The Best Nikon Mirrorless Camera of 2025: Our 13 Top Picks

Did you know that mirrorless cameras are expected to bury DSLRs the same way digital cameras did to film?

That’s not just my opinion. The sales of these new cameras speak for themselves. Plus, every year, DSLRs are starting to feel like vintage cameras that we use for nostalgia, not for performance.

Anyway, in this article, I will talk about one of the big camera companies: Nikon. I will compare the best Nikon mirrorless cameras in 2025 so that you can choose the right camera based on your needs and budget. Whether you are a beginner looking to start your journey as a photographer (or videographer) or a pro considering an upgrade, this guide will help you do that.

So, to all Nikon fans. Let’s get started!

Best Nikon Mirrorless Cameras: Our Top Picks

The ratings next to each camera are based on extensive research and comparison with the help of sites like Versus and Camera Decision.

However, while they help order these cameras, they don’t reflect everything.

The “best camera” will primarily depend on your budget, the style of photography (or videography) you will need it for, and, of course, your skills to get the most out of it.

So please remember that these numbers are for illustration purposes only.

The prices are for the body only.

• Nikon Z6 III (94 points) [$2197] – 2024
• Nikon Z8 (92 points) [$3397] – 2023
• Nikon Z7 II (83 points) [$1,996] – 2020
• Nikon Z9 (82 points) [$4997] – 2021
• Nikon Z6 II (81 points) [$1497] – 2020
• Nikon Zf (80 points) [$1797] – 2023
• Nikon Z7 (77 points) [$1897] – 2018
• Nikon Z6 (74 points) [$800] – 2018
• Nikon Z50 II (71 points) [$906] – 2024
• Nikon Z fc (65 points) [$857] – 2021
• Nikon Z30 (64 points) [$607] – 2022
• Nikon Z5 (63 points) [$997] – 2020
• Nikon Z50 (61 points) [$857] – 2019

Nikon Z6 III (Best Overall)

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full-frame CMOS
• Megapixels: Approximately 24.5 MP
• Lens: Uses the Nikon Z-mount, compatible with Nikon’s full‑frame mirrorless lenses
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen with high resolution
• Viewfinder: Electronic viewfinder (EVF) with around 3.69 million dots
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 14 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p (with full‑pixel readout and no crop)
• Targeted Audience: Professional photographers and videographers

I like the Nikon Z6 III for its well‑balanced combination of robust performance and compact design. Sure, a 24.5‑megapixel sensor is not much for resolution, but this camera still delivers excellent low‑light performance and dynamic range that suits both stills and video. Also, the updated processing engine improves autofocus responsiveness and overall speed, which makes it a reliable workhorse for event and studio shoots.

If we compare the Z6 III to its peers and predecessors, several points stand out. In terms of performance, this camera’s 14 fps burst mode and reliable autofocus system make it highly competitive—especially for fast‑paced shooting scenarios.

Ergonomically, its intuitive grip and tilting touchscreen enhance usability, while the EVF provides a clear, high‑resolution preview, even in challenging lighting. Plus, when it comes to the price, we can say it’s a good balance between advanced features and affordability for professionals stepping up from earlier models.

The new features, like the enhanced processing and refined autofocus algorithms, add a welcome boost to ensure that both professionals and enthusiasts get the best possible experience.

For the downsides, this camera was criticized for having pretty much the same video features as previous models. Plus, it doesn’t include the bird mode in AF. Other than that, it’s a pretty good professional camera for a reasonably fair price.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z8

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full‑frame stacked CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: 45.7 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount (compatible with Nikon’s full‑frame mirrorless lenses)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen
• Viewfinder: High‑resolution electronic viewfinder (~3.69 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 20 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 8K UHD (7680 x 4320) at 30p (with versatile 4K options)
• Targeted Audience: Professional photographers and videographers

The Nikon Z8 is a remarkable blend of performance and portability. It has a 45.7‑megapixel full‑frame sensor, which will give you exceptional detail and dynamic range, both for large prints and advanced video work. The Z8 borrows much of the high‑end performance from the flagship Z9, yet it manages to offer a lighter, more ergonomic design without compromising on speed or image quality.

What makes it different? Well, this camera shines in many areas. Its rapid 20‑fps continuous shooting, coupled with a highly responsive autofocus system, makes it a top choice for fast‑paced environments.

For videographers, being able to shoot up to 8K is a great upgrade, and you still get versatile 4K settings for more routine work. Plus, the camera is weather-sealed, which makes it the go-to for professionals who work in challenging conditions.

Price-wise, the Z8 is positioned to offer much of the Z9’s technological prowess at a slightly lower cost, making it an appealing upgrade for professionals who desire high‑end features without stepping into the very top price tier.

