RANKING

Rank 42 out of 52 Summarized in this category Rankings based on: • Pros-to-cons ratio • Number of reviews • Category average

Nikon

Z9

Name: Z9
Brand: Nikon

around $5000

All prices are estimates and may vary from actual prices.

479 Pros

69%
32 reviews (6h 5m)

214 Cons

Professional flagship full-frame mirrorless with 45MP stacked sensor for sports and fast action....

Summary of pros and cons from human reviewers, put together by AI

73%

95 vs 35

Video Capabilities

76%

68 vs 21

Image Quality

64%

83 vs 46

Build Quality and Design

80%

89 vs 22

Autofocus Performance

63%

46 vs 27

Connectivity and Features

Reviewer verdict

Across 32 YouTube reviews, the Nikon Z9 earns a Summa score of 3.8/5, ranking #42 among Mirrorless Cameras. Reviewers most often praise its video capabilities, autofocus performance, build quality and design, while the most common criticisms concern build quality and design, video capabilities.

The Nikon Z9 establishes itself as a top-tier professional tool, praised for its tank-like build quality, familiar ergonomics, and extensive customization. Its performance is a standout feature, offering blistering continuous shooting speeds up to 20fps in RAW with a blackout-free viewfinder that makes tracking subjects effortless. The advanced autofocus system is frequently cited as its best ever, with tenacious 3D tracking and highly accurate AI-based subject detection for people, animals, and vehicles. As a true hybrid camera, it pairs its 45.7MP high-resolution stills with powerhouse video capabilities, including internal 8K RAW recording and 4K at 120fps, all without the overheating issues that plague some competitors. Continuous firmware updates further enhance its already formidable feature set.

The Z9's primary drawbacks stem from its professional, DSLR-like form factor; it is frequently described as large, heavy, and bulky, which can cause fatigue during long shoots. Its extensive menu system, while powerful, is often called complex and intimidating for users unfamiliar with Nikon's professional layouts. While the rear screen is versatile, its tilting mechanism does not fully articulate, limiting its use for self-recording or vlogging. Some reviewers also note that the autofocus, while generally excellent, can struggle in very low light. The high cost of both the camera body and the required CFexpress cards presents a significant financial barrier for many.

Analysis based on 32 YouTube reviews (6h 5m of video) with 479 pros and 214 cons extracted.

Pros (479)

Video Capabilities (95)

Produces super smooth, nice-looking video files with no overheating ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 0:51
Effective IBIS (in-body image stabilization) with modes for sport and normal ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 3:16
Supports ProRes and 10-bit H.265 recording (4K60 ProRes and longer runtime on 10-bit H.265) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:51
8K60 RAW internal capability (future/spec) and robust 4K24 video performance ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 7:11
Excellent video capabilities: 8K30 and 4K up to 120fps; 10-bit H.265 recording ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 4:59
Smooth aperture changes/interface behavior for video (no abrupt jumps) ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 5:25
Video autofocus is very good with same subject/animal/face detection as stills ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 5:42
Best video functionality on any hybrid camera at the time: wide resolution and framerate options without crop, no overheating limitations, and raw video support ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 4:12
Native ProRes RAW support in addition to Nikon RAW, ProRes, and H.265 ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 4:48
Strong wedding video performance: great dynamic range, highlight retention, beautiful skin tone fidelity, and film-like highlight rolloff ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 10:05
Ability to shoot 4K 120 in RAW for extended periods without overheating (even in summer) ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 11:06
Early firmware updates added strong video features (internal 12-bit RAW, ProRes HQ, internal RAW video) ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 1:51
No external recorder needed for high-end video (AK60p and RAW and internal ProRes HQ) ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 1:40
Nikon Z9 is Nikon's best video camera to date and arguably the most powerful video camera in the mirrorless market. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 0:07
Stable and reliable hybrid video camera, especially for 8K and high frame rate recording. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 5:01
Straightforward resolution/frame rate selection (PAL/NTSC independent). ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 5:15
Rolling shutter is acceptable (passes) and comparable to Sony A1 or Canon R3; mostly noticeable in certain 8K/oversampled modes. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 8:07
Can record ProRes internally; robust internal recording options and viable external oversampled workflows. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 9:20
4K60 and 120 remain usable despite some softness; modes maintain dynamic range. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 9:40
H.265 internal gives slightly cleaner/noisier performance (about half-stop better) versus ProRes; overall around 12 stops usable dynamic range. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 9:49
Nikon's flat profile produces accurate, mostly finished color; N-Log is viable and Nikon updated LUTs provide good looks. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 11:24
Strong overall: passes or excels in all areas, extremely robust and reliable hybrid machine and a top hybrid mirrorless camera for video. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 12:36
Video interface and usability are strong; AF-on video tracking, usable LCD/EVF controls, and 2.0 firmware added waveforms ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 9:50
4K up to 60fps is oversampled from 8K sensor yielding more detailed, less noisy footage than competitors (e.g., A1) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 10:25
Can record internal RAW (8.3K) with good performance and relatively small file sizes compared to ProRes RAW ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 10:53
Internal compressed video quality is very good and often sufficient for most users ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 11:44
Continued firmware updates adding new features after launch ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 0:01
Improved substantially since launch — now better than at launch (features added) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 0:03
First Nikon to offer 8K video, later firmware added 8K 50/60 ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 4:39
Excellent 4K video options (including ProRes/RAW support) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 4:49
Extensive video capabilities: 12-bit 8K60, 4K120 in N-RAW, ProRes RAW up to 5K30, and strong combined photo/video specs ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 7:02
8K footage is crisp and high quality (if you have the storage and workflow to handle it) ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 7:37
Fast startup and immediate recording capability ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 8:28
Subject detection in video improved, including in tighter AF modes and showing focus points when high-res zoom is enabled — helpful for hybrid shooters. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 3:54
Most competent Nikon video camera to date: 8K H.265 recording for up to two hours without overheating ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 5:44
4K oversampled from full sensor and up to 120 fps with continuous AF and sound ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 5:55
Supports ProRes 422 HQ and H.265 10-bit for 8K/4K; upcoming firmware will add 8K 60p internal RAW (Tico RAW) ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 6:08
Video autofocus is fast, reliable and tracks faces/distant subjects smoothly ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 6:32
8K/4K oversampled video is extremely sharp with top-notch dynamic range in ProRes mode ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 6:55
Impressive video capabilities: internal 8K30 recording without record limits or overheating ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 4:21
Planned firmware update to enable 8K60 and other features ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 4:31
4K up to 120 fps; 4K30 and below downsampled from 8K for increased detail ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 4:37
Internal 10-bit recording and ProRes 422 HQ option ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 4:47
No video record limits and ability to shoot N-Log internally ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 4:54
Wide range of internal codecs available (no need for external recorder; supports ProRes and H.265 internally) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 1:39
Video powerhouse: 8K up to 60 fps, 4K up to 120 fps, and internal 12-bit RAW recording ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 3:14
Footage is crisp and detailed and camera doesn't overheat even in extended shots ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 3:30
N-Log and HLG profiles provide great dynamic range for color grading ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 3:37
Z9 is stuffed full of filmmaking features and capabilities ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 2:30
Autofocus works great in video mode and locks on faces reliably ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 6:07
Supports very high resolutions and frame rates (8K up to 60fps, 4K up to 120fps etc.) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 7:05
Internal 12-bit proprietary RAW and internal ProRes RAW support (after firmware) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 8:19
Extremely long 8K recording time (up to ~2 hours) without overheating limitation ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 7:37
N-Log picture profile supported across formats for good dynamic range ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 12:05
Future-proof feature set and very flexible frame rate/resolution/codecs options ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 10:48
Overall one of the best cameras available for filmmaking (high recommendation in a vacuum) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 15:01
Excellent slow-shutter panning performance, helped by blackout-free EVF and smooth viewfinder feed ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 8:02
Blackout-free viewfinder and high EVF frame rates (configurable up to very high rates) improve tracking and panning ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 8:14
Incredible in-body image stabilization — best the reviewer has used ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 1:19
Video capabilities: 4K30 up to 8K60, internal ProRes recording, no overheating ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 1:58
Footage looks beautiful with great detail and fantastic colors ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 2:08
Autofocus works very well for video and can track subjects across the viewfinder ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 2:15
Stacked sensor eliminates rolling shutter and wobble issues ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 2:57
Nikon Z9 shoots 10-bit 8K video out of the box (up to 30fps) and firmware adds 8K up to 60fps (N‑RAW or ProRes RAW) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 0:25
Can shoot 4K at 120 fps for 4x slow motion ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 1:24
8K downsampled to 4K improves image quality for a 4K workflow (future‑proofing) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 1:39
Multiple color/profile options (SDR, HLG, N‑Log) and View Assist for monitoring LOG as Rec709 ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 2:52
Waveforms and zebras (via firmware) help ensure correct exposure when shooting N‑Log ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 3:22
All resolution, file format and color features are available internally—no external recorder required (records to CFexpress Type B) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 3:34
Built‑in in‑body stabilization with three modes (Off, Normal, Sport) and no crop when using stabilization ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 3:51
Combining in‑body stabilization with stabilized lenses yields very smooth footage ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:11
Digital vibration reduction option for extra stabilization (with slight crop) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:21
Strong video capabilities: up to 12-bit RAW ProRes internal, ProRes 422 HQ, internal recording with log and HLG options. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 6:35
Low rolling shutter and good in-body stabilization make it a formidable hybrid (video + stills) camera. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 7:07
8K internal video and 4K 120fps internal video ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 0:59
Long 8K continuous recording: up to ~2 hours 5 minutes (thermal dissipation) ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 11:54
Internal 4K 10-bit ProRes and N-Log; firmware promised for 8K 60p 12-bit N-RAW and 4K 60p ProRes RAW ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 10:43
Firmware 5.3 adds view assist in video (same as Z8 and Z6/3) improving video workflow. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 2:01
Workarounds available for faster frame rates in RAW-like workflows (60 fps in Nikon RAW 12-bit) to capture action when needed. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 15:21
120 frames per second (jpeg) ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:27
Outstanding video features including 4K and 8K (with firmware 2.0 improving capabilities) ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:39
8K 60fps capability ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 0:04
8K and 4K video options (8K60, 4K120, oversampled 4K) with high bitrates and cinema capabilities ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 10:03
Virtual zoom for video: can crop up to 2x from full frame smoothly, adding versatility for video shooters ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 0:31
Virtual zoom works nicely and smoothly ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 0:38
Adds 60 fps mode (APS-C, 19MP JPEG) useful for sports and wildlife ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 0:59
60 fps mode supports pre-capture (go back in time) which is incredibly useful for capturing fast moments ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 1:14
Pre-capture works great for shorebirds/pulling fish sequences ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 2:11
Exceptional video functionalities, codecs and resolutions (e.g., 8K 60fps ProRes RAW, RAW 4K 60 and 120fps) ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 0:19
Can shoot up to 8K RAW at up to 60 fps ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 1:32
Can shoot 8K H.265 up to 30 fps ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 1:43
Internal ProRes 422 and ProRes RAW (up to 4K) recording ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 1:48
Built-in professional-level specs comparable to much more expensive cinema cameras ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 2:11
Can record RAW plus 1080p proxy simultaneously, speeding up workflow ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 8:18
No rolling shutter visible in 8K footage ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 2:38

