Nikon Z9 Review
We've aggregated 24 high-signal reviews and 2 live retailer prices below.
Our editorial take on the Nikon Z9
The Nikon Z9 arrived as Nikon's first true mirrorless flagship and has proven itself a powerhouse across photography and filmmaking. Reviewers consistently praise its blistering speed (20 fps raw, 30 fps JPEG, up to 120 fps at 11MP), robust build, and the bold decision to go electronic-shutter-only, which turns out to be a non-issue in practice. The 45.7MP stacked sensor delivers excellent image quality, and the 493-point autofocus is described as outstanding. Video capabilities are equally impressive, with internal 8K30p and 4K120p recording, plus 8.3K 60p N-RAW output for those who want it. Multiple reviewers call it Nikon's most versatile and powerful mirrorless camera, with some declaring it makes other cameras feel antiquated.
The Z9 has continued to improve through firmware updates, earning it camera of the year nods from video-focused outlets and sustained enthusiasm even years after launch. It's a substantial camera, both in size and weight, which some see as a drawback for a mirrorless body but others appreciate for pro handling and button layout. High ISO performance is very good, though a step behind lower-resolution sensors in extreme low light. Pricing has come down from initial supply-constrained availability, now sitting just under $5,000, which puts it within reach of more professionals. For those who need top-tier speed, resolution, and video in one body, the Z9 delivers without compromise.
- Exceptional speed with 20 fps raw, 30 fps JPEG, and 120 fps at 11MP
- Outstanding autofocus with 493 phase-detection points
- Robust 8K30p and 4K120p internal video recording, plus 8.3K 60p N-RAW
- Electronic shutter performs flawlessly with no mechanical shutter drawbacks
- Solid pro-grade build and ergonomics with extensive button layout
- Large and heavy for a mirrorless camera
- High ISO noise slightly behind lower-resolution sensors in extreme low light
Synthesized by Geared editors from aggregated expert reviews.
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Editorial reviews
The Nikon Z9 is one of the best cameras we've ever tested, but is there any reason not to jump on a wait list if you're looking for the best hybrid mirrorless ...
Nikon's Z9 is a truly professional mirrorless camera that's only gotten better since it was released. It is a brick of a mirrorless camera with more buttons and features than I have been able to test in the nearly two months I have had with it.
The Nikon Z9 is an innovative professional camera that offers awesome speed, incredible detail and outstanding 8K video capabilities. The Z9 is Nikon's most versatile and powerful mirrorless camera yet, and the lack of a mechanical shutter is a non-issue.
The camera is finally here, and wow, was it ever worth the wait! After going hands-on with the new flagship camera, I think that pros will be very satisfied and that Nikon has made very clear how serious the company is about making amazing cameras.
For a (relatively) quiet year, Nikon is certainly building anticipation for the future while still stoking the Z-system flames with several important announcements in 2024.
I wrote a few thoughts down regarding my experience with the Nikon Z9. Overall, I am very happy and impressed with the camera's performance.
With up to 8K/30p and long video recording times next to internal 4K ProRes HQ, this new camera is promising enough to shake the ever-evolving mirrorless cameras market.
My personal view when it comes to mirrorless cameras is that the last thing you want to do is to make them larger and heavier, but in the case of the Z9, it is already fairly large and heavy, to begin with! However, if you want to use a mirrorless camera for professional video applications you need to add at least a cage to be able to accommodate some key accessories.
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Specs
- Sensor
- 45.7MP FX-Format Stacked CMOS Sensor
- Processor
- EXPEED 7 Image Processor
- Shutter Type
- Electronic shutter
- Autofocus Points
- 493-point phase-detection AF
- Iso Range Native
- 64-25600
- Shutter Speed Max
- 1/32,000 sec
- Iso Range Expanded
- 32-102400
- Raw Video Recording
- 8.3K 60p N-RAW, 4.1K 60p ProRes RAW
- Video Internal Recording
- 8K30p and 4K120p Video, 10-Bit Internal
- Continuous Shooting Speed Raw
- 20 fps
- Continuous Shooting Speed Jpeg
- 30 fps
- Continuous Shooting Speed Stills
- 120 fps (11MP stills)
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