The flagship killer. It takes everything great about the massive Z9 and shrinks it into a
bag-friendly body.
Pro Hybrid · $3,996
đź‘‘ The Pro Choice
The Verdict
The Nikon Z8 is essentially a "baby Z9." It has no mechanical shutter because it doesn't need one—the
sensor readout is instantly fast.
For pros who switch between high-res wedding portraits and 8K video, this is the ultimate hybrid. It’s
bigger than a Sony A7 IV but feels incredibly balanced with pro lenses.
Pre-Release Capture ensures you never miss a moment
The Downsides
Battery life is just average (smaller EN-EL15c)
Can get warm during extended 8K recording
Still heavy compared to Sony/Canon mirrorless
Detailed Performance
Autofocus
Nikon has caught up. The 3D Tracking is sticky and reliable for fast sports and wildlife. It recognizes
people, dogs, cats, birds, planes, trains, and automobiles instantly.
Video Powerhouse
This is one of the few cameras that shoots 8K 60p N-RAW internally. The footage is malleable and stunning.
For most users, the 4K 120p is the sweet spot for buttery smooth slow motion.
Ergonomics
This is a camera for working pros. The grip fits your whole hand, the buttons are backlit for night work,
and the screen tilts 4 ways (including vertical tilt) which portrait shooters love.
Affiliate Disclosure
We buy our own gear or rent it. No manufacturers paid for this review. We earn a commission if you use our
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Frequently Asked Questions
If you shoot professional sports, wildlife, or events—yes. The Z8 has 45MP (vs 24MP), faster burst speeds, 8K video, and dual CFexpress slots. The Z6 III is excellent for most users, but the Z8's resolution and speed justify the price for demanding work.
They're extremely close. The Z8 is $1500 cheaper, has better ergonomics, and superior battery life. The A1 has a slight edge in autofocus refinement and lens selection. Both are class-leading hybrid cameras—choose based on lens ecosystem. If you're already in Nikon glass, the Z8 is a no-brainer.
Start with the 24-120mm f/4 S for versatility, or the 24-70mm f/2.8 S if you need f/2.8. For sports/wildlife, the 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is phenomenal. The 50mm f/1.8 S is cheap and tack-sharp. Avoid adapted F-mount lenses—native Z glass unlocks the camera's full potential.
Nikon engineered excellent heat dissipation. With the latest firmware, you can record 8K for 90+ minutes continuously. In 4K60, overheating is essentially a non-issue. The fanless design stays silent, making it perfect for interviews and quiet environments.
The Z8 is arguably the best mirrorless camera for wildlife. The 20fps RAW burst, pre-release capture, and subject detection (birds, animals) are incredible. Pair it with the 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR or the 400mm f/4.5 S for reach. File management is critical—invest in dual 256GB CFexpress cards minimum.
