D850 Vs Z8: Comparison of Nikon’s Heavyweights

Hi there! I’m a seasoned photographer with years of experience behind the lens, and I’m excited to share my thoughts on two of Nikon’s top cameras: the D850 and the Z8. These are both incredible tools, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this article, I’ll break down the key differences and similarities to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your photography style. From design and image quality to autofocus and video capabilities, we’ll cover it all. I’ve also included a comparison table to make it easier to see the differences at a glance, and at the end, I’ll help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs. Let’s dive in!

Introduction

Choosing between the Nikon D850 and Z8 can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re upgrading from an older camera or switching systems. The D850 vs Z8 debate often comes down to whether you prefer the traditional DSLR experience or are ready to embrace the future of mirrorless technology. Both cameras are packed with features, but they shine in different areas. The D850 is a workhorse for stills photography, while the Z8 is a powerhouse for both stills and video. In this article, I’ll share my firsthand experience with both cameras, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make the best choice for your photography journey.

D850 Vs Z8 Comparison

Design and Build

Let’s start with design. The Nikon D850 has that classic DSLR look and feel. It’s built like a tank, with a magnesium alloy body that’s lightweight yet incredibly durable (Nikon D850 Specs). The grip is deep and comfortable, and the top plate has all the essential controls within easy reach. The optical viewfinder is one of my favorites—0.75x magnification with 100% coverage, meaning you see exactly what you’re going to get. It’s bright and clear, even in low light, which is crucial for critical focusing.

The Nikon Z8, being mirrorless, has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) that’s also impressive (Nikon Z8 Specs). It has a 3.69 million dot resolution and 0.8x magnification, which is larger than the D850’s. The EVF shows a live preview with exposure settings applied, which is incredibly helpful for getting the shot right in-camera. Some purists might prefer the optical viewfinder for its directness, but the Z8’s EVF is very responsive and doesn’t feel laggy. Both cameras have tilting touchscreens, great for shooting from low or high angles.

In terms of weight, the D850 is 895g, while the Z8 is 910g, so they’re very close, with the Z8 being just 15g heavier. However, the Z8 feels more compact because it’s mirrorless, without the mirror box, making it shorter and easier to pack. Both are built to withstand the elements, with extensive weather sealing, so you can shoot in rain or dust without worry. I’ve taken the D850 on rugged outdoor shoots, and it’s never let me down. The Z8, with its sleek design, feels equally robust but more modern.

Ergonomics and Handling

Ergonomics play a huge role in how enjoyable a camera is to use over long periods. The D850’s deep grip feels secure, especially with heavy lenses like a 70-200mm f/2.8. Its button layout is intuitive—most controls are right where my fingers expect them. The optical viewfinder provides a direct, lag-free view, which I love for fast-paced shooting like events or wildlife.

The Z8’s compact mirrorless body is a bit smaller, which makes it easier to carry for street or travel photography. Its EVF took some getting used to, but now I appreciate the live histogram and exposure preview it offers (Z8 Review). The Z8’s button layout is similar to other Nikon mirrorless cameras, with a customizable front button I’ve set to AF-ON for back-button focusing. The touchscreen is more responsive than the D850’s, making menu navigation a breeze.

Both cameras have tilting touchscreens, perfect for low-angle or overhead shots. I’ve found the D850’s traditional DSLR feel more comfortable for long shoots, but the Z8’s compact design and EVF features are growing on me. If you’re used to DSLRs, the D850 might feel like home. If you’re open to mirrorless, the Z8’s handling is equally impressive.

Sensor and Image Quality

When it comes to image quality, both cameras are top-notch, thanks to their 45.7 megapixel full-frame sensors. In the D850 vs Z8 comparison, this is one area where there’s little to separate them. However, the Z8 has a stacked sensor, unlike the D850 (Z8 Sensor Test). The stacked sensor allows for faster data readout, which translates to higher burst rates and better performance in live view and video modes. For stills, both deliver similar quality, with excellent dynamic range and low noise at high ISOs.

I’ve shot with both in various conditions, from bright daylight to dimly lit interiors, and the images are stunning. DXOMark gives the D850 a score of 100 and the Z8 a score of 98, indicating both are among the best (Z8 Sensor Test). The slight difference might be due to the Z8’s focus on speed, but in practice, it’s negligible. Both use Nikon’s EXPEED processors—EXPEED 5 for the D850 and EXPEED 7 for the Z8—delivering vibrant colors and sharp details. Neither has an optical low-pass filter, ensuring maximum sharpness.

The Z8 might have a slight edge in dynamic range, especially in shadows, thanks to its stacked design. I’ve noticed this when recovering details in underexposed areas during post-processing. The faster readout also reduces rolling shutter distortion, which is useful for fast-moving subjects. The D850 can have some rolling shutter in electronic shutter mode, but its mechanical shutter avoids this, though at slower burst rates. If you’re shooting raw, both offer plenty of latitude for post-processing.

