Could the Nikon Z8 Be the Hybrid Camera of Your Dreams?
After a turbulent start in the mirrorless market, Nikon introduced the Z9 in October 2021. The rugged body and amazing features quickly became a hit with the professionals, putting Nikon back on the mirrorless market map.
When Nikon announced the possibility of the new Z8, many Nikon users were anticipating a camera between the hefty Z9 and the smaller Z7ii. The first look promises the same.
So, can it be the Nikon mirrorless camera you’ve been waiting for? Let’s find out.
Nikon Releases the Z8
Nikon launched its newest mirrorless camera, the Z8, on 21 July 2025. Dubbed the baby Z9, the Nikon Z8 comes with the most impressive features of the Z9, but in a smaller body, making it suitable for intermediate and advanced users too.
The much-anticipated Z8 is a 45-megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera. It features a stacked CMOS sensor with an EXPEED 7 image processor, the same sensor as the Z9. It can shoot photos in 14-bit RAW and a new HLG RAW format. The Z8 is also one of the few cameras that can shoot videos in 8K.
Although the consensus is to compare it with the Z9, Nikon’s latest mirrorless offering is a worthy successor to its widely popular DSLR cousin, the D850.
Nikon Z8: The Specs
Let’s look at some of the Z8’s features in detail.
45.7 MP Stacked CMOS
Sensor Size
35.9 x 23.9 mm
Low-Pass Filter
Image Size
8256 x 5504
Image Processor
In-built Image Stabilization
Yes, 6 Stops
Viewfinder
Viewfinder Resolution
3.68 million dots
1 UHS II SD, 1 CFexpress
Continuous Shooting Speed
20 fps RAW, 30 fps JPEG
Video Resolution
8K 60p, 4K 120p
Battery Life
ISO Sensitivity
64 – 25600
Focus Points
Max. Shutter Speed
Flash Sync Speed
Dimensions
144 mm x 118.5 mm x 83 mm
Functional and Comfortable Size
At 910 grams, the Z8 is not the lightest mirrorless on the market, but it is 30% smaller than the Z9 and 15% smaller than the D850. So the Nikon Z8 will serve you well if you’re a DSLR user trying to upgrade to a pro mirrorless without all the weight of the Z9. Here are somethings to consider when switching to a mirrorless from DSLR.
Also, the Z8 can be perfect for users who like the ergonomics of a DSLR.
8K Video Quality
What makes the Z8 stand out is its 8K video shooting capability. It can take 8K videos at 60 frames per second in 12-bit RAW format, giving you all the flexibility while editing videos. If you’re shooting 4K, you can go up to 120 frames per second.
Thanks to the fast CFexpress card slot, the Z8 can handle your 8K videos without an issue. The lighter weight also means that shooting videos handheld or with a gimbal is breezy.
Improved Autofocus
Nikon had a lot of autofocus issues with its initial mirrorless cameras. However, the Z8 features the best and latest Nikon autofocus system ever.
Leveraging the power of AI and combining traditional 3D-tracking with subject detection, the new system on the Z8 can be a game changer fortaking stunning wildlife photos. Nikon claims it works in the dark and tracks the most erratic subjects.
Super Fast Shooting
you’re able to shoot up to 20 frames per second in RAW, 30 frames per second in JPEG, 60 frames in DX or crop mode, and a whopping 120 frames for low-resolution 11 MP files.
The Z8 sports an electronic shutter, so you can shoot silently without disturbing your wildlife subjects. In addition, the built-inimage stabilizationcan give you six stops of extra light, letting you shoot at a low shutter speed without introducing blur into your photos.
With its maximum shutter speed at 1/32000th of a second, you really cannot miss a moment with the Z8 in your hands.
Other Notable Features
The Z8 has an intuitive user interface. The illuminated buttons, particularly, are a nice touch. The weather-sealed body is made of carbon steel and magnesium alloy.
The real-live viewfinder promises zero blackouts and a seamless shooting experience. Also, the tilting LCD is convenient for capturing pictures and videos at low or awkward angles. The Z8 also has the option of pre-release capture, where it takes pictures moments before and after you click the shutter.
How Is the Z8 Different From the Z9?
The heavier Nikon Z9 has better weather sealing compared to the Z8. The Z9 is meant for professionals who do a high volume of work, so it has two CFexpress slots, unlike the one CFexpress card slot in Z8. The notable difference, of course, is the price. The Z8 is significantly cheaper than the Z9, which retails for $5,500.
The Z9 also has a larger battery and an in-built battery pack, so it can take more pictures per charge than the Z8.
Is the Nikon Z8 Right for You?
If you are excited by the Z9’s specifications, but put off by its weight, consider the Z8. It can be a great hybrid camera to take both photos and videos. Are you a DSLR user planning to upgrade to a mirrorless camera? Then, the Z8 can fit your needs. Nikon also has an excellent line-up of Z lenses for every type of photography.
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