Autofocus Performance (89)

Fast and dense autofocus points that move quickly and accurately ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 3:56
120 fps 4K (JPEG-only 11MP) and 20 fps continuous shooting at full 45.7MP (RAW) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 8:30
Excellent autofocus tracking at high frame rates; images remain in focus at 20 fps and 120 fps ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 8:56
Extremely fast overall performance: quick focus, reaction time, and shooting speeds ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 2:01
20 fps with full AF and RAW shooting ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 2:14
30 fps JPEG-only shooting ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 2:28
Up to 120 fps (JPEG small) for high-speed capture ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 2:34
Best autofocus system seen by reviewer — many focus modes and accurate subject detection (faces, animals, vehicles) ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 2:49
Effective 3D-tracking that holds focus while moving the camera ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 3:17
Stacked CMOS sensor provides no viewfinder blackout and continuous tracking ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 3:53
Reliable subject tracking even with occlusions (brief loss then regain) ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 4:17
Focus limiter available and easily accessible in My Menu to limit focus range and make AF snappier ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 3:22
Function to cycle subject detection (people/animals/birds/vehicles/airplanes/off) on a front button for fast switching ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 7:52
Ability to set a dedicated bird-in-flight mode (auto area AF + bird detect + 20 fps) via a function button ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 12:29
Auto area autofocus with bird detect works well for birds in flight; lets you keep display button as display ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 12:51
Autofocus system sufficient for professional applications and improved via firmware updates (e.g., firmware 3.0) ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 5:28
Very large raw buffer (1000 images) and high-speed shooting (20 fps raw and 120 fps JPEG) that performed well for sports like springboard diving ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 7:43
Auto focus kept up in slower-paced film set environments when pre-locked; base ISO 800 provides dynamic range and flexibility ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 12:51
Reliable photo autofocus and subject detection (eye/body switching) during engagement shoot delivering strong results ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 13:42
Insanely fast autofocus that rivals or even beats Sony in some cases ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 2:21
Blackout-free 120 fps bursts (great for wildlife/sports) ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 1:33
Autofocus slightly improved over Z6 II; good tracking options including people/animals/vehicle eye detection and intelligent auto mode. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 5:24
EVF has basically no lag and with firmware can go to 120fps, making it capable for sports and wildlife tracking ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 3:44
Very capable autofocus: excellent face and eye detect, strong animal detection, reliable 3D/real-time tracking ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 8:02
Industry-leading speed and performance when launched ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 0:37
Precapture feature for catching missed moments ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 5:15
Very strong autofocus (animals, people, birds, planes, etc.) and reliable tracking ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 5:21
Performs well in very low light / can find eyes in near total darkness ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 5:41
Improved autofocus with readings up to 120 fps and 3D focus tracking for faster, more accurate subject tracking ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 2:49
Much better subject tracking and eye AF features (including indicators to switch between eyes) ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 3:37
Autofocus improved — better detection, acquisition, and subject tracking, especially for fast-moving subjects like birds, athletes, wildlife, kids, and unpredictable subjects. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 1:45
Subject detection now works in more AF modes (including single point AF and dynamic area AF), allowing more precise AF while retaining subject detection. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 2:02
Expanded focus area size options for wide area AF custom modes, providing more coverage flexibility. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 2:34
Added focus limiting option useful for sports, macro, motorsports, and scenarios with known subject distance ranges. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 2:42
Auto capture improvements — now supports face detection and better focus reset behavior after shooting, improving reliability for remote/wildlife/fixed-camera setups. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 3:30
Very fast shooting: up to 20 fps at full resolution and up to 120 fps (11MP JPEGs) ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 3:07
Hybrid phase-detect autofocus with lots of AF tracking points and reliable subject tracking ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 3:38
Excellent face, eye, and animal detection that's fast and accurate even at distance ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 3:52
Exceptional 3D tracking autofocus (tenacious subject tracking, robust in obstructed scenes) across the entire frame ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 2:52
Subject detection AF for people (face/eye/torso) and many animals/vehicles (planes, trains, bikes, birds, dogs, cats) ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 3:40
High-speed burst shooting: 20 fps RAW, 30 fps JPEG, up to 120 fps at 11MP ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 3:56
Excellent autofocus system (fast, tunable, reliable eye-AF) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 3:42
Customizable focus boxes for precise subject tracking (useful for stationary tripod shots) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 4:10
Very fast shooting: up to 30 fps JPEG and 20 fps RAW with full AF and AE tracking ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 2:18
Huge buffer allowing over 1,000 JPEGs in burst ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 2:20
Massively upgraded autofocus with 193 AF points covering nearly the entire frame and deep learning AI-based subject detection (humans, animals, birds, cars, bikes) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 2:37
Lightning-fast and sticky eye-detection autofocus ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 2:47
AI-based subject detection to focus on various objects ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 6:19
20 fps (Formula One level) continuous shooting increases keeper rate and lets you choose peak moments ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 0:56
Very good AF system and subject detection (especially after Firmware 2.1); accurate and hangs onto targets ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 8:37
Subject detection works in Auto/3D/Wide AF areas and helps lock onto face/eye allowing recomposition ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 8:51
Customizable AF areas (C1/C2) and flexible AF workflows (one-by-one, wide areas, 3D) for varied situations ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 10:49
Very strong eye and face-detect autofocus (much better than Z6/Z7 II) ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 11:18
Excellent/superior eye autofocus and face detect overall ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 14:02
Autofocus performance improved significantly with firmware 3.1 and is now reliable in the field ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 5:43
Combining wide-area custom + 3D tracking yields very good autofocus results for birds ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 5:55
Custom workflow (assigning wide-area to shutter, AF-ON for 3D) allows one-button focusing and consistent results ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 7:05
Handles subjects coming directly at the camera very well ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 11:23
Improved at tracking small birds among branches and leaves compared to earlier firmware ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 11:34
Firmware 5.3 adds multiple focus enhancements, improving subject acquisition, tracking, and stability for fast-moving subjects such as athletes. ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 0:53
Deep learning autofocus now works in other focusing modes (single point and dynamic AF), making it easier to track the correct subject. ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 1:09
Ongoing autofocus improvements over time (firmware 5.3 continues to refine AF performance). ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 1:21
Advanced autofocus powered by deep learning that detects and tracks a very wide range of subjects (people, animals, vehicles, birds, planes, etc.) in stills and video without changing settings ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:56
Improved AF and strong subject tracking performance (fast to achieve focus and keep tracking subjects). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 4:56
Custom wide area AF and tweaked AF algorithms (Z8 claimed slightly better than Z9), implying strong AF system in Z9 family. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 5:09
Updated autofocus with 493 focus points, 3D detection and advanced subject tracking ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 1:06
Excellent subject-detection AF (people, animals, vehicles, motorbikes) and 3D tracking performs extremely well in fast action ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 1:38
Advanced eye detection (detects small eyes) and Starlight AF down to -8.5 EV ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 7:41
Maximum aperture live view and focus limiter setting (from Z8) added — useful professional-level feature. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 3:20
Focus limiter works with tested lenses (Nikon Z 135mm and Viltrox 135mm) — practical and effective. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 3:49
Subject detection can now be toggled on/off via a user-defined function button (useful for action photographers). ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 4:58
Overall autofocus performance improved across the board (better subject acquisition). ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 5:21
Human tracking improved — tracking is 'stickier' and less likely to jump to background. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 5:43
Subject detection added for single point AF and dynamic area AF. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 7:01
20 frames per second full raw no blackout ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:21
Fast for sports and wildlife (high speed, 120 FPS photo capability) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 0:07
493-point AI subject autofocus with strong subject recognition and tracking (including 3D tracking) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 6:03
Long detection range and Starlight View mode (down to -6.5 EV to +8.5 EV) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 6:56
High continuous raw shooting (20 FPS raw for >1000 frames with compression) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 7:04
Continues shooting even when slowing (keeps taking uncompressed RAW + JPEG after long bursts) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 7:24
Pre- and post-release functions to avoid missing action ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 8:19
Customizable wide area C1 and C2 extended to match Z6III and Z8, giving larger coverage and more focusing area customization (horizontal/vertical). ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 1:16
Subject detection can now be used in any autofocusing area, including single point and dynamic areas. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 2:04
Ability to pick which AF areas have subject detection active (fine-grained control). ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 2:48
Improvements to 3D tracking for better lock-on and focusing of fast-moving, unpredictable subjects (sports, wildlife). ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 5:27
Reduced instances of the camera focusing on background instead of subject for portraiture/single-subject scenarios (improved reliability). ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 6:27
Autofocus in 60 fps APS-C mode is as good as a Sony A1 and better than a Canon R5 (per reviewer) ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 3:03
Improvements to autofocus (3D tracking and subject detection) find small subjects in frame better than before ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 5:51
Excellent autofocus for photo and video ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 6:50

