Nikon is one of the most iconic camera brands in existence, with well over 100 years of history under its belt, and I've been using Nikon gear for years, particularly in my previous role as editor of Nikon-specfic magazine N-Photo, where I've tested, used or owned every Nikon Z-series mirrorless ever made, as well as a fair number of DSLRs.
Nikon cameras have long been the starting point for photo buffs taking their first foray into 'serious' photography. But Nikons aren't just for newbies – the Japanese giant is the go-to brand for professional photographers and enthusiastic amateurs alike!
This rundown zeroes in on Nikon's newest Nikon Z-series mirrorless cameras, like the groundbreaking Nikon Z8, enthusiast-level Nikon Z6 III, and cut-price Nikon Z30 (if you don't mind the lack of a viewfinder), but also features a few DSLRs that are still holding a place in Nikon's lineup, including what I would argue is the finest DSLR ever made by anyone: the mighty Nikon D850.
There are still a lot of DSLR fans out there, but with mirrorless tech reigning supreme, I would expect these to be phased out soon. Nikon's DSLRs can still charm with good features at a good price, as well as a rugged build and lens options galore. You can dig deeper into our DSLR vs mirrorless breakdown in full.
Nikon makes a wide range of cameras, covering everything from the prestige Nikon Z9, with features that will suit the most demanding of professionals, through to more everyday cameras such as the Nikon Z6 II, and also more casual photographers and vloggers with the Nikon Z50 (soon to be replaced by the Nikon Z50 II, which will make its way into my guide in the coming weeks, once I've finished testing it). Fans of retro styling are well catered for too, with the retro-inspired Nikon Zfc and Nikon Zf (depending on your preference for a DX of FX sensor). Yep, with so many models to choose from, it's a bit of a minefield picking the best camera for your needs, but don't dispair, I'm here to help!
Now, I have skipped the Nikon CoolPix compact cameras here like the Nikon P1000, and its insane 125x zoom – but don't sweat it, we've got other guides for the best point-and-shoot, best waterproof, and best bridge cameras.
My guide splits the top Nikon cameras into the best cameras for every user – so without further ado, let's uncover the perfect Nikon for you!
Adam is News Editor at Digital Camera World, and has several years of experience as a photography journalist, most notably as editor of Nikon bible N-Photo magazine. An undisputed Nikon know-all, he has put his unrivaled knowledge into practice, testing and reviewing Nikon cameras for this guide.
The Quick List
The creme de la creme of Nikon cameras is the Nikon Z8. Sure the Z9 might be faster, but for almost everyone, the Z8 will scratch every photography itch with its boundary-pushing specs, smaller body, and more affordable price.
This dreamy camera doesn't just look cool, it's also one of the best cameras around for enthusiast photographers. With a full-frame sensor and the latest sophisticated processor, the Nikon Zf is a highly capable camera.
The Nikon Z6 II is the best all-round Nikon camera for most people, it doesn't have the very latest cutting-edge abilities of the Z8 or Z9, but it still has everything that most professionals and enthusiasts are ever going to actually use.
Not just Nikon's best beginner camera, but also one of the best-looking cameras from any brand – if you're into retro looks. With easy to use controls, why not learn to expand your photography skills in style.
If you're a Nikon fan and want to make a big impact on your sports photography career – then you'll never miss a moment with the blisteringly fast Nikon Z9. And for everyone else – there is the Nikon Z8.
Still not ready to switch to mirrorless? Well if you are looking for the best of the best in DSLR technology then you can't beat the Nikon D850 with its 45.7MP full-frame sensor and 4K UHD video recording.
View the full list ⇩
Nikon's Z30 is designed for vloggers, offering user-friendly video capabilities and strong stills performance. Its affordable price explains the lack of features like IBIS and EVF, making it ideal for budget-conscious shooters.
The compact Nikon Z50 shares design elements with full-frame models and offers excellent handling. With features like 4K video, 11fps shooting, and compatibility with various lenses, it’s a great value for beginners and enthusiasts.
