliable performance during continuous shooting.

Cons

  • Its high price point may be prohibitive for casual photographers or those on a budget.
  • Lack of a built-in flash makes it less convenient for low-light shooting without external lighting equipment.
  • Some users find the menu system complex, requiring a learning curve for optimal use.
  • The camera's relatively heavy build can make it less ideal for long-duration handheld use.
  • While versatile, the 8K video recording may not be necessary for all users, especially those focused on photography.
  • Battery life could be an issue for extended shooting sessions, particularly when recording video at high resolutions.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from various platforms and languages, we found that the Nikon Z 8 Mirrorless Camera consistently receives praise for its impressive performance in both photo and video modes. Feedback has been carefully filtered to exclude spam, bot, incentivized, and off-topic reviews, ensuring that only genuine, high-quality insights informed these scores. Both the strengths and areas for improvement have been reflected in the ratings, offering a balanced overview of what users really think about this high-performance camera.

Image Quality
93%
Users consistently praise the high-resolution, full-frame sensor that delivers exceptional clarity and detail, even in challenging lighting conditions. The color accuracy and dynamic range are particularly appreciated by photographers who require precise, vibrant images for professional work or personal projects.
Some users have noted that the image quality may not justify the high price for those who are not demanding professional-level results. There are occasional mentions of softer edges in certain lenses when used at maximum resolution.
Video Performance
96%
Many content creators and videographers highlight the camera's ability to shoot 8K video at 60fps and 4K at 120fps, making it ideal for high-end productions. Its support for 12-bit N-RAW and ProRes RAW also allows filmmakers to capture incredible detail and flexibility in post-production.
Despite its impressive video capabilities, some users feel that the 8K recording feature might be overkill for casual users, leading to large file sizes and a need for powerful editing hardware. Additionally, the high cost may deter those who don't need the highest-end video specs.
Autofocus Performance
88%
The autofocus system is lauded for its speed and precision, even in fast-moving subjects and challenging conditions. With 493 autofocus points, users find it highly reliable for both still photography and video work, especially in dynamic shooting environments.
A few users have mentioned that the autofocus can struggle with certain lighting conditions or low-contrast subjects, requiring manual intervention in specific scenarios. Some also feel that the autofocus performance doesn’t always justify the camera’s steep price.
Build Quality
90%
The compact, weather-sealed body of this camera is frequently mentioned as a standout feature, especially for outdoor photographers or those working in harsher environments. It strikes a good balance between durability and portability, making it a versatile choice for professionals.
A small number of users have pointed out that while the build is solid, the camera feels somewhat heavier than expected, which can be tiring for extended shooting sessions. Some also wish for a slightly more ergonomic grip for comfort during long days of use.
Ease of Use
82%
18%
Many users appreciate the intuitive interface and the customizable controls that allow for a seamless user experience. The 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen makes composing shots in different angles easier, and the camera’s menus are generally considered user-friendly for both beginners and seasoned photographers.
Some reviewers have mentioned that the sheer number of features can feel overwhelming for those new to mirrorless systems. Additionally, some find the setup process a bit complicated and time-consuming, especially when configuring the more advanced features like video settings.
Low-Light Performance
91%
Users are impressed with how the camera performs in low-light conditions, maintaining clarity and detail without excessive noise. Its full-frame sensor excels in dimly lit environments, making it ideal for event photographers, night shoots, and low-light video work.
A few users have noted that while the performance is generally strong, there is some graininess at higher ISOs, particularly in video mode. These users may prefer other models with slightly better noise reduction in extreme low-light settings.
Battery Life
74%
26%
Some buyers report decent battery life for the camera, especially considering the power needed to drive 8K video recording. This can be sufficient for casual shooting or shorter sessions, and the dual battery slots allow for extended sessions if needed.
Many users are dissatisfied with the battery life, especially during extended shooting periods, such as long video shoots or continuous high-speed photography. Despite its high-performance features, the battery often needs to be replaced or recharged sooner than expected.
Portability
78%
22%
The relatively compact design, especially compared to other high-performance cameras, is appreciated by users who need a lightweight device without sacrificing quality. It’s a great option for those who frequently travel or work in the field and need a camera that won’t weigh them down.
A few reviewers feel that while the camera is compact for its features, it’s still heavier and bulkier than other mirrorless cameras in the same category. This can make it less ideal for those who prioritize portability above all else.
Value for Money
82%
18%
For those who need top-tier performance in both photography and video, many users believe this camera offers strong value for money despite its high price tag. Its versatile feature set and professional-grade quality make it an attractive choice for serious content creators and photographers.
However, some buyers feel that the price is a major drawback for casual photographers or hobbyists, especially when other, less expensive cameras offer similar features for less. The high cost is frequently cited as a barrier to entry for less demanding users.
Compatibility with Lenses
89%
The Nikon Z-mount system is widely praised for its wide selection of compatible lenses, allowing users to take advantage of high-quality glass for a variety of shooting scenarios. Whether users are into portrait, landscape, or action photography, the lens options are vast and diverse.
While the lens selection is strong, a few users have noted that some of the newer lenses designed for the Z-mount system can be expensive or hard to find, which can add to the overall cost of ownership. Others feel that some of the older lenses might not perform as well on the newer system.
Connectivity Features
87%
The camera's connectivity options, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HDMI, are highly valued by users for enabling easy file transfer and remote shooting. This is especially beneficial for photographers and videographers working on collaborative projects or in remote locations.
Some reviewers feel that the wireless transfer speed could be faster, especially when working with high-resolution images or 4K video. The lack of a more streamlined connection with mobile devices for quick sharing is also a point of frustration for some users.
Price to Performance Ratio
80%
20%
While expensive, many users argue that the camera delivers outstanding performance for the price, especially considering its ability to shoot both high-resolution stills and 8K video. This makes it a solid investment for professionals looking for an all-in-one solution for both photo and video work.
However, for those who don’t need cutting-edge 8K or the highest video specs, the high price point can feel like overkill. Some buyers believe that other, more affordable options would suffice for their needs without sacrificing too much in terms of quality.
Customer Support
70%
30%
A few users appreciate the manufacturer’s responsiveness when issues arise, noting that Nikon offers solid customer support with a standard one-year warranty and repair services. These users feel confident that assistance will be available if needed.
Many users express frustration with the slow response times and lack of helpful troubleshooting for certain technical issues. Some feel that the warranty and support services could be more comprehensive, especially for a high-end product like this.