Build Quality and Design (83)

Feels finished and production-ready; overall very impressive performance and build ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 9:24
Lighter and slightly smaller body compared to the D6 ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 0:19
Very solid, well-built body with many programmable custom buttons ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 0:44
Tilting and fully pivoting screen (vertical mode supported) ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 0:59
Very fast OLED viewfinder (120 fps), very large and blackout-free ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 1:30
Hybrid silent operation (mirrorless) with optional artificial shutter sound and adjustable volume for feedback ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 6:20
Familiar ergonomic feel and professional build quality; button layout and controls similar to Canon flagships making switching easier ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 1:46
Superb build quality and weather sealing ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 2:17
Raw horsepower and rugged build ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 7:03
Ergonomics familiar to Nikon shooters with plenty of buttons and overall decent controls. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 0:57
Well-built, tank-like construction with sensor protector despite no mechanical shutter. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 2:12
Improved and more flexible rear screen motion including portrait tilt for vertical shots. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 3:06
Large, heavy body provides a very stable platform and excellent ergonomics/controls ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 1:50
Unibody pro body that users love (rugged magnesium unibody design) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 0:23
No mechanical shutter (fully electronic) reduces a mechanical failure point ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 0:30
Blackout-free, big bright EVF ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 3:47
Good heat dissipation for heavy video workflows (handles spicy codecs) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 4:57
No overheating in stressful conditions (author never experienced shutdown) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 6:11
Build is solid, heavy professional body (nearly three pounds / 1,340 grams) that feels like a true pro camera and is comfortable to hold for long periods ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 0:03
Familiar professional Nikon layout and ergonomics (inspired by F5/D1) with many physical controls ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 1:33
Extensive customizability: nine customizable buttons, four custom setting banks and huge custom function mapping ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 4:38
Robust weather sealing and durable construction; rubber flaps and sturdy LCD that clears the eyepiece ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 5:49
3.2-inch LCD that extends and rotates 90 degrees and feels sturdy ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 6:02
Body contours and grip designed for use with long lenses—comfortable for many hand sizes ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 6:20
Nice big grip that imparts a feeling of security and stability with large lenses ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 1:14
Generous array of manual controls and matching controls for portrait mode ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 1:21
Blackout-free EVF performance with smooth output and no repeating/skipping frames ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 2:16
No mechanical shutter is a non-issue and contributes to camera capability ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 7:36
Professional-level design aimed at pro shooters, journalists and sports photographers ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 0:10
Large body with vertical grip that balances large lenses (preferred by some users) ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 0:28
Extremely solid build quality with backlit buttons, dials and full manual controls including dedicated vertical controls ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 0:52
Top LCD and main LCD for information and control ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:08
3.69 million dot electronic viewfinder ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:19
Sensor shield that protects against dust when exposed ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:31
Electronic shutter only with very fast flash sync speed (~1/200th) and well-controlled rolling shutter ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 2:06
Large buffer capacity depending on settings (30–150+ to 1000+ shots with HE compression) ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 4:06
Flip screen is very useful — provides different shooting positions that are easier on the neck and maintain connection with the subject ▶ NIKON Z9 REVIEW - I could not believe my EYES!!!! @ 1:05
Flip screen lets you look down at the screen while still capturing and staying connected with the subject ▶ NIKON Z9 REVIEW - I could not believe my EYES!!!! @ 1:39
Durability and build quality: holds up well after heavy use for years ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 2:29
Reliable thermal performance (has not overheated even in hot conditions while recording 4K60) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 2:51
Built like a tank with a robust magnesium alloy body and weather sealing for tough environments ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 0:24
Built-in vertical grip that feels comfortable and ergonomic ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 0:33
Deep textured grip with dual shutter buttons and controls optimized for landscape and portrait shooting ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 0:48
Well balanced despite heavy weight (~2.9 lbs with battery and cards) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 0:57
Thoughtful ergonomics: well-placed customizable buttons, good joystick sensitivity, and organized menus (Eye Menu) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 4:31
Very well put together and ergonomically feels great to hold ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 4:01
Shutter Shield protects sensor from dust and damage (more robust than typical mechanical shutter) ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 4:06
Build quality — rugged and weather-resistant (survived snow, rain, dust, mud) ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 14:11
No mechanical shutter (eliminates number one failure point) ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 1:21
Built like a tank — feels super sturdy and well made ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 0:37
Robust pro build: substantial weight (~3 pounds), fully sealed and weather‑gasketed ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:16
Four‑axis tilt rear screen useful for varied shooting angles and vertical filming ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:33
Shares many similarities with the Z9 in looks and body design (prism, buttons, dials). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 0:32
Tilting/flippy screen similar to the Z9. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 0:55
Lighter and very nice in the hands compared to heavy DSLRs (900 g vs over 1 kg for D850). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 1:59
Completely electronic shutter (no mechanical shutter), enabling silent shooting. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 1:47
Massive, bright viewfinder with minimal blackout — excellent EVF performance. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 6:13
Well-balanced body, good grip for longer lenses and comfortable for larger hands. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 7:44
Blackout-free shooting through the viewfinder ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 0:56
Electronic shutter optimized to minimize rolling shutter / motion distortion ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 3:01
Very quiet/elevated speed of electronic shutter (can adjust audible volume) ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 4:33
Blackout-free continuous viewfinder helps maintain subject continuity ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 5:57
Robust, professional build quality (magnesium alloy, dust and moisture sealing) ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 11:20
Built-in sensor shield to protect exposed sensor when changing lenses (important because no mechanical shutter) ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 11:34
Integrated vertical grip (good for vertical shooting and heat dissipation) and screen text rotates in portrait mode ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 11:47
Vibration reduction with sensor lock to prevent damage when not in use ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 12:41
Durable — can withstand mud, dirt and harsh conditions; reliable for professional sports/assignment work ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 9:36
Z9 remains the best all-rounder: strong build, uni-body design with integrated vertical grip and large battery, excellent battery life, and >24MP resolution — unique in market. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 12:13
Pro body mirrorless with no shutter mechanism ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:12
Amazing EVF (electronic viewfinder) ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:35
Large grip and big battery (EN-1 18 battery, long battery life) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 0:30
No mechanical shutter (electronic shutter with sensor shield) enabling high shutter speeds and fast readout ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 0:58
Very fast readout and processing (new XPEED 7 processor, claimed fastest sensor scan rate) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 1:21
Very high fastest shutter speed (1/132,000s) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 1:35
Built-in vertical grip with extra controls (extra shutter, ISO, FN, AF buttons and two extra scroll wheels) useful for vertical shooting ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 2:08
Illuminated top LCD and buttons (helpful in low light) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 2:47
Many customizable buttons and function banks (highly configurable) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 3:43
Blackout-free, lag-free electronic viewfinder (3,000 nit, 3.69M pixels) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 4:15
Touch monitor that tilts 90° in both directions and rotates information in vertical mode ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 4:52
Design/backstory gives user a sense of familiarity and homecoming from previous Nikon flagships ▶ Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! @ 3:46
Many customizable buttons and very good control placement/ergonomics (comfortable on/off and shutter placement) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 5:22
Unique, well-built articulating/swivel screen with good ergonomics ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 7:07
When it does shut down from heat on normal settings, data remains intact and files finish writing ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 11:53

Image Quality (68)

