Which Z Series Cameras Have Internal Focus Motors?

The Nikon Z series cameras do not have built-in focus motors. This means that autofocus (AF) and autofocus-drive (AF-D) lenses with mechanical autofocus will not work on these cameras. However, the Nikon Z series cameras can be used with manual focus.

Nikon Z-series cameras have on-sensor hybrid autofocus systems, which work differently from the traditional phase detection autofocus system

The Nikon Z-series cameras feature an on-sensor hybrid autofocus system, which works differently from the traditional phase detection autofocus system. The on-sensor autofocus system eliminates the need for a secondary mirror, which, in turn, eliminates all AF micro-adjustment issues. Phase detection autofocus systems use a separate AF sensor to achieve focus using phase detection. This AF sensor also has a range of patterns that work with software algorithms to lock focus when using contrast detect AF. The shape of the AF sensor dictates where the focusing points can be positioned, meaning that full viewfinder coverage is not possible with an optical viewfinder.

Mirrorless Z-series cameras, on the other hand, have the AF sensor built into the imaging sensor. The image and focusing data from the sensor are sent to the electronic viewfinder, enabling fast phase-detection AF for both stills and video. This design allows Z-series cameras to have many more AF points than a DSLR.

The Nikon Z mount is 17% larger than its predecessor, the Nikon F mount, thanks to its inner diameter of 55mm and a flange distance of 16mm

The Nikon Z mount is a new interchangeable lens mount developed by Nikon for its mirrorless digital cameras. The Nikon Z mount is 17% larger than its predecessor, the Nikon F mount, thanks to its inner diameter of 55mm and a flange distance of 16mm. This makes the Nikon Z mount the largest full-frame lens mount on the market.

The larger mount offers several benefits over the Nikon F mount. Firstly, it provides more space for the sensor to move around, allowing for the implementation of in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and other features such as pixel shift. Secondly, the larger mount and shorter flange distance give more flexibility in lens design, enabling the creation of simpler, smaller, lighter, and less expensive lenses. Thirdly, the Nikon Z mount can adapt lenses from almost any other DSLR or mirrorless system, while no other camera can adapt Nikon Z lenses. Lastly, the larger mount allows for the possibility of a slightly larger sensor than 35mm in the future.

The Nikon Z mount has only one slight drawback: there are currently fewer native Z lenses available compared to F-mount lenses. However, Nikon has released the FTZ and FTZII adapters, which allow for the use of F-mount lenses on Z-mount cameras.

The Nikon Z-series cameras now feature USB Type-C ports, allowing for faster USB 3.1 speeds and better charging options

The USB Type-C port can be used to charge the camera’s battery in-camera via USB. The camera can be connected to the power source using a USB-A to USB-C or USB-C to USB-C cable. According to Nikon camera user’s manuals, you can charge a camera’s battery by plugging in the USB cable into a computer’s (Mac or PC) port. However, you shouldn’t plug the USB cable into a USB hub or keyboard as not enough power will be delivered to the camera battery.

The Nikon Z6 and Z7 are the first Nikon cameras to feature a brand new EXPEED 6 processor, which is capable of handling more throughput for faster sensor readout. Nikon needed to move up to a faster processor because mirrorless cameras require a lot more processing power in order to handle things like smooth EVF operation, focusing, smooth image playback, etc. Nikon has been able to create a very smooth overall experience that is practically lag-free, something many other manufacturers often struggle with.

The Nikon Z-series cameras have a button on the left side of the EVF that allows turning off both the LCD and the EVF to preserve battery life

The Nikon Z-series cameras have a button on the left side of the EVF that allows users to turn off both the LCD and the EVF to preserve battery life. This feature can significantly improve the number of images captured on a single battery charge.

The Nikon Z-series cameras can establish a direct connection to a computer via Wi-Fi for wireless tethering at speeds of up to 433 Mbps

To connect your Nikon Z-series camera to your computer wirelessly, you can utilise the Access-Point Mode if you're shooting outdoors or in an area without an established wireless network. On the other hand, if you're in a location with a wireless network already set up, such as a studio or your home, you can opt for the Infrastructure Mode.

For those who need even faster transfer speeds or want to control the camera remotely, the optional WT-7 Wireless Transmitter is a great choice. It not only enables wired Ethernet connections but also provides an HTTP connection for controlling the camera from a web browser.

Frequently asked questions