What’s Changed? The Nikon Z8 is an update to the Nikon Z7 II that serves as a hybrid between the Z7 and Z9. The Z8 includes the same sensor, processor, and autofocus system as the Z9 in a sleek and portable housing making it more versatile for any application.

Stacked BSI CMOS. Manufacturers like to use acronyms that sound fancy, but BSI CMOS just means the sensor is backside illuminated, which promotes better noise levels at higher ISO settings, and the stacked design reduces rolling shutter. At a whopping 45.7MP, the full-frame sensor is perfect for photographers in any field and enables 8K recording.

Picture Quality. Just like the Z9, the Z8 can record 8K video at 60 frames, as well as 4K up to 120p and Full HD recording options too. N-RAW, a Nikon exclusive raw recording format that produces small file sizes and offers efficient previewing and transferring, is available for 8K60 video and 4K video formats. ProRes RAW is available for 4K video up to 60p. 493-point phase-detection autofocus provides fast, accurate focusing even in low-light conditions, great for astrophotography. 3D tracking autofocus locks onto fast moving subjects to maintain clarity in high-speed environments.

EXPEED 7. Now ten times faster than the Z7 II, the EXPEED 7 processor enables fast autofocusing, burst shooting, and more fluid video performance. Pre-Release Capture activates when half-pressing the shutter to ensure pivotal moments are captured even if you were late to the draw by recording in a burst for a full second before you press the shutter. The electronic shutter enables quicker shutter speeds with minimal distortion when recording fast-moving subjects. It’s also completely silent (optional shutter sounds are available with volume adjustments), and fewer moving parts means there’s less chance of wear and tear hindering its performance.

Versatile Build. The Z8, even with many of the features from the Z9, is 30% smaller than the Z9. More modular, the optional battery grip (not included) serves the same function as the vertical grip built-in on the Z9, but by not including it, the Z8 is much more portable and ideal for using with gimbals- it weighs just 2 lbs. The Z8 is compatible with all EN-EL15 batteries, but the included EN-EL15c offers up to 370 shots per charge. There a XQD/CFexpress Type B memory-card slot for superior speed, capability, and reliability, and a UHS-II SD/SDHC/SDXC slot as well. The Z8 also includes a tilting LCD, a full-size HDMI port, two USB-C ports, headphone and microphone ports, and Bluetooth enables wireless file transfer and remote control.