Selectable image area (DX mode) to reach farther with lenses ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 2:56
Active D-Lighting (extra high) produces pleasing JPEGs straight out of camera ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:53
Excellent high-ISO JPEG quality (ISO 1000 shown) and good handheld low-light performance ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 5:47
Very strong IBIS allowing handheld exposures as long as 1s with usable detail ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:41
Excellent image quality: 45 megapixels with sharpness and low ISO noise in low light ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 4:39
Bracketing burst lets you quickly fire bracketed exposures as a burst while handheld ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 7:00
Excellent high-ISO performance allowing shooting up to ISO 16,000 usable for sports (with noise reduction workflows) ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 9:13
Nikon RAW provides color depth and flexibility for grading; easy to balance Rec709 and key skin tones ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 12:26
Gorgeous 45 megapixel stacked sensor ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 2:28
Phenomenal image quality ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 7:09
IBIS performs well; weight plus IBIS gives good handheld stabilization ('human tripod' experience); sport IBIS mode works well with stabilized lenses. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 7:33
Noise is well-controlled across ISO range; usable beyond ISO 12,800 and shows behavior like a second native ISO around ISO 4000. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 11:51
Shutterless (electronic shutter only) avoids mechanical shutter shock, giving very sharp results and reduced motion blur from the camera ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:26
Excellent high ISO performance ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:56
Image quality is excellent and competitive with Sony A1 and Z7 II for most uses ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 7:09
Flexibility in RAW compression: high-efficiency lossy modes extend buffer with acceptable image quality loss ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:00
Extremely fast sensor (minimizes rolling shutter and related drawbacks) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 0:35
Insane maximum shutter speeds up to 1/132,000 sec (useful for very fast apertures in bright light) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 4:27
Excellent image quality, dynamic range generally better than older Nikon DSLRs except extreme high ISO ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 7:59
New 45.7MP stacked full-frame CMOS sensor with X-Processor 7 enabling 20 fps RAW shooting for well over 1,000 frames (with fast cards) ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 2:43
Excellent highlight recovery and dynamic range in properly exposed shots; deep blacks, true-to-life colors and very high detail ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 3:54
New picture controls (flat monochrome, deep tone monochrome) and support for flexible color picture controls, offering more in-camera look control and reducing reliance on post-processing. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 3:03
45.7 megapixel sensor delivering sharp images and plenty of resolution ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 0:14
First mirrorless camera with no mechanical shutter, relying on fast sensor to minimize jello/electronic shutter issues ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 0:20
Stacked BSI CMOS sensor with fast readout reducing rolling shutter/skew; practically no rolling shutter in normal use ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 4:15
5-axis in-body stabilization reducing blur (claimed six stops) ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 4:27
Wide dynamic range (second only to Z7) and 14-bit RAW capture for flexibility in post ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 4:46
JPEGs look nice straight out of camera; colors are accurate ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 5:04
Reasonable low-light performance with controlled grain up to ISO 6400 and usable at ISO 12800 ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 5:19
45MP backside-illuminated stacked full-frame sensor delivering very good picture quality and lots of detail ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:56
In-body image stabilization that pairs with lens stabilization to assist handheld shooting ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 2:33
Excellent detail resolution — images reveal incredible fine detail and allow heavy cropping (can crop in a lot without losing detail) ▶ NIKON Z9 REVIEW - I could not believe my EYES!!!! @ 1:59
Color reproduction is impressive ▶ NIKON Z9 REVIEW - I could not believe my EYES!!!! @ 4:41
Makes subjects look better than in real life (renders scenes with enhanced clarity/impact) ▶ NIKON Z9 REVIEW - I could not believe my EYES!!!! @ 0:56
Strong color science and natural-looking colors with good dynamic range out of camera ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 2:03
45.7MP stacked CMOS sensor delivering phenomenal image quality, outstanding dynamic range, impressive low-light performance, and top-tier detail retention ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 1:40
Natural skin tones and accurate colors with clean, vibrant files offering lots of post-processing latitude ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 1:58
In-body image stabilization (IBIS) that is good and usable ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 5:54
Good low-light performance (usable up to around ISO 12,800) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 13:45
High-quality files and raw performance similar to D850/Z7 series; good color and flexible RAWs ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 5:38
Good high-ISO performance usable up to ISO 3200–6400 depending on framing and subject ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 6:22
45.7 MP stacked CMOS sensor ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 1:37
Equipped with a 45MP stacked BSI sensor that delivers fantastic photos with great detail ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 0:48
Very good for photos at very low shutter speeds handheld (if subject not moving) ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 1:31
Files have great colors and fantastic detail and clean up well with noise reduction workflows ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 2:34
Shooting RAW provides ultimate color grading flexibility and generates a 1080p proxy for editing ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 1:03
Full‑frame sensor with crop mode to get a second focal length from the same lens ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 2:03
Very pleasing straight‑out‑of‑camera colors and skin tones (good for quick turnaround without grading) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 2:17
Strong low‑light/high ISO performance with selectable noise reduction levels (low/normal/high) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 5:45
High burst rate capability (120 fps) with pre-burst, good for fast-moving subjects. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 3:15
Excellent stills performance (45 megapixels) and overall flagship-level capability. ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 4:26
Full-frame 45.7MP BSI stacked CMOS sensor with new EXPEED 7 processor for very fast, reliable performance ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 0:27
Very high continuous shooting: 20 fps RAW with ~1000-frame buffer ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 0:48
Additional high-speed JPEG modes: 30 fps full-res JPEG and 120 fps at 11MP JPEG ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 3:40
Impressive native ISO range and low-light capability (ISO 64 to 25600) ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 4:07
Flexible Picture Controls additions including flat monochrome and deep tone monochrome. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 2:15
Amazing low light performance ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:21
45 megapixel high-resolution pro body (first high megapixel pro body for the reviewer) ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:32
45 megapixel sensor (high resolution) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 0:38
DX crop (20 MP) mode for extra reach ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 8:52
Accurate auto white balance (AI-based) and excellent color rendition ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 9:01
Effective in-camera high ISO noise reduction (better than Adobe Camera Raw in tests) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 9:12
Strong IBIS (image stabilization) allowing very slow handheld shutter speeds ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 9:50
New monochrome picture controls (deep tone, monochrome, flat monochrome) added to picture control menu, affecting stills and video. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 1:32
Reviewer has taken many great pictures with the z9 over the year; camera is capable of outstanding results ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 7:41
True hybrid camera that delivers stellar image quality and speed for photography ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 0:11
Ability to shoot in Nikon's proprietary N-Log, giving lots of dynamic range and good in-log colors ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 3:42
Beautiful image quality and great dynamic range ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 3:37

Connectivity and Features (46)

Dual CFexpress card slots (supports very fast cards) ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 1:13
Multiple connectivity options including Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, and LAN (ethernet) ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 5:54
Two CFexpress Type B card slots and reliable performance with recommended cards ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 3:08
Dual CFexpress Type-B card slots and ability to record internally and externally simultaneously with on-screen info on external monitor (including 4K) without screens blacking out. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 2:29
Full-size HDMI Type-A port and fixed output lag issue (HDMI and LCD now in sync). ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 2:53
3.5mm mic and headphone ports with menu control for mic level, frequency range, and attenuator. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 6:10
Nikon has been improving the camera via firmware updates (added internal 8K, autofocus speed improvements) ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 9:45
Dual CFexpress card slots (no SD) for uncompromised speed and backup ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 2:24
USB-C 3.2 for transfers/storage, ethernet for remote shooting, and full-size HDMI ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 2:50
Comprehensive connectivity: mic, headphone, ethernet, USB-C and full-size HDMI ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:21
Dual CFexpress Type B card slots (also compatible with XQD) ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:26
Firmware updates added professional codecs and workflow features (ProRes, RAW support, waveform monitors, improved algorithms), showing strong futureproofing ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 4:59
Dual CFexpress Type B card slots and built-in Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and Ethernet for fast transfers and workflow efficiency ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 4:13
Full-size HDMI, USB-C with power delivery, headphone/mic inputs and ethernet — extensive ports ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 4:12
Dual CFexpress Type B card slots (provides backup workflow potential) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 4:26
High Efficiency RAW (HEIF/HEIF-like) supported and useful for deeper buffer / saving card space ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 5:49
Fast Focus Shift shooting for focus stacking—quick stacks increase success with antsy macro subjects ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 7:27
Uses CFexpress cards which have potential for very high speed ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 1:40
Has two fast CFexpress Type B card slots and a decent sized battery ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 0:59
Nikon continually improves the camera via firmware updates (noticeable improvements from 1.0 to 3.1) ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 12:49
Auto capture functions (camera trap style) updated with improved autofocus — built into the Z9 (feature not present on Canon and Sony according to the reviewer). ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 1:36
Support for flexible color picture control in NX Studio — user-generated presets that can be installed and shared. ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 1:58
Supports Nikon's N-RAW — significantly smaller RAW file format and records internally to card ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 0:47
3.5mm mic jack and headphone jack; captures 24‑bit linear audio ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:37
Full‑size HDMI with clean output up to 8K and ability to simultaneously record externally (4K60) and internally with no blackout ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 7:20
Includes an SD card slot in addition to the faster card slot (ease of migration for users with SD cards). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 1:01
Two USB ports: one for communications and one for charging (flexible connectivity/charging options). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 5:23
Two CFexpress Type B card slots and a wide selection of ports (full HDMI, mic, headphone, 10-pin, USB-C, Ethernet, PC sync) ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 12:20
Significant ongoing firmware upgrades (3, 4, 5, 51, 52, 53) showing continuous improvement (Kaizen-level). ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 0:52
New, unique feature related to teleconverter/toggle (described as not in other Nikon/Z cameras). ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 2:40
Advancements to Auto Capture: improved AF standby position, operability, and general performance. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 3:07
Many of the additions are real-world useful tools photographers will actually use (focus limiter, teleconverter behavior, AF improvements, auto capture). ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 9:00
Firmware 5.3 offers genuinely useful features for photographers who will use them (auto capture, AF, teleconverter usability). ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 14:53
Firmware 2.0 further improves the Z9 ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:43
Wired and high-speed wireless connectivity (RJ45 ethernet, 5 GHz Wi‑Fi, USB-C tethering) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 5:15
Dual CFexpress Type B / XQD card slots with flexible recording options (sequential, backup, separate RAW/JPEG) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 5:33
High efficiency RAW options to reduce file size ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 7:09
Arrived with firmware version 3.0 already installed (no need to update) ▶ Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! @ 5:12
Firmware 5.3 adds features from newer Z cameras (Z8, Z6III) bringing long-awaited functionality to the Z9. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 0:12
Focus limiter feature added to the Z9, useful across different photography types. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 0:46
Lenses with built-in teleconverters can now automatically switch image area (FX to DX) when TC engaged, combining 1.4x TC with DX crop for extra reach; behavior configurable (stay in DX or revert to FX). ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 6:53
Firmware v3 adds huge changes addressing earlier problems ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 0:07
Nikon is committed to firmware updates and improvements ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 8:06
HDMI output supports RAW (e.g., to Ninja V) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 2:01
Two CFexpress Type B card slots (fast, reliable, and uniform media) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 7:32
Provides practically all the functions/feature set a run-and-gun videographer might want ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 13:17

