The competition continues to tighten in the affordable end of the full frame mirrorless camera category. Digital Photography Review has just ranked the new Nikon Z6 III full-frame mirrorless camera slightly above the very popular Canon R6 II and Sony a7 IV camera models with a Gold Award 91% score.
Review Summary
The Nikon Z6 III features a "partially stacked" sensor and a number of features that appeal to both the photographer and videographer. Some of the key features where the Z6 III stands out among the competition are:
- Rolling shutter rate of ~14.6ms (14-bit)
- Video resolution options 6K (Raw) / 5.4K / UHD 4K
- Uncompressed N-Raw and ProRes Raw video formats
- Super high resolution 5.76M dot OLED (0.8x) viewfinder
- 3.2" fully-articulated 2.1M dot rear LCD screen
- Up to 8.0EV in-body image stabilization
Overall the reviewer feels the Z6 III excels in image quality, autofocus tracking with subject recognition, and best-in-class video capabilities. Faults include a lower peak dynamic range, a strange pulsing effect in deep shadows in video mode, and lack of third-party lens options.
Performance Underwater
Of course we're most interested in how the camera does underwater and the truth is, you won't be disappointed. Nirupam Nigam of Bluewater Photo was one of the first people to take the camera underwater in the new 200DL Underwater Housing # 71071 and he concluded that it represents the best camera for underwater photography and videography in the $2500 price range.
The Nikon Z6 III represents a significant step forward in mirrorless camera technology - particularly for video shooters. In many ways, the Nikon Z6III is one of the world's leading cameras for underwater video and represents the best value for money option on the market. - Nirupam Nigam, Bluewater Photo
Nikon Z6 III • 1/160 • f/16 • ISO 100 • NIKKOR 105mm f/2.8 © Nirupam Nigam
The underwater housing provides full control of the camera up to a depth of 200 feet (60 meters). It's fully expandable with optional TTL strobe exposure and optional USB-C Bulkhead for charging & data transfer without removing the camera body from the housing.
SEE MORE: First Results Nikon Z6 III Underwater in California [VIDEO]
SEE MORE: Nikon Z6 III Setting It Up // Ikelite 200DL Underwater Housing Assembly [VIDEO]
Who's It For?
We've been impressed with the Z6-series since we shot the original Z6 (Mark I) in Crystal River, Florida. And Glenn Ostle has never looked back since he traded in his Nikon DSLR for the Z6. Nikon has been slower in the mirrorless game compared to Sony and Canon, but this latest camera shows that they're in it to win it.
We see the Z6 III as a great option for anyone still shooting an old Nikon D500, D600, D750, D7100, or D7200 DSLR camera. When you're ready to take the plunge, check out our trade up program.
The Nikon Z6 III retails at $2500 here in the USA.
Additional Reading
FIRST RESULTS Nikon Z6 III Underwater in California [VIDEO]
Nikon Custom Settings for Underwater Photography // Ikelite 200DL Housing [VIDEO]
Nikon Z6 III Setting it Up // Ikelite 200DL Underwater Housing Assembly [VIDEO]
Nikon Custom White Balance for Underwater Photos and Video [VIDEO]
Nikon Z6 II or Canon R6 Housing? Back in the Water in Catalina [VIDEO]
