What To Know
- Nikon and Canon are two of the most renowned names in the photography industry, and their latest offerings, the Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D, are no exception.
- In terms of speed, the Z6 II has a slight edge, with a continuous shooting rate of 14 frames per second (FPS) compared to the 90D’s 10 FPS.
- The Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D are both priced similarly, with the Z6 II typically retailing for around $2,000 and the 90D for around $1,200.
Nikon and Canon are two of the most renowned names in the photography industry, and their latest offerings, the Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D, are no exception. Both cameras are designed for enthusiast photographers who demand high-quality images and versatility in their shooting experience. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll put the Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D head-to-head to help you decide which camera is the right choice for your needs.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Nikon Z6 II boasts a full-frame 24.5-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Canon 90D features an APS-C 32.5-megapixel CMOS sensor. While the higher megapixel count of the 90D may suggest an advantage in resolution, it’s important to note that the Z6 II’s full-frame sensor offers several benefits.
Full-frame sensors are larger than APS-C sensors, which means they can capture more light and produce images with better dynamic range, lower noise, and improved low-light performance. Additionally, full-frame sensors allow for shallower depth of field, providing more creative control over focus and bokeh.
Autofocus and Performance
Both the Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D offer impressive autofocus systems, but they differ in their implementation and capabilities. The Z6 II features a hybrid autofocus system that combines 273 phase-detection points with 493 contrast-detection points, providing fast and accurate focusing in a variety of conditions.
The Canon 90D, on the other hand, utilizes a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which has 45 cross-type AF points covering a wide area of the frame. This system is known for its smooth and precise autofocus performance, particularly in live view and video modes.
In terms of speed, the Z6 II has a slight edge, with a continuous shooting rate of 14 frames per second (FPS) compared to the 90D’s 10 FPS. However, the 90D offers a deeper buffer, allowing you to capture more consecutive shots before the camera slows down.
Video Capabilities
The Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D are both capable of capturing high-quality video, but they offer different features and capabilities. The Z6 II can record 4K UHD video at up to 60 FPS, while the 90D is limited to 4K UHD at 30 FPS. Both cameras offer Full HD 1080p recording at up to 120 FPS for slow-motion effects.
The Z6 II has a slight advantage in video autofocus, with its hybrid system providing smooth and accurate focus tracking. The 90D, however, offers Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which is known for its excellent performance in video mode.
Design and Ergonomics
The Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D differ in their design and ergonomics, catering to different preferences and shooting styles. The Z6 II is a mirrorless camera with a compact and lightweight body, making it easy to carry and handle for extended periods. It features a large electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a high resolution and refresh rate, providing a clear and immersive shooting experience.
The Canon 90D, on the other hand, is a DSLR with a more traditional design. It has a larger and heavier body compared to the Z6 II, but it offers a more comfortable grip and dedicated controls for quick adjustments. The 90D also features an optical viewfinder (OVF), which some photographers prefer for its natural and lag-free view of the scene.
Lens Selection
Both Nikon and Canon offer extensive lens selections for their respective camera systems. However, there are some key differences to consider. Nikon’s Z-mount system is relatively new, so the selection of native Z-mount lenses is still growing. Canon’s EF and EF-S lens lineup, on the other hand, is vast and well-established, with a wide range of options to choose from.
Price and Value
The Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D are both priced similarly, with the Z6 II typically retailing for around $2,000 and the 90D for around $1,200. However, it’s important to consider the cost of lenses and accessories when evaluating the overall value of each system.
Which Camera Is Right for You?
The Nikon Z6 II and the Canon 90D are both excellent cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Z6 II offers a full-frame sensor, faster continuous shooting speed, and better video capabilities, while the 90D has a higher megapixel count, a more extensive lens selection, and a more traditional DSLR design.
Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, low-light performance, and video capabilities, the Nikon Z6 II is a great choice. If you value megapixel count, lens selection, and a more traditional DSLR experience, the Canon 90D is a solid option.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring the Unique Features of Each Camera
Nikon Z6 II
- In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): The Z6 II features 5-axis in-body image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper images, especially in low-light conditions.
- Dual Memory Card Slots: The Z6 II has two memory card slots, allowing you to store images and videos on different cards for backup or organization purposes.
- Focus Peaking: The Z6 II offers focus peaking, a feature that highlights the areas of the image that are in focus, making it easier to achieve precise manual focus.
Canon 90D
- Built-In Flash: The 90D has a built-in flash, which can be useful for providing additional lighting in low-light situations or for fill-flash photography.
- Vari-Angle LCD Screen: The 90D features a vari-angle LCD screen that can be tilted and flipped, making it easier to compose shots from different angles, including high or low perspectives.
- Weather Sealing: The 90D is weather-sealed, making it resistant to dust and moisture, allowing you to shoot in challenging outdoor conditions.
What You Need to Know
1. Which camera has better autofocus performance?
Both cameras offer excellent autofocus systems, but the Nikon Z6 II has a slight edge in terms of speed and accuracy, especially in low-light conditions.
2. Which camera is better for video recording?
The Nikon Z6 II offers superior video capabilities, with 4K UHD recording at up to 60 FPS and a more advanced autofocus system for video.
3. Which camera has a more extensive lens selection?
Canon’s EF and EF-S lens lineup is more extensive than Nikon’s Z-mount lens selection, providing a wider range of options to choose from.
