Nikon Z6 III Mirrorless Camera Officially Announced

Posted on by

Nikon has officially announced the Nikon Z6 III, the latest addition to its full-frame mirrorless camera lineup. This new model represents a significant leap forward from its predecessor, the Z6 II, integrating advanced technologies from Nikon’s flagship models into a more compact and versatile design.

Nikon Z6 III Pre-order links:

Nikon Z6 III body at B&H, Adorama.

Nikon Z6 III with 24-70mm f/4 S Lens at B&H, Adorama.

Key Features:

  • 24.5MP Partially-Stacked CMOS Sensor
  • EXPEED 7 Image Processor
  • 6K 60p N-RAW, 6K 30p ProRes RAW
  • 4K 120p, Full HD 240p Slow Motion Video
  • Up to 20 fps Raw, 60 fps JPEG Shooting
  • Blackout-Free, 5760k-Dot EVF
  • 493-Point AF, AI-Based Subject Detection
  • 3.2″ 4-Axis Tilting Touchscreen LCD
  • CFx Type B & SD Memory Card Slots
  • Camera-to-Cloud Direct Connectivity

At the heart of the Nikon Z6 III is a newly developed 24.5-megapixel partially stacked CMOS sensor. This innovation, combined with the EXPEED 7 image-processing engine used in the Z9 and Z8, significantly enhances the camera’s performance. The partially stacked sensor design, which places the circuit components both above and below the pixel area, offers substantial speed improvements, allowing for faster autofocus, reduced shutter lag, and smoother continuous shooting. Nikon claims this sensor delivers 3.5 times the speed at the sensor level compared to the Z6 II, making it one of the fastest in its class.

One of the standout features of the Z6 III is its autofocus system, which benefits immensely from the new sensor and processing power. The camera boasts low-light autofocus capabilities down to -10 EV and employs deep learning-based subject detection, akin to the systems found in the Z9 and Z8. The autofocus is approximately 20% faster than in the Z6 II and can recognize nine different subject types, offering enhanced 3D Tracking and Wide Area focus modes.

For photographers who specialize in action shots, the Z6 III offers impressive continuous shooting capabilities. It can shoot at up to 14 frames per second (fps) with the mechanical shutter and up to 20 fps with the electronic shutter. Additionally, the camera includes a Pre-release Capture feature, allowing it to record images for up to one second before and three seconds after the shutter is pressed, increasing the likelihood of capturing decisive moments. The maximum electronic shutter speed of 1/16,000 second is perfect for freezing fast motion or using wide apertures in bright conditions.

In terms of image quality, the Z6 III pushes boundaries with a native ISO range of 100-64,000, making it highly effective in low-light conditions. The camera also features an 8-stop-effective sensor-shift Vibration Reduction (VR) system and Nikon’s new Focus Point VR mode, which optimizes stabilization based on the selected focus point. The Z6 III includes several Portrait Modes from the Zf, such as Rich Tone Portrait, Flat Monochrome, and Rich Tone Monochrome, as well as a Pixel Shift Shooting mode that produces ultra-high-resolution 96MP images for static subjects.

Videographers will find the Nikon Z6 III equally compelling. It supports 6K60p internal recording in N-RAW format, 6K30p in ProRes RAW, and 5.4K30p in ProRes 4:2:2 and H.265. The camera also excels in slow-motion recording, capable of capturing up to 240 fps in full HD and 120 fps in 4K with a DX crop. The inclusion of a side-opening vari-angle 3.2″ LCD and an upgraded 5.76m-dot EVF with 4000 nit peak brightness ensures that videographers have a versatile and high-quality viewing experience.

Connectivity and usability are also enhanced in the Z6 III. The camera includes Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for wireless communication, USB-C for tethering and in-camera battery charging, and a full-size HDMI port for external monitors. It features dual memory card slots, one for CFexpress Type-B and another for UHS-II SD cards, providing flexibility and reliability for storage. Moreover, the Z6 III is compatible with Nikon’s new Imaging Cloud, enabling seamless image transfer and sharing.

In summary, the Nikon Z6 III is a powerful and versatile camera that blends high-end features with user-friendly design, making it suitable for both amateur photographers and professional videographers. Its advanced sensor, improved autofocus, superior video capabilities, and robust connectivity options position it as a leading choice in the full-frame mirrorless market.