Autofocus System

Autofocus is where the Z8 truly shines. The D850 has a reliable 153-point AF system, which is great for stills photography. But the Z8 offers 493 points covering nearly the entire frame, meaning more accurate tracking, even for off-center subjects (Z8 Specifications). The Z8 also has advanced subject detection, recognizing eyes, faces, animals, and vehicles like aircraft. It’s incredibly smart, making action and wildlife photography easier.

I’ve used both for bird photography, and the Z8 locks onto birds more consistently, even in erratic flight. During a recent trip to photograph birds at dawn, the Z8’s ability to track subjects accurately in low light was unmatched (Autofocus Wars). The D850 required me to increase ISO or use wider apertures to get the autofocus to lock on, but the Z8 performed admirably even in near-dark conditions. Another photographer on X noted that after switching from the D850 to the Z8 for wildlife, they appreciated the advanced autofocus options (Reddit Discussion).

For video, the Z8’s AF is smoother and more accurate, crucial for tracking during pans or movement. If you’re primarily shooting static subjects like landscapes or studio portraits, the D850’s autofocus might be sufficient. But for action, wildlife, or sports photography, the Z8’s superior autofocus system is a significant advantage.

Video Capabilities

Video is where the Nikon Z8 truly excels, offering capabilities that the D850 can’t match. While the D850 can shoot 4K video at 30p, it does so with a crop factor, which reduces the effective resolution (D850 Review). In contrast, the Z8 can shoot 8K video at 30p using the full sensor width and 4K at up to 120p, perfect for slow-motion footage (Z8 Review). This makes the Z8 a much more versatile tool for videographers.

Moreover, the Z8 features 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which is a game-changer for handheld video shooting. It allows for smoother footage, especially when using longer lenses, without the need for a gimbal or stabilizer. I’ve used both cameras for video, and the difference is night and day. With the D850, handheld video often required post-stabilization, which isn’t always perfect. The Z8’s IBIS keeps the footage steady, even when I’m moving around.

The Z8 also supports advanced video formats like N-Log and ProRes, giving videographers more flexibility in post-production. For underwater photographers, the Z8’s video capabilities are exceptional, with high-quality 4K and 8K video combined with advanced autofocus (Ikelite Review). If video is a significant part of your workflow, the Z8 is undoubtedly the better choice. The D850’s video features, while adequate for casual use, are outdated compared to what the Z8 offers.

Battery Life and Practicality

Battery life is often a deciding factor for many photographers, especially those who shoot for extended periods without access to power. The Nikon D850 boasts an impressive battery life, rated for up to 1840 shots per charge, which can easily last a full day of shooting (D850 Specs). In contrast, the Z8 is rated for only 340 shots, which might seem concerning at first glance (Z8 Specs).

However, in practice, the Z8’s battery life can be managed with some planning. For instance, using the camera in eco mode or turning off the rear display when not needed can extend battery life. Additionally, the Z8 supports USB-C charging, which means I can charge it on the go using a power bank—something the D850 doesn’t offer. During a recent wedding shoot, I used the Z8 for the ceremony and found that with two spare batteries, I was able to get through the entire event without issues. The D850, with its longer battery life, would have allowed me to use just one battery for the same duration, but the convenience of USB-C charging made the Z8 more flexible.

It’s also worth noting that the Z8’s EN-EL15c battery has a slightly higher capacity than the D850’s EN-EL15a, but the power-hungry features like the EVF and advanced processing eat through it faster. For photographers who primarily shoot stills and don’t use live view or video extensively, the battery life might not be as critical. Ultimately, if you’re concerned about battery life, the D850 might have an edge, but with proper management, the Z8 can be just as reliable.

Connectivity and Ports

Connectivity matters for sharing photos or tethering. Both cameras have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, connecting to your smartphone via Nikon’s SnapBridge app (Z8 Overview). The Z8 might have faster Wi-Fi transfer speeds, but the difference is minor unless transferring large raw files. The D850 has a mini HDMI and USB 3.0 Type A, while the Z8 has a full-size HDMI and USB-C, which is more modern.

Both have headphone and mic jacks, essential for video, and support external recorders. The SnapBridge app works well, though connections can be finicky, a common issue with camera apps. I’ve used the Z8 for tethering in the studio, and the USB-C connection is faster and more reliable than the D850’s USB 3.0. Unless you need specific modern ports, both are well-equipped for connectivity.

Lenses and Compatibility

One of the most significant considerations when choosing between the D850 and Z8 is lens compatibility. The D850 uses Nikon’s F-mount lenses, which have been around for decades and offer a vast selection, from ultra-wide angles to super telephotos (D850 Overview). If you already own a collection of F-mount lenses, the D850 allows you to use them without any adapters, maintaining full functionality.

