Nikon Nikon Z f Mirrorless Camera, Silver/Cognac Brown Review

The Nikon Z f is a camera that makes you look twice. On the surface, it's a gorgeous, FM2-inspired retro body with aluminum dials and a cognac brown leatherette wrap. But under that classic shell, you're getting a modern 24.5MP full-frame sensor paired with Nikon's latest EXPEED 7 processor. That combo delivers a 96MP high-res mode, 30fps burst shooting, and oversampled 6K video. It's a looker, but it's not just for show.

This camera's performance profile is a story of extremes. Its autofocus system lands in the 99th percentile, with deep learning subject detection and eye-tracking AF that's blisteringly fast and reliable. Its burst shooting hits the 95th percentile, letting you rip off 30fps with the electronic shutter or a still-impressive 14fps mechanically. It's a beast for action, scoring a perfect 100/100 for sports and wildlife. The video chops are strong too, sitting in the 93rd percentile with 6K oversampled footage and 10-bit H.265 recording. Just know the in-body stabilization is only in the 41st percentile, so you'll want steady hands or a gimbal for video work.

At just under $2000, the Z f sits in a tricky spot. You're paying a premium for that iconic design and top-shelf autofocus. If the retro look is non-negotiable for you, the value is there. But if you're purely after specs per dollar, there are more utilitarian options that offer similar core performance for less. It's a luxury tool, and its price reflects that.

Compared to the Sony a7R IV, you're trading the Sony's massive 61MP resolution sensor for the Z f's far superior autofocus and burst speed. The Canon R7 is an APS-C powerhouse with great stabilization, but the Z f's full-frame sensor gives it a low-light and background blur advantage. Against the Fujifilm X-S20, the Z f is in another league for AF and build quality, but the Fuji has a fully articulating screen and is much cheaper. The Z f's real competition is with itself: do you want its unmatched style and speed, or a more conventional camera with a tilting screen?

The Nikon Z f is a specialist. It's the camera you buy when you want a beautiful object that also happens to be one of the fastest-shooting tools on the market. If your priorities are classic design, blistering autofocus, and high-speed capture, it's an easy recommendation. Just go in knowing you're compromising on stabilization and screen flexibility. For photographers who value the experience as much as the results, it's a fantastic and unique choice.