Nikon has long been recognized as a market-leading brand in the field of professional cameras, and recent years have seen tremendous growth in the company’s Z and D series camera lines’ levels of consumer demand. Both the Nikon Z9 and the Nikon D6 are upcoming camera models that have piqued the interest of both photography pros and amateurs alike.
In this post, we will compare the Nikon Z9 with the Nikon D6 across a variety of criteria in order to assist you in gaining an understanding of the primary distinctions between the two cameras and in making an educated decision when selecting between them.
Overview of Nikon Z9
The Nikon Z9 is the company’s most recent and most advanced flagship mirrorless camera. It has a solid EXPEED 7 image-processing engine and a high-resolution, full-frame sensor, all of which contribute to its impressive image quality. The Z9 has a native ISO range that goes from 64 all the way up to 25,600, and it can be increased all the way up to 1,024,000.
It has a sensor of 45 megapixels, which results in excellent image quality and exceptional dynamic range. In addition, the Z9 features a brand-new image stabilization mechanism that is capable of providing up to 5.5 stops of stabilization. This ensures that photographs will be crisp even when shot in difficult lighting circumstances.
Overview of Nikon D6
On the other side, the Nikon D6 is the most advanced DSLR camera that Nikon currently offers in their product range. It possesses a full-frame sensor with a resolution of 20.8 megapixels and is driven by the EXPEED 6 image-processing engine.
The D6 has a native ISO range that extends from 100 to 102,400 and can be expanded all the way up to 3,280,000. It is recognized for having excellent low-light performance as well as a system that is both quick and precise for focusing, which makes it perfect for photographing both sports and wildlife.
Sensor and Image Quality Comparison
When comparing the sensors of the Nikon Z9 with the Nikon D6, the Nikon Z9’s sensor has a greater resolution at 45 megapixels, therefore, it takes the lead in terms of sensor and picture quality. The sensor of the Nikon D6 only has 20.8 megapixels.
Images captured with the Z9 have increased sharpness and detail as a direct result of the bigger sensor size and greater pixel count. In addition, the Z9’s broader native ISO range enables improved performance in environments with low levels of illumination.
Autofocus System Comparison
Both the Nikon Z9 and the Nikon D6 have highly developed focusing systems, yet both systems go about their business in quite different ways. The Z9 makes use of Nikon’s hybrid autofocus technology, which consists of 493 focus points that are spread out across a large portion of the picture.
In addition to that, it has eye-detection autofocus, which is a beneficial feature for photographing portraits and animals. On the other hand, the D6 makes use of a 105-point all-cross-type autofocus system that delivers exceptional tracking performance, particularly in situations when there is a lot of movement throughout the shooting process.
Specifications Comparison
| Camera Feature | Nikon D6 | Nikon Z9 |
|---|---|---|
| Announced | September 2019 | October 2021 |
| Camera Type | DSLR | Mirrorless |
| Sensor Resolution | 20.8 million | 45.7 million |
| Sensor Type | CMOS | Stacked CMOS |
| Sensor Size | 35.9 × 23.9mm | 35.9 × 23.9mm |
| Sensor Pixel Size | 6.45µ | 4.35µ |
| Image Size | 5,568 × 3,712 pixels | 8,256 × 5,504 pixels |
| Base ISO | ISO 100 | ISO 64 |
| Native ISO Sensitivity | ISO 100-102,400 | ISO 64-25,600 |
| Boosted ISO Sensitivity | ISO 50, ISO 204,800-3,280,000 | ISO 32, ISO 51,200-102,400 |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 6 | EXPEED 7 |
| Viewfinder Type | Pentaprism | Electronic Viewfinder |
| Viewfinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.72× | 0.8× |
| Built-in Flash | No | No |
| Flash Sync Speed | 1/250 | 1/200 (Auto FP high speed sync up to 1/8000) |
| Storage Media | 2× CFexpress Type B with XQD compatibility | 2× CFexpress Type B with XQD compatibility |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | 14 FPS | 20 FPS raw; 30 FPS JPEG; 120 FPS with 11 megapixel JPEGs |
| Buffer Size (RAW, Lossless 14-bit) | 200 | Over 1000 |
| Continuous Shooting | 14.3 seconds | Over 50 seconds |
| Shutter Speed Range | 1/8000 to 900 sec | 1/32,000 to 900 sec |
| Shutter Type | Mechanical shutter, EFCS in MUP, electronic shutter | Electronic shutter only |
| Shutter Durability | 400,000 cycles | Unlimited |
| Exposure Metering Sensor | 180,000-pixel RGB sensor 3D Color Matrix Metering III | TTL exposure metering using main image sensor |
| Autofocus System | Nikon Advanced Multi-CAM 37K; 105 points, all cross-type | Hybrid phase/contrast detect AF with 493 points |
| AF Area Mode | OVF: Single-point AF; 9, 25, 49, or 105-point dynamic-area AF; 3D-tracking; Group-area AF; Group-area AF (C1); Group-area AF (C2); Auto-area AF Live View: Face-detection AF, Wide-area AF, Normal area AF, Subject-tracking AF | Single point AF; Pinpoint AF; dynamic AF (S, M, L), wide-area AF (S, L); Auto Area AF; 3D-Tracking |
| AF Detection Range (f/2 lens, ISO 100) | -4.5 to +20 EV | -5 to 21.5 EV; -7 to 21.5 EV with Low-Light AF enabled |
| Video File Format | MOV / MP4 | MOV / MP4 |
| Video Compression | MPEG-4 / H.264 | Apple ProRes 422 HQ (10-bit); H.265 / HEVC (8-bit / 10-bit); H.264 / AVC (8-bit) |
| N-Log | No | Yes, internal |
| Video Maximum Resolution | 3,840 × 2,160 (4K) up to 30p | 7680 × 4320 (8K) up to 30p |
| Slow Motion Video | 1080p up to 60p | 4K up to 120p; 1080p up to 120p |
| Video Max Recording Time | 105 minutes | 125 minutes |