Suitable for:

The Nikon Z 8 Mirrorless Camera is an excellent choice for professional photographers and videographers seeking high-end performance across both stills and video. Its 45.7MP full-frame sensor and advanced EXPEED 7 processor deliver exceptional image quality, making it ideal for those working in demanding fields like portrait, landscape, or action photography. The ability to shoot in 8K/60p and 4K/120p provides filmmakers with unmatched flexibility, and its weather-sealed body ensures durability for outdoor shoots. Content creators and professional videographers who require precise autofocus and fast continuous shooting, particularly those in the film industry or documentary production, will appreciate its versatility and cutting-edge features.

Not suitable for:

However, the Nikon Z 8 may not be the best choice for casual photographers, hobbyists, or those with limited budgets. Its high price point can be a barrier for those who don’t need the advanced video features like 8K recording or the rapid autofocus performance. Additionally, the lack of a built-in flash and relatively heavy build may deter users who prioritize portability or are looking for a simpler, more user-friendly option. This camera’s impressive capabilities are more suited to professional environments, and less experienced users may find the setup and advanced settings overwhelming.

Specifications

  • Sensor: 45.7MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor for high-resolution image capture and enhanced detail.
  • Processor: EXPEED 7 image processing engine for fast processing, efficient autofocus, and overall high performance.
  • Autofocus: Autofocus system with 493 points for precise subject detection and tracking in a variety of conditions.
  • Video Recording: Supports 8K video recording at 60p and 4K at 120p for high-quality cinematic video production.
  • Raw Video Formats: Supports 12-bit N-RAW and ProRes RAW formats for professional-grade video editing flexibility.
  • Memory: Dual memory card slots (XQD and SD) for versatile storage options and increased workflow efficiency.
  • Continuous Shooting: Continuous shooting at up to 120 fps, ideal for capturing high-speed action shots.
  • Display: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen for convenient framing, composing, and navigating camera settings.
  • Build: Compact, weather-sealed design for durability and protection against dust and moisture.
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HDMI connectivity for seamless transfer of images and videos, and remote control.
  • USB Ports: Dual USB-C ports for fast data transfer, charging, and external device compatibility.
  • Lenses: Compatible with Nikon Z-mount lenses for access to a wide range of high-quality optics.
  • Touchscreen: Responsive 3.2-inch touchscreen with tilt functionality for versatile shooting angles.
  • ISO Range: Wide ISO range for excellent performance in various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low light.
  • Battery: Long-lasting battery with the ability to shoot up to 1,500 shots per charge, depending on usage.
  • Weight: Lightweight and portable design, weighing approximately 910g (with battery and memory card).
  • Warranty: 1-year manufacturer warranty for peace of mind regarding product reliability.
  • Flash: No built-in flash, requiring the use of external flash units for low-light situations.
  • Video Resolution: Supports 8K resolution at 60 fps and 4K resolution at up to 120 fps for ultra-high-definition video.

FAQ

The Nikon Z 8 offers a high-performance 45.7MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor, which provides outstanding image quality. Its ability to shoot 8K video at 60p and 4K at 120p makes it an excellent option for both photographers and videographers, especially in demanding environments.

Setting up the Nikon Z 8 involves inserting the battery and memory card, turning on the camera, and adjusting the settings to your preferences. The camera features an intuitive interface and a detailed user manual, which guides you through basic setup steps like language selection, date/time, and camera modes.

Yes, the Nikon Z 8 is compatible with Nikon Z-mount lenses. If you have older Nikon F-mount lenses, you’ll need an F-to-Z lens mount adapter for compatibility.

The autofocus system in this mirrorless camera is praised for its speed and accuracy, even in low-light conditions. It uses 493 autofocus points to detect and track a wide range of subjects, making it ideal for shooting fast-moving objects or working in challenging lighting scenarios.

The Nikon Z 8 supports both 12-bit N-RAW and ProRes RAW video formats, providing filmmakers and content creators with high-quality recording options that offer better flexibility in post-production. It also supports 8K video at 60p and 4K at 120p for cinematic footage.

Battery life can vary based on usage, but typically, when shooting in 4K, you can expect around 1.5 to 2 hours of recording time. For longer shoots, it's recommended to carry spare batteries, as 4K and 8K video recording can drain the battery quickly.

Yes, the Nikon Z 8 features a compact, weather-sealed body designed to withstand challenging outdoor conditions. It’s an excellent choice for professionals who need a durable camera for shooting in rain, dust, or extreme temperatures.

Yes, the Nikon Z 8 supports continuous shooting up to 120 fps, making it ideal for capturing fast action sequences or high-speed sports photography. The camera's EXPEED 7 processor ensures that it performs consistently during rapid bursts.

No, the Nikon Z 8 does not feature a built-in flash. If you require additional lighting, you’ll need to use an external flash or continuous lighting setup.

While the Nikon Z 8 offers a wealth of advanced features, it’s designed more for professional photographers and videographers due to its complexity and high price. Beginners may find it challenging to use effectively without prior experience in advanced photography and video production.