The Ultimate Guide to Nikon’s Mirrorless Marvels: Top Picks for Every Budget in 2025

A list of the top Nikon mirrorless cameras is always changing since Nikon frequently releases exciting new models! Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking for the best available or a beginner still figuring out the basics, there’s a perfect Nikon mirrorless camera for you. This guide is designed to help you find the right one.

We evaluate every Nikon mirrorless camera that gets released, meaning we have hands-on experience with all the models on this list. If a camera doesn’t meet our expert reviewers’ standards, we won’t include it. Fortunately, the latest Nikon Z5 II made the cut along with recent models like the Nikon Z6 III and Nikon Zf, both of which received excellent feedback from our team.

If you’re new to Nikon, don’t worry – we’ve included an explainer section at the bottom of this page with answers to commonly asked questions about mirrorless cameras and the Nikon lineup, giving you a good foundation. Interested in more options? We also offer a guide to the best Nikon DSLRs, as well as an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of DSLRs versus mirrorless cameras if you’re undecided about which type to choose. For now, let’s explore the best Nikon mirrorless cameras available today.

The best Nikon mirrorless cameras – our quick list:

Hunting for the best deals on Nikon cameras? You won’t only discover the top Nikon cameras but also some fantastic deals, as our ‘Buy now’ buttons lead to the best prices from reliable retailers. Additionally, a list of other retailers is available under each camera to help you find the ideal offer.

• Best professional Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z9 – Buy now
• Best Nikon mirrorless for beginners: Nikon Z50 II – Buy now
• Best Nikon mirrorless for low light: Nikon Zf – Buy now
• Best budget-friendly full-frame all-rounder: Nikon Z5 II – Buy now
• Best hybrid Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z6 III – Buy now
• Best budget full-frame Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z5 – Buy now
• Best high-resolution Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z7 II – Buy now
• Best all-around Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z6 II – Buy now
• Best Nikon mirrorless for wildlife: Nikon Z8 – Buy now
• Best used Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z7 – Buy now
• Best Nikon mirrorless for vlogging: Nikon Z30 – Buy now
• Best stylish Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z fc – Buy now

Continue reading to discover more about each camera’s strengths and weaknesses according to our review team. Once you’ve selected a Nikon mirrorless camera, you’ll also want to explore the best Z-mount lenses for Nikon to accompany it. Here are our top Nikon mirrorless cameras available for purchase…

Best professional Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z9

Quick specs:

This camera is truly exceptional. The Nikon Z9 stands as the company’s flagship mirrorless professional model, continuing the legacy of its single-digit DSLRs like the D5 and D6. For a long time, those cameras were staples among professional sports photographers, and the Z9 carries on that tradition with remarkable speed.

When it comes to specifications, the Nikon Z9 can capture 45.7MP full-resolution raw images at 20 frames per second, lasting for over 1,000 shots. Switch to JPEGs, and it can shoot at 30 fps – and if you reduce the resolution to 11MP, it boasts an astonishing 120fps.

This outstanding performance is complemented by a top-tier subject-detection autofocus system, capable of identifying specific items like faces, animals, cars, and birds without needing prior specification. Whether your subject is moving or positioned in a corner of the frame, this system delivers accuracy with remarkable reliability.

We can vouch for this, having extensively tested the Nikon Z9. It’s an incredible camera that simply delivers.

It powers on in seconds and lasts a long time on a single battery charge. It can shoot in complete silence and features a high-efficiency raw format that keeps file sizes manageable without compromising image quality – extremely advantageous for rapid burst shooting! Occasionally, though not frequently, the autofocus might lock onto the wrong subject or misinterpret a face where there isn’t one.

Of course, all of this comes at a premium. The Nikon Z9 is a top-end professional camera, and its price reflects that. For many users, it may be beyond reach, but if it fits your budget, it’s undoubtedly one of the best cameras we’ve ever evaluated.

Best for: action, wildlife, and sports photography, professional photographers

Read our complete Nikon Z9 review

Best Nikon mirrorless for beginners: Nikon Z50 II

Quick specs:

The Z50 II serves as an update to Nikon’s inaugural APS-C sensor (DX-format) mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z50. While it retains the same 20MP DX-format sensor, it has added several appealing new features, including advanced autofocus capabilities, enhanced subject tracking, and 3D tracking thanks to the latest Expeed 7 processor.

With an 11fps burst rate, it is impressively quick, and its hybrid autofocus system efficiently follows fast-paced action. There’s even an option for 30 fps shooting with JPEG-only output. The camera features 209 phase-detection AF points across most of the frame, along with both Eye and Face Detection AF.