Ease of Use (31)

Extensive customization and large menu system suited for a flagship body ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 2:42
Visual confirmation lines for silent (electronic) shutter to indicate when a photo is taken ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:25
Large touchscreen with touch controls ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 1:54
Firmware 5.3 adds cool new features that improve workflow and camera controls ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 0:45
Can download and load the reviewer's custom settings to follow along (easy setup/backup) ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 1:28
Custom control shooting lets you customize subject detection options and buttons ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 4:43
Multiple banks (A/B/C/D) allow tailored setups for different shooting types (everyday, action, landscape, night) ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 5:46
Recall Shooting Functions Hold: quickly switch to an action mode (20 fps, specific shutter/aperture/ISO) with one button ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 9:33
Landscape bank retains convenient tools like bracketing burst and quick access to focus peaking ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 15:27
Overall flexibility and programmability of buttons and banks simplifies complex camera capabilities ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 4:52
Firmware 5.3 addresses long-requested features (e.g., on‑button subject-detection cycle) improving usability ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 8:44
Ability to toggle subject detection on/off with a custom button (FM button) for greater control. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 2:20
Quality-of-life updates (loop playback, auto rotate during playback, filtered playback by date, better audio control access) that make the camera smoother to use. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 4:04
3.2 inch touchscreen that is relatively sharp and bright ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 1:48
Dedicated AF mode button for quick AF changes ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:02
Inspires shooting and exploration — motivated spontaneous outings and yielded enjoyable results over extended use ▶ NIKON Z9 REVIEW - I could not believe my EYES!!!! @ 4:49
3.2 in 4-axis tilting touchscreen LCD that is sharp, responsive, and useful for overhead and low-angle shots ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 1:06
Excellent electronic viewfinder: 3.69 million dots, zero blackout, real-time viewing without lag ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 1:22
Lots of physical controls (many buttons) making features accessible ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 4:02
Tilting touchscreen that can tilt up/down and side-to-side ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 5:13
Dedicated toggle between photo and video modes ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 5:29
Ability to change lens focus rotation direction to match other brands (eases lens switching) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 6:28
Flip screen that works in both horizontal and vertical orientations, enabling low/vertical shooting while retaining professional AF performance ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 2:43
Very fast startup from powered-off state (fastest mirrorless camera the reviewer has used) ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 4:47
You can toggle subject detection on and off with a custom function button. ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 1:29
Firmware option to add a red recording frame on the screen as a recording indicator ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:50
Issues resolved and general bug fixes / operability improvements included. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 9:27
Focus limiter can be customized directly onto function buttons for quick access. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 1:04
Cycle subject detection can be assigned to a function button, allowing quick cycling between detection types (humans, animals, vehicles) without menu diving. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 3:24
You can place cycle AF area, cycle subject detection, and focus limiter onto function buttons for full AF control from three buttons. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 4:01
Overall gives more customization and quicker control over autofocus and image-area behavior without diving into menus. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 4:13

Value for Money (28)

Reviewer’s favorite features: speed, image quality, and blackout-free viewfinder; overall declared best available right now ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 7:24
Versatile across genres (portrait, wildlife, sports, landscapes, events) ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 2:32
Overall considered one of the best hybrid (photo+video) full-frame cameras available ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 13:34
First Nikon mirrorless to really compete with/beat competition in many areas ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 0:42
More power and image quality than previous pro bodies; good value for performance (priced competitively) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 8:23
Considered the best Nikon pro body and arguably the best camera overall by the reviewer ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 8:31
Overall a flagship-level camera aimed at working professionals with top-tier specs ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 9:21
Overall polish — firmware 5.3 refines an already elite camera and reinforces the Z9 as a long-term investment for pros. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 4:19
Cheaper than Sony A1 by about $1000 and will have higher 8K frame rates after firmware update ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 7:48
Versatile and powerful for both photo and video; great choice for pros who don't want to compromise ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 7:30
Overall a high-end mirrorless successor to Nikon's pro DSLRs, well suited for sports shooters and journalists ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 5:10
Revolutionary camera that changes the way we shoot ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 0:04
Longevity and continued relevance; recommended to buy used/refurbished even 3 years later ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 6:55
Balanced package for hybrid shooters combining high-res stills, high burst speeds, top-tier AF, professional video and reliability ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 5:35
Recommended for professionals who need performance, reliability, and trustworthiness ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 6:04
Feature-rich camera overall and recommended for wildlife work ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 14:00
Surprisingly good price for a flagship — $5,500 (cheaper than expected) ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 4:31
Recommended for professionals (weddings, commercials, promos) — feature set suits paid work ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 8:56
Z9 continues to receive substantial free functionality additions effectively extending its capabilities (compared favorably to getting later models features at zero cost). ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 11:07
The Z9 could do almost everything the reviewer wanted — versatile and capable ▶ Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review @ 6:12
Includes useful accessories in the box (manuals, warranty info, USB-C cable, battery, charger) ▶ Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! @ 1:45
Author is excited and confident to use it for upcoming professional shoots (implies suitability for pro work) ▶ Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! @ 5:52
Virtual zoom is a huge value add for video shooters ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 0:55
Nikon made the best APS-C wildlife camera ever (for those who can afford it) ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 3:15
Fantastic camera full of features and functions ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 0:04
Versatile for many types of photography (studio, wedding, sports, portraits, wildlife) ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 6:57
Camera truly excels in every category (overall high performance) ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 7:06
Considered a phenomenal video camera and possibly best-in-class at its $6,000 price point (great sensor for the dollar) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 12:51

Battery Life (17)

Uses the higher-capacity EN-EL18d battery ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 0:34
USB-C with power delivery to charge or slow battery discharge; can run for several hours with USB-PD. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 4:08
Impressive battery life: close to three hours of 8K recording on a full charge and no overheating. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 4:15
30-minute limit removed; now a two-hour-and-five-minute recording limit (allows back-to-back recording). ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 4:32
Large battery life (important for high EVF refresh rate and video features) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 2:44
Practically limitless continuous shooting with CFexpress cards (very high frame rates and huge image counts) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 4:03
Large battery with long real-world battery life (better than ratings) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 6:00
Huge battery delivering ~740 shots per charge and over two hours of 4K video ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 2:41
Uses EN-EL18d batteries (compatible with earlier EN-EL18 versions) and has extremely long battery life ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:37
Ability to charge the battery in-camera via USB ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:49
Excellent battery life (can go through only two batteries on a 10-hour wedding day filming 4K60) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 1:08
Large battery size preferred over Z8 for long 4K60 shoots ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 1:16
Strong battery life (well over 700 shots per charge) and USB-C charging/power delivery ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 3:52
Large battery with excellent battery life (easily lasts 2–3 hours) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 13:11
USB-C charging support (PD charging in-camera) so you can charge a battery without buying extra charger ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 5:11
Good battery life: ~170 minutes filming (8K) on a full charge with no overheating; heat tolerance settings ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 7:01
Compatibility with EN-EL18 series batteries; shipped EN-EL18d rated ~700 frames per charge ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 12:09

Other (16)

Fast CFexpress card workflow — large transfers (75 GB) download very quickly ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 10:35
Dedicated wireless shotgun mic option — convenient audio without cables ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 3:31
Feels like holding a flagship DSLR (D3/D4) — very 'beefy' and comfortable in hand ▶ Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! @ 2:51
60 fps autofocus performance is excellent — locks reliably and repeatedly (better than 20 fps mode) ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 2:36
60 fps mode is valuable for sports — lets you wait and confirm moment before capturing ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 5:31
Tiny form factor — much smaller than FX3 and comparable Canon, because it doesn't need a fan ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 1:41
No fan — means no noise, lower battery consumption, less dust ingress ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 1:58
Big, bright, high-quality screen — best/brightest on paper and easily viewable outdoors and indoors, helpful for framing and checking focus/audio ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 2:24
6K video (and Red RAW support) — high quality video (Red RAW/ProRes support) ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 3:41
32-bit float audio for internal mic and inputs — improved onboard audio capability ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 3:16
New hot shoe system with terminals — modern connectivity (similar to Sony) ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 3:13
Good value/price compared to Canon, Sony, and even Nikon Z6‑3 — strong feature-to-price ratio ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 3:48
Uses existing Z batteries and CFexpress Type B cards — no need to buy new media or batteries ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 3:06
Reliable thermal performance in normal to hot conditions — rarely shows heat warnings during extended recording in sun (~30–32°C) ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 8:30
Can be set to higher heat limits to allow very long continuous recording (tested ~1.5+ hours without shutdown in high‑heat mode) ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 11:09
Overall fits the reviewer’s production needs (framing, audio monitoring on screen, no new media) — checked the boxes for his workflow ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 4:00

