DPReview TV: Nikon Z6 Review 

It’s crazy how much the z6 has changed since this review

Nikon D70 mentioned.... legend

35mm is the best focal length for street photography,for travel photography,for one camera-one length.90% of my photos are with this focal length.1.8 but SMALL len sounds great.With a digital body you don’t need 1.4 (only with a film body you need 1.4).Why someone coose a small body to put a huge len in front?35mm,1.8,small Len is a win-win-win combination.

Yes, plz, this review needs an update, as the AF is much improved!

That’s got to be one of your best puddle shots!

Would love to see your assessment of the autofocus of Z series with version 3 firmware. Its a big deal because Nikon took some arrows for their initial effort and its allegedly now quite good.

Nikon Z6 looks interesting and their roadmap for the new lenses makes the mirrorless system looks promising. Sometimes I miss Nikon (as a former Nikon DSLR user), but I stay with my old Sony A7R, it's really good for stills and manual focus lenses.

The first few seconds made my day. I hadn't a 35 equivalent in digital or film ever (although my MFT 20mm is 40 equivalent). So last year, I bought 35mm f/2.8 Samyang for my A7. I am liking learning it but I have heard my subjects whisper to each other that "he's getting a bit close".

Who takes a Lambo out in snow, madness. Chris, can you send me the 35mm lens please, as you don't like the lens I am more than happy to take it off your hands and use it on my Z7.

Hello Chris, I disagree I use the Z6 for sport photography , especially Basketball, and I think The autofocus is as good as the Nikon D4s one if not better. have a nice day

Great review. Subbed. I, too, shoot with the GH5. Matter of fact, I just finished shooting a feature film with it. Director loves the footage. The Nikon Z6 looks pretty good color-wise. I think recent firmware updates have improved the AF on the Z6 from what I've seen in recent videos of the Z6.

My 1976 Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon 35mm f2.4 for a whopping £136 (including delivery) is perhaps my favourite lens and I own the Sony 55 f1.8

Only 0:11 into the video and already clicked the LIKE button 👍🏻

Having spent a lot of time with the D7200 and the Panasonic GH4, I would hope that the Z6 or Z7 would be very satisfying. Nikon finally seem to have addressed a number of issues with the Z6 or Z7 that made the D7200 seem as though it was designed for a different century. Focusing issues on mirrorless will take time.

For action shooters: Have you installed the new 3.0 firmware update? I tested the camera on BIF and the result is simply amazing! I now have a "new" Z6 shooting great action shots. The auto-focusing tracking is simple great! Just as good as the D5 and D500. It is worth every penny. I now want to buy a CF-express so I can test how many shoots the camera is able to do in one burst on 12FPS. The upgrade really made me happy with Nikon again.

Funny, a 35 f1.8 is all I need for 90% of my shots and I would really like to have either a Leica Q2 with such a lens or at least an E-Mount 35 1.8 :).

Great review. I think Nikon would have hit it out of the park if they had put a fully articulated screen with AF performance found on the D850.

I also disliked the 35mm focal length for a long time. That's been changing the last few years. It's this feeling I have while using it similar to what Chris was experiencing in the video, but often I'm happy with the resulting photos. I think not feeling super thrilled with the photos as I'm taking them actually helps push me to find alternate compositions. Also, having a Fujifilm X100 series camera for a while helped me to grow with that focal length, and also just finding situations I'm happy with 35. Nice video!

I find it odd the Z6 is often tagged 'entry level' yet the Z7 is 'pro', when the only difference is resolution, which doesn't and shouldn't matter, and focus points, which goes from utterly adequate on the 6 to overkill on the 7. And then, not surprisingly, the 6 has higher FPS, better buffer and probably better hi-iso. This MP obsession really does warp people's judgement. I've pre-ordered a Z6. One day, I hope, some stock will find its way to the UK so I can take delivery, and take some pictures with it. (Nikon UK: why NO information on UK availability? Nothing! Ridiculous! Everywhere else has theirs. Update: I contacted Nikon directly and asked the question. Not even Nikon UK could tell me when Z6s will arrive. Unbelievable.) That aside and disregarding cost, I'll take the 6 over the 7 anyway, for I don't need 45.7MP and I'd argue there's no-one in the world, military observers aside, that does. The 'bigger prints' argument is nonsense if you take into account viewing distance. I saw a landscape exhibition recently in which one of the winning shots, printed 70cm x 70cm, was shot on an iPhone. One of my mirrorless concerns was AF. You confirmed that might be problematic, but I rarely need moving subject tracking and, if I do, I have a D700 and a D300s to fall back on. I only went mirrorless because I tired of waiting for Nikon to produce a genuine replacement for the D700 (a 20-24MP FF sensor in a D500 body would have done nicely) and the 6 at least has a current gen sensor with a sensible MP count. Interesting, Chris, that you praised the evf to the heavens yet didn't once appear to use it....:0) Really enjoy your reviews and seeing a little of Canada. You guys really will have a white Christmas. Here in the UK it's raining. And I don't even live in Manchester.

