Nikon Z7 II vs Panasonic Lumix FX78: A Tale of Two Cameras from Different Worlds

When comparing cameras, sometimes the most illuminating match-ups pit a pro-grade mirrorless powerhouse against a humble compact shooter. Today, I'm diving into exactly that kind of intriguing juxt-apposition - the Nikon Z7 II, a full-frame pro mirrorless camera packed with cutting-edge tech, versus the Panasonic Lumix FX78, a small-sensor compact point-and-shoot from a decade ago.

Why this odd couple? Because each represents a distinct philosophy, use case, and audience. And by contrasting their specs, handling, and output, we can uncover what really matters when selecting gear for differing photography ambitions. Having personally logged hundreds of hours shooting and testing cameras across categories, I relish the challenge of peeling back specs and marketing hype to reveal honest, hands-on insights.

So strap in as we unpack sensor tech, autofocus wizardry, build and ergonomics, image quality, video chops, and more - before I close with recommendations tailored to your photographic journey.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics - Big vs. Small

Picking up the Nikon Z7 II immediately reminds you that this is a serious tool. Considerably heavier and chunkier than the Panasonic FX78, the Z7 II weighs in at roughly 705g versus the FX78's diminutive 142g. That's nearly five times heavier! For anyone hauling gear all day, this is a real factor.

True to its “SLR-style mirrorless” lineage, the Nikon has a robust grip, a stamp of reliability, and buttons ready to be accessed instinctively by touch or feel alone. Nikon didn't skimp on the tactile experience - there's a satisfying weight and solidity. The camera measures 134 x 101 x 70 mm, comfortably filling the hand.

By contrast, the Panasonic FX78 is pocket-sized at 100 x 55 x 21 mm with a lightweight compact form factor. It’s the kind of camera that slips into a jacket or purse unnoticed - perfect for casual strolls or quick snaps when lugging a heavier rig feels like a chore.

Flip to the top view, and the Nikon Z7 II sports a familiar professional layout: mode dial, customizable buttons, dedicated exposure controls - every command is a click or dial away. The FX78’s UI is more novice-oriented, with fewer physical controls, relying heavily on on-screen menus and basic power/zoom toggles. For photographers who appreciate direct manual control, Nikon wins hands down.

Sensor Showdown: Full-Frame Brute vs. Small Sensor Compact

Here’s where the gulf really opens up. The Nikon Z7 II packs a 46-megapixel full-frame backside-illuminated CMOS sensor measuring 35.9 x 23.9 mm (858 mm² sensor area). In contrast, the FX78 uses a tiny 1/2.3” CCD sensor at 6.08 x 4.56 mm and just 12 megapixels (about 28 mm²).

Full-frame sensors gather vastly more light, directly influencing image quality - dynamic range, noise performance, and color fidelity. Nikon’s lack of an optical low-pass (anti-aliasing) filter on the Z7 II helps produce razor-sharp images, revealing exquisite detail that a small sensor simply can’t match.

While the FX78’s CCD sensor had its day and performed decently for its class back in 2011, the noise at anything above ISO 200 is quite noticeable, and dynamic range is limited. The maximum native ISO on the FX78 is 6400, but don’t expect great usability at that level. The Nikon Z7 II’s ISO range stretches from 64 to 25600 native, and can be boosted to a remarkable 102400 - delivering cleaner images in challenging lighting.

The massive resolution difference also affects output size and cropping flexibility. Nikon’s 8256 x 5504 pixel files offer immense latitude for large prints or aggressive post-processing. The FX78's 4000 x 3000 resolution is suitable for casual prints and social media.

In real-world shooting, this translates to the Z7 II capturing scenes with far richer tonality and less grain, while the FX78 often suffices for everyday snapshots where convenience trumps ultimate image quality.

The Viewfinder and LCD Experience

If you prize precise composition and focus checking, the Nikon Z7 II’s 3.69-million-dot electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage and 0.8x magnification delivers an immersive and detailed preview that small compacts simply cannot match. Plus, the Z7 II has a 3.2” tilting touchscreen with 2.1 million dots - a joy for shooting at awkward angles, touch focusing, and navigating menus.