On the other hand, the Z8 uses Nikon’s newer Z-mount, designed specifically for mirrorless cameras. While F-mount lenses can be used on the Z8 with the FTZ II adapter, native Z-mount lenses offer advantages like faster autofocus and better image quality due to the shorter flange distance. Nikon has been expanding its Z-mount lens lineup, and now it includes some excellent options, such as the Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S, which is lighter and sharper than its F-mount counterpart (Photography Life). For wildlife and sports photographers, the Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S and 800mm f/6.3 VR S are game-changers.

However, if you’re heavily invested in F-mount glass, switching to the Z8 might require purchasing new lenses or accepting some compromises when using adapted lenses. In my experience, using F-mount lenses on the Z8 with the FTZ II adapter has been seamless for stills photography, but for video, native Z-mount lenses provide better performance. If you’re starting fresh or are willing to invest in new lenses, the Z8 offers a future-proof system. But if you have a significant investment in F-mount lenses, the D850 remains a compelling choice.

User Experiences

I’ve talked to other photographers about their experiences with these cameras, and the feedback is enlightening. A wildlife photographer on a forum mentioned that the Z8’s pre-release capture feature was a game-changer for capturing unpredictable moments, something the D850 lacks (Backcountry Gallery). Another landscape photographer praised the D850 for its reliability and battery life, saying it’s still their go-to for long hikes (Landscape Photography Ireland).

One underwater photographer noted that the Z8’s video capabilities and autofocus made it a significant upgrade over the D850 for their work (Ikelite Review). However, a portrait photographer on X mentioned they preferred the D850’s optical viewfinder for its clarity and didn’t need the Z8’s video features (Reddit Discussion). These varied perspectives highlight how your specific needs shape your choice.

Comparison Table

Feature	Nikon D850	Nikon Z8
Body Type	DSLR	Mirrorless
Sensor	45.7MP FX CMOS	45.7MP FX Stacked CMOS
Processor	EXPEED 5	EXPEED 7
ISO Range	64-25600 (exp. 32-102400)	64-25600 (exp. 32-102400)
Autofocus Points	153	493
Burst Shooting	7 fps (9 fps with grip)	20 fps (up to 120 fps with pre-burst)
Video	4K at 30p	8K at 30p, 4K at 120p
IBIS	No	Yes (5-axis)
Weather Sealing	Yes	Yes
Battery Life	1840 shots	340 shots
Weight	895g	910g

Decision-Making: Which Should You Choose?

So, which camera should you choose? It really depends on your specific needs and preferences. Let’s break it down by photography genre:

• Landscape Photography: Both cameras are excellent, with high-resolution sensors that capture stunning detail. The D850 might have a slight edge due to its longer battery life and the availability of a wider range of F-mount lenses, including some specialized optics for landscape work. However, the Z8’s IBIS can be a significant advantage for handheld shooting in low light or when using longer exposures.
• Portrait Photography: Both cameras excel in portraiture, with excellent autofocus and image quality. The Z8’s advanced subject detection AF can make it easier to keep eyes in focus, especially with moving subjects or in group shots. If you do any video work for portraits, the Z8’s superior video capabilities make it a better choice.
• Wildlife and Sports Photography: Here, the Z8 has a clear advantage with its faster burst rates, pre-release capture, and superior autofocus, especially for tracking fast-moving subjects. The silent shutter is also beneficial for wildlife photography, as it doesn’t startle animals. While the D850 is still capable, the Z8’s features make it a better tool for capturing decisive moments.
• Event and Wedding Photography: For events and weddings, where you might need to shoot both stills and video, the Z8’s versatility shines. Its ability to switch between high-quality stills and professional-grade video makes it a one-camera solution. The D850 is still great for stills, but you might find yourself wishing for better video capabilities.
• Underwater Photography: The Z8 is highly regarded for underwater shooting due to its video capabilities and autofocus performance in challenging conditions.

In conclusion, while the Nikon D850 is a fantastic camera that still holds up today, the Nikon Z8 offers significant advancements that make it a worthy upgrade for those who can afford it. If you’re looking for the latest technology, better video capabilities, and superior autofocus, the Z8 is the way to go. However, if you value longer battery life, a lower price point, and compatibility with your existing F-mount lenses, the D850 remains a solid choice.

I hope this in-depth comparison helps you make an informed decision. Happy shooting!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which camera is better for video, the D850 or the Z8?

The Nikon Z8 is significantly better for video. It can record 8K video at 30p and 4K at up to 120p, while the D850 is limited to 4K at 30p with a crop factor. The Z8 also features 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) for smoother handheld footage and supports advanced video formats like N-Log and ProRes for professional post-production.

