Nikon Z6 III Packs Pro Features into an Affordable Camera

Nikon has introduced the Z6 III, a camera offering many of the advanced features found in the Z8 and Z9, but at a more accessible price.

One of the standout features of the Z6 III is its new 25.4MP sensor, the first of its kind in a mirrorless camera. This partially stacked sensor strikes a balance between the benefits of a fully stacked sensor and a backlit sensor. While its readout speed isn't as fast as a fully stacked sensor, it significantly outperforms backlit models. This effectively eliminates rolling shutter effects without needing a global shutter. According to Nikon, the sensor's readout speed is 2.5 times faster than the Z6 II.

The sensor also supports phase-detection autofocus, with Nikon claiming the autofocus speed matches that of the Z8 and Z9. The native ISO range is 100 to 64000, expandable to 50-204800.

The Z6 III's electronic viewfinder (EVF) boasts a resolution of 5760K, a DCI-P3 color gamut, and a peak brightness of 4000 nits. Nikon states that the optical system delivering the EVF image ensures sharpness from edge to edge.

Autofocus capabilities include deep learning technology, enabling the camera to recognize people, faces, birds, dogs, vehicles, boats, and planes. Eye focus has been refined to maintain accuracy even when the subject is small in the frame. The camera also features 3D subject tracking, a first for the Z6 line.

The Z6 III is powered by the same EXPEED 7 processor found in the Z9 and Z8, with stabilization is to be around 8 stops. Nikon introduces "Focus Point VR," a stabilization system that pivots around the focus point, providing an additional half to full stop of stabilization over traditional methods.

The Z6 III highlights Nikon's acquisition of RED, offering 4K and 6K internal raw recording in NRAW and ProRes RAW formats. This is significant as it provides internal raw recording without needing an external recorder and supports NRAW.

The camera also records 10-bit ProRes HQ, H.265, and H.264 formats. For slow-motion enthusiasts, 120fps is available in non-raw modes in 4K, with 240fps available in 1080p. In still photography, the camera captures 120fps burst rates in JPEG mode with full continuous autofocus at 10MP resolution in DX mode, and 60fps in FX mode using the electronic shutter.

The Z6 III includes a mechanical shutter, achieving 14fps high-speed stills shooting in raw. The camera features a pre-release capture system, recording images about a second before the shutter button is pressed, which is useful for sports and wildlife photography. The camera body weighs 750g and maintains the same quality weather sealing as higher-end models. Nikon claims the Z6 III performs well in temperatures as low as -10 Celsius.

For storage, the Z6 III uses a single CFexpress slot and a single SD card slot. It can synchronize time with other cameras and includes a line-level audio input jack.

Overall, the Nikon Z6 III offers a compelling blend of advanced features and affordability, making it an attractive option for both photographers and videographers looking to upgrade their gear.