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Sporting a new and inspired partially-stacked sensor design, the Nikon Z6 III Mirrorless Camera unlocks a number of flagship-level upgrades for this mid-range camera, including faster and more precise autofocus, professional-level 6K internal raw video, pre-capture at up to 120 fps, and a smooth, bright, colorful EVF. Taken together, these upgrades make this mirrorless monster an ideal choice for aspiring professionals in search of an all-around, affordable camera.
The Z6 III is Nikon's first camera to to feature a partially stacked sensor design for faster scans and readouts than its predecessor. The design also reduces rolling shutter and noise levels when working at the top end of the ISO range. Additionally, this sensor design unlocks many of the flagship-level features in the camera, like faster autofocus, a smoother EVF experience, faster continuous shooting speeds, and higher frame rates when shooting video.
Complementing the sensor is the EXPEED 7 processing engine, found in the top-of-the-line Z8 and Z9 mirrorless cameras an which offers speeds approximately 10x faster than the Z6II. This engine works in conjunction with the partially-stacked sensor design to realize impressively fast AF speeds, burst shooting rates, a high buffer capacity, fluid video performance, and quick all-around handling.
Covering the full sensor area, the Z6 III's flagship EXPEED 7 processor unlocks Nikon's flagship 493-point phase-detection AF system to realize fast and accurate focusing performance. This system is benefitted by the high-speed communication of the Z interface along with the speed of the sensor that enables AF readings to occur at up to 120 fps.
This focusing system also supports working in low-light conditions with a Starlight mode that permits focusing down to -10 EV to greatly benefit astrophotography, concert, and other nighttime shooting applications. Featuring the highest native ISO in a Z-series camera at ISO 64000, the autofocus is also useful for working in difficult lighting conditions. The Backlit AF function uses separate pixels on the sensor that allows these areas to intentionally overexpose for focusing accuracy purposes without impacting the actual exposure of the recorded image.
A mainstay focusing mode in DSLRs, which debuted for mirrorless with the Z9, the Z6 III also includes 3D Tracking AF that pairs with subject detection to lock onto fast, erratically moving subjects that move parallel and perpendicular to the camera. Additionally, there are three Dynamic-Area AF modes, with a range of focus area sizes, for capturing a broad variety of moving subject types.
Utilizing inherited algorithms and deep learning technology from the Z9, including sophisticated Subject Detection, the Z6 III can recognize a variety of distinct subject types, ranging from humans to animals to airplanes to bicycles. When working in Auto-Area AF, these subjects will automatically be detected, focused on, and tracked to ensure sharp focus when the subject is moving across the frame.
Eye-Detection AF, specifically, has been tuned for improved accuracy and refined recognition of eyes in the scene, regardless of how small or large they are within the image frame, and can also be used in conjunction with custom Wide-Area AF for different subject shapes and sizes.
Perfect for portraits, the Z6 III improves on the partially-stacked sensor's inherent capabilities with a series of processing tools and shooting functions to improve portraits:
Produce ultra-high resolution images at up to approximately 96 megapixels using pixel shift technology. By slightly shifting the image sensor between shots - selectable between 4 and 32 shots per image, with more shots meaning more detail - users can merge the images in NX Studio after shooting to create a single image with enhanced resolution, texture, and color. The shooting method also also reduces noise, moiré, and false colors. Pixel Shift photography benefits archival, landscape, architecture, fine art, macro, and film digitizing applications, and achieves its best results when working with a tripod.
Equally capable for video, the Z6 III matches the Z9's recording capabilities here, as well, with a variety of resolutions and frame rates available up to 6K.
Using full pixel readout, 6K60p video can be recorded with continuous shooting, while 4K and Full HD recording is also possible in a variety of frame rates, including full-frame 4K recording at up to 120p and Full HD recording at 240p for slow-motion playback.
Internal 12-bit raw raw recording at up to 6K 60p in the N-RAW format is supported along with internal ProRES RAW HQ. Raw recording offers greater tonal and color latitude and can improve dynamic range, benefitting color grading needs and post-production flexibility.
Internal recording is also supported with 10-bit color and 4:2:2 sampling in the ProRes 422 HQ and H.265 codecs at 5.4K 30p and 5.4K 60p, respectively.
The Z6 III's sensor-processor combo has allowed Nikon to give the Z6 III the brightest electronic viewfinder on any of its cameras. At 4000 nits, it's 33% brighter than the flagship Z9, making a subject's details visible even in bright sunlight. Its 5,760,000 dot resolution is also a first for a Nikon EVF, aiding with autofocus by showing the subject recognition square. This EVF also works in conjunction with dual-stream technology for blackout-free viewing when shooting continuously and it features a high fps function, which ups the EVF's refresh rate to 120 fps for smoother, lifelike viewing. Finally, the Z6 III's EVF also features a higher dynamic range and is compatible with a DCI-P3 color gamut - the first of its kind in a mirrorless camera - for approximating real-world color when taking the shot.