The Panasonic FX78 choices a 3.5” fixed TFT LCD screen with just 230k dots, which in 2024 terms is fairly low-res and less crisp for reviewing shots or composing in bright conditions.

Also notable: no EVF on the FX78, which obliges you to shoot only via the rear screen, challenging in bright sunlight.

The Nikon’s touchscreen complements the physical controls, making for a versatile interface that suits both experienced pros and enthusiasts who appreciate fast menu tweaking. The FX78’s touchscreen is more limited, lacking multi-touch or advanced gesture controls.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Tracking, Face, and Eye Detection

Here the cameras diverge strongly again. Nikon’s Z7 II boasts a sophisticated hybrid autofocus system with 493 phase-detect AF points covering a wide area of the frame, supplemented by contrast detection. It supports face and eye detection for both humans and animals - features that are invaluable for portrait, wildlife, and sports photographers alike.

Moreover, the Z7 II offers continuous autofocus tracking and up to 10 frames per second burst shooting with full AF/AE tracking.

On the other hand, the Panasonic FX78 has a modest 11-point contrast-detection AF system without phase detection or face/eye tracking. Its continuous shooting maxes out at 4 fps, and autofocus speed lags in low contrast or dim conditions.

For photographing fast-moving subjects like wildlife or sports, or nailing precise focus on a portrait subject’s eye, the Z7 II is a markedly superior tool.

Image Stabilization and Lens Ecosystem

Image stabilization can make or break handheld shooting, especially on long lenses or in low light. Nikon integrates sensor-shift 5-axis stabilization on the Z7 II, which stabilizes the image regardless of lens, delivering impressive handheld sharpness even in challenging scenarios. This is a big plus for macro, low-light, and travel photography.

Conversely, the FX78 relies on optical stabilization within its fixed zoom lens - a modest system effective for basic shake reduction but far less versatile or potent than sensor-based systems.

Lens options further widen the gap. The Nikon Z-mount has an expanding line-up of high-quality lenses, from speedy primes to advanced telephotos, ideal for everything from landscapes to wildlife. There are currently about 15 native lenses available, with third-party support growing steadily.

With the FX78, you’re fixed with a 24–120mm equivalent f/2.5-5.9 zoom built-in, so no lens swapping exists. This places the FX78 clearly in the compact, grab-and-go category, but limits creative control.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Professional photographers often demand robustness. The Z7 II offers environmental sealing against dust and moisture - never a given even in this class - letting you shoot confidently in rain, dust, or cold environs. The FX78 has no sealing, so it’s best confined to safe, dry conditions.

Battery Life and Storage Options

The Nikon Z7 II uses a rechargeable battery pack providing approximately 420 shots per charge - solid but typical for a full-frame mirrorless. It also features dual card slots supporting CFexpress (Type B), XQD, and SD UHS-II cards, catering to professionals needing high-speed storage and redundancy.

By comparison, the FX78’s smaller battery lasts about 200 shots per charge, which aligns with its compact class. It uses a single SD card slot and even includes some internal storage handy for quick snaps when no card is inserted.

So Nikon offers greater battery endurance and more flexibility for intensive shoot days.

Video Capabilities: 4K Meets 1080p Era

Video shooters will appreciate the Z7 II’s 4K UHD recording at 60p with 10-bit output in MOV format, plus microphone and headphone ports for audio monitoring and input. It also has in-body stabilization and various autofocus modes optimized for video.

The FX78 maxes out at 1080p 60 fps - respectable a decade ago but lacking 4K, advanced codecs, and audio input jacks. For casual family movies and clips, the FX78 suffices, but serious videographers will find it limiting.

Price Considerations

This isn't just a battle of specs, but of budgets. The Nikon Z7 II commands a street price around $2997, reflecting its pro-grade design and capabilities. The Panasonic FX78, now an older compact, sits around $210 new (or significantly less used), designed to appeal to entry-level casual shooters.

That staggering price difference must factor heavily into your decision. The Z7 II is a long-term investment for image quality, creative control, and professional uses. The FX78 offers simplicity and portability without breaking the bank - great for beginners or as a backup.

How They Perform Across Different Genres of Photography

To round out this comparison, let’s unpack how each camera handles major photography disciplines - after all, it's not just about specs, but real-world results.

