Nikon Z Z9 Black 2021
Panasonic LUMIX S9 S9 Black/Silver 2025
What Buyers Say
Nikon Z Z9 Black 2021
The Nikon Z9 is widely praised as a flagship mirrorless camera that delivers outstanding image quality, blazing-fast autofocus, and robust build quality. Enthusiasts and professionals alike appreciate its continuous firmware updates, which have added valuable features and refined performance. While some users note its substantial weight and learning curve, the overwhelming consensus is that it is one of the best cameras available, offering exceptional versatility and reliability.
Pros
- Excellent autofocus speed and accuracy
- Superb image quality and color
- Robust build and weather sealing
- Long battery life
- Continuous firmware updates
Cons
- Heavy and bulky body
- Steep learning curve
- High price point
- Requires new Z-mount lenses for full benefit
Panasonic LUMIX S9 S9 Black/Silver 2025
The Panasonic Lumix S9 is a compact full-frame camera that impresses users with its image quality and portability, especially for travel and family photography. Many reviewers love the fun factor, real-time LUT support, and 6K video capabilities, but the lack of an electronic viewfinder, mechanical shutter, and dual card slots are common complaints. The 18-40mm kit lens receives mixed feedback, with some finding it unsharp. Overall, it is seen as a powerful companion camera for hybrid shooters who prioritize size.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent image quality
- Powerful 6K open gate video
- Real-time LUT support
- Ideal for travel and everyday carry
Cons
- No electronic viewfinder
- No mechanical shutter
- Single card slot only
- 18-40mm kit lens lacks sharpness
- Atypical camera position
Scores
Specifications
| Nikon Z Z9 | Panasonic LUMIX S9 S9 | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | ||
| Type | Stacked CMOS | CMOS |
| Size | full-frame | full-frame |
| Megapixels | 45.70000076293945 MP★ | 24.200000762939453 MP |
| ISO Range | 64★ | 100 |
| Processor | EXPEED 7 | Venus Engine |
| Autofocus | ||
| AF Points | ||
| AF Type | Phase Detection: 493 | Contrast Detection, Phase Detection: 779 |
| Eye AF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Animal AF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Subject Detection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Shooting | ||
| Burst (Mechanical) | 30 fps | 30 fps |
| Burst (Electronic) | 120 fps★ | 30 fps |
| Max Shutter | 1/32000 | 1/8000 |
| Electronic Shutter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Video | ||
| Max Resolution | 8K★ | 6K |
| 4K FPS | 120 fps★ | 60 fps |
| 1080p FPS | 100 fps | 120 fps★ |
| 10-bit | ✓ | ✓ |
| Log Profile | ✓ | ✓ |
| RAW Video | ✓ | ✓ |
| Codec | ProRes 422 HQ, H.265 | H.264, H.265 |
| Display & EVF | ||
| Screen Size | 3.2"★ | 3" |
| Touchscreen | ✓ | ✓ |
| Articulating | ✓ | ✓ |
| EVF Resolution | 3.7M dots★ | 3.7M dots |
| Build | ||
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 1.16 kg | 0.40 kg★ |
| Battery Life | 700 shots★ | 470 shots |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB | USB-C | USB-C |
| HDMI | HDMI Output | Micro-HDMI |
| Hot Shoe | ✓ | ✓ |
Pros & Cons
Nikon Z Z9 Black 2021
- Strong build (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong video (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong battery (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (97th percentile)97th %ile
Panasonic LUMIX S9 S9 Black/Silver 2025
- Strong af (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong battery (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong video (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong evf (93rd percentile)93rd %ile
Verdict
Scores 100 overall, wins 7 of 10 usage categories and 8 of 33 specs.