Within the realm of photography, Nikon has made a name for itself as a prestigious brand that is recognized for producing cameras of a very high standard. The Nikon Z6 II and the Nikon Z30 are two models from Nikon’s range that are pretty popular with customers.
Both of these cameras have a ton of remarkable features and capabilities, but they appeal to users who have quite different requirements and tastes. This article will examine the similarities and differences between the Nikon Z6 II and the Nikon Z30 across a variety of categories, with the goal of assisting you in making an educated choice between these two cameras.
Overview of Nikon Z6 II and Nikon Z30
The Nikon Z6 II is an update to its predecessor, the Nikon Z6, which was also a full-frame mirrorless camera. The Nikon Z6 served as the basis for the Nikon Z6 II. It comes equipped with a sensor that has a resolution of 24.5 megapixels, twin EXPEED 6 image processors, and a powerful focusing system.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z30 is a mirrorless camera with an entry-level price point that is geared for amateurs and enthusiasts. In order to make photography more approachable, it has an APS-C sensor with 20.9 megapixels as well as a streamlined user interface.
Image Sensor and Resolution
When opposed to the APS-C sensor found in the Nikon Z30, the full-frame sensor found in the Nikon Z6 II has a bigger pixel size and performs better in low-light situations. The Z6 II’s resolution of 24.5 megapixels allows it to take photographs with a high level of detail and an impressive dynamic range.
The Z30’s 20.9-megapixel sensor, on the other hand, is no slouch either and produces remarkable image quality, especially when one considers the reasonable pricing point of the device.
Autofocus System
Although the focusing systems of both cameras are considered to be among the most sophisticated available, the Nikon Z6 II is considered to be superior in this regard. It has an advanced 273-point phase-detection autofocus technology with Eye-Detection AF, which enables precise and accurate focus even on subjects that are moving.
The Eye-Detection AF feature is not available on the Z30, despite the fact that it features a decent 209-point phase-detection autofocus system.
Low-Light Performance
In low-light scenarios, the Nikon Z6 II delivers superior results compared to the Nikon Z30 because of its bigger sensor size. The Z6 II has a remarkable noise performance, which enables photographers to create photos that are clean and clear even in difficult lighting settings.
The performance of the Z30 is excellent in settings with ample illumination, but it may be less impressive in conditions with little light.
Video Capabilities
The video capabilities of both cameras are remarkable, but the Nikon Z6 II is particularly amazing in this regard. It is capable of recording 4K UHD videos at up to 60 frames per second, which offers quality comparable to that of a professional product.
In addition to this, it has a number of features that are geared specifically at video, such as focus peaking, zebra patterns, and N-Log support. While the Z30 is capable of shooting videos in 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD), the frame rate is capped to 30.
Specifications Comparison
| Camera Feature | Nikon Z30 | Nikon Z6 II |
|---|---|---|
| Announced | June 2022 | October 2020 |
| Camera Type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Sensor Type | BSI CMOS | BSI CMOS |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 6 | Dual EXPEED 6 |
| Resolution | 20.9 MP | 24.5 MP |
| Pixel Dimensions | 5568×3712 | 6048×4024 |
| Sensor Dimensions | 23.5 x 15.7 mm (APS-C) | 35.9 x 23.9 mm (Full Frame) |
| Sensor Pixel Size | 4.2µ | 5.94µ |
| Low Pass Filter | No | Yes |
| IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) | No | Yes |
| Base ISO | ISO 100 | ISO 100 |
| Max Native ISO | ISO 51,200 | ISO 51,200 |
| Extended ISOs | ISO 100-204,800 | ISO 50-204,800 |
| High-Resolution Sensor Shift | No | No |
| Focus Stack Bracketing | No | Yes |
| Pre-Shoot Burst Mode | No | No |
| Fastest Shutter Speed | 1/4000 | 1/8000 |
| Longest Shutter Speed | 30 seconds | 900 seconds |
| Continuous Shooting (Mechanical Shutter) | 11 FPS | 14 FPS |
| Continuous Shooting (Electronic Shutter) | 11 FPS | 14 FPS |
| Notes for High FPS Shooting | 12-bit raw at 11 FPS | 12-bit raw and single-point autofocus at 14 FPS |
| Buffer Size (Raw) | 35 frames (11 FPS) | 124 frames (14 FPS) |
| Autofocus System | Hybrid PDAF | Hybrid PDAF |
| Autofocus Points | 209 | 273 |
| Maximum Low-Light AF Sensitivity | -4 EV | -6 EV |
| Standard Flash Sync Speed | 1/200 | 1/200 |
| Curtain to Protect Sensor at Shutdown | No | No |
| Video Features | ||
| Maximum Video Bit Depth (Internal) | 8 bits | 8 bits |
| Maximum Video Bit Depth (External) | 8 bits | 10 (12 with paid upgrade) |
| Raw Video | No | No (Yes, externally, with paid upgrade) |
| 4K Maximum Framerate | 30 FPS | 60 FPS |
| 1080P Maximum Framerate | 120 FPS | 120 FPS |
| Additional Video Crop Factor | No | 1.5x crop at 4K 60p (4K 30p has no additional crop) |
| Chroma Subsampling | 4:2:0 | 4:2:0, 4:2:2 (External) |
| Video Recording Limit | 125 min | 30 min |
| Physical and Other Features | ||
| Card Slots | 1 | 2 |
| Slot 1 Type | SD (UHS-I) | CFExpress Type B |
| Slot 2 Type | N/A | SD (UHS-II) |
| Rear LCD Size (Diagonal) | 3.0 in | 3.2 in |
| Rear LCD Resolution | 1.04 million dots | 2.1 million dots |