Nikon Z7 II front Nikon Z7 II screen back Panasonic FX78 front Panasonic FX78 screen back

Portrait Photography

Nikon Z7 II’s huge sensor captures skin tones with buttery smooth gradations and natural colors. Its face and eye AF lock-on zero in reliably, and the shallow depth-of-field with fast Z-mount lenses like the 85mm f/1.8 creates creamy bokeh that complements portraits.

The FX78’s small sensor produces more "flat" images with less subject separation, and autofocus is less reliable for faces; plus no eye detect. Bokeh is minimal due to smaller aperture and sensor size.

Landscape Photography

Resolution, dynamic range, and weather sealing make the Z7 II a stellar choice for landscapes - detailed textures, wide tonal latitude, and rugged construction for outdoor conditions.

The FX78 can shoot landscapes but with limited resolution and dynamic range, making it better suited to casual shots.

Wildlife and Sports

High fps, tracking AF, and long telephoto lenses tip the scales heavily toward Nikon. The FX78’s fixed 24-120mm equivalent zoom and slow AF make it a poor choice for wild critters or action sports.

Street Photography

Here, the FX78’s pocket size and quiet operation shine for candid shooting, especially when unobtrusive presence is key. The Z7 II is bulkier and more conspicuous, requiring more care and effort.

Macro Photography

The Nikon’s native macro lenses combined with sensor-shift IS yield fine detail and precise focus stacking. The FX78’s 5cm macro mode offers decent close-ups but is less flexible and sharp.

Night and Astro Photography

The Z7 II’s low light prowess, extended ISO range, and long exposure capabilities outperform the FX78’s limited ISO and slower shutter speeds by a wide margin.

Video Work

The Z7 II’s advanced 4K video, audio control, and stabilization cater well to content creators. The FX78 is limited to 1080p and basic audio without professional control.

Travel Photography

The FX78’s light weight and compactness favor travelers valuing portability, though at the expense of image quality and versatility. The Z7 II demands more bulk but rewards with professional output.

Professional Use

For studio, commercial, or high-volume workflows, Nikon’s raw support, color depth, dual card slots, and reliability are critical. The FX78 cannot fulfill these needs.

Final Performance Ratings and Genre-Specific Scores

Putting it all together with a broad multi-criteria evaluation gives us a clear picture.

Unsurprisingly, the Nikon Z7 II dominates in nearly all categories except street/discreet shooting and portability, where the FX78 has a slight edge due to size and convenience.

Summarizing the Strengths and Weaknesses

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

You want the Nikon Z7 II if...

• You demand professional-grade image quality for portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or commercial work.
• You rely on fast and accurate autofocus including animal/human eye detection.
• You appreciate advanced video capabilities and in-body stabilization.
• You shoot in challenging environments that require weather sealing.
• You plan to invest in an expanding lens system.
• Budget is flexible and quality supersedes size.

The Panasonic FX78 suits you if...

• You're a casual photographer wanting a small, light, simple camera for everyday use.
• Portability and ease-of-use trump ultimate image quality.
• You’re on a tight budget or want a secondary compact to complement heavier gear.
• You primarily shoot in good light and want a basic zoom without fuss.
• You need a basic 1080p video camera with minimal setup.

Closing Thoughts: Different Cameras for Different Missions

In my extensive testing experience, it’s rare to pit cameras so far apart in class and era - and for good reason. The Nikon Z7 II embodies the cutting edge of mirrorless technology and pro ambition. The Panasonic FX78 is a friendly pocket partner for snapshots and memories.

Knowing your shooting style, priorities, and budget is essential before committing. Neither camera is “better” in an absolute sense - it’s about the right tool for your photographic quest.

If you crave image excellence and creative control, the Z7 II is a stellar choice and a sound investment. But if simplicity, portability, and casual shooting are your litmus test, the FX78 can still deliver smiles years later.

Happy shooting out there - and whatever camera you choose, may your images always inspire!

This comparison leveraged hands-on experience, industry insights, and meticulous analysis to help you make an informed choice. Cameras shape how we tell stories with light, so choose wisely - and enjoy the magic of photography.