Lens Ecosystem (6)

Cycle image area with built-in teleconverter (automatically switch to DX mode for more reach) ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 4:13
Wildlife-friendly crop modes to increase reach without changing lenses ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 5:00
Growing native lens lineup, especially telephoto lenses suited for sports and wildlife ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 9:56
Mirrorless Z-series using Z lenses (modern mount ecosystem) ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 0:19
Supports Nikkor Z‑mount lenses and ability to adapt up to ~300 Nikon lenses with an adapter ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 7:52
Teleconverter switch on certain lenses can now toggle combined teleconverter + APS-C crop for much greater effective reach (e.g., ~800mm from 400mm, ~1200mm from 600mm) with a single switch. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 7:22

Cons (214)

Build Quality and Design (46)

Heavy — uncomfortable on the wrist for long use ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 2:41
Rear D-Pad isn't a wheel — would prefer wheel for ISO mapping (issue carried from Z6). ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 1:02
Accidental button presses (side button) can stop recording and there is no menu option to disable it. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 1:19
Portrait shutter button can also be accidentally pressed by larger hands. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 1:35
Memory card door is stiff and hard to open one-handed from the rear (awkward on tripod). ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 1:42
Camera is heavy (1,340 g) and can be tiring to hold, especially with heavy lenses. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 1:53
Strap loops are rattle-y. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 2:22
No front-facing screen or tally light makes it difficult to know you're recording when self-filming. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 12:28
Very big and heavy; not compact and may be undesirable for those wanting smaller bodies ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 1:50
No removable battery grip option; body size cannot be reduced or adapted ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 2:14
EVF resolution is only 3.69 million dots which is lower than expected for a flagship and can hinder manual focus and detailed photo review ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 3:02
EVF refresh rate at 60fps may be limiting for some (though firmware adds 120fps at cost of battery) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 3:36
Card slot cover is stiff and hard to open ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 6:40
Body shape optimized for long lenses makes it less inspiring or ideal as a video-first camera ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 6:44
Small record button is hard to press fully, causing accidental starts/stops; limited recording indicators (only small green LED and on-screen box) ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 8:32
Some rubber flaps are hard to open (despite providing security) ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 5:51
Lack of a fully articulating screen, making self-shooting/vlogging difficult ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 0:36
AF button positioned awkwardly on left side next to lens ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 1:32
Top display takes space that could be used for more buttons; layout not ideal ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 1:39
EVF resolution is disappointing (3.69M dots) compared to Sony A1 (9.44M) ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 2:01
Decision not to use a fully articulating screen is a shame given video capability (reiterated drawback) ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 7:40
Main LCD is not fully articulating (doesn't flip fully around), which impacts self-shooting and some video workflows ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:12
The lack of a fully articulating screen specifically limits self-recording and vlogging usability ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 4:58
No visible/large tally light (only a small green LED that is hard to see on tripod/in front of camera) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 5:45
Rear screen tilts but does not fully flip out for selfie/Vlog use ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 5:13
Flip screen use caution (risk of scooping water when lowering near water) — practical warning from reviewer ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 3:53
Shutter Shield only activates when the camera is turned off, so you must remember to power off before lens changes ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 4:40
No mechanical shutter also creates other issues (e.g., not ideal for mixed lighting/flash/studio work) ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 1:22
Very heavy (about 1,340 g), large body ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 2:16
Poor/low EVF refresh rate for a 60 fps display (described as very poor) ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 2:31
Moving rear LCD introduces a flex cable/hole that can allow humidity/condensation and corrosion — potential reliability issue ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 5:08
Top-of-camera real estate poorly used — lacks useful buttons where expected ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 9:53
Not suitable choice for flash photography or mixed lighting (due to no mechanical shutter and related issues) ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 17:23
Heavy weight (~1.3 kg / 2.9 lb) — can feel quite heavy when hand-holding with small lenses ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 1:04
Camera is heavy/bulky (~3 pounds) — described as a 'tank' (may be cumbersome for some users) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:19
No mechanical shutter (only electronic shutter) — may concern some users ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 0:58
Lacks a mechanical shutter (some users may complain about this). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 8:10
Doesn’t have a dedicated vlogging screen (could be an issue for vloggers). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 8:14
Large and heavy (1.34 kg, bulky dimensions) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 1:47
No mechanical shutter — camera only uses electronic shutter (possible concerns about sensor exposure and reliance on sensor shield) ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 3:01
Because of electronic shutter, sensor is more exposed when changing lenses (though mitigated by sensor shield) ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 11:30
Weight/size can make some controls hard to reach with large lenses (FN buttons hard to reach) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 3:01
Tilting touchscreen doesn't fully flip to front for vlogging/selfie use (photo-oriented design) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 4:52
No full swivel/flippy screen — limits ability for a single operator to monitor framing/mic/lighting without an external monitor ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 6:13
Unique swivel screen takes getting used to (could be awkward for some workflows) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 7:11
Under extreme continuous heavy use (6K60 Red RAW) on normal heat settings, the camera can overheat and shut down after ~1.5 hours (top‑plate temps reached ~46–50°C) ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 10:31

Video Capabilities (35)

ProRes generates large files and limits recording time (~30 minutes in ProRes) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 6:57
120 fps mode is limited to JPEG-only at 11 megapixels (reduced resolution) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 8:30
Autofocus on video not as responsive as Canon's Dual Pixel AF; some inconsistencies and occasional loss of focus during shots ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 6:22
Two-hour-and-five-minute recording limit is odd and unexplained (applies across modes); not truly unlimited internal recording. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 4:32
No options for DCI or true 24p. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 5:21
To get clean external oversampled 4K output while recording internally you must remove the cards (quirky workflow). ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 8:55
4K60 and 120 lose some sharpness compared to other modes. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 9:40
N-Log may be limited (suggestion that N-Log 2 is needed); current N-Log might limit maximum dynamic range. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 10:44
Some useful video features are disabled by default (e.g., waveform/histogram off until enabled, 4K60 oversampled disabled), and some UI defaults (auto shutoff) interrupt monitoring workflow ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 11:57
Oversampled 4K ProRes was slightly less crisp than H.265 8K UHD in the reviewer's experience ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 7:51
Rolling shutter is more prominent in video than stills and can appear with fast camera whip or fast subjects ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 6:45
Quality drops a bit at higher-frame-rate 4K settings ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 6:58
Lack of dual (simultaneous) video recording to both card slots (no internal video backup) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 4:41
Cannot load or preview custom creative LUTs internally (view assist limited to log to H.264) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 5:17
Although dual card slots exist, camera can only record video to one slot at a time (no simultaneous dual recording backup) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 4:54
IBIS not as strong as Panasonic's (stabilization slightly inferior to some competitors) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 5:54
Some rolling shutter present in 8K mode ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 11:29
Raw 8K video files are very large and consume memory cards very quickly (very high media usage) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 11:35
Recording stop at ~2 hours 5 minutes due to internal recording limitation (weird cutout requiring restart) ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 12:32
Buffer limitations: full RAW buffer chokes after ~35 (30–40) frames even with fastest CFexpress cards ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 7:54
Only 20 fps full RAW (compared unfavorably to competitors like Canon R3 at 30 fps) ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 5:55
Initial 8K was limited to 30fps until a firmware update (implying early limitation) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 0:25
Using vibration reduction (digital) introduces a slight crop ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:23
Pre-capture RAW is not available (pre-capture exists but not in RAW), and faster frame rates in RAW are also not implemented. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 11:39
Some desired major features (pre-capture RAW, faster RAW frame rates) might be limited by hardware, cost, or because a new model (Z92) is forthcoming. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 11:44
Pre-release only works in photo mode (not video) and 1s pre-release may be insufficient ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 8:19
Recording 8K60 in N-RAW produces huge files (requires very fast/large cards) and bitrates are high — complicated to know bitrates in-camera ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 10:03
Virtual zoom limitation: only works at 4K/30fps ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 0:49
60 fps mode is APS-C crop only (switches from 45MP full frame to 19MP APS-C) ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 2:17
60 fps mode is JPEG-only (no RAW), limiting highlight recovery and exposure flexibility ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 3:12
Being forced into APS-C makes it harder to keep subjects in frame due to heavy crop ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 4:00
60 fps JPEG-only workflow makes exposure critical; blown highlights cannot be recovered ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 4:43
Cannot record video to both card slots simultaneously (no dual-card video backup) ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 1:43
No built-in support to record directly to an external SSD (which would help with large ProRes RAW/ N-RAW file sizes) ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 3:36
Large Red RAW file sizes — very large files (e.g., ~23 minutes on 660GB at top-quality 6K60 Red RAW), storage/management burden ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 7:23

Connectivity and Features (27)