Like the Z9 and Z8, the Z6 III incorporates a unique 3.2" 2.1m-dot four-axis tilting touchscreen LCD that better supports working from high and low angles, regardless if shooting in the horizontal or vertical orientation. This screen's four-way tilting design allows for easier viewing from a variety of positions and the user interface orientation will also shift depending on how the camera is held.
Matching the professional build quality, the Z6 III is fitted with a variety of connectivity options to suit various workflow needs:
Covering a useful range of focal lengths, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S is a versatile zoom, spanning wide-angle to portrait-length perspectives. Its constant f/4 maximum aperture maintains a consistent exposure throughout the zoom range and also helps to realize a more compact and lightweight alternative to an f/2.8 zoom. In regard to the optical design, a unique aspherical extra-low dispersion element, in addition to three aspherical elements, is used to help reduce chromatic aberrations and distortions throughout the zoom range in order to achieve high image sharpness and clarity. Both Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings have also been applied to control flare and ghosting for greater contrast and color rendering in bright and backlit conditions.
Complementing the optics, a stepping motor provides quick, quiet, and precise autofocus performance along with full-time manual focus override to suit both stills and video applications. A programmable control ring can be set for intuitive adjustment over a variety of camera and exposure settings. Additionally, the lens has a button-less retractable barrel to realize a more compact form factor when not in use.
Sporting a new and inspired partially-stacked sensor design, the Nikon Z6 III Mirrorless Camera unlocks a number of flagship-level upgrades for this mid-range camera, including faster and more precise autofocus, professional-level 6K internal raw video, pre-capture at up to 120 fps, and a smooth, bright, colorful EVF. Taken together, these upgrades make this mirrorless monster an ideal choice for aspiring professionals in search of an all-around, affordable camera.
The Z6 III is Nikon's first camera to to feature a partially stacked sensor design for faster scans and readouts than its predecessor. The design also reduces rolling shutter and noise levels when working at the top end of the ISO range. Additionally, this sensor design unlocks many of the flagship-level features in the camera, like faster autofocus, a smoother EVF experience, faster continuous shooting speeds, and higher frame rates when shooting video.
Complementing the sensor is the EXPEED 7 processing engine, found in the top-of-the-line Z8 and Z9 mirrorless cameras an which offers speeds approximately 10x faster than the Z6II. This engine works in conjunction with the partially-stacked sensor design to realize impressively fast AF speeds, burst shooting rates, a high buffer capacity, fluid video performance, and quick all-around handling.
Covering the full sensor area, the Z6 III's flagship EXPEED 7 processor unlocks Nikon's flagship 493-point phase-detection AF system to realize fast and accurate focusing performance. This system is benefitted by the high-speed communication of the Z interface along with the speed of the sensor that enables AF readings to occur at up to 120 fps.
This focusing system also supports working in low-light conditions with a Starlight mode that permits focusing down to -10 EV to greatly benefit astrophotography, concert, and other nighttime shooting applications. Featuring the highest native ISO in a Z-series camera at ISO 64000, the autofocus is also useful for working in difficult lighting conditions. The Backlit AF function uses separate pixels on the sensor that allows these areas to intentionally overexpose for focusing accuracy purposes without impacting the actual exposure of the recorded image.
A mainstay focusing mode in DSLRs, which debuted for mirrorless with the Z9, the Z6 III also includes 3D Tracking AF that pairs with subject detection to lock onto fast, erratically moving subjects that move parallel and perpendicular to the camera. Additionally, there are three Dynamic-Area AF modes, with a range of focus area sizes, for capturing a broad variety of moving subject types.
Utilizing inherited algorithms and deep learning technology from the Z9, including sophisticated Subject Detection, the Z6 III can recognize a variety of distinct subject types, ranging from humans to animals to airplanes to bicycles. When working in Auto-Area AF, these subjects will automatically be detected, focused on, and tracked to ensure sharp focus when the subject is moving across the frame.
Eye-Detection AF, specifically, has been tuned for improved accuracy and refined recognition of eyes in the scene, regardless of how small or large they are within the image frame, and can also be used in conjunction with custom Wide-Area AF for different subject shapes and sizes.