The best Nikon camera in 2024
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The best Nikon camera overall
The Z8 is being pushed by Nikon as "a baby Z9", with an almost identical feature set. The only real difference right now is that it has a more compact body (without the Z9's "pro" vertical grip and bigger battery) and it costs over a grand less. There is the option of adding a grip, too, should you need to carry an extra battery and have vertical control buttons
It's capable of 8K 60p video recording or 8K 30p with an enormous 2-hour record limit. Nikon decided to remove the mechanical shutter completely, which means the camera is capable of 120fps continuous shooting and has a max shutter speed of 1/32000 sec, which makes it perfect for sport and bird photography.
The ferocious autofocus is capable of ten kinds of recognition: human eyes, faces, heads, and upper bodies; animal eyes, heads, and bodies; and cars, aircraft, planes, trains, and motorbikes.
Overall, though, there is literally nothing this camera can't do: it gives you speed, resolution, ruggedness and video capability in one. And it's cheaper than the Z9.
Read more: Nikon Z8 review
The best Nikon camera for style
Don't let its vintage looks deceive you, the Nikon Zf is a fantastic modern digital camera. Internally, this is the closest to a new Z6 III right now, with its 25MP full-frame sensor and Nikon's cutting-edge Expeed 7 processor, the Zf offers much better autofocus and subject tracking, as well as solid 4K video performance.
I really love the Nikon Zf for its retro design which is sure to immediately win over any vintage camera enthusiasts. From the moment I laid my hands on this camera, it stirred up a wave of nostalgia for the bygone days of shooting film. The Zf body has a fantastic build quality with more substantial and robust brass dials, and a weighty feel reminiscent of the iconic Nikon FM2 that served as its inspiration.
I found that the Zf’s minimal grip is uncomfortable to hold for long periods, and wish I had a Smallrig extended grip when testing. Also, there is a lack of Nikon vintage-style lenses natively for the Z mount, which limits you to modern-looking Nikon lenses, or old Nikon lenses via a mount adapter, which spoils the aesthetic somewhat.
Read more: Nikon Zf review
The best Nikon camera for most people
This isn't the latest Z6, that honor goes to the brand new Nikon Z6 III, although I have decided to keep the previous model on the list for the time being as not only is it still a really dependable camera for a huge range of photographers, since the release of the new model – it can be found heavily discounted!
The Nikon Z6 II itself was a light refresh of the original Z6, with a second memory card slot and a faster processor bringing a bump to burst shooting, now up to 14fps, and the ability to record 4K video at 60fps. it's a terrific all-round camera at a very good price, and this camera's build quality, design, and handling are excellent – as is its in-body stabilization.
The 24MP sensor sounds only a small step up from Nikon's 20.9MP APS-C mirrorless models, but in combination with the much larger full-frame sensor area, it delivers a big leap in image quality, especially in low light. If you're into vlogging and filmmaking, not just stills, this is the Nikon to get.
Read more: Nikon Z6 II review
The best Nikon camera for enthusiasts
The Nikon Z fc stands out as a fantastic blend of modern features and retro styling, making it one of the more interesting mirrorless options on the market. This camera’s design is clearly inspired by Nikon's vintage models, particularly the FM2, and is bound to appeal to photographers who appreciate a nostalgic aesthetic. However, it’s not all about looks – the Z fc delivers in performance as well.
Equipped with a 20.9MP APS-C sensor, the Z fc produces excellent image quality, comparable to its sibling, the Nikon Z50. It shares the same EXPEED 6 processor and an 11fps burst mode, making it quite versatile for everyday photography needs. Where the Z fc really shines is in its fully articulating screen, which adds a layer of flexibility for vlogging or creative shooting angles, a feature that sets it apart from the Z50’s tilt-only display.
What I love most about the Nikon Z fc is how Nikon has seamlessly integrated modern technology with a classic feel. Whether you're just getting started in photography or you're a seasoned pro looking for something different, the Z fc offers plenty of charm while still delivering solid performance. Keep in mind, though, that it’s more of a statement piece. If you’re after pure functionality at a lower price, the Z50 offers essentially the same specs in a more understated body.