Nikon also introduced a product review mode that focuses on an object held up to the camera rather than the presenter’s face. Furthermore, it features an updated EVF that is twice as bright and a fully articulating touch screen, making it more suitable for vlogging and video creation.

Additionally, it excels at capturing self-portraits.

Like most DX-format Nikon cameras, the Z50 II lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS). It depends on the optical stabilization found in the lenses, which can be enhanced by electronic stabilization for video recording.

When the Nikon Z50 was first introduced, options for native DX-format lenses for the Z-mount were limited, and even years later, the selection hasn’t improved much. Full-frame lenses are compatible with the Z50 II, but they tend to be heavy and pricey, which undermines the appeal of choosing a budget-friendly APS-C camera.

Ideal for: travelers and beginner photographers

Check out our review of the Nikon Z50 II.

Top retro Nikon mirrorless for low light: Nikon Zf

Quick Specs:

The Nikon Zf, the latest model, serves as a successor to multiple past cameras. Its retro aesthetic resembles that of the Nikon Z fc, but with a full-frame sensor instead of an APS-C one.

Furthermore, the Zf pays homage to Nikon’s rich legacy in film SLRs, featuring a design inspired by iconic cameras like the Nikon FM2. It can also be viewed as an update to the Nikon Df DSLR, which, despite its initial high price, has since become more reasonably priced in the second-hand market—an idea that was intriguing but didn’t fully hit the mark when launched.

Beyond its stylish design, the Zf is packed with advanced features. Thanks to Nikon’s latest Expeed 7 processor, it’s one of the top contenders for low-light photography, offering an impressive native ISO range up to 64,000, extendable to 204,600. With a relatively low-resolution full-frame sensor of 24.5MP, it delivers exceptionally clear images, even in challenging lighting conditions. The eight stops of in-body stabilization are an added bonus.

Read our comprehensive review of the Nikon Zf.

Best budget-friendly full-frame all-rounder: Nikon Z5 II

Quick Specs:

Five years since the original Z5 release, this updated version includes several eagerly awaited improvements. While it maintains the same pixel count of 24.5MP, the new back-illuminated sensor enhances low-light performance, while the Expeed 7 processor produces better high ISO images.

The upgraded subject-detection autofocus is quick and recognizes nine different subjects, a significant improvement over just two in its predecessor. The latest 3D tracking technology is included, allowing for continuous shooting up to 14fps in RAW format, and IBIS allows for 7.5 stops of shake reduction. Customer feedback was taken into account as well, leading to the addition of a fully articulating screen and removal of cropping during 4K video recording. The Z5 II offers stellar performance for an entry-level full-frame camera, priced at $1700/£1600, making it tough to find another camera with a similar feature set.

Read our five-star review of the Nikon Z5 II.

Best hybrid Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z6 III

Quick Specs:

The Z6 III boasts a unique partially stacked CMOS sensor, which offers advantages similar to a fully stacked sensor but at a more affordable price. This leads to faster focusing, reduced rolling shutter effects, quicker continuous shooting, enhanced video features, and a smoother viewfinder experience.

The electronic viewfinder has been upgraded for brightness, reaching an impressive 4000 nits with a wider color gamut, making it a sharp and vibrant display for natural colors.

Another significant upgrade over previous models is the introduction of Nikon’s 3D tracking technology, now included in the Z6 line, alongside an efficient subject detection system capable of recognizing people, animals, vehicles, and aircraft, with eye-tracking features available. The autofocus operates effectively in extremely low light environments down to -10EV.

The Z6 III includes 8 stops of in-body stabilization and supports internal 12-bit RAW video recording at 60fps in both 6K and 4K formats, as well as slow-motion Full HD recording at 240fps, complete with audio. It’s a fantastic option for hybrid shooters.

Discover more in our detailed review of the Nikon Z6 III.

Most affordable full-frame Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z5

Quick Specs:

The Nikon Z5, now replaced by the Z5 II, remains a great budget option for a full-frame mirrorless camera. It offers a solid full-frame sensor and handles impressively, akin to the higher-end Z6 II, albeit with a few notable compromises.

Though the sensor resolution is comparable to that of the Z6 II, the Z5 lacks the back-side illumination, which leads to slightly poorer low-light performance.

While this camera excels in certain areas, especially for still scenes, it’s not the best choice for capturing fast-paced events like sports or wildlife due to its slower frame rates.

However, it offers a solid performance for static subjects and provides an affordable entry into the full-frame system, making it suitable for beginners or those looking to upgrade to a full-frame camera for the first time.

