The Nikon Z6 Mark III is making waves with its new features and performance improvements. If you're interested in a versatile camera that excels in both stills and video, this review is worth a look.
Coming to you from Christopher Frost, this detailed video explores the Nikon Z6 Mark III. The new partially stacked 24 MP full frame image sensor allows the sensor to work faster without significantly increasing costs. The speed boost benefits various aspects of the camera, such as better video quality, higher burst rates, reduced lag for wildlife or sports photography, and improved electronic shutter picture quality. While not as fast as the Nikon Z8 or Z9, the Z6 Mark III's sensor speed is a notable improvement.
Frost discusses the camera's video capabilities, highlighting its ability to record 6K raw footage at 60 frames per second, a feature matched only by the Panasonic GH7 in this price range. The camera also supports 4K recording at up to 120 frames per second and 1080p footage at 240 frames per second. These specifications make it a strong contender for video work. Additionally, the Z6 Mark III offers a burst rate of 14 frames per second with the mechanical shutter and 20 frames per second with the electronic shutter. The electronic shutter also supports 60 frames per second for JPEGs and up to 120 frames per second in DX crop mode, with autofocus and 14-bit raw image quality.
Build quality is another area where the Z6 Mark III shines. The camera's design will feel familiar to Nikon users, with many customizable buttons and a professional layout, including an autofocus joystick. It is weather-sealed and weighs 760 grams, making it lighter than the Nikon Z8 but slightly larger than previous Z6 and Z7 models. The electronic viewfinder is particularly impressive, offering high resolution, good dynamic range, and up to 4,000 nits of brightness. Input and output ports are well suited for video work, including 3.5mm microphone and headphone jacks, a USB-C port, and a full-sized HDMI port. The camera features dual memory card slots, supporting CFexpress/XQD and SD cards, balancing speed and affordability.
Frost praises the autofocus system, which benefits from Nikon's 3D tracking technology, a first for the Z6 series. The autofocus is fast, accurate, and performs well in low light. The in-body image stabilization offers up to eight stops of correction, enhancing both stills and video. However, Frost notes that the flip-out screen mechanism could be more user-friendly.
Image quality is another strong point for the Z6 Mark III. Raw images are detailed, and JPEGs are sharp with natural colors. High-ISO performance is comparable to competing cameras, with noise becoming noticeable at higher levels but still producing usable images. The camera's faster sensor speed impacts dynamic range, with shadow areas in raw files appearing rough when pulled up, a drawback noted by Frost. Despite this, the camera's overall image quality remains high.
Video quality is impressive across various resolutions and frame rates. 6K footage is detailed, with minimal artifacts and good performance up to ISO 1,600. The camera handles 4K and 1080p footage well, even at high frame rates. Rolling shutter is minimal, and image stabilization performs admirably. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Frost.