| Articulating LCD | Fully Articulating | Single Axis |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Viewfinder | None | EVF |
| Viewfinder Magnification | N/A | 0.8x |
| Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 3.69 million dots |
| Viewfinder Coverage | N/A | 100% |
| Voice Memo | No | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | No | Yes |
| Microphone Jack | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Flash | No | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| USB Type | Type C 3.2 Gen 1 | Type C 3.1 |
| Battery Type | EN-EL25 | EN-EL15c |
| Battery Life (Viewfinder) | N/A | 340 frames |
| Battery Life (Rear LCD) | 330 frames | 410 frames |
| Battery Life (Eco Mode) | N/A | 450 frames |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (Body Only w/ Battery + Card) | 405 g (0.89 lbs.) | 705 g (1.55 lbs.) |
| Dimensions (LxHxD) | 128 x 74 x 60 mm | 134 x 101 x 85 mm |
Shooting Speed and Buffer
With a burst rate of up to 14 frames per second, the Nikon Z6 II has an advantage over its predecessor when it comes to the ability to shoot continuously.
Additionally, it has a bigger buffer, which enables you to take more images in a row without the memory buffer becoming full. The Z30 features a reasonable burst rate of 8 frames per second but a lower buffer capacity than its predecessor, the Z10.
Display and Viewfinder
Both cameras include electronic viewfinders (EVFs) that are of a high quality and give a view that is both clear and detailed of the subject matter being captured. The Z6 II has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a greater resolution, which results in a more immersive shooting experience.
Additionally, the Z6 II has a touchscreen LCD that can be tilted, which makes it much simpler to frame photographs from a variety of different perspectives. The LCD display of the Z30 is a fixed touchscreen, which makes navigating the menus and viewing images on the device quite straightforward.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Both the Nikon Z6 II and the Nikon Z30 provide capabilities that are comparable in terms of the connectivity possibilities that are available. Both of them are equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth already built-in, making it possible to wirelessly transfer files and take control of a camera from a distance.
The Z6 II, on the other hand, has a minor edge thanks to its twin memory card slots, which enable expanded storage space as well as more alternatives for data backup. When compared to the Z30, the Z6 II has a much longer battery life, which translates to longer shooting sessions.
Ergonomics and Build Quality
Both of these cameras have a high-quality build and offer very good ergonomics. The magnesium alloy body that is included on the Nikon Z6 II provides the camera with durability as well as weatherproofing.
It also features a comfortable grip, and the controls are nicely positioned, which allows for an experience that is both safe and easy to use when shooting. Although it is not as tough as the Z6 II, the Z30 has a sturdy build quality and is lightweight, making it incredibly portable for shooting on the move.
Price and Value for Money
The Nikon Z6 II is positioned as a higher-end camera, and as such, its price tag reflects this positioning. However, it provides a wide variety of cutting-edge features in addition to outstanding performance, which makes it a great investment for both industry pros and amateurs.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z30 has a lower price point, which makes it a more appealing option for novice photographers who are interested in learning about mirrorless photography but do not wish to spend a lot of money doing so.
Conclusion
In summary, the Nikon Z6 II and the Nikon Z30 are both remarkable cameras that satisfy a variety of requirements in their respective user bases. Image quality, focusing performance, low-light skills, and general adaptability are all areas in which the Z6 II shines. It is a camera designed for serious photography lovers as well as professionals that demand features of the highest caliber.
On the other side, the Z30 provides an inexpensive entry point into the field of mirrorless photography, in addition to outstanding image quality, user-friendliness, and mobility. It is a camera that is aimed at novice photographers as well as hobbyists who are on a tight budget. When deciding on a camera, it is important to take into account your individual needs as well as your financial constraints.
FAQs
Q. Can I use my existing Nikon lenses with both the Z6 II and the Z30?
A. Yes, both cameras are compatible with Nikon’s Z-mount lenses. You can also use your existing Nikon F-mount lenses with an adapter.
Q. Does the Z6 II have in-body image stabilization (IBIS)?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z6 II features in-body image stabilization, allowing for sharper handheld shots and smoother video recording.
Q. Can I shoot in RAW format with the Z30?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z30 supports RAW image capture, providing greater flexibility in post-processing and preserving more image data.
Q. How does the Z6 II perform in fast-action photography?
A. With its advanced autofocus system and fast burst rate, the Z6 II excels in capturing fast-action shots, making it suitable for sports and wildlife photography.
Q. Does the Z30 have a built-in flash?
A. No, the Nikon Z30 does not have a built-in flash. However, it is compatible with external flash units for additional lighting options.