Ideal for: newcomers, individuals transitioning to full frame

Check out our review of the Nikon Z5.

Top high-resolution Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z7 II

Quick specifications overview:

The Nikon Z7 II is a high-resolution full-frame camera tailored for dedicated enthusiasts and professionals. It enhances the previous model by correcting some shortcomings, including the addition of a second card slot for extra storage options.

Our testing confirmed that the Z7 II maintains the excellent image quality expected from this series, showcasing the capabilities of its 45.7MP back-illuminated full-frame sensor. The camera performs impressively across its standard ISO range, with acceptable results even at higher settings.

The electronic viewfinder offers an immersive experience, captivating even die-hard DSLR fans, although it falls slightly behind competitors in raw resolution. Additionally, the Z7 II achieves a respectable burst rate of 10fps, coupled with a substantial buffer for continuous shooting.

This model isn’t a significant upgrade over the original Z7 but remains an exceptional choice. The original Z7 still offers great value for those looking for a more budget-friendly option. Regardless, you’ll receive an outstanding mirrorless camera that excels in handling and delivers breathtaking images.

Ideal for: landscape, macro, and portrait photographers

Read our detailed review of the Nikon Z7 II.

Second-best versatile Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z6 II

Quick specifications overview:

The Z6 II stands out as a reliable all-round camera, often deemed the sensible option for many Nikon mirrorless users. Although its 24.5MP resolution may not match the Z7 II, it remains a highly capable camera with unique advantages stemming from its less crowded sensor.

This model excels in low-light conditions, accurately focusing and producing clear images with minimal noise, even at ISO settings of 12,800.

Though it retains the same number of autofocus points as its predecessor, the updated algorithm enhances its accuracy and responsiveness, making it easier to implement face and eye detection for both street and portrait photography.

We conducted a long-term evaluation of the Nikon Z6 II, and it truly impressed us. While the absence of a fully articulating touchscreen might be a downside for some, the camera generally excels in almost every aspect.

Ideal for: photographers seeking a versatile yet affordable option

Check out our full review of the Nikon Z6 II.

Top mirrorless Nikon for wildlife: Nikon Z8

Quick specifications overview:

The Nikon Z8 is designed for serious photographers who demand top-tier performance. When released, Nikon highlighted its comparison to the widely respected D850 DSLR, known for its blend of high resolution and speed, particularly appealing for wildlife photography. The Z8 carries this legacy forward.

While the Z9 already offers similar capabilities, the Z8 provides a more compact and affordable alternative. This model still captures stunning 45.7MP images at rapid frame rates and utilizes Nikon’s advanced AI subject-detection autofocus. Its quickest shutter speed reaches an astounding 1/32,000 sec, and the camera also supports 11MP shooting at 120fps for ultra-fast capture. 8K video capability is also included.

Our thorough review of the Nikon Z8 revealed few shortcomings. Although it’s priced higher than the Z7 II, which shares the same resolution, it may be worth the investment if speed is crucial for your needs. Some users might prefer having dual UHS-II SD card slots instead of one each for SD and CFexpress (or XQD), which could lead to higher card costs. However, this is a minor concern. If you can afford the Z8 and seek its speed, it’s definitely worth considering.

Ideal for: professionals in search of a powerful, durable, and compact camera

Read our comprehensive review of the Nikon Z8.

Top second-hand Nikon mirrorless: Nikon Z7

Quick specifications overview:

The Nikon Z7 was one of the earliest cameras released in the Z system, making it a fascinating model to reflect on, showcasing both the strengths and missteps of Nikon’s initial attempt.

Let’s address the downsides first: the Nikon Z7 features only one memory card slot. This can be problematic for photographers needing a backup card to protect against data corruption—like wedding and event photographers, as well as photojournalists.

To make matters worse, this single slot originally supported only the costly and less popular XQD card format (though it’s been updated to be compatible with CFexpress, which, while still pricey, is more commonly used).

That said, if you can overlook this limitation, the Nikon Z7 offers the same full-frame resolution as its successor, the Z7 II, and can be found for around half the price on the second-hand market. With full-frame quality available for roughly $1,600 / £1,150, it’s an incredible deal despite the storage quirks. The handling of this camera is also superb, feeling more comfortable in hand compared to its Sony counterparts, and the viewfinder is stunning.

The image quality is remarkable, even in various lighting situations, and the 5-axis stabilization works exceptionally well, especially when used with a stabilized Z-mount lens. While it lacks the advanced AI-powered autofocus seen in newer models like the Z9, it effectively tracks and locks onto moving subjects. True to the best of Nikon’s cameras, it simply performs well.

