When shopping for a camera, one brand that stands out for its outstanding quality and performance is Nikon. In this piece, we will examine the similarities and differences between two of Nikon’s most popular cameras, the Nikon Z7 and the Nikon Z fc. Both cameras come with a variety of features and capabilities that are distinct from one another, making them suitable for various kinds of photographers.
When it comes to choosing between these two possibilities, we want to assist you in making an educated choice by comparing their features, how well they operate, and how easily they can be used.
Overview
Both the Nikon Z7 and the Nikon Z fc are mirrorless cameras that feature Nikon’s Z mount technology. This ensures that the cameras are compatible with a wide variety of lenses. However, they are not the same in terms of the people they are designed for or the purposes they serve.
The Nikon Z7 is a high-resolution full-frame camera that is geared toward professional photographers, whereas the Nikon Z fc is a small and sleek camera that is made for amateurs and fans of vintage photography.
Design and Ergonomics
The Nikon Z7 features a more utilitarian appearance, placing an emphasis on practicality and longevity in its design. The body is made of a magnesium alloy that has been weather-sealed to provide protection against dust and moisture.
The Nikon Z fc, on the other hand, features a design that is retro-inspired, with manual dials and a tiny physical factor. This camera was created to pay homage to Nikon’s famous film cameras. Photographers who place equal importance on aesthetics and performance are likely to find it appealing.
Image Quality
Image quality is exceptional across the board for both of these cameras. The Nikon Z7 features a full-frame sensor that is 45.7 megapixels in resolution, which delivers outstanding details and dynamic range. It yields outstanding results, particularly in the areas of commercial photography, portraiture, and landscape photography.
Even though it has a slightly reduced 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor, the Nikon Z fc still produces great picture quality, making it an excellent option for everyday shooting as well as travel photography.
Autofocus System
When it comes to taking photographs that are sharp and well-focused, having an autofocus system is really necessary. The Nikon Z7 sports a powerful phase-detection focusing system that consists of 493 individual points and covers a sizeable amount of the picture. It is particularly effective at following moving things and ensuring precise focusing in a wide variety of shooting settings.
The Nikon Z fc makes use of a 209-point hybrid autofocus system, which ensures dependable performance in the majority of shooting circumstances. However, it may not be able to match the capabilities of the Z7 in terms of capturing fast-paced action photography.
Video Capabilities
You are able to record high-quality video with any of these two cameras thanks to their superior video capabilities. The Nikon Z7 is capable of shooting in 4K Ultra High Definition at up to 30 frames per second, which results in images with an astonishing level of clarity and sharpness. Additionally, it has a 10-bit N-Log output, which provides for increased versatility during post-production.
The Nikon Z fc is capable of recording 4K Ultra High Definition video but can only do it at a rate of 30 frames per second. It is important to point out that the Z7’s stronger focusing mechanism provides it an advantage when it comes to filming video, particularly for things that are moving.
Low-Light Performance
The issue of photographing in circumstances with poor light is one that photographers face frequently. The Nikon Z7 has a big sensor and superior noise reduction capabilities, which together allow it to give remarkable performance in low-light conditions. Even with higher ISO settings, it generates photographs that are crisp and have very little noise. Even if it does not equal the Z7’s low-light capabilities, the Nikon Z fc still performs brilliantly and is, therefore, ideal for the majority of low-light conditions that enthusiasts will experience.
Burst Shooting
The capacity to capture several frames in rapid succession is vital for capturing action and sports. The Nikon Z7 has a good continuous shooting speed of 9 frames per second (fps), which enables you to take clear photos of moving things even when they are moving quickly.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z fc has a continuous shooting speed that is somewhat slower at five frames per second, which may be too slow for some action-packed situations. Despite this, it is sufficient for the photographic needs of an average person.
Display and Viewfinder
Electronic viewfinders (EVFs) of both cameras have a high resolution, which enables them to display an accurate and detailed preview of the scene being captured. The electronic viewfinder (EVF) that comes included in the Nikon Z7 has 3.69 million dots, which ensures that colors and exposure are shown accurately.
The electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the Nikon Z fc has a resolution of 2.36 million dots, which is significantly lower than most EVFs, but it still provides a satisfying viewing experience. In addition, both cameras come equipped with a touchscreen LCD that can be tilted, making it easier to compose and examine images.