Nice Video! The only thing that at least I was confused and it turns out that the Nikon lens adapter does not maintain the autofocus function of the AF lenses. This must be taken into account! (With AFS works fine)

Thanks to Sony, we now have a solid Nikon FFM, and I love my Z6! Sony, keep up the great work and keep pumping out feature rich cameras!!

I think a lot of the focusing issues should be corrected though firmware upgrades.Hopefully Nikon will do it.

You guys are amazing..... Love your detail analysis.

Nikon have promised a firmware update in May 2019 to fix the autofocus issues and add Eye AF. Very tempting.

I was very much excited by what the Z6 could offer but I am not sure it is a must buy for me at least yet. I do hope that Nikon will continue to activly work on the software side of these mirrorless cameras and both improve the AF performance and potentially intruduce some other features. If you look at what Panasonic has been able to do in improving the AF of their recent cameras with software updates I think there is a good chance the tracking issues should be fixable. I guess if they can't or wont make these improvements they may have to rush an updated replacement that can offer what this lacks.

Hi, thank you for this review. Did you have the chance to see Tony Northrup’s rather negative review of the Nikon Z6? What do you think?

Appreciate the review! I really want this camera, but the AF tracking is turning me off as birding is a big part of what I like to do.

Great review, looks like a pretty capable camera, and you can't beat that form factor!

Jordan done pissed off Chris, you guys are hilarious. I will watch anything that Chris and Jordan do, I luv these guys, they are the best in the business. I'm looking forward to the end of the year review, where the true magic happens. Thank you Chris and Jordan for all that you do.

Been waiting for this review for months guys!!! Beautiful video! 🙏🙏

The Red Lambo with the CO2 Vanity Plate lol

I wholeheartedly agree with your opinion of 35mm. I like 50mm or tighter and 28mm or wider.

If the EVF can display the entire image with framing as you describe there should be a way for Nikon to make the LCD show the same thing. I don’t understand why they did not to begin with.

Chris! Please review the Zeiss ZX1, Fuji X100F or Sony RX1R! Also, we would love to see a comparison between the XF23 F/1.4 and XF23mm F/2 on that fancy X-T3, and any reviews of the Voigtlaender 17.5mm F/0.95 and Canon's great vlogging lens, the 22mm F/2 STM, would be most welcome...! Thanks ;) P.S. that new Sony 24mm really made a splash - but how does it perform on an A6000?

thanks for review. I have question about battery life on z6 (photo and video), I see deferent numbers on internet “700 shots and 300 shots per charge” Which one more realistic and closer to reality? Dose Nikon z6 has overheating issue? Thank you)

Thanks for solidifying my purchase!

I'd like to request a "Chris Nichols Puddle Reflections" photo book for my coffee table, please!

I'm a blah photographer - 35mm FEs that have seen better days, and a 35mm f/2. Thank you for an objective review that considered the varied needs of different photographers. My interests in photography remain within the limits of chrome film, so the positives of the Z6 which you have mentioned make sense to me. For what it's worth, the 35mm was my normal, and my 55mm Micro-Nikkor was for close focusing. For me, I'd rather have two bodies and two lenses, eg. an 85mm f/2, than one body and a zoom. Different strokes for different folks. Happy Holidays.

Most everything I shoot is moving. I, like you, really like the feel and handling of the Z’s....yet not ready for prime time IMHO. I’ll stick with what I have for now and see what comes in a couple years.

As usual an honest and straightforward video. It is a real pity with the continuous autofocus. I'm considering a new camera system at the moment, and there is a lot to like about the Z6. Rationally, maybe the a7iii is the better bet, but for me I can't get along with the ergonomics, and I don't care much for the sooc colours. Choices.... Choices....