Perfect for portraits, the Z6 III improves on the partially-stacked sensor's inherent capabilities with a series of processing tools and shooting functions to improve portraits:
Produce ultra-high resolution images at up to approximately 96 megapixels using pixel shift technology. By slightly shifting the image sensor between shots - selectable between 4 and 32 shots per image, with more shots meaning more detail - users can merge the images in NX Studio after shooting to create a single image with enhanced resolution, texture, and color. The shooting method also also reduces noise, moiré, and false colors. Pixel Shift photography benefits archival, landscape, architecture, fine art, macro, and film digitizing applications, and achieves its best results when working with a tripod.
Equally capable for video, the Z6 III matches the Z9's recording capabilities here, as well, with a variety of resolutions and frame rates available up to 6K.
Using full pixel readout, 6K60p video can be recorded with continuous shooting, while 4K and Full HD recording is also possible in a variety of frame rates, including full-frame 4K recording at up to 120p and Full HD recording at 240p for slow-motion playback.
Internal 12-bit raw raw recording at up to 6K 60p in the N-RAW format is supported along with internal ProRES RAW HQ. Raw recording offers greater tonal and color latitude and can improve dynamic range, benefitting color grading needs and post-production flexibility.
Internal recording is also supported with 10-bit color and 4:2:2 sampling in the ProRes 422 HQ and H.265 codecs at 5.4K 30p and 5.4K 60p, respectively.
The Z6 III's sensor-processor combo has allowed Nikon to give the Z6 III the brightest electronic viewfinder on any of its cameras. At 4000 nits, it's 33% brighter than the flagship Z9, making a subject's details visible even in bright sunlight. Its 5,760,000 dot resolution is also a first for a Nikon EVF, aiding with autofocus by showing the subject recognition square. This EVF also works in conjunction with dual-stream technology for blackout-free viewing when shooting continuously and it features a high fps function, which ups the EVF's refresh rate to 120 fps for smoother, lifelike viewing. Finally, the Z6 III's EVF also features a higher dynamic range and is compatible with a DCI-P3 color gamut - the first of its kind in a mirrorless camera - for approximating real-world color when taking the shot.
Like the Z9 and Z8, the Z6 III incorporates a unique 3.2" 2.1m-dot four-axis tilting touchscreen LCD that better supports working from high and low angles, regardless if shooting in the horizontal or vertical orientation. This screen's four-way tilting design allows for easier viewing from a variety of positions and the user interface orientation will also shift depending on how the camera is held.
Matching the professional build quality, the Z6 III is fitted with a variety of connectivity options to suit various workflow needs:
Covering a useful range of focal lengths, the NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/4 S is a versatile zoom, spanning wide-angle to portrait-length perspectives. Its constant f/4 maximum aperture maintains a consistent exposure throughout the zoom range and also helps to realize a more compact and lightweight alternative to an f/2.8 zoom. In regard to the optical design, a unique aspherical extra-low dispersion element, in addition to three aspherical elements, is used to help reduce chromatic aberrations and distortions throughout the zoom range in order to achieve high image sharpness and clarity. Both Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings have also been applied to control flare and ghosting for greater contrast and color rendering in bright and backlit conditions.
Complementing the optics, a stepping motor provides quick, quiet, and precise autofocus performance along with full-time manual focus override to suit both stills and video applications. A programmable control ring can be set for intuitive adjustment over a variety of camera and exposure settings. Additionally, the lens has a button-less retractable barrel to realize a more compact form factor when not in use.
Lens Mount | Nikon Z |
---|---|
Sensor Resolution | Actual: 26.79 Megapixel Effective: 24.5 Megapixel (6048 x 4032) |
Image Sensor | 35.9 x 23.9 mm (Full-Frame) Partially Stacked CMOS |
Sensor Crop (35mm Equivalent) | Crop Factor: 1x *Additional Crop Occurs in Select Video Modes |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis |
Built-In ND Filter | No |
Capture Type | Stills & Video |