However, there are some points to consider. Although the Z8 delivers pro‑level performance, its premium features come at a higher price point compared to mid‑range models. Additionally, heavy use of 8K video will drain the battery life, and if you were lucky enough to have a trait like big hands, well, you might find the compact body a bit tight over long sessions.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z7 II

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full‑frame BSI CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: Approximately 45.7 MP
• Lens: Uses the Nikon Z‑mount; compatible with Nikon’s full‑frame mirrorless lenses
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen with high resolution
• Viewfinder: High‑resolution electronic viewfinder (~3.69 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 10 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p (with a nasty crop)
• Targeted Audience: Professional photographers

Building on the strong foundation of the original Z7, the Z7 II introduces dual EXPEED 6 processors. This dual processor upgrade in the Z7 II offers noticeable improvements over its predecessor.

Shooting at 10 fps with a more responsive autofocus system, the camera handles both fast action and detailed static shots with ease. This camera has excellent image quality, particularly in low‑light conditions and when capturing fine textures, which makes it ideal for studio, landscape, and portrait photography.

For the design, the Z7 II retains the look of the original Z7, with a comfortable grip, intuitive button layout, and a user‑friendly 3.2‑inch touchscreen. Its electronic viewfinder provides a clear view in various lighting conditions, and the camera’s weather sealing ensures reliability in challenging shooting environments.

This camera is a great step up for photographers looking to enter the full-frame scene, but for video, its features remain modest compared to cameras at the same price range. So, it won’t work well for videographers looking for a good upgrade.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z9

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full‑frame stacked CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: 45.7 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount (compatible with Nikon’s full‑frame mirrorless lenses)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen
• Viewfinder: High‑resolution electronic viewfinder (~3.69 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 20 fps in RAW
• Max Video Resolution: 8K at 30p
• Targeted Audience: Professional photographers and videographers

The Nikon Z9 is a great flagship mirrorless powerhouse. With a full‑frame stacked CMOS sensor, this camera can capture great images with exceptional dynamic range. Plus, a 45.7 MP resolution will give you all the details you need to crop your images or use them as large prints without affecting their quality.

Also, the Z9’s advanced processing engine, combined with a good EVF, will ensure a seamless shooting experience whether you’re capturing sports events, wildlife, or cinematic 8K video.

Let’s start with photography. This camera’s 20‑fps continuous shooting, combined with a state‑of‑the‑art autofocus with deep subject tracking and robust weather‑sealed construction, makes it ideal for demanding professional scenarios.

For videographers, having 8K video recording (without crop), a set of customizable controls, all in a weather-sealed body, will give you the great video experience you deserve.

However, its advanced features come with trade-offs. This camera’s premium build and extensive feature set can make it heavier and come with an expensive price tag. Additionally, while battery life is sufficient for most professional needs, as you know, 8K video recording or high‑burst shooting can drain the battery, but that’s not something extra batteries can’t fix.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z6 II

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full‑frame BSI CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: 24.5 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount (compatible with Nikon’s full‑frame mirrorless lenses)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen
• Viewfinder: High‑resolution electronic viewfinder (~3.69 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 14 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p with no crop
• Targeted Audience: professional photographers and videographers

The Nikon Z6 II excels with its dual processors, delivering faster processing speeds, improved autofocus responsiveness, and a larger buffer for continuous shooting.

Ergonomically, this camera retains the comfortable, well‑balanced design of the original Z6, coupled with an intuitive layout of buttons, a responsive 3.2‑inch touchscreen, and a high‑resolution EVF to offer a good shooting experience. Plus, the robust build and weather sealing add confidence when shooting in challenging environments.

However, if we compare it to the original Z6, you would notice that it’s not much of an upgrade.

For the price, I would say this camera is positioned in the upper mid‑range segment. But, while it’s more expensive than entry‑level models, its advanced processing capabilities and versatile feature set justify the investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Zf

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full‑frame BSI CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: Approximately 24.5 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount; compatible with Nikon’s full‑frame mirrorless lenses
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen with clear, responsive display
• Viewfinder: High‑resolution electronic viewfinder (~3.69 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Around 14 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p
• Targeted Audience: Photographers who appreciate a classic, retro‑inspired design

The Nikon Z f is a timeless, retro aesthetic with cutting‑edge mirrorless technology. This camera has the Nikon’s iconic design language—evoking the feel of classic film cameras—and delivering modern performance.

This camera’s autofocus system is both fast and accurate, which makes it a versatile option for dynamic environments. But, while its 4K video capabilities are good, they won’t match the advanced video features of Nikon’s flagship models. Yet, they’re more than sufficient for everyday use.