This video earned a 'like' for the cold open alone

why do you hate a 35mm lens? The one i find the most restricted focal length is 50mm, perhaps, because i mainly take landscapes!

I want nikon apsc mirrorless with a base price. Because the D3xxx and D5xxx series only get minor improvement nowdays, if you want call it improvement 😓

The Z6 is basically a 24mp landscape camera. Great first effort. Sony has had issues with its mirrorless and to some extent, they still do. It's a work in progress and either a firmware fix or a Gen2 should bring it all together.

Finally my existence is acknowledged... I can’t get used to 35mm despite it seeming to be everyone’s favourite lens

Jordan looked like the Hunch-back of Norte Dame riding a bike 😂

Definately need more Jordan on a bike, christmas hat would be required too☺

All that flat light really shifts the shooting emphasis to framing and composing and I must say you BOTH performed admirably here. Not so "pretty pretty" (except at the end, which gave a nice bit of uplift) but lots of really nice images. [Also it was a treat for me to see the Wallace Art Gallery finally put in an appearance in the background ;-)]

At 7:19 Grumpy Muppet brow or That One episode of Angel where he got turned into a Grumpy Muppet .

I always prefer a wide-normal lens, so FF 35mm is my "standard" lens. ( if a camera comes with a 50mm I usually sell it off because I know I'll never use it )

I think my favorite combination of cameras would be the nikon z6+ the xt3 or the xt3 + the gfx50r/s I like the Sonys, but I really love xqd cards and it's really amazing to use these cards

hahahahahaha 35mm is my favourite lens … Was amused at your reaction. So good!

Hey Chris, I still know what you did last spring... I see you going postal on that trashcan (and Jordan's face afterwards gave me an epic laugh attack), because you hate 35 mm lenses... in your EOS M50 review you presented a 22 mm f/2 as being one of your favorites, which, considering the 1.6 times crop factor, is a 35,2 mm lens... GOT YA!

if fotodiox made a wide range of adapters for this new "z" mount i would have bought one already, even with the dark lenses... if you're listening fotodiox, a pentax adapter would be a treat! (quietly sobbing waiting for the a6500 replacement)

Chris, one of your better if not best puddle shot. 💪

Hi guys. Always great you to watch you Chris. May I ask can the auto focus be improved by a firmware update. Can actually will it happen. Need to know the possibilities before I jump in.

i just find it funny how in the last section of the video you're talking about how good the camera is all while the camera couldn't focus on you and instead is focused on the landscape behind you.

So slightly off topic question, the whole IBIS thing confuses me a bit on the new Z series. As referenced in DP Reviews website, it gives 5 axis stabilization with the Z native lenses and 3 axis with adapted ones? I couldn't for the life of me figure out how it has 5 axis when the Z lenses don't have VR built-in as far as I can tell. Unless it is always on via stepper motor magic? There is no ON / OFF VR switch on the 35mm 1.8s lens that I also have. Am I missing something or are they referring to when VR OIS is offered later which will give the full 5 axis stabilization? I've done some of my own tests posted to my channel and can't figure out how the 5 axis is happening.

That intro was was worth everything.

Chris, did you clean that garbage up afterwards? 😁

If they can crack the continuous AF then this will be a very nice all-round camera to use. I'm in a jam because I want to buy a new camera before the end of my financial year 4 April - but the firmware update doesn't happen until may. Plus I'd rather buy with a CF Express card.

Thinking I may want one for video first and stills second. Can’t believe I’m saying that !

Chris going all Hulk over the 35, lol. You guys are the best part of DPR!

35mm not a fan of myself but I am starting to like it more and more . I’m a 28mm hardcore fan . Wish I had the Nikon 28mm f/1.4 . Maybe Nikon will make a 28mm f/1.2 for the new mount that has a super close focus. Like the old 28mm f/2.8 ais . Love that lens except for long distance where it is soft. Remake it NIKON in perfection.

I agree with you on the 35mm frustrations! I don't like the focal length either.

I predict that by this time next year Nikon will have the AF-C hammered out and the Z6 will be using CFexpress cards that will be incredibly fast and much more reasonably priced (no Sony licensing), and this camera will end up being better than the A7iii overnight. But I agree, the AF-C in particular is holding it back. Makes the great continuous shooting rate much less useful.

I feel the 35mm angst Chris. You are not alone.

Damn. First time I've ever bought the camera *before* you guys reviewed it.