Shutter Type | Mechanical Focal Plane Shutter and Electronic Rolling Shutter |
---|---|
Shutter Speed | Mechanical Shutter 1/8000 to 15 Minutes Electronic Shutter 1/16000 to 15 Minutes |
Bulb/Time Mode | Bulb Mode, Time Mode |
ISO Sensitivity Range | Photo 100 to 64,000 (Extended: 50 to 204,800) Video 100 to 51,200 |
Metering Method | Center-Weighted Average, Highlight Weighted, Matrix, Spot |
Exposure Modes | Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority |
Exposure Compensation | -5 to +5 EV (1/3, 1/2 EV Steps) |
Metering Range | -4 to 17 EV |
White Balance | 2500 to 10,000K Presets: Auto, Cloudy, Color Temperature, Direct Sunlight, Flash, Fluorescent, Incandescent, Shade |
Continuous Shooting | Electronic Shutter Up to 20 fps at 24.5 MP Mechanical Shutter Up to 14 fps at 24.5 MP |
Interval Recording | Yes |
Self-Timer | 2/5/10/20-Second Delay |
Image Sizes | 3:2 24.5 MP (6048 x 4032) 14 MP (4528 x 3024) 6 MP (3024 x 2016) 1:1 16 MP (4032 x 4032) 9 MP (3024 x 3024) 4 MP (2016 x 2016) 16:9 21 MP (6048 x 3400) 12 MP (4528 x 2544) 5 MP (3024 x 1696) |
---|---|
Aspect Ratio | 1:1, 3:2, 16:9 |
Image File Format | HEIF, JPEG, Raw |
Bit Depth | 14-Bit |
Internal Recording Modes | ProRes RAW/ProRes RAW HQ/Raw 6048 x 3404 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps 4032 x 2268 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps 3984 x 2240 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94/100/120 fps H.264/H.265 8/10-Bit 5376 x 3024 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94/100/120 fps 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94/100/120/200/240 fps |
---|---|
External Recording Modes | HDMI UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) |
Fast-/Slow-Motion Support | Slow-Motion Only |
Gamma Curve | HDR-HLG, Nikon N-Log |
Recording Limit | Up to 125 Minutes |
IP Streaming | No |
Built-In Microphone | Stereo |
Audio Recording | 16-Bit 48 kHz AAC Audio 2-Channel 24-Bit 48 kHz LPCM Audio |
Media/Memory Card Slot | Slot 1: CFexpress Type B / XQD Slot 2: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II) |
---|---|
Video I/O | 1x HDMI (Unspecified Signal) Input |
Audio I/O | 1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Headphone Output 2x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Microphone Input |
Power I/O | 1x USB-C Input |
Other I/O | 1x USB-C Data Output (Shared with Power Input) 1x Nikon DC2 |
Wireless | 2.4 / 5 GHz Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0 |
Mobile App Compatible | Yes: Android & iOS App Name: Nikon Imaging Cloud Functionality: Access Stored Files, Firmware Update |
Global Positioning (GPS, GLONASS, etc.) | GPS |
Display Size | 3.2" |
---|---|
Resolution | 2,100,000 Dot |
Display Type | Tilting Touchscreen LCD |
Secondary Display | Top: Status Display |
Type | Built-In Electronic |
---|---|
Size | 0.5" |
Resolution | 5,760,000 Dot |
Eye Point | 21 mm |
Coverage | 100% |
Magnification | Approx. 0.8x |
Diopter Adjustment | -4 to +2 |
Focus Type | Auto and Manual Focus |
---|---|
Focus Mode | Continuous-Servo AF, Full-Time Servo, Manual Focus, Single-Servo AF |
Autofocus Points | Photo, Video Contrast Detection, Phase Detection: 299 |
Autofocus Sensitivity | -10 to +18 EV |
Built-In Flash/Light | No |
---|---|
Flash Modes | First-Curtain Sync, Off, Rear Curtain/Slow Sync, Rear Sync, Red-Eye Reduction, Slow Sync, Slow Sync/Red-Eye Reduction |
Maximum Sync Speed | 1/200 Second |
Flash Compensation | -3 to +1 EV (1/3, 1/2 EV Steps) |
Dedicated Flash System | TTL |
External Flash Connection | Shoe Mount |
Operating Temperature | 32 to 104°F / 0 to 40°C |
---|---|
Operating Humidity | 0 to 85% |
Battery Type | 1x EN-EL15c Rechargeable Lithium-Ion (Approx. 360 Shots) |
---|---|
Shoe Mount | 1x Hot Shoe |
Tripod Mounting Thread | 1x 1/4"-20 Female (Bottom) |
Material of Construction | Magnesium Alloy |
Dimensions (W x H x D) | 5.5 x 4 x 2.9" / 138.5 x 101.5 x 74 mm |
Weight | 23.6 oz / 670 g (Body Only) |
Maximum Aperture | f/4 |
---|---|
Minimum Aperture | f/22 |
Lens Mount | Nikon Z |
Lens Format Coverage | Full-Frame |
Angle of View | 84° to 34° 20' |
Minimum Focus Distance | 11.81" / 30 cm |
Maximum Magnification | 0.3x |
Optical Design | 14 Elements in 11 Groups |
Diaphragm Blades | 7, Rounded |
Focus Type | Autofocus |
Image Stabilization | No |
Filter Size | 72 mm (Front) |
Dimensions (ø x L) | 3.05 x 3.48" / 77.5 x 88.5 mm |
Length at Maximum Extension | 5.44" / 138.2 mm |
Weight | 1.1 lb / 500 g |
Package Weight | 0.91 kg |
---|---|
Box Dimensions (LxWxH) | 20.32 x 14.61 x 14.10 cm |