In addition to the retro flair, this camera is well‑balanced and comfortable to hold. However, its nostalgic styling might offer fewer customizable controls compared to more modern designs.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z7

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full‑frame BSI CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: Approximately 45.7 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount (compatible with Nikon’s full‑frame mirrorless lenses)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen with high resolution
• Viewfinder: High‑resolution electronic viewfinder (~3.69 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Around 9 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p with full‑pixel readout
• Targeted Audience: Professional photographers who need high‑resolution detail

Introduced in 2018, the Nikon Z7 comes with a 45.7‑megapixel full‑frame sensor that gives you exceptional detail and dynamic range. Something to appreciate if you are into studio work or landscape photography.

Sure, its continuous shooting speed of around 9 fps may not match the ultra‑fast burst modes of some sports-oriented cameras, but it still gives you ample performance for most professional applications.

Plus, the camera’s design combines functionality and ergonomics. The Z7 is engineered with a robust, weather‑sealed body that won’t let you down.

I should also mention that this camera is primarily addressed to photographers, so its video capabilities are modest (4K 30p) compared to similar models in this price range. So, as a videographer, you might want to consider a different model.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z6

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full‑frame BSI CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: 24.5 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount (compatible with Nikon’s full‑frame mirrorless lenses)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen
• Viewfinder: High‑resolution electronic viewfinder (~3.69 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 12 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p
• Targeted Audience: Professional photographers

The Nikon Z6 is a competent full‑frame mirrorless camera that balances performance and portability. Whether you’re capturing portraits, landscapes, or dynamic events, the Z6 will help you produce detailed and vibrant images.

In terms of speed, the camera’s ability to shoot up to 12 fps makes it well‑suited for action and event photography. Its advanced autofocus system, combined with a responsive electronic viewfinder and intuitive 3.2‑inch touchscreen, creates a user‑friendly shooting experience even under challenging conditions. Additionally, the Z6’s ability to go up to 4K 30p means you can shoot high-quality videos and slow motion easily.

Ergonomically, the camera is designed with a comfortable grip and well‑placed controls that allow for intuitive handling over long shooting sessions.

Price-wise, the Z6 is positioned in the competitive mid‑to‑high range of Nikon’s mirrorless lineup. It offers strong performance and image quality at a price point that appeals to both professional photographers and serious enthusiasts.

However, while its video features are solid, I would say that they don’t match the advanced video options of flagship models. But, its overall feature set and reliable performance deliver excellent value for its cost.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z50 II

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: APS‑C CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: Approximately 20.9 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount (compatible with Nikon’s DX‑format and select FX‑lenses)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen with high‑resolution display
• Viewfinder: Electronic viewfinder (around 2.36 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 11 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p
• Targeted Audience: Content creators and travel vloggers

Released in November 2024, the Nikon Z50 II builds on the solid foundation of its predecessor with good improvements. What’s good about this camera is that it maintains a compact and ergonomic design without sacrificing performance.

Among the new features are improved autofocus algorithms and enhanced connectivity (including updated Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth capabilities), which provide a smoother shooting experience and easier content transfer. These updates will be beneficial, particularly for travel and vlogging scenarios where reliability and ease of use are paramount.

Plus, its continuous shooting rate of up to 11 fps is well‑suited for action or street photography. So, I would say that while the Z50 II shares many core features with the original Z50, Nikon has refined many of the old features so that content creators have a robust companion for on‑the‑go shooting.

Now, for the value you will get from buying such a camera, well, it will indeed remain limited by the inherent advantages—and constraints—of an APS‑C sensor compared to full‑frame models. But, its updated features make it a choice to consider, especially under $1000.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z fc

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: APS‑C CMOS sensor (DX‑format)
• Megapixels: Approximately 20.9 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount; compatible with Nikon’s DX‑format lenses (and FX lenses with crop factor)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen with a clear, responsive display
• Viewfinder: Electronic viewfinder (EVF) with around 2.36 million dots
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 11 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p
• Targeted Audience: Enthusiasts and creative photographers who appreciate a retro‑inspired design

The Nikon Z fc is a unique blend of classic design and modern performance, designed for photographers who crave a vintage look without compromising on functionality. With its 20.9‑MP APS‑C sensor, the Z fc delivers excellent image quality, rich colors, and impressive low‑light performance—ideal for street, travel, and everyday photography.

Its retro‑inspired body pays homage to Nikon’s film heritage, featuring tactile dials and a design close to the classic film cameras.

Its autofocus system is responsive and reliable, and the 11‑fps burst mode suits many action or street photography scenarios. While it isn’t designed for extreme sports photography, it meets the needs of most enthusiasts and casual professionals.

This camera performs well in various shooting scenarios—from casual street photography to creative travel documentation—though I should note that its video features are best suited for everyday use rather than high‑end production.

Also, the retro design means that some customizable settings are more limited compared to modern, button‑rich counterparts.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z30

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: APS‑C CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: Approximately 20.9 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount (compatible with Nikon’s DX‑format lenses)
• LCD: 3.0‑inch vari‑angle touchscreen
• Viewfinder: No built‑in viewfinder (designed primarily for vloggers and content creators)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 11 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p
• Targeted Audience: Vloggers, content creators seeking a compact, lightweight camera

The Nikon Z30 is known for its user‑friendly design and strong performance tailored to the needs of vloggers and digital storytellers.