For more details, read our comprehensive review of the Nikon Z7.

Check out the second-hand prices for the Nikon Z7 on MPB.

Top Nikon mirrorless for vlogging: Nikon Z30

Specifications overview:

Targeted specifically at vloggers, the Nikon Z30 competes well against similarly priced cameras like the Sony ZV-E10, featuring the same APS-C sensor. However, since the Z system is newer than Sony’s E-mount, the selection of compatible lenses is not as vast.

Nonetheless, the Z30 stands out as a strong performer. In our full review, we noted its comfortable grip, making it easy to handle with one hand, and its flip-around screen is perfect for self-recording. While it doesn’t have a viewfinder, which isn’t essential for vlogging, this omission helps keep the weight at a lightweight 405g.

Video quality is impressive, with uncropped 4K capability at up to 30p, and a Flat color profile ideal for post-processing (though not a full Log profile, it’s close). You can also shoot in Full HD at up to 120p for slow-motion effects.

However, there are some drawbacks. The absence of a headphone jack reduces the Z30’s utility for video, as it lacks a way to monitor audio during recording. Additionally, the lack of in-body stabilization was likely a choice to keep costs and weight low, but it complicates handheld shooting—and if you need a gimbal, the cost savings may be offset.

Best suited for: budget-conscious vloggers

Read our review of the Nikon Z30.

Top Nikon mirrorless for style: Nikon Z fc

Specifications overview:

Built on the same foundation as the Z 50, the Z fc caters to those who want solid performance and an attractive design.

Its vintage styling is arguably the most stylish among Nikon Z cameras—at least until the release of the Nikon Zf. Beyond aesthetics, it also features a vari-angle screen, providing more flexibility compared to the tilting screen found on the Z50.

Your choice between these models may be influenced by pricing—sometimes the Z50 is less expensive, while at other times, the Z fc is the better bargain. It’s advisable to shop around for the best deal.

Best suited for: vloggers, travelers, and beginner photographers

Explore our review of the Nikon Z fc.

How to Select a Nikon Mirrorless Camera – Key Specifications Explained

What exactly is a mirrorless camera? As the name suggests, it lacks the mirror mechanism found in DSLRs, which use a reflex mirror to reflect images into an optical viewfinder. While other types of cameras, like compacts and action cams, also don’t utilize mirrors, the term ‘mirrorless’ specifically refers to interchangeable-lens models. For a more detailed comparison, check out our piece on DSLR vs. mirrorless.

Focusing specifically on Nikon’s mirrorless cameras, here are the critical specifications to consider when selecting the model that suits your needs.

Sensor: The size of the sensor is vital when picking any camera. In the Nikon mirrorless lineup, you have two options: full-frame or smaller APS-C sensor (labeled as FX and DX, respectively). Full-frame sensors generally offer better image quality, especially in low-light settings. However, APS-C cameras are often more affordable, lighter, and great for travel. We have a complete breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of sensor sizes in our guide to full-frame vs APS-C.

Resolution: This refers to the pixel count of the sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). More megapixels yield greater detail in images, beneficial for printing but requiring more storage space and potentially increasing the camera’s cost.

Screen & viewfinder: Nearly all Nikon mirrorless cameras come equipped with electronic viewfinders— the only exception being the vlogger-oriented Z30. Key specs to focus on include size and resolution; a larger EVF enhances the shooting experience. All Nikon mirrorless models feature LCD screens with some mobility, whether they are tilting or fully articulating, with the latter being especially useful for various shooting angles.

For video work, particularly when recording in front of the camera, videographers can benefit greatly from innovative angles that photographers can capture.

Image stabilization: All of Nikon’s full-frame cameras are equipped with in-body image stabilization (IBIS). However, none of their APS-C models offer this feature, which is an important consideration if you’re planning to use these cameras with long lenses or in low-light situations at slower shutter speeds. You can counter the absence of IBIS by using lenses with stabilization technology (known as VR, or ‘Vibration Reduction’ by Nikon) or by utilizing a tripod.

Frame rate: Also known as burst speed or continuous shooting speed, this refers to how quickly a camera can take consecutive shots. A high burst rate is essential for capturing fast-paced action, but it’s also important to check the depth of the camera’s buffer—essentially how many photos it can shoot in one burst before needing to pause and reset.

Video: Every Nikon mirrorless camera has the capability to shoot 4K video, with the high-end Z9 and Z8 models offering impressive 8K video options.

