Nikon Z6 II, Z7 II 200DL Underwater Housing Compatibility Update

Lifelong Nikon shooters got the cameras that they had been hoping for with the 2018 introduction of Nikon Z6 and Z7 full frame mirrorless cameras. Nikon built upon the existing framework and released the Mark II versions of both camera bodies in 2020 with improvements to autofocus, video capture, and faster continuous shooting.

Slight changes in the camera body compared to the Mark I cameras require an update to the 200DL Underwater Housing for the Nikon Z6 and Z7 cameras # 71063. The changes do not affect the ergonomics or function of the camera.

Both new cameras feature the new Nikon Z lens mount but are usable with legacy F-mount lenses using Nikon's FTZ adapter. Nikon's high resolution 3.69M-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) is excellent for both composing and reviewing images but draws a little more battery life than the 3.2" tilting LCD screen.

Z7 II Camera Specifications

46 megapixels
Full-sensor UHD 4K video at up to 60p with a slight crop
Expanded ISO range of 32-102400
705 g (1.55 lb)
420 shots per charge (CIPA when using LCD)
UHS-II SD and twin CFe/SD card slots

Z6 II Camera Specifications

24 megapixels
Full-sensor UHD 4K video at up to 40p
Expanded ISO range of 50-204800
705 g (1.55 lb)
410 shots per charge (CIPA when using LCD)
UHS-II SD and CFe/SD card slots

200DL Underwater Housing for Nikon Z6, Z6 II, Z7

Changes in the physical design of the Z6 II and Z7 II camera body require the use of a different camera mount to properly align the camera's lens and controls in the underwater housing originally designed for Z6 and Z7 (Mark I) camera bodies.

Housings produced after January 1, 2021 (above serial # 74000) will include two mounts: one for Z6 and Z7 bodies and Camera Mount # 95416 for Z6 II and Z7 II camera bodies. The length of the Photo/Movie Selector control also requires a minor adjustment when switching between Mark I and Mark II camera bodies.

Nikon Z6 II Camera Mount for Ikelite Underwater Housing

The tripod mount location is slightly different on the newer Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II camera bodies requiring a different camera mount for use in the 200DL Underwater Housing # 71063 originally engineered for Nikon Z6 an Z7 cameras.

The 200DL Underwater Housing is designed to use the full capabilities of these cameras up to depths of 200 feet (60 meters). A perfectly clear back provides a view of the camera and o-ring seal. The back is removable, not hinged, for extra durability and easier camera access. It attaches quickly and easily with three heavy duty stainless steel locking latches. All important camera controls are accessed via fully serviceable controls with premium soft touch control knobs.

The housing features an integrated vacuum valve, spare M16 accessory port, and water corrected Super-Eye Viewfinder. Optional Straight or 45º Magnifying Viewfinders may be installed in place of the standard viewfinder quickly and easily.

The optional DL1 DS Link TTL Converter provides TTL strobe exposure when used with compatible Ikelite DS strobes. Electrical TTL exposure is essential to take full advantage of the camera's continuous shooting capabilities in fast paced shooting environments, particularly when shooting big animals underwater.

Ikelite housings are manufactured in the USA and come with an unparalleled access to support, photo advice, and service.

Underwater Housing Features

200 ft (60m) depth rating
Extendable trigger-style shutter release lever
Extendable AF-ON button thumb lever for back button focus
Interchangeable Dry Lock port system including flat ports, compact and full-size 8" dome ports
Corrosion-proof ABS-PC construction
Clear view back with laser engraved control markings
Ergonomic direct-drive controls with soft-touch control knobs
Manual flash bulkhead and hotshoe with option to add TrueTTL strobe exposure via the DL1 DS Link TTL Converter
Wi-fi transfer is possible through the housing above the surface of the water
Built in vacuum valve
Made in the USA

Ikelite Underwater Housing for Nikon Z6 II Nikon Z7

The control knob for the Photo/Movie Selector switch may also require slight adjustment for optimum performance with the newer Z6 II and Z7 II cameras. The Photo/Movie Selector control is the angled knob immediately to the right of the housing's Super-eye Viewfinder. All other controls are positioned correction when the Z6 II or Z7 II camera is installed using the newer Camera Mount # 95416.

Updating an Older 200DL Underwater Housing # 71063

Housings produced before January 1, 2021 (serial numbers below 74000) require the addition of Camera Mount # 95416 to function properly with the newer Nikon Z6 II or Z7 II camera. It is also necessary to adjust the length of the Photo/Movie Selector control by adding a spacer washer underneath the control knob.

The newer camera mount and spacer washer are available for purchase together with installation instructions as Update Kit for Nikon Z6 II, Z7 II # 9295.09.

Conclusion

The Nikon Z6 II and Z7 II cameras are highly convincing reasons to upgrade from an older DSLR camera, especially if you're already heavily invested in Nikon glass. Both cameras are the most affordable in their class and boast specifications that stand up to nearly any test of performance underwater.

Users who are already shooting Nikon Z6 or Z7 Mark I camera bodies underwater can breathe a huge sigh of relief that their housing can be updated to fit the newer camera bodies with minimal effort. This makes either new model a great choice when you decide to pick up a spare camera body or trade up for the improved autofocus performance.