The Z30 offers reliable autofocus and fast shooting speeds that are perfect for dynamic content creation. Its fully vari‑angle touchscreen makes it easy to shoot from a variety of angles, especially for vloggers. Although the absence of a viewfinder might deter some traditional photographers, the design is ideal for video bloggers and content creators who primarily rely on the LCD for framing.

As an entry‑level mirrorless camera, the Z30 delivers excellent value. Its feature set and performance are well‑suited to those starting in vlogging or looking for a lightweight option for casual photography and video. Sure, it may lack some advanced customization features seen in higher‑end models, but the balance of price and performance makes it something to consider.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z5

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: Full‑frame CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: Approximately 24.3 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount (compatible with Nikon’s FX and DX lenses)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen
• Viewfinder: High‑resolution electronic viewfinder (~3.69 million dots)
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 4.5 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p (with a 1.7x crop)
• Targeted Audience: Photographers entering full‑frame mirrorless photography

The Nikon Z5 is a solid entry‑level full‑frame mirrorless camera that delivers impressive image quality and ease of use at a competitive price point. It provides impressive stills performance thanks to its 24.3‑MP full‑frame sensor and strong low‑light capabilities.

The Z5 introduced several modern improvements, such as enhanced connectivity with Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth for easy sharing and remote control, along with a weather‑sealed body that boosts durability in diverse conditions.

For video enthusiasts, the 4K UHD recording mode offers high‑quality footage, though note that the 1.7x crop may affect wide‑angle shots.

Another downside is the slower continuous shooting speed (4.5 fps), which means it may not be ideal for fast‑action sports or wildlife photography.

So, as an affordable, entry‑level full‑frame option, the Nikon Z5 offers great value for enthusiasts looking to step up their photography.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Nikon Z50

Camera Specifications

• Sensor Type: APS‑C CMOS sensor
• Megapixels: Approximately 20.9 MP
• Lens: Nikon Z‑mount; compatible with Nikon’s DX‑format lenses (and FX lenses with crop factor)
• LCD: 3.2‑inch tilting touchscreen
• Viewfinder: Electronic viewfinder with roughly 2.36 million dots
• Max Continuous Shooting: Up to 11 fps
• Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) at 30p
• Targeted Audience: Photographers and Vloggers

The Nikon Z50, released in 2019, is a good APS‑C mirrorless camera that delivers excellent performance in a compact, lightweight body.

The camera’s design caters to content creators and enthusiasts alike, with a fully articulating touchscreen ideal for vlogging and self‑recording. Plus, with an 11‑fps continuous shooting mode, you can capture dynamic action.

In addition, this camera borrows key features from its full-frame siblings, like the fast Expeed 6 processor, and delivers great image quality with its 20.9MP sensor. For content creators, being able to shoot up to 4K will give you high‑quality footage.

However, it lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which means users will have to rely on lenses with stabilization for handheld shooting. Additionally, the single UHS-I SD card slot is a bit limiting for professional us

So, as an advanced DX‑format camera, the Z50 offers great value for enthusiasts stepping into the mirrorless world. You get a strong balance of image quality, video performance, and portability at a competitive price—though some might wish for additional advanced features available in higher‑end models.

✔️What I Like:

❌What I Don’t Like:

Tips for Choosing the Right Camera

Well, now that you know everything about the best Nikon mirrorless cameras, it’s time to choose the right one for you. To do that, here is a simple (yet effective) process:

Step 1: Set Your Budget and Investment Goals
Decide how much you’re willing to spend and whether you want a brand-new camera or a cost‑effective refurbished model. This will help narrow down your options right from the start.

Step 2: Define Your Photography Needs
Determine your primary shooting style. Are you into sports, portraits, or landscapes? Once you know your niche, balance the features you need, such as high resolution for detailed landscapes or fast burst rates for sports photography.

Step 3: Future‑Proof Your Choice
Look for a model that supports a strong lens ecosystem and receives regular updates. Choosing a camera with advanced features like improved autofocus or a high‑resolution sensor can ensure that your gear remains relevant as technology evolves.

Step 4: Evaluate Ergonomics and Usability
Test the camera’s comfort, control layout, and build quality. If possible, handle the camera in person or read real user reviews to see how it performs during long shooting sessions.

Final Thoughts

Well, now you are fully equipped to buy your new Nikon mirrorless camera. You have different options based on your needs, budget, and style of photography (or videography). But, as I always say, don’t overcomplicate the process of choosing a camera and forget to invest in YOU. After all, your skills, dreams, and vision are what will capture those moments as YOU see them.

Remember: The best camera is the one you use confidently to tell your story!