2. How does the autofocus system compare between the D850 and Z8?

The Z8 has a superior autofocus system with 493 autofocus points covering nearly the entire frame, compared to the D850’s 153 points. It also includes advanced subject detection for eyes, faces, animals, and vehicles, making it more accurate for tracking moving subjects. This makes the Z8 ideal for action, wildlife, and sports photography.

3. Is the Nikon Z8 worth the upgrade from the D850?

If you frequently shoot video or need advanced autofocus for fast-action photography, the Z8 is worth the upgrade. However, if you primarily shoot stills and are satisfied with the D850’s performance, the upgrade may not be necessary, especially considering the cost and potential need for new lenses or adapters.

4. What are the key differences in design and build quality between the D850 and Z8?

The D850 is a DSLR with a traditional design, featuring an optical viewfinder and a robust magnesium alloy body. The Z8 is a mirrorless camera with a more compact design and an electronic viewfinder (EVF). Both are weather-sealed for durability, but the Z8’s mirrorless design makes it slightly lighter and more portable.

5. How do the sensors of the D850 and Z8 differ, and what impact does this have on image quality?

Both cameras have 45.7MP full-frame sensors, but the Z8’s stacked CMOS sensor allows for faster data readout, reducing rolling shutter and improving burst shooting and video performance. For stills, both deliver excellent image quality, though the Z8 may have a slight edge in dynamic range and low-light performance.

6. Which camera is better suited for wildlife photography?

The Z8 is better for wildlife photography due to its advanced autofocus with animal detection, higher burst rates, and silent electronic shutter, which doesn’t startle subjects. However, the D850 is still capable, especially if you prefer an optical viewfinder and longer battery life.

7. What is the battery life like on the D850 compared to the Z8?

The D850 offers much longer battery life, rated for up to 1840 shots per charge, while the Z8 is rated for only 340 shots. This makes the D850 more suitable for extended shooting sessions. However, the Z8 supports USB-C charging, which can be convenient for quick top-ups.

8. Can I use my existing F-mount lenses on the Z8?

Yes, you can use F-mount lenses on the Z8 with the FTZ II adapter, which supports full autofocus and aperture control. However, native Z-mount lenses may offer better performance, especially for autofocus speed and video capabilities.

9. Is the Z8’s electronic viewfinder (EVF) better than the D850’s optical viewfinder (OVF)?

This depends on your preference. The D850’s OVF provides a direct, lag-free view, which some photographers prefer for its accuracy. The Z8’s EVF offers a live preview with exposure settings applied, which is helpful for composition but may feel less natural to those used to OVFs.

10. How do the video capabilities of the Z8 compare to those of the D850?

The Z8 vastly outperforms the D850 in video. It supports 8K at 30p, 4K at 120p, and advanced codecs like N-Log and ProRes, along with 5-axis IBIS. The D850 is limited to 4K at 30p with a crop and lacks these advanced features.

11. What are the advantages of the Z8’s stacked sensor over the D850’s sensor?

The Z8’s stacked sensor enables faster data readout, resulting in higher burst rates, reduced rolling shutter, and better video performance. It also offers slightly better dynamic range and low-light capabilities compared to the D850’s non-stacked sensor.

12. Is there a significant difference in image quality between the D850 and Z8?

For stills, both cameras deliver outstanding image quality with minimal differences. The Z8 may have a slight edge in dynamic range and low-light performance, but for most photographers, the difference is negligible.

13. Which camera offers better value for money, the D850 or the Z8?

The D850 offers better value, especially if you already own F-mount lenses. It’s less expensive and still excels at stills photography. However, if you need the Z8’s advanced features, such as video and autofocus, it may be worth the higher price.

14. Can the D850 still compete with newer mirrorless cameras like the Z8?

Yes, the D850 remains competitive for stills photography, particularly for those who prefer an optical viewfinder and longer battery life. However, for video and advanced autofocus, newer mirrorless cameras like the Z8 have a clear advantage.

15. What are some real-world scenarios where the Z8 outperforms the D850?

The Z8 excels in fast-action photography (e.g., wildlife, sports), high-quality video recording, and situations requiring compact size and modern features like IBIS. Its silent shutter is also ideal for discreet shooting.

16. How do the weight and size compare between the D850 and Z8?

The D850 weighs 895g, while the Z8 weighs 910g, making them very similar in weight. However, the Z8’s mirrorless design is more compact, especially when paired with smaller Z-mount lenses, making it easier to carry.

17. What are the connectivity options on the D850 and Z8?

Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for image transfer via Nikon’s SnapBridge app. The Z8 has a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, while the D850 uses USB 3.0 Type A. Both support headphone and microphone jacks for video.

Note: The information in this FAQ section is compiled from various online sources, including Nikon’s official specifications, reputable photography review websites, and user experiences shared on forums. For detailed comparisons and reviews, you can refer to sources such as Digital Photography Review, Photography Life, and Nikon’s official website.