Nikon Z8 vs Nikon Z9
Nikon Z8 has the edge on paper, but the right choice depends on what you shoot. The Z8 is the better pick for landscapes.
Choose the Z8 for
- a lighter body (910g vs 1340g)
- a lower price (from £2,229)
- a newer design (2023)
Choose the Z9 for
- very similar specs
Specs side by side
| Spec | Z8 | Z9 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | Full frame, 45.7MP | Full frame, 45.7MP |
| Mount | Nikon Z | Nikon Z |
| Released | 2023 | 2021 |
| Burst | 20 fps | 20 fps |
| Readout | ≈4 ms | ≈4 ms |
| Max ISO | 25,600 | 25,600 |
| Stabilisation | In-body | In-body |
| Video | 8K 60p | 8K 60p |
| Weather sealed | Yes | Yes |
| Viewfinder | Electronic | Electronic |
| Weight | 910 g | 1340 g |
| Battery | Nikon EN-EL15c | Nikon EN-EL18d |
| Card slots | CFexpress B + SD (UHS-II) | 2× CFexpress B |
| New price | £2,999 | £4,499 |
| Used at MPB | £2,229–2,489 | £2,449–2,629 |
| Native lenses in our database | 54 (31 third-party) | 54 (31 third-party) |
Which is better for…
| Use | Better choice |
|---|---|
| Beginner-friendly | About equal |
| Everyday & travel | About equal |
| Portraits | About equal |
| Landscape | Z8 |
| Wildlife & animals | About equal |
| Sports & action | About equal |
| Astrophotography | About equal |
| Vlogging & video | About equal |
| Vintage / film look | About equal |
Based on the specs that matter most for each type of photography: burst and readout for action, resolution for landscapes, sensor size and low light for portraits and astro, video and weight for vlogging.
Lenses and running costs
Both cameras use the Nikon Z mount, so lenses move between them. Batteries: Nikon EN-EL15c (about £51) vs Nikon EN-EL18d (about £159).
Frequently asked questions
Is the Nikon Z8 better than the Nikon Z9?
It depends on your priorities. The Z8 offers a lighter body (910g vs 1340g), a lower price (from £2,229), a newer design (2023); the Z9 offers similar specs.
Which is better for video, the Z8 or the Z9?
They are closely matched for video (8K 60p vs 8K 60p); stabilisation and lens choice will decide it.
Which is cheaper, the Z8 or the Z9?
The Z8 costs £2,999 new and from £2,229 used at MPB; the Z9 costs £4,499 new and from £2,449 used (checked 5 November 2026).
Can I use Nikon Z8 lenses on the Z9?
Yes. Both use the Nikon Z mount.