Nikon Z 6 vs Nikon D800
- Full frame
- 25 megapixels
- Nikon Z
-
46
Overall -
19
Imaging -
78
Features -
73
Size -
0
Price
- Full frame
- 36 megapixels
- Nikon F
-
54
Overall -
34
Imaging -
59
Features -
69
Size -
0
Price
Nikon Z 6 vs Nikon D800: a Complete Review and Comparison
Are you looking for the best camera to suit your needs? Due to a wide range of options, making a wise and weighted decision can be rather challenging. Which specs to keep in mind? What are the key pros and cons of each model? This comparison should give some helpful hints!
The goal of this overview is to provide a detailed comparison of two popular camera models introduced by the same brand - Nikon. Although both products are offered by the same brand, they come from different categories. Thus, Nikon, is a camera from Pro Mirrorless category, while D800 is a Semi-Pro DSLR camera. Both products that we are going to review are equipped with the same type of sensor - CMOS. However, they have different resolution. The first compared model, Nikon Z 6, features has a resolution of 25.0 MP. Another model that we are reviewing, Nikon D800, features a sensor with a resolution of 36.0 MP.
Without a doubt, these two categories have a few considerable distinctive features. However, it is worth saying that cameras from MirrorLess category create serious competition to models that fall into DSLR category. Such an intense competition between these two categories is explained by the significant advantages of cameras from the first category in terms of size and weight. In addition, thanks to the latest enhancement, this type of cameras come with increased focus speeds. This fact makes our comparison overview even more exciting.
Now, before we can move on to our comparison, let's take a moment to look at the key characteristics of Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800.
Nikon Z 6 Key Features:
- 25.0 MP Full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 51200 (Expands to 50 - 204800)
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- 3.2″ Tilting Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 12.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 134 x 101 x 68 mm
- Weight: 675 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: No
Nikon D800 Key Features:
- 36.0 MP Full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 6400 (Expands to 25600)
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3.2″ Fixed Type Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 4.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps), 640 x 424 (24 fps)
- Built-in Wireless: No
- Dimensions: 146 x 123 x 82 mm
- Weight: 900 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Replaced Nikon D700. Compare
- Replaced by Nikon D810. Compare
Why is Nikon Z 6 a better choice than Nikon D800
| Wireless Connectivity | Built-In vs No | Better connectivity |
| Bluetooth | Yes vs No | Connect your camera to other devices via Bluetooth |
| Image Stabilization | Yes vs No | All lenses are stabilized |
| Continuous Shooting | 12 fps vs 4 fps | 8 fps faster |
| Number Of Focus Points | 273 vs 51 | 222 more focus points |
| Screen Resolution | 2,100k dots vs 921k dots | 56.1% higher resolution screen |
| Touch Screen | Yes vs No | Easy control of camera functions |
| Weight | 675 g vs 900 g | 225 g lighter |
| Max Video Resolution | 3840 x 2160 vs 1920 x 1080 | Higher Resolution Video |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.8 vs 0.7 | 0.1 better magnification |
What are the key reasons to pick Nikon D800 over Nikon Z 6
| Storage Slots | 2 vs 1 | Extra storage slot |
| Sensor Resolution | 36.0 MP vs 25.0 MP | 30.6% more pixels |
| Sensor Area | 861.6 mm2 vs 858.01 mm2 | 0.4% larger pixel area |
| Built-In Flash | Yes vs No | All the lenses are stabilized |
| Flash Range | 12 vs No | 12 better flash range |
| Battery Life | 900 shots vs 330 shots | 570 more frames with a single charge |
Key PROs of Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800
| Screen Size | 3.2″ | 3.2″ | Large display |
| Viewfinder | Electronic | Optical (pentaprism) | Better framing and control |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| Sensor Resolution | 25.0 MP | 36.0 MP | Bigger prints and more details |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | Yes | Yes | Very handy for portraits |
| Microphone Port | Yes | Yes | High quality audio recording option |
| Headphone Port | Yes | Yes | Better video control |
| Timelapse Recording | Yes | Yes | Creative shooting |
| Bracketing | Yes | Yes | Useful for tough lighting conditions and HDR |
| Flash Sync Port | Yes | Yes | Port for Flash Sync |
| Environmental Sealing | Yes | Yes | Shoot at tough conditions |
Nikon Z 6 vs Nikon D800: Comparing Two Models By Physical Characteristics
Before heading straight to the technical characteristics of each model, let’s start with comparing their physical specs. Let’s start with looking at the physical difference of the two products. Below are images that clearly show the sizes of Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800 from the front view.
Now, let’s go on and see how the reviewed models are different or similar by the top view.
After looking at these images, you should get a clear idea of each model’s dimensions and how they are different from each other. However, we are not going to stop there. The next characteristic worth looking at is the weight. Of course, not every photographer is concerned about the weight, for example, it wouldn't be a decisive point for those who shoot in a studio. However, it is still an important factor because if you happen to go on a long photo session or just love having the camera with you wherever you go, you want to be sure that the chosen model isn't too heavy.
Speaking of weight, Nikon Z 6 is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 225g less than the Nikon D800. This difference, in fact, can become a significant disadvantage for the photographers, who prefer to have their cameras with them wherever they go.
Comparing Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800 by the type of Sensor and Resolution
Sensor is, without a doubt, the most significant element of every digital camera. Its type, size, and resolution are the factors that define the quality of future shots. Thus, it is barely possible to pick a suitable camera without looking at these specs.
Are Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800 any different in terms of sensor type?
In fact, that's exactly what makes these two models really different. Thus, it is a good point to consider if your are choosing between these two cameras. Nikon Z 6 features a 25.0 MP Full frame sized CMOS sensor . Nikon D800, in its turn, comes with a 36.0 MP Full frame sized CMOS sensor , which makes it significantly different from the first model.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800 by the size of their sensors.
Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800 are identical by this indicator, as each feature a sensor of the same size. Thus, both cameras will provide the same level of control in terms of the depth of field if you use them with the same focal length and aperture.
For Which Fields Of Photography Are Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800 Suitable?
If you are interested in photography or has made a career in this field, you should know that different types of shooting actually require different camera characteristics. While one model can produce outstanding portraits, at the same time, it can be terrible for shooting landscapes, and so on. Thus, before you purchase a specific camera, it is vital to decide, which type of shooting you do most often and consider an option that suits it the most.
This section of our comparison is devoted to the performance of Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800 in different fields of photography. Here we are going to look at the five main areas and evaluate how well each of the reviewed models performs in them. This will help you choose an option that suits your needs the most depending on your interest in one or several of these fields.
| Photography Type | Nikon Z 6 | Nikon D800 |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
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| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
Nikon Z 6 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (25 MP)
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Image Stabilization
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- You might not like Nikon skintone
Nikon D800 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (36 MP)
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- You might not like Nikon skintone
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon Z 6 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Image Stabilization
- Large Full frame(35.9 x 23.9 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (134 x 101 x 68 mm)
Nikon D800 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Large Full frame(35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- Big battery life (900 shots)
Disadvantages:
- Big size (146 x 123 x 82 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon Z 6 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Fast Continuous Shooting (12.0 fps)
- Environmental Sealing
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (273)
- Big size (134 x 101 x 68 mm)
Disadvantages:
- Small battery life (330 shots)
Nikon D800 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Environmental Sealing
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (51)
- Nice Low Light ISO (2853)
- Big size (146 x 123 x 82 mm)
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (4.0 fps)
- Small Number of CrossFocus Points (15)
- Bad Max Native ISO (6400)
Nikon Z 6 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (675 g)
- Big size (134 x 101 x 68 mm)
- No Built-in Flash
Nikon D800 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (900 g)
- Big size (146 x 123 x 82 mm)
Nikon Z 6 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (25 MP)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesNikon D800 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (36 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (14.4)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
- Nice Low Light ISO (2853)
Disadvantages:
- Bad Max Native ISO (6400)
Comparison of Nikon Z 6 vs Nikon D800: Final Verdict
Hopefully, our detailed overview of these models has helped you consider all the main specs, pros and cons of each cameras. Maybe, after reading this comparison, some of you have already decided which option to opt for depending on your needs and preferences. However, if you are still wondering which option is a better choice, Nikon Z 6 or Nikon D800, below you can see what scores each of them received in five different aspects. To wrap up, we have used our unique Decision Algorithm that assesses different camera models upon 63 different factors including their price, and, if possible, DxO Mark scores. This algorithm allows us to make our verdict more consistent and objective.
What is our final verdict? Based on our comparison and the final scores of Nikon Z 6 and Nikon D800 here is what we can say in conclusion:
According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Nikon D800 deserves a higher Total Score than the Nikon Z 6. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Nikon Z 6 vs Nikon D800 Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Nikon Z 6 | Nikon D800 | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | Z 6 | D800 |
| Announced | Aug 23, 2018 | Jun 11, 2012 |
| Body Type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless | Mid-size SLR |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | Full frame | Full frame |
| Sensor Dimensions | 35.9 x 23.9 mm | 35.9 x 24 mm |
| Sensor Area | 858.01 mm2 | 861.60 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 25.0 MP | 36.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 6048 x 4024 | 7360 x 4912 |
| Max Native ISO | 51,200 | 6,400 |
| Max Boosted ISO | 204,800 | 25,600 |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Nikon Z | Nikon F |
| Number of Lenses | 3 | 287 |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1x | 1x |
| Macro Focus Range | ||
| AutoFocus | ||
| AF Touch | |
 |
| AF Continuous | |
|
| AF Single | |
|
| AF Tracking | |
|
| AF Selective | |
|
| AF Center | |
|
| AF Multi Area | |
|
| AF Live View | |
|
| AF Face Detection | |
|
| AF Contrast Detection | |
|
| AF Phase Detection | |
|
| Number of Focus Points | 273 | 51 |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | n/a | 15 |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Tilting | Fixed Type |
| Screen Size | 3.2″ | 3.2″ |
| Screen Resolution | 2,100k dots | 921k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Electronic | Optical (pentaprism) |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 3,690k dots | 0k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | 0.8 | 0.7 |
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 s | 1/8000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 12.0 fps | 4.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 0 | 12 |
| Flash Modes | Front-curtain sync, slow sync, rear-curtain sync, red-eye reduction, red-eye reduction with slow sync, slow rear-curtain sync | Auto, Red-eye, Slow sync, Rear curtain, High-speed sync |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
|
| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM | 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps), 640 x 424 (24 fps) |
| Max Video Resolution | 3840 x 2160 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Video Formats | MPEG-4, H.264 | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| Microphone Port | |
|
| Headphone Port | |
|
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless Connectivity | |
|
| HDMI | |
|
| USB | USB 1 | USB 3.0 |
| Physical | ||
| Environmental Sealing | |
|
| Water Proof | |
|
| Dust Proof | |
|
| Shock Proof | |
|
| Crush Proof | |
|
| Freeze Proof | |
|
| Weight | 675 g | 900 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 134 x 101 x 68 mm | 146 x 123 x 82 mm |
| Battery Life | 330 shots | 900 shots |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | Battery Pack |
| Battery Model | n/a | EN-EL15 |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | Optional | |
| Storage Type | XQD card | Compact Flash (Type I), SD/SDHC/SDXC UHS-I compliant |
| Storage Slots | 1 | 2 |
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