Ultimately, the Z fc is perfect for those who value aesthetics alongside capability, but it might not be the most practical option for heavy-duty work.
Read more: Nikon Z fc review
The best Nikon camera for sports
The Nikon Z9 stands out as one of Nikon’s most advanced cameras, and it's designed with professional photographers in mind. As the flagship mirrorless model, it features a robust 45.7MP full-frame sensor and offers both exceptional still image quality and 8K video recording at 60p. The Z9’s stacked sensor allows for extremely fast readout speeds, enabling continuous shooting at up to 120fps in JPEG (albeit with reduced resolution at 11MP), making it perfect for high-speed action and wildlife photography.
One of the key innovations of the Z9 is the absence of a mechanical shutter, replaced entirely with an electronic shutter, offering shutter speeds up to 1/32,000 sec. Combined with the deep learning autofocus system, which excels at detecting and tracking subjects from people to animals, this camera is a powerful tool for any professional setting. However, while the autofocus is strong, it may not quite match the precision found in Canon's or Sony's systems. For video enthusiasts, the Z9 delivers impressive 8K footage, with an option for longer recording times without overheating – an area where many competitors struggle.
This camera’s ergonomics are also top-tier, with a fully weather-sealed body, integrated vertical grip, and a substantial battery, making it ideal for long shoots and working in challenging environments. On the downside, the Z9’s screen isn’t fully articulating, which may be a limitation for those needing flexible angles for certain shots. But if you're after a compact alternative with similar capabilities, the Nikon Z8 might be worth considering, as it offers nearly identical specs in a smaller, more affordable package – which is why it is top of my list.
However, the Nikon Z9 is a powerhouse for professional photographers, particularly those working in fields like sports, wildlife, and high-end videography, delivering a combination of speed, quality, and ruggedness that is hard to beat at this level.
Read more: Nikon Z9 review
The best Nikon DSLR camera
Mirrorless camera fans will often complain about the size and weight of DSLRs, and they have a point. The Nikon D850 is a big bruiser of a camera compared to the Nikon Z models.
But this size works in your favor if you're shooting with big, heavy lenses, and most pro lenses are big and heavy! This is a handling factor that many mirrorless users don't take into account. Being a DSLR, the D850 has a bright, clear optical viewfinder that many photographers still prefer over a digital display, no matter how good the latter.
The D850's 45.7-megapixel sensor produces quite a superb image quality, yet it can still maintain a shooting speed of 7 frames per second or 9 frames per second with the optional battery grip.
Even without the grip, the D850 has an amazing battery life of 1840 shots – far more than any mirrorless rivals – and it comes with two memory card slots; one for an XQD/CFexpress card and one for regular SD/SDHC/SDXC.
Read more: Nikon D850 review
The best Nikon camera for vlogging
The Nikon Z30 is an impressive entry-level mirrorless camera specifically designed for vloggers and content creators. It features a 20.9MP APS-C sensor and offers uncropped 4K video recording, making it a versatile tool for both video and stills. One of the camera's standout features is its compact and lightweight body, weighing just 350g, which is perfect for those who need portability without sacrificing quality.
For vloggers, the Z30 excels thanks to its fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen, which allows for easy framing, especially in selfie mode. It also includes built-in stereo mics and a 3.5mm microphone port, ensuring you have options for improved audio quality. However, it lacks a headphone socket, which some creators might miss for audio monitoring during shoots.
While it's optimized for video, the Z30 still holds its own in photography, offering up to 11fps continuous shooting. However, it does lack an electronic viewfinder (EVF) and in-body image stabilization, which may be limiting for those looking to use it primarily for stills or in low-light conditions.
For creators looking for a budget-friendly option with solid video capabilities, the Nikon Z30 is a compelling choice. It provides high-quality video and audio features in a portable package, although it may not satisfy those seeking advanced still photography tools or stabilization options.
Read more: Nikon Z30 review
The best entry-level Nikon camera
The Nikon Z50 is a much smaller camera than Nikon's full-frame 'Z' models, but it clearly shares the same design DNA. Despite its small size, it has a good grip and good external controls, and the retracting 16-50mm kit lens is remarkable not just for its pancake lens dimensions but for its overall performance.