Pre-production unit/firmware caveat — reviewer notes it might not be on official production firmware ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 9:24
Camera cannot accept a line-level audio signal. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 6:19
Firmware 5.3 is missing manual focus subject detection (feature blatantly missing) ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 3:08
Feels like it's being left behind on firmware updates/features ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 2:50
Missing pixel shift shooting (feature present in Z8) ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 3:28
Lacks newer Z8 features such as flexible picture controls, subject detection during manual focus, focus range limiter, maximum aperture live view preview, new wide AF area patterns, JPEG fine support for pre-release capture, and HEIC/HIF support ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 4:21
Recent firmware 5.2.20 (April 2025) was underwhelming — only minor fixes and renamed settings ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 5:48
Dual card slots do not support backup recording for video. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 2:29
Cannot use focus peaking and zebras simultaneously. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 3:19
Internal proprietary RAW format currently only editable in DaVinci Resolve and Edius (limited NLE compatibility); ProRes RAW from whole sensor is line-skipped ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 10:53
Adobe Premiere Pro (at time of review) lacks support for N-RAW (.nev) making RAW workflow difficult; large files and heavy storage/processing needs for 8K/RAW ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 7:44
No SD card support (only CFexpress Type B/XQD) ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 1:26
Adobe Premiere lacks support for Nikon RAW (editing N-RAW requires DaVinci Resolve) ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 6:37
Potential legal uncertainty around internal compressed RAW recording due to Red lawsuit — feature could be removed by future firmware ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 8:19
Processor load: must do A/D conversion, feed EVF, handle autofocus — limits performance ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 2:50
Overall near-failure: can't do all tasks simultaneously (EVF feed, A/D conversion, autofocus, buffering) leading to compromised performance ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 14:46
Reviewer recommends waiting two weeks before installing new firmware (implying potential risks or instability with immediate updates). ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 2:12
Question raised why the Z8 firmware wasn't updated simultaneously despite being virtually the same camera (suggests inconsistency in Nikon's firmware rollout). ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 2:41
Firmware updates may be tapering off because the Z9 is now ~4 years old and near the end of its lifecycle (Z9 likely succeeded by Z92), so major future firmware additions may be limited. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 9:56
Firmware 5.3 does not include everything users might want (e.g., pre-capture RAW and faster frame rates in RAW are still not provided). ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 9:59
Not every wish list item is fulfilled — implies inherent limitations due to age of camera and prior extensive firmware additions. ▶ NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard t @ 9:59
No UHS-II SD card slot (only CFexpress/XQD, unlike some competitors) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 5:46
Firmware notes vaguely state autofocus reliability improvements but don't detail what changed. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 5:27
Incompatibility with some older flash triggers (e.g., PocketWizard TT5/TT1 units) required buying new flashes/triggers ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 5:04
In-camera RAW files only compatible with DaVinci Resolve (limited software support); ProRes RAW limited to 4K ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 3:19
Potential card overheating — some CFexpress cards can overheat and may cause camera shutdown in extreme conditions ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 6:21
Certain third‑party cards may be more prone to overheating — recommended to use specific Nikon/supported cards (which are expensive) ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 8:44

Autofocus Performance (22)

Autofocus responsiveness/thinking could be slower in some real-world situations, requiring selective editing ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 11:21
Manual focus override feature is inconsistent/buggy and only works on certain lenses (e.g., issues with 70-200 where turning ring disables AF unexpectedly). ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 3:23
Autofocus becomes unreliable in low light (about three stops underexposed), even at f/2.8. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 5:28
Autofocus can struggle in low light and hunts for underexposed subjects ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 3:19
Subject detection isn't always reliable — can lock onto wrong part (body, ear, spot) and may need to be turned off ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 12:30
3D AF can wander when subject and background are similar in color (less reliable in those situations) ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 9:32
3D AF area is a bit small to initially lock onto birds already in flight, requiring use of wider AF area then switching to 3D ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 10:25
In bird-in-flight (especially small fast birds) the Sony A1 may have a slightly higher keeper rate — z9 is close but not always superior ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 13:42
Inferior autofocus in some real-world sports use — reported ~15% worse than Nikon D6 by a pro shooter (despite more AF points) ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 10:46
Initial autofocus (original firmware) had limitations compared to Canon and Sony — subject recognition and low-light tracking were weaker ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 5:16
Autofocus used to regularly lose subjects (e.g., against plain blue sky) ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 5:33
3D tracking AF field is very small and hard to place, requiring frequent adjustments ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 8:39
3D tracking struggles more when tracking birds against water; shutter-button half-press with wide-area was more consistent ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 10:59
Autofocus can still get stuck on branches and backgrounds at times — room for improvement ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 11:59
Autofocus still not perfect — reviewer notes they are "still slowly improving that autofocus" and implies it hasn't fully arrived yet. ▶ DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! @ 1:21
Autofocus can occasionally latch onto foreground (branches) instead of subject ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 6:41
Reviewer hasn't yet fully tested the 3D tracking improvements, so real-world effectiveness is not yet confirmed. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finall @ 6:08
Autofocus still hit-or-miss in many situations: jumps to background when subject flies in front of trees ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 6:36
AF performance in some cases is still behind Sony and Canon (tracking and subject detection inferior) ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 6:46
3D tracking and subject detection sometimes regressed versus previous firmware (worse locking on foreground subjects) ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 7:00
Subject detection (yellow) and 3D tracking (red) pop in and out inconsistently ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 7:30
In 60 fps mode the camera reads out less data which may be the cause of differing AF behavior (implied limitation) ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 2:56

Image Quality (21)

Electronic shutter only (no mechanical shutter), which may worry users about flash compatibility ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:34
Base ISO of 800 leads to visible noise in shadows in raw workflows (requiring denoising similar to other raw systems) ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 13:07
Digital highlight rendering not as pleasing as film (personal preference for highlight character) ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 13:42
Electronic-only shutter can cause rare flicker with high-frequency LED/artificial lighting with little mitigation options ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 4:43
Electronic shutter design results in some loss of dynamic range compared to mechanical-shutter cameras (e.g., Z7 II, D850, A1), which can be noticeable in high-contrast scenes ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 5:04
Lossy compressed RAW and high-efficiency modes introduce slightly more noise in shadows and reduce buffer depth compared to lossless compressed RAW ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 5:58
Removing mechanical shutter could be expected to have drawbacks (electronic shutter tradeoffs) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 0:30
Potential concern about rolling shutter with electronic shutter (though mitigated by fast sensor) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 3:56
D6 still wins in extreme high-ISO dynamic range (z9 slightly behind in that very specific area) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 7:59
High ISO (>8000) shadow recovery produces heavy film-like grain that reduces perceived sharpness ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 4:00
Buffer limits: only 40 lossless RAW frames with very fast CFexpress before buffer fills (though higher with lossy RAW) ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 3:25
IBIS rated at six stops, less than Canon EOS R3's eight stops ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 4:34
JPEGs can be slightly over-sharpened with default settings ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 5:04
Skin tones not as warm/appealing as Canon EOS R3/R5 ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 5:11
Low-light performance not as good as Sony A7R IV or A1 ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 5:31
In-body image stabilization is not the most robust on the market (helps but not best-in-class) ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 2:33
High-efficiency raw files not yet fully validated by reviewer — he remains cautious and prefers lossless compressed RAW ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 5:54
Reviewer tends to avoid very high ISO; noise can be an issue above preferred ranges depending on subject/detail ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 6:22
Serious optical low-pass filter causing loss of fine detail / aliasing concerns ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 2:04
High ISO detail loss above ~ISO 6400 (details start to die) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 9:30
Serious bug in 60 fps APS-C shutter-priority: camera may pick unnecessarily high aperture (e.g., f/22) and raise ISO, harming image quality ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 5:03

Value for Money (21)

Reviewer notes a subjective drawback: makes other cameras feel obsolete (implying possible ecosystem/transition pain or buyer's remorse for existing gear) ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 7:51
High price of CFexpress media required to support the camera's robust recording options ▶ The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review @ 3:25
Expensive ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 2:44
Z9 owners feel 'dissonance'—Nikon may be favoring Z8 for feature development, risking alienation of flagship users ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 5:16
Perception that Nikon might be withholding features for a future Z92, leaving current Z9 users behind ▶ Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! @ 6:13
Overall camera is expensive and large compared to alternatives like Sony A1, which is more compact (and some may prefer A1 for portability) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review @ 12:32
Expensive body-only price (~$5500) ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 0:41
CFexpress/XQD cards are much more expensive than SD cards ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 2:34
High price point (around $5,500 body only), a serious investment that may be overkill for enthusiasts ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 5:27
High price point (around $5,500), significant investment ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 14:18
High price point ($5,500 body) — not appropriate for beginners or casual YouTubers ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 8:56
Due to price and complexity, not recommended for YouTube beginners—better entry cameras exist (~$800) ▶ Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review @ 9:29
Potential price concerns (price not provided; could be comparable to A7R5 / R5 price range). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 7:31
Some may dislike it for not being Canon or Sony (brand-preference downside). ▶ Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! @ 8:14
Very expensive (high price compared to competitors) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 0:48
Was back-ordered previously and had to wait a long time to obtain one (availability/price implied issue) ▶ Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! @ 0:22
Camera is huge and very expensive (~$5,500) ▶ Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! @ 3:20
CFexpress cards are expensive and large video codecs produce very large files, increasing storage cost/need ▶ 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z @ 4:07
Huge file sizes and high storage demands when using RAW (large files and limited compatibility) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 3:01
Large price and ecosystem cost implications (need new lenses/accessories), making adoption harder for those invested in other systems ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 10:07
Initial skepticism — reviewer didn't think it would appeal as a Mi camera or fit his needs on paper ▶ DAMN YOU NIKON!!! @ 0:48