Specification Comparison
| Specification | Nikon Z7 | Nikon Z fc |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 45.7 megapixels (Full Frame) | 20.9 megapixels (APS-C) |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 6 | EXPEED 6 |
| ISO Range | 64 – 25,600 (expandable to 32 – 102,400) | 100 – 51,200 (expandable to 204,800) |
| Autofocus System | Hybrid AF (493 points) | Hybrid AF (209 points) |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 9 frames per second | Up to 11 frames per second |
| Video Recording | 4K UHD at 30fps | 4K UHD at 30fps |
| LCD Screen | 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen (2.1M dots) | 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen (1.04M dots) |
| Viewfinder | Electronic (3.69M dots) | Electronic (2.36M dots) |
| Built-in Flash | No | Yes |
| Memory Card Slots | 1 XQD/CFexpress, 1 SD | 1 SD |
| Weight | 675g (body only) | 445g (body only) |
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for photographers, particularly those who participate in extended periods of photography or who travel frequently. The battery life of the Nikon Z7 is impressive, and on a single charge, the camera can take roughly 330 pictures before needing to be recharged.
Because of its more compact design, the Nikon Z fc has a battery life that is not quite as long as that of its larger counterpart, offering just about 300 photos per charge. When shooting for a longer period of time, it is recommended to bring along some spare batteries.
Connectivity Options
Both cameras have a variety of communication options, making it easier to upload images and take control of the cameras remotely. They come equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth already built-in, making it possible to wirelessly upload photos to a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet.
In addition, they feature a USB connection, which enables users to transfer files directly to a computer or other external storage device. Additionally, the Nikon Z fc is equipped with a dedicated microphone input, which allows for superior audio recording throughout the video capture process.
Price
When shopping for a camera, price is frequently a crucial deciding factor. The Nikon Z7 is more expensive than lower-end models since it is a higher-end model. However, it comes at a premium price despite offering great performance and adaptability.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z fc offers a starting point into Nikon’s mirrorless ecosystem that is more accessible financially without sacrificing image quality or functionality. It is an appealing choice for enthusiasts working under limited financial constraints.
User Experience
Both cameras include a user interface that is easy to navigate and controls that can be customized, ensuring a smooth experience when taking pictures. A top LCD display and a dedicated joystick are included in the Nikon Z7, allowing for speedy navigation and the modification of settings. The Nikon Z fc provides a haptic shooting experience with its manual dials, which are evocative of the dials seen on historical film cameras. In the end, the decision between the two cameras comes down to the user’s own preference and the way they want to photograph.
Pros and Cons
Nikon Z7
Pros:
- The sensor has a high resolution, allowing for extraordinary detail.
- Innovative autofocus technology that allows for precise topic tracking
- A durable body that is sealed against the elements
- Outstanding functionality in low-light conditions
- Recording video in 4K resolution with N-Log output
Cons:
- A more expensive point of entry
- a physique that is both larger and heavier
- Compared to other types of cameras, the burst shooting speed is significantly slower.
Nikon Z fc
Pros:
- A vintage style that is both distinctive and fashionable
- Conveniently small and lightweight in order to maximize portability
- For general photography, both image quality and performance are satisfactory.
- An accessible and reasonably priced point of entry into Nikon’s mirrorless system
Cons:
- Compared to the Z7, it has a shorter battery life. It also has a limited burst shooting speed, which makes it less suitable for fast-action photography.
Conclusion
To summarize, both the Nikon Z7 and the Nikon Z fc are great cameras that are designed to meet the needs of certain categories of photographers. Professionals that want uncompromised image quality, cutting-edge capabilities, and tough durability will find the Z7 to be an excellent choice. It excels in a variety of categories, including low-light performance, high-resolution still photography, and video recording capabilities. On the other hand, the Nikon Z fc is aimed at photography lovers as well as individuals who value a design that is retro-inspired. It provides a lower-cost entry point into Nikon’s mirrorless system without compromising image quality or fundamental functionality in the process.
When deciding between the Nikon Z7 and the Nikon Z fc, you should take into account the precise requirements of your photography, as well as your available funds and personal shooting tastes. The Z7 is the obvious pick if you place emphasis on the highest possible image quality and have a need for more sophisticated functions. On the other hand, the Z fc is a wonderful choice if you place a premium on having a camera that is both small and beautiful while still providing remarkable performance for your regular photography needs.
FAQs
Q. Can I use my existing Nikon lenses with the Z7 and Z fc?
A. Yes, both cameras are compatible with Nikon’s Z-mount lenses as well as F-mount lenses via an adapter.
Q. Do the Z7 and Z fc have in-body image stabilization?
A. Yes, both cameras feature in-body image stabilization, allowing you to capture sharper handheld shots.
Q. What memory card types do the Z7 and Z fc support?
A. Both cameras support XQD/CFexpress Type B and SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards for storing images and videos.
Q. Are there any notable differences in the menu interface between the Z7 and Z fc?
A. While the overall menu structure is similar, the Z fc incorporates a simplified menu layout inspired by classic Nikon film cameras.
Q. Do the Z7 and Z fc offer silent shooting modes?
A. Yes, both cameras provide silent shooting modes, which can be useful in situations that require minimal disruption.