Lens options: You might assume this category doesn’t need much explanation since all the models listed use the Z mount. However, the APS-C DX-format models like the Z50, Z30, and Z fc operate a bit differently due to their smaller sensors, which create a 1.5x crop factor affecting the lens’s focal length.

For instance, a lens offering a 35mm focal length on the Nikon Z7 II translates to a 52mm equivalent on the Z50. There are a few Z-mount lenses created specifically for DX-format cameras, but the selection is still quite limited.

Best Nikon mirrorless cameras: commonly asked questions

Want to know more about Nikon’s mirrorless lineup? Here, we respond to some frequently asked questions regarding Nikon mirrorless cameras.

Which is the top Nikon mirrorless camera for wildlife photography?

There’s a simple answer to this: the Nikon Z9 is the premier choice for wildlife photography. With exceptional burst shooting performance, smart autofocus that locks onto animals and birds, and outstanding 45.7MP image quality, the Z9 stands out not just as one of the best in Nikon’s mirrorless range but also as one of the best wildlife cameras available overall.

However, with a price of $5,500 / £5,000 just for the body, the Z9 isn’t feasible for everyone. The Nikon Z8 serves as a more affordable alternative, being a more compact version of the Z9, featuring many of the same internal specifications; yet, at $3,800 / £3,800, it remains a hefty investment.

If you’re looking for a more budget-oriented option, the Nikon Z6 II is a solid wildlife camera. Its reliable autofocus system performs well even in low light, while its full-frame sensor delivers beautiful 24.5MP images and an impressive 14fps burst shooting. The price is around $1,600 / £2,000.

For an even lower price point, consider the Nikon Z50, which is an excellent choice for wildlife photographers. This compact and portable camera offers 11fps burst shooting and is known for its reliability, usually selling for about $860 / £900.

Additionally, the smaller sensor size means a 1.5x crop factor on your lenses, so a 50mm lens would function like a 75mm, which can be quite advantageous when photographing elusive wildlife.

Can you attach F-mount lenses to Nikon mirrorless cameras?

Yes, you can use Nikon F-mount lenses on your Nikon Z-mount camera with the appropriate adapter. You can maintain full functionality with features such as autofocus and stabilization using a Nikon FTZ adapter, which connects between the camera and the lens. An enhanced FTZ II adapter is also available for $250 / £249, designed to be more streamlined and avoid interference with certain function buttons on the Z9. These adapters are readily available, with the FTZ adapter priced around $160-170 / £155 at dealers like MPB.

Note that this capability is one-way—while you can use F-mount lenses on Z-mount cameras, Z-mount lenses cannot be adapted to F-mount DSLRs due to the thicker body of the DSLRs, which would prevent proper focus.

Which Nikon mirrorless models have an articulating screen?

The Nikon Z6 III, Zf, and Z fc come equipped with fully articulating screens, as does the vlogging-oriented Nikon Z30. The Z9 and Z8 offer two-way tilting screens, which are quite close to being fully articulating.

Other Nikon mirrorless models, such as the Z5, Z50, Z6 II, Z7 II, Z6, and Z7, feature various tilting screens but lack full articulation.

What do FX and DX signify in Nikon cameras?

‘FX’ and ‘DX’ are Nikon’s designations for sensor sizes. Full-frame cameras fall under the ‘FX’ category while APS-C models are labeled ‘DX’. This distinction also applies to lenses; a DX lens is intended solely for APS-C cameras, while an FX lens can be used on both formats. To learn more about these sensor sizes, check our overview of full-frame vs APS-C.

How many megapixels is enough for a Nikon camera?

This depends on individual needs; however, if you’re asking the question, you might not need an extensive resolution. The Nikon Z50 offers 20.9MP, which has generally been sufficient for most casual photographers, though some may find it lacking today. If you’re looking to print your photos or prefer the option to crop your images without loss of quality, opting for a camera with higher resolution could be advantageous—mindful that increased pixel count will also necessitate additional storage space on cards and drives.

Are Nikon cameras used by professionals?

Absolutely! Nikon has long been a go-to brand for professional photographers, alongside Canon and Sony. While mirrorless systems are rapidly becoming the standard in the professional world, many established pros still favor their Nikon D850 DSLRs (which is why Nikon is marketing the Z8 as a ‘new D850’). Our compilation of top-notch professional cameras includes numerous Nikon models, and if you show up on a shoot with Nikon gear, you won’t face any criticism.

Written by Amy Davies, with insights from Jon Stapley.

After selecting the ideal camera for your needs, explore some of the best Nikon Z-mount lenses. Also, check out additional buying guides and our latest reviews.

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