Nikon Z Z9 Black 2021
A stacked 45.7MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 7 processor eliminate mechanical shutter limitations, enabling 120fps bursts and blackout-free shooting. Its internal 8.3K 60p N-RAW and 4.1K 60p ProRes RAW recording, combined with a durable weather-sealed build, positions it as a hybrid powerhouse without external recorders. This camera is best for sports photojournalists and high-end video producers who need uncompromising speed alongside 8K workflow flexibility.
How owner sentiment changed over time
ExclusiveBased on when customers actually wrote their reviews - so you can see whether early praise held up.
- Q2 202691/100
Overwhelmingly positive reviews praise the Z9's autofocus, speed, and build quality. Users upgrading from DSLRs or other mirrorless cameras find it a significant improvement.
- Autofocus and burst rate (20fps) are game-changers for wildlife and sports photography.
- Build quality is 'rock solid'; camera feels robust and handles harsh environments well.
- Firmware updates improve the camera; users appreciate the continued development.
- Compared to DSLRs (D4-6, D500, D6), reviewers find the Z9 lighter but substantial, with superior performance.
- Q1 202698/100
Reviewers praise outstanding image quality, fast autofocus, and superb low-light performance. The camera is seen as highly advanced and versatile, with long battery life.
- Stunning image quality, perfect color, and sharpness across all lenses.
- Excellent autofocus and performance, especially for birds in flight.
- Great low-light capability and long-lasting battery life.
- Highly advanced technology, comparable to high-end aerospace gear.
- Q1 202497/100
Buyers in Q1 2024 praise the Z9 as the best mirrorless camera, highlighting its superb autofocus, speed, and firmware updates. Some note a learning curve and minor grievances like lack of global shutter.
- Autofocus and speed are exceptional, especially for birds in flight and wildlife
- Regular firmware updates have improved the camera, adding meaningful features
- Minor complaints about no global shutter and viewfinder resolution, but overall very satisfied
- One user mentions silent mode disables flash, and another wants more shooting banks
- Q4 202398/100
Buyers in Q4 2023 overwhelmingly praise the Z9 as a huge leap forward, especially after firmware 4.1. Autofocus, speed, ergonomics, and build quality are consistently lauded.
- Autofocus is amazing and has improved with firmware updates, crucial for birds, sports, wildlife.
- Outstanding image quality, ISO performance, and low-light capability.
- Solid build, comfortable ergonomics, excellent weather sealing, and no-blackout viewfinder.
- One user wants settings banks to work as saved presets rather than a bookmark of all changes.
- Q3 202398/100
Buyers in Q3 2023 praise the Z9's image quality, speed, and focus, though some note a slow wake-up delay and lack of AF-D lens compatibility.
- Excellent image quality and fast, accurate autofocus, especially for sports and wildlife.
- Great ergonomics and menu layout; comfortable handling with built-in grip.
- Transition from DSLRs is smooth, but the 1-2 second wake-up delay can cause missed shots.
- No full compatibility with Nikkor AF D lenses; desire for a printed manual.
- Q2 202385/100
Buyers praised the Z9's speed, autofocus, and image quality, particularly for wildlife and action. Common complaints included autofocus limitations and a slow wake-up time.
- Excellent autofocus speed and tracking for wildlife and action photography.
- Great image quality, ergonomics, and battery life; considered a top Nikon camera.
- Autofocus struggles with static subjects, background grabbing, and vertical lines.
- Wake-up delay from sleep mode can cause missed shots.
Based on 184 dated customer reviews, grouped by calendar quarter. Period analysis is in English.
A full written review is coming soon. The specs, scores, prices and charts above are always up to date.