| LCD Size | 3.2″ diagonal TFT-LCD | 3.2″ diagonal TFT-LCD |
| LCD Resolution | 2.4 million dots | 2.1 million dots |
| LCD Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| LCD Tilt | Vertical axis only | Vertical and horizontal axis |
| Built-in GPS | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Wired LAN | 1000 Base-T Support | 1000 Base-T Support |
| Battery | EN-EL18c | EN-EL18d (backwards compatible with all EN-EL18 type batteries) |
| Battery Life | 3,580 shots (CIPA) | 700 shots |
| Weight (with battery and card) | 1450 g (3.20 pounds) | 1340 g (2.95 pounds) |
| Dimensions | 160.0 × 163.0 × 92.0mm (6.30 × 6.42 × 3.62 inches) | 149 × 149.5 × 90.5 mm (5.87 × 5.89 × 3.56 inches) |
Performance and Speed Comparison
Both cameras shine in their own unique ways when compared for their levels of performance and quickness. Continuous shooting at up to 20 frames per second (fps) with full autofocus and auto exposure tracking is possible with the Nikon Z9 because of its impressively fast continuous shooting speed.
In addition to this, it has a large buffer capacity, which enables it to provide longer bursts. The Nikon D6, on the other hand, has a slightly greater maximum continuous shooting speed of 14 frames per second, making it an excellent option for capturing subjects that are always on the move.
Video Capabilities Comparison
The Nikon Z9 comes out on top as the best camera in terms of its ability to record video. It is capable of capturing 8K video at 30 frames per second, which results in footage with incredible levels of clarity. The Z9 also has a variety of capabilities geared at videography, such as the ability to record in 10-bit N-Log and HLG HDR, focus peaking, and zebra patterns.
In spite of the fact that it is capable of recording 4K video of good quality, the D6 cannot compete with the Z9 in terms of resolution and other sophisticated video capabilities.
Ergonomics and Design Comparison
The requirements of professional photographers were taken into consideration throughout the design process of both the Nikon Z9 and the Nikon D6. The body of the Z9 is made of magnesium alloy, which is extremely durable, and it also incorporates weather sealing, which protects it from dust and moisture.
In addition to this, it has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) that is huge, high-resolution and gives a crisp and detailed image of the surrounding environment. Because it is a DSLR, the Nikon D6 has an optical viewfinder that covers the whole frame at 100%. This is a feature that some photographers continue to like. It shares the Z9’s rugged build quality and excellent protection against the elements.
Battery Life Comparison
The longevity of the battery is an essential factor to take into consideration, particularly for professionals that shoot for extended periods of time on location. A single charge of the Nikon D6’s battery allows the camera to take up to around 3,580 pictures, earning it a reputation for having an extraordinary battery life.
In comparison, the Nikon Z9 has a good battery life, which enables it to take roughly 940 photographs before needing to be recharged. Although the D6 is superior to the Z9 in this regard, it is important to keep in mind that mirrorless cameras, due to the additional power required for the electronic viewfinder and other features, often have a battery life that is significantly less than that of DSLRs.
Price Comparison
When it comes to selecting a camera, price is frequently the decisive factor. The Nikon Z9 is the more expensive alternative, which is reflective of the fact that it is the company’s flagship model and contains several sophisticated capabilities.
On the other hand, the Nikon D6, which is already a well-established DSLR model, provides exceptional performance at a cost that is far more affordable. Which camera provides the most return on investment will ultimately be determined by your financial constraints as well as the requirements you have for the device.
Conclusion
In summing up, the Nikon Z9 and the Nikon D6 are both outstanding cameras that are designed to meet the requirements of professional photographers. Because of its superior sensor resolution, picture quality, and video capabilities, the Z9 is an excellent option for those that place a premium on these aspects of a camera.
On the other hand, the Nikon D6 has remarkable low-light performance, a tried-and-true focusing system, and exceptional battery life, making it a dependable choice for photographing sports and wildlife. Take into account your shooting preferences, as well as your financial constraints and requirements, in order to make an educated selection based on the factors that are most important to you.
FAQs
Q. Can I use my existing Nikon lenses with the Z9?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z9 is compatible with Nikon’s Z-mount lenses. You can also use F-mount lenses with the FTZ adapter.
Q. Does the Nikon D6 have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity?
A. Yes, the Nikon D6 features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easy image transfer and remote camera control.
Q. Which camera is better for sports photography, the Z9 or D6?
A. Both the Z9 and D6 are well-suited for sports photography, but the D6’s proven autofocus system and high-speed performance make it a popular choice among sports photographers.
Q. Can the Z9 record videos in slow motion?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z9 supports slow-motion video recording at various frame rates and resolutions.
Q. Is the Z9 compatible with external flashes?
A. Yes, the Nikon Z9 has a hot shoe for attaching external flashes and other accessories.
