Nikon Z9 Review: Professional Flagship Mirrorless Excellence

Professional Flagship Without Compromises

The Nikon Z9 represents a watershed moment in professional photography – the first flagship mirrorless camera from Nikon that completely replaces its DSLR predecessor, the D6. This isn't just an incremental upgrade; it's a revolutionary step forward that proves mirrorless technology has truly come of age for professional use.

More Pixels for Professionals

Previous Nikon flagship models featured relatively modest resolutions – the D6 captures 20-megapixel images. The Z9, however, boasts a 45.7-megapixel sensor, matching the resolution of the Z7 II but with an entirely new sensor design and the powerful Expeed 7 processor. This combination delivers significantly better low-light performance than its predecessors.

In laboratory testing, the Z9 produces noticeably sharper images at high ISO settings compared to the Z7 or Z7 II. When compared to the D6, the Z9's images are outstanding – in good light, they're far more detailed, and in challenging conditions, the Z9 holds its own admirably. Only at extremely high ISO settings (beyond ISO 12,800) do the D6's images occasionally appear slightly cleaner. When shooting in RAW and processing with Nikon's free NX Studio or Adobe Photoshop, even this minimal difference largely disappears.

Groundbreaking Autofocus System

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One historical weakness of mirrorless cameras has been autofocus tracking, particularly for fast-moving subjects. The Z9 changes this narrative completely. It's the first mirrorless camera to match – and arguably exceed – the legendary tracking performance of the D6 and Canon's EOS-1D X Mark III.

The new Expeed 7 processor enables incredibly fast and accurate subject detection. Once the autofocus locks onto a subject, the Z9 maintains focus even when the subject is temporarily obscured. The automatic subject detection recognizes people, animals, and vehicles without requiring manual switching between modes – a significant workflow advantage over many competitors.

For professionals who prefer manual control, the Z9 offers extensive customization options with 10 different AF-C tracking methods and 20 focus area patterns (with firmware 2.0).

Blazing Burst Performance

The Z9 employs a stacked sensor design with integrated memory, enabling exceptionally fast readout speeds. This technology allows Nikon to eliminate the mechanical shutter entirely – a first for professional cameras and a relief for sports photographers who previously dealt with shutter mechanism wear.

Burst shooting capabilities:

• Up to 30 frames per second (JPEG, full resolution)
• Up to 20 frames per second (RAW or RAW+JPEG)
• Up to 120 frames per second (11MP reduced resolution)

In testing with fast CFexpress cards like the Angelbird AV Pro CFexpress SX, the camera captured approximately 140 RAW+JPEG images before the buffer filled. Impressively, the Z9 maintains full autofocus tracking and exposure adjustment even at maximum burst rates.

Revolutionary Electronic Viewfinder

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The Z9's viewfinder is a genuine highlight despite seemingly modest specifications on paper: 3.69 million dots at 60fps (upgradable to 120fps with firmware 2.0). Competitors like the Canon EOS R3 and Sony Alpha 1 offer higher resolutions and refresh rates, but often with compromises.

What sets the Z9 apart is its implementation. The viewfinder runs at full resolution constantly with virtually zero lag, thanks to a split data stream architecture where the processor simultaneously feeds the viewfinder and writes to memory cards. This means the viewfinder never has to wait for data writing to complete.

Another standout feature: exceptional brightness up to 3,000 nits, ensuring a clear, vibrant image even in bright sunlight – something many competing cameras struggle with.

Continuous Enhancement Through Firmware

Nikon has committed to expanding the Z9's capabilities through regular firmware updates:

Firmware 2.0 additions:

• 8K video at 60fps
• Additional AF-C tracking modes
• 20 customizable focus area patterns

Firmware 3.0 additions:

• APS-C/DX format burst shooting at 60fps (20MP)

Firmware 4.0 additions:

• Automatic capture function using AF and subject detection
• Five different shutter sound options
• Release delay mode for tripod work

The automatic capture function is particularly innovative, allowing the camera to trigger automatically based on subject distance, direction, or speed – perfect for remote wildlife photography or dangerous situations where photographer presence isn't feasible.

Built Like a Tank

The Z9's magnesium alloy body is extensively weather-sealed against dust and moisture. Despite being a substantial camera, it's noticeably smaller than the D6 while maintaining excellent ergonomics with well-designed grips for both horizontal and vertical shooting.

Notable design features:

• Sensor shield that automatically covers the sensor when powered off
• Four-way tilting display that works in both orientations
• Integrated vertical grip with optimal weight distribution

Professional Video Capabilities

The Z9 represents Nikon's most capable video camera to date, building on the strong foundation of the Z6 series:

Video specifications:

• 8K recording at 60fps (8K60p)
• 4K recording at 120fps with audio (4K120p)
• 125-minute maximum recording time (no 30-minute limit)
• Professional formats: N-RAW, ProRes RAW HQ
• 10-bit internal recording
• Full subject tracking with eye detection during video

In testing, the camera maintained cool operation even during extended 8K recording sessions, with only a temperature warning for the memory card after approximately 90 minutes of continuous recording.

Exceptional Battery Life

The new EN-EL18d battery is currently the most powerful mirrorless camera battery, storing 33 watt-hours. It charges via USB-C (requires 27W+ adapter for fastest charging) or the included charger.

Battery performance:

• 210+ minutes of 4K video recording
• 5,000+ images in continuous shooting mode
• 1,500-2,000 images in normal shooting with extensive review

The camera also accepts older EN-EL18 series batteries with minor limitations.

Built-in GPS and Wireless Control

Standard Nikon connectivity features include:

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• Snapbridge app for iOS and Android
• Automatic thumbnail transfer via Bluetooth
• Full-resolution transfer via Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth remote trigger (instant, no LiveView delay)
• Built-in GPS for automatic geotagging

Technical Excellence Confirmed

Laboratory testing confirms the Z9's exceptional performance across all metrics:

Image Quality:

• Very high detail retention (3072/2854 line pairs)
• Very low noise (VN 1.33 at base ISO)
• Very high dynamic range (9.18 stops)
• Low color deviation (DeltaE 9.2)

Low Light Performance (ISO 6400):

• Excellent detail retention (2062/1654 line pairs)
• Well-controlled noise (VN 3.53)
• Good dynamic range (6.38 stops)

Verdict: The Professional's Choice

The Nikon Z9 (test score: 1.4 - very good) is a substantial camera that delivers substantial results. This professional flagship excels in every category: image quality for both photos and videos, autofocus speed and accuracy, and burst shooting performance.

The delay-free, brilliantly bright viewfinder is exceptional. The robust weather-sealed body offers excellent ergonomics and houses an incredibly long-lasting battery. The Z9 decisively surpasses previous professional DSLR models, particularly with its lightning-fast and accurate subject detection autofocus system.

For professional photographers who demand the absolute best, particularly in sports, wildlife, and photojournalism, the Nikon Z9 sets a new standard. While expensive and substantial in size and weight, it delivers the uncompromising performance that justifies its flagship status.