Nikon Z9 II Rumored Specifications

Nikon Z9, with the AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens

With an inicial announcement during October of 2021, next year will mark four years that the Z9 has been in production. And at 4 years is when it’s time to start to speculate what the Z9II might consist of.

I had both the Z9 and Z8 and agree with Nikon’s marketing hype that the Z9 is the fastest and most powerful Nikon ever (and of course, that would put the Z8 in the same league). So, why did I sell both the Z8 and Z9 that I think still are some of the best cameras on the market? Because I wanted maximum resale value to ensure I will be financially prepared when the 2nd versions are released. I have to admit that I miss them terribly. As an event photographer, the silent shutter was a huge benefit during quiet times such as speeches and presentations. I have been limping along with the Z6II and Z7II for my event assignments since I sold the Z8 and Z9. While the Z6II and Z7II have surprised me on how well they have performed, they are no Z8 and Z9s.

Nikon Z8, with the NIKKOR Z 28-75mm f/2.8 lens

So, what do I think the Z9II specs will be (for stills photography):

• Same sensor and resolution (and possibly with a global shutter if Sony is willing to sell their tech to 3rd parties).

• Minimum 30 FPS RAW with no qualifiers or compromises. (must be even higher to gain market share).

• 240 FPS JPEG only

• RAW pre-capture

• New EXPEED 8 processor

• Faster sensor scan rate, closer to the Canon R1 at 1/360

• Veri-angle rear monitor

• Higher resolution viewfinder, same one that is in the Z6III but slightly larger in size

• Same form factor with built in vertical grip

• Upgraded battery to provide more power that the EXPEED 8 will require but same size and shape.

• And of course, improved AF in ways that we can’t even guess at this point.

As the number 3 player in terms of camera sales, Nikon really needs to hit it out of the park with their next flagship Z camera. It needs to offer, at least, equal specs to both Sony and Canon’s current flagships. However, to compete successfully and gain market share, it must have features that offer existing Nikon users a clear incentive to upgrade while also, attract users from the other brands to make the switch.

Look, camera sales are declining overall and at some point, Nikon could hit a point (based on units sold) where it does not make sense to stay in the camera and lens market. When fixed cost starts to consume their variable cost, they run into a very serious profitability problem and a higher break-even point.

Let me know in the comments below what you think the Z9II may offer in improvements.

Nikon Z8 with the NIKKOR Z 70-180mm f/2.8 lens

Nikon Z9, with the AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens

Nikon Z9, with the AF-S NIKKOR 200-500mm f/5.6E ED VR lens