Review: Nikon Z6ii
Documenting your trips is one of the most important yet often overlooked parts of moto travel. Stopping to snap the occasional photo is the best way to look back on special moments later—and returning home with a stack of spectacular photos is the best way to share these experiences.
Because I’m a photographer, I often find myself lugging around a full-frame DSLR. But my Nikon D850 with its lens weighs a whopping five pounds and takes up nearly all of my tankbag. When Sony released its first mirrorless camera a decade ago, I was excited about a full-frame camera at a fraction of the weight and size. However, the Sony left a lot to be desired. Nikon joined the mirrorless revolution with the Z6—a powerful, relatively compact full-frame camera that gives DSLRs a run for their money. The Z6ii, released in fall 2020, is the latest and, dare I say, greatest version of this platform and finally forced me to “press the shutter” on mirrorless again.
Power Packed
The Nikon Z6ii is a 24-megapixel camera with incredible low light capabilities. Enhanced autofocus modes make it easy to capture and track subjects as they move across the frame. Dual Expeed 6 image processors mean overall faster and better performance. Continuous high-speed shooting is an option, thanks to Z6ii’s 14fps at full resolution and large buffer.
The powerful five-axis VR image stabilization keeps your pictures sharp even without a tripod. Dual memory card slots back up your photos for peace of mind. Want to shoot video on your trips? The Z6ii is a great option for that, too, and can film 4K Ultra HD at 60 fps. With its low-light performance, you’ll never miss a sunset or blue hour shot.
Roadworthiness
I can capture fly-by riding shots on the Z6ii that match the quality of a high-performance DSLR. I would even say it’s easier on the Z6ii thanks to the vertically tilting and responsive live view screen. I don’t even have to take off my helmet. Photo stops just got that much quicker.
The Z6ii weighs less than half what my trusty DSLR does and takes up half the space. It fits perfectly in my luggage and still leaves room for other items. Although it’s not as small as point-and-shoot cameras, it’s worth the extra space. These photos are print and frame quality. In fact, I shoot many of the photos you see in RoadRUNNER with this camera.
The photographers reading this might ask why I didn’t go for the Z7ii instead. The Z6ii offers more performance for two thirds of the cost. You can sling this camera over the rear of a motorcycle for any number of paved or off-road trips. I’ve thrown it in a tankbag, bounced it around in a backpack, and used it in varying weather conditions. It’s even been on board for several crashes over the years and it’s always emerged unscathed. Nikon Z6ii really is the best travel camera you could choose.