I too would love to have the screen overlay info all turned off in shooting mode as a display option, I can't believe this isn't an option. I hope they fix in firmware, and while at it please fix the continuous AF too. ALSO a vertical grip, why is this not available? Come on!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I need a vertical+Battery grip (with buttons).

My camera of the year

I feel the exact same way about 85mm focal length. Like the 35, it's extremely popular, but for some reason it's just not for me.

Another fantastic episode!

OK - I'll take a contrarian point of view. Get ahold of a Nikkor 24mm AI f/2.8. Then put the Z6 on Manual Exposure with Auto ISO. Be sure to have the Histogram active in the EVF. Then hit the street and have some fun. The IBIS gives a lot of advantages here. In addition the MF assist buttons help you to nail focus. If I am shooting wildlife or sports, D850 or D500 no question. For everything else, this camera rocks. You simply do not need Auto Focus as much as you think. Would you drive that Lambo with an automatic transmission? You can, but you lose a lot of the fun. :-)

XQD moee expensive? I inventoried through B&H website. Sony XQD G series 120GB $1.57/GB and max write speed 400 MB/s. Sony SD UHS-II G series 128GB $1.56/GB and max write speed 299 MB/s. So at $0.01 difference, XQD is more expensive indeed.

Great video, many thanks!!!! Does the Z6 have a "smile recognition" in AF-C? If so, please ask Jordan to jump on the bike again and run this test a second time :D :D :D

I have the same issue with the 28mm lens in FF. The only lenses I have with the 28mm look are zooms that begin at 28m. I have never, and will never get a prime at 28mm, that length is too much of a compromise for meI go from 15mm to 24mm, then 35mm to 50mm in primes.

12 FPS low light in body stabilization pair it with the profoto D2 and Tamron 70-200 G2. Studio sports action.

Does Nikon tend to shoot brown? Just seems like every Nikon review I've watched from them today has had a golden brown tint... assuming they are videoing with the Nikons they are reviewing.

I hope Nikon will get rid of anti aliasing filter for the entry-level full frame camera for the next generation.

Nikon z6 or Canon R6 for wildlife photography any advice?

35mm is my favourite focal length; neither too narrow nor too wide to my liking.

:) Thanks mates!

love the intro :) love my 35.

So why do you hate 35mm I am planning to buy 35mm F1.8 ZS mount .

Is it the camera? Or do just all mirrorless not focus as well dslrs.

What camera for landscape, night and portrait would you recommend for under 2500 USD

It seems like canon and nikon just rushed these out to keep people with a lot of glass from switching. If Nikon's eyeAF is good and they add their 3d tracking I will consider picking one up

I don’t understand why the sub count is not going up fast enough....man...

1:21 I did get excited. I instinctively hit the like button when that beauty showed up 😀

You would choose the Z6 for studio work? No eye af and no 2.card slot is a deal breaker for studio work.

Why shot in day light conditions with more than ISO400?

Should you be able to charge the battery in-camera with a power bank? (whilst camera off). I can't make the in-camera working on any of my usb chargers nor power banks...

Did Jordan have a case of the shakes in the first half of the video? - that GH5 footage looked awful - IBIS was as shaky as hell, jumpy, choppy. It was like it was edited in some codec from the '80s. The 1880s.

With my xt3 + 23f2 (35mm equivalent) same thing,several images “behind” the subject. Maybe the af would track better with some “pro” lenses,even if they need to be adapted. Just saying.

35mm is an interesting focal length. It's either the best of both worlds or the worst, depending on the user. I'm in the former camp, but to each their own.

@dpreview Would be great to know which setting you have used in "a3 Focus tracking with lock-on" as this should make a difference as well to results you will get in AF-C, right?

Chris, since 35mm is your fav... any recos?

I bought one (waiting on it). This is a stellar review. I don't really shoot anything in bursts. I don't like the term "Zed."

It's a proven fact now that the A7-III and Nikon Z6 use the exact same Sony IMX410 image sensor so the raw output should be identical. (Thank you TechInsights X-ray machine and electron microscopes!) Jpg processing could be different. As for the Sony XQD card socket? This might have been a condition placed by Sony on the Nikon/Sony sensor contract of sale. Lumix S1?....will it also have the same IMX410? Who knows? We do know it also has an Sony XQD card socket. Hmmmmm......

Something isn't quite well at 5:14, some weird glitching happened!