Nikon may have come to the APS-C mirrorless market comparatively late, but it's come in with a camera that has so many good points it's hard to know where to start – but we will highlight the 4K video, 11fps shooting... and the fact that its Z mount is identical to that on the larger cameras, so you can use dedicated Nikkor Z DX lenses, full frame Nikkor Z lenses, and regular Nikon DSLR lenses via the FTZ adapter.
Best of all, the Z50 is a terrific value, especially when bought as a twin-lens kit. This is a great value camera for both beginners and enthusiasts, though we would like to see a few more DX lenses coming out.
Read more: Nikon Z50 review
Comparisons and Lab Data
Here I take a look at the lab testing data from our reviews of all the Nikon cameras in the list – with the exception of the Nikon D850, which we reviewed prior to our current lab testing regime.
You can see a clear separation in resolution between the Nikon Z8 and Z9 with their more megapixel-packed full-frame sensors providing the best resolution, so if absolute clarity and sharpness are key to your work then these models might perform best.
Although, I say might, as these sensors with more megapixels in turn have smaller pixels, so these cameras are some of the lower performers on my list when it comes to dynamic range and noise. So if you shoot a lot in low light then this might be a consideration. Although, even though these cameras score lower, they are still very good performers! However, you might get a little less noise from a Nikon Z6 II or Nikon Zf.
How to choose the best Nikon camera
Choosing the best Nikon camera depends on what you plan to use it for. Consider factors like your skill level, budget, and specific photography needs. For beginners, entry-level models like the Nikon D3500 or Nikon Z50 offer a balance of quality and affordability. If you're a seasoned photographer or want more advanced features, models like the Nikon Z6 II or Nikon Z8 are professional options with impressive capabilities.
When picking a camera, think carefully about the type of photography you'll be doing. For portraits or landscapes, you might prioritize high resolution with a megapixel-packed sensor. Action shots might require a faster burst rate and speedy autofocus. For vlogging or video, look for cameras with reliable autofocus, subject tracking, body-based image stabilization for handheld shooting, and at least a 4K video quality.
Consider the lenses too. Nikon has an extensive range, so compatibility with the lenses you need is crucial. Be aware though that Nikon Z and F lenses are not interchangeable, but if you have Nikon F DSLR lenses already, you can still use them on a new Z mirrorless camera by buying a separate FTZ adapter, but the best thing to to make sure any camera you buy is compatible with the lenses you want.
Additionally, check out the reviews in our guide here to get a good understanding of our experiences using the camera, combined with data from our lab tests and its performance in real-world situations.
Is Canon or Nikon better?
The boring answer is neither camera brand is better than the other, and both produce exceptional cameras. The real deciding factor is your personal preference when it comes down to handling, with each brand having its own camera body style, button layout, and menu system.
Can I use Nikon F lenses on Nikon Z cameras?
Yes – with an adapter. Nikon makes an adapter, or there are a lot of quality third-party options, that will allow you to mount any Nikon F lens designed for DSLR cameras on its newer Nikon Z mirrorless cameras. Most regular adapters should allow full electronic control of the lens and not affect image quality in any way.
How we test Nikon cameras
In our tests, we put Nikon cameras through their paces in both real-world situations and controlled lab environments. We assess different Nikon cameras based on their intended purpose, for powerful cameras like the Nikon Z9, we expect to push the specs as far as they will go, while with entry-level cameras like the Nikon Z50, we temper our expectations more to their intended casual and enthusiast user.
We start with our detailed lab assessments to gauge resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. To measure resolution, we employ ISO resolution charts, while the DxO Analyzer test gear helps assess dynamic range and noise across the camera's ISO spectrum.
In addition to lab analyses, our reviewers take these cameras out into the field, capturing diverse subjects in varied conditions. Their firsthand experiences provide valuable insights into the camera's usability, handling, and their personal take on image and video quality.
We then combine these real-world trials with our lab findings to choose the best products for our guides.
Find out more about how we test and review on Digital Camera World.