Other (13)

High cost — a lot of features and performance you may never use (expensive for many buyers) ▶ Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? @ 8:56
No mechanical shutter — only electronic shutter, and the supplied fake shutter sound is awful ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 0:54
Camera is large, heavy and bulky (not compact)—may not suit users who want smaller mirrorless bodies ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 2:24
Complex and intimidating menu/customization system—overwhelming for casual users or those uncomfortable with menus ▶ The most surprising camera I have used in years @ 4:38
Update isn't a flashy new codec or resolution upgrade — changes are incremental and focused on AF and workflow rather than major video/cinematic features. ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 1:29
Not a reinvention of the Z9 — firmware 5.3 polishes rather than dramatically changes capabilities (may disappoint those wanting major new features). ▶ Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better @ 4:19
Camera is large/heavy (around 340g more than implied alternatives) — substantial size ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 0:54
Screen only tilts up and out to the right — limits vlogging/self-shooting ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 1:51
Large ProRes file sizes — need high-capacity CFexpress cards ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 7:20
Large body (only ~20% smaller than D6) and similar weight—may be too big/heavy for users who prefer compact cameras ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 0:30
No mechanical shutter (electronic-shutter-only design) — a departure that may concern some users despite strong performance ▶ Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review @ 2:06
Accidentally shot in JPEG instead of RAW — interface/settings mistake leading to potential workflow issues (user error highlighted) ▶ NIKON Z9 REVIEW - I could not believe my EYES!!!! @ 5:28
Large, heavy and chunky — can be tiring to hold for long wedding shoots ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 3:24

Ease of Use (12)

Screen feedback (screen flicker) when shooting in silent mode may be too subtle without sound ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 6:40
Artificial shutter sound required for audible feedback because true mirrorless silence provides little notice ▶ Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photograph @ 6:26
Bracketing menu lacks a native option to automatically fire all frames with a single button press (must use bracketing burst workaround) ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 7:44
Some features/controls are complex and require significant custom programming to get optimal workflow ▶ Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes @ 4:52
Menus largely unchanged and can be a pain point; many options can be hard to find. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 1:10
Menus are too complicated compared to Sony and Panasonic ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 1:44
High frame-rate workflow creates many images to sort through (more work in post) ▶ Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! @ 2:11
To get the best results you must use more than one AF mode and it can be a bit involved to set up ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 5:53
Reviewer disliked having to press two buttons in the field to get sharp images (complex operation) ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 6:52
Camera is a little more involved to set up and use compared to others ▶ How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS @ 12:42
Some users may find electronic shutter operation too quiet (hard to tell if shooting) unless volume is increased ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 4:36
Many buttons and complex menus — steep learning curve (takes weeks to master) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 4:06

Lens Ecosystem (7)

Linear focus/throw configuration currently only available on limited lenses (appears limited to 70-200). ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 3:50
Inconsistency in lens performance and selection affecting focus performance and menu functionality. ▶ Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? @ 5:51
Lens ecosystem is expensive and still growing — lenses are costly and you must consider availability ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 14:47
No more affordable Nikon bodies that match or complement Z9’s performance yet — limited ecosystem for matched A/B/C camera setups ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 15:51
Most pro F-mount glass requires an adapter; no screw-drive AF support even with FTZ II ▶ 😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 @ 4:39
Ecosystem problem: preceding Nikon Z cameras lack 10-bit, making it hard to transition into the Z9 (poor upgrade path) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 10:41
Because of Nikon's current ecosystem limitations, many shooters may hesitate to buy despite great specs ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 10:22

Portability and Size (5)

Quite heavy compared to competitors (heavier than Sony A1 and close to D6 DSLR) ▶ Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power @ 0:29
Heavier body (~3 lb, ~4 lb with lens) compared to some competitors ▶ Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later @ 6:17
Not compact or lightweight; heavy (around 2.9 lbs) which may be a drawback for some users ▶ Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera @ 0:39
Very heavy body, which can cause balancing issues on gimbals (trouble balancing with heavy lenses) ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 4:07
Weight can push gimbal thresholds and make some setups unbalanceable depending on lens/filters ▶ Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? @ 4:30

Overall (3)

Camera slows down during very long continuous bursts (from 20 FPS to 15 FPS after ~200 shots, then further after ~460–60 shots) ▶ Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? @ 7:24
No actual shooting experience yet with the Z9 in this video — reviewer has not tested performance/features ▶ Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! @ 3:37
Reviewer expects there will be some things they don't like or that could be better (anticipates potential drawbacks) ▶ Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! @ 4:30

Battery Life (2)

May require multiple batteries depending on resolution/RAW usage despite good battery size ▶ Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) @ 13:24
Included battery (EN-EL18d) rated ~700 frames per charge may be limiting for some heavy shooters ▶ Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on R @ 12:11

Review sources

Nikon Z9 review: Speed, resolution and 8K video power by Engadget — 25 pros, 19 cons
Nikon Z9 Review: The Best Video Camera of 2022? by Gerald Undone — 21 pros, 20 cons
Nikon Z9 in 2025: still the best camera money can buy? by Camera Deals — 25 pros, 12 cons
Nikon Z9 | Hands-On Review by digiDirect — 25 pros, 6 cons
Don't Ignore The Nikon Z9 For Wedding Filmmaking (Review) by Matt WhoisMatt Johnson — 19 pros, 12 cons
Nikon Cameras Are Getting Crazy Good.. Nikon Z9 Review by Think Media — 23 pros, 5 cons
The most surprising camera I have used in years by The Verge — 16 pros, 11 cons
How GOOD Is It REALLY? | Nikon Z9 Review & AUTOFOCUS HACKS For Razor Sharp Images! by Jan Wegener — 17 pros, 9 cons
Nikon Z9 3.0 Review: CAMERA OF THE YEAR?!?! by Tony & Chelsea Northrup — 14 pros, 12 cons
Nikon Z9 Field Review! How is the Z9 for wildlife photography? 22 pros, 3 cons
Nikon Z9: The Best Value Pro Camera. Worth Every Penny? by ZWade Photo — 21 pros, 4 cons
Nikon Z9: Features That Really Crank Up The Keeper Rate! by Steve Perry — 16 pros, 9 cons
Nikon Z 9: Incredibly Fast, Reliable & Durable! | Hands-on Review by B&H Photo Video Pro Audio — 21 pros, 4 cons
Nikon Z9 Review by DPReview TV — 13 pros, 10 cons
Nikon Z9 Review - The Best Camera by Thomas Tech — 21 pros, 2 cons
NIKON Z9 New Firmware - Better AF & So Much More, WOW Hard to Believe We're Getting More |Matt Irwin by Matt Irwin Photography — 18 pros, 5 cons
Nikon Z9 Review || The VIDEO Camera of the Year is a NIKON!? by Brandon Washington — 13 pros, 9 cons
The Best Hybrid Camera For 2023 | Nikon Z9 Long Term Review 14 pros, 5 cons
😱 NIKON Z9 FLAGSHIP! OMG!! Just THE FACTS! 🥵😅 by Theoria Apophasis — 6 pros, 13 cons
Nikon Z9 Review by Taylor Jackson — 14 pros, 4 cons
DAMN YOU NIKON!!! by Matt Granger — 13 pros, 5 cons
Nikon Z8 First Look - A Z9 in a Smaller, Cheaper Body! by Kai W — 14 pros, 4 cons
Nikon Z9 FW5.3: My Setup & Control Changes 14 pros, 3 cons
Flagship No More? Z8 Firmware Leaves the Z9 behind! by Joseph Nuzzo — 9 pros, 8 cons
Is the Nikon Z9 Still a Powerhouse in 2024? | 3 Years Later Review by Kindred Wedding — 10 pros, 5 cons
Nikon Z9 Firmware update Ver 5.30. What's new ?! they finally did it. by Ricci Talks — 13 pros, 2 cons
Nikon Z9 Firmware 5.3: Autofocus Just Got Better 10 pros, 2 cons
3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying The Unstoppable Nikon Z9 6 pros, 4 cons
DON'T DO IT CANON!!! Nikon’s “MAJOR” Update?! by Jared Polin — 6 pros, 3 cons
Nikon Z9 Nikon F3 & more | My Nikon story & review by Vahagraphy — 9 pros, 0 cons
Nikon Z9 Unboxing and 3.0 Firmware - It's finally here! 5 pros, 3 cons
NIKON Z9 REVIEW - I could not believe my EYES!!!! 6 pros, 1 cons

Frequently asked questions

Is the Nikon Z9 worth buying?

Based on 32 independent YouTube reviews, the Nikon Z9 scores 3.8/5 with 479 positive and 214 negative points mentioned by reviewers, placing it #42 in the Mirrorless Cameras category.

What do reviewers like most about the Nikon Z9?

The most praised aspects are video capabilities, autofocus performance, build quality and design — Video Capabilities (95 mentions), Autofocus Performance (89 mentions), Build Quality and Design (83 mentions).

What are the most common complaints about the Nikon Z9?

Reviewers most frequently criticize build quality and design, video capabilities — Build Quality and Design (46 mentions), Video Capabilities (35 mentions).

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