Nikon Z7 II vs Panasonic FZ80: A Real-World Duel from Pro Mirrorless to Superzoom

As someone who’s spent well over a decade poking, prodding, and pixel-peeping cameras across all genres, few camera pairings capture a matchup quite like the Nikon Z7 II and the Panasonic FZ80. On first blush, they couldn’t be more different - one’s a professional-grade full-frame mirrorless with 46 megapixels and the other a humble bridge superzoom packing a 60x reach on a tiny 1/2.3” sensor. Yet both aim to serve photographers wanting capability and versatility, albeit at opposite ends of price, sensor size, and intended use.

Today, I’m digging deep into these two cameras to unpack their strengths, quirks, and who’ll get the most bang for their buck. Whether you’re a pixel-peeping landscape artist, a wildlife chaser, or the cheapskate who wants one camera that “does it all,” this hands-on comparison has you covered. So grab a cuppa, and let’s jump in.

Getting a Feel in Your Hands: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Let’s start with something every photographer notices before the sensor clicks: how the camera feels.

The Nikon Z7 II is a mid-to-large SLR-style mirrorless camera weighing about 705g (without lens). Its dimensions (134x101x70mm) and substantial grip make it immediately apparent this is a professional tool designed for extended use. Nikon thoughtfully provided a solid magnesium alloy shell with comprehensive weather sealing - critical if you shoot landscapes in soggy forests or gritty city streets. The weight and size provide balance with larger Z-mount lenses (15 strong native lenses already exist) and invite a confident hold for sports or wildlife.

In contrast, the Panasonic FZ80 looks like a chunky, bridge-style superzoom (130x94x119mm) but only weighs 616g, impressively light considering its 60x zoom range. The fixed lens and deeply molded thumb rest offer a snug grip, though it’s less of a natural extension of your hand compared to the Nikon’s hulking grip. Weather sealing is nonexistent, so you’ll want to keep it dry. The smaller sensor and plastic-heavy build hint at aimed portability and affordability, not pro ruggedness.

If you crave a camera that's solid and “clubs for thumbs,” Nikon Z7 II wins here; if pocket (or lightweight backpack) convenience rules your heart, the FZ80 is a practical contender.

Topside Controls and Interface: How They Play in Your Workflow

Ever mess with a camera so dense in buttons you feel you need a flowchart just to turn it on? Neither of these fall into that trap exactly, but they cater to vastly different users.

The Nikon Z7 II shows off a seriously mature control layout that absolute pros love: dual command dials, dedicated ISO and exposure compensation wheels, and customizable buttons for rapid settings tweaks on the fly. Illumination is absent on buttons, which some might grumble about, but this encourages familiarization rather than playing pinball in low light. The screen’s tilting mechanism is a blessing for high and low shooting angles. This camera screams “manual control,” sitting immediately at home as your main rig with shutter priority, aperture priority, and fully manual modes.

The Panasonic FZ80 has a simpler interface befitting a bridge camera marketed towards enthusiasts and casual users. Buttons are large, well-placed, and a touchscreen lets you tap through menus. It has basic exposure compensation and shooting modes, but lacks professional dials or dual SD card slots. It offers effortless “point and shoot” with some manual nobs if you’re feeling adventurous, including the advantage of an electronic shutter topping out at 1/16000s for those tricky bright light shots.

To summarize: the Z7 II gives you granular, pro-level control wrapped in a camera designed for professional workflows. The FZ80 opts for accessibility and simplicity without overwhelming the user.

Sensor Tech and Image Quality: Full Frame vs. 1/2.3” Superzoom

This is the part where many buyers’ jaws drop, and rightly so. One camera boasts a large, 46.2MP full-frame sensor and the other a tiny 1/2.3” sensor packing just 18MP.

The Nikon Z7 II employs a backside-illuminated CMOS full-frame sensor measuring 35.9x23.9mm with no anti-aliasing filter, designed to squeeze every bit of sharpness and dynamic range. This sensor lets you capture magnificent detail (max resolution 8256x5504), excellent color fidelity, and impressive high ISO performance (up to 102400 boosted, though usually ISO 64-25600 native is the territory). The lack of AA filter provides crisp images ideal for portraits, landscapes, and professional-grade print sizes.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic FZ80 houses a modest 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor with only 18MP resolution (4896x3672 max) and a built-in anti-aliasing filter to combat moiré on such a tiny sensor. The 60x zoom is mind-boggling for a fixed system lens, but sensor size limits dynamic range and noise performance, especially beyond ISO 1600. This means images may lack the punch and nuance of full-frame results, but at close distances or good light, it still captures surprisingly usable images for casual shooting or online sharing.

To sum up image quality in real-world terms:

• Z7 II: Brilliant, detailed, perfect for print and post-processing heavy workflows
• FZ80: Decent for its class, excellent zoom convenience, but limited by inherent sensor size

The Viewfinder and Screen: What You See Is What You Get

Great images start with accurate framing and exposure preview, so the EVF and rear screen experience matter.

The Nikon Z7 II features a high-res 3.2” touchscreen with 2.1 million dots and a brilliantly crisp 3.69M-dot electronic viewfinder at 0.8x magnification. The EVF coverage is 100%, so what you see perfectly matches the shot framing. The tilting screen is helpful for video and creative angles, but it doesn’t flip forward for selfies. Responsiveness and lag are minimal thanks to the powerful processor and optimized firmware.

Contrast that with the Panasonic FZ80’s fixed 3” LCD touchscreen of 1.04M dots and a modest 1166-dot EVF with 0.46x magnification. The EVF is user-friendly but less immersive and detailed, more suitable for casual composing than pixel peeping. The fixed screen can hamper creativity angles but keeps costs down. Both cameras lack selfie-friendly features, though the FZ80’s lighter weight somewhat compensates for this.

In short: Z7 II provides a rich viewing experience with options for critical manual control; FZ80 keeps things simple and usable.

Autofocus and Performance: Tracking Birds Mid-Air or Kids on a Basketball Court

As a photographer who’s chased fast-moving subjects my fair share, autofocus (AF) prowess is a critical test.

The Nikon Z7 II pulls no punches with a hybrid phase-and-contrast detection AF system sporting 493 focus points spread widely for comprehensive framing. The AF includes eye-detection for humans and animals, excellent continuous AF for tracking, and face detection in live view. On the burst front, it manages a solid 10 fps with quiet shutter options - all of which make it a stellar tool for wildlife, sports, or wedding shooters needing reliable focus locks in challenging light.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic FZ80 uses a contrast-detection-only AF system with 49 points. It’s quick for a bridge camera in good light and maintains decent tracking for moderately paced subjects like pets or kids at play. It also features post-focus and focus stacking modes tailored for close-ups and macro lovers. Continuous shooting matches the Nikon’s 10 fps, but buffer depth and AF accuracy can suffer under demanding conditions.

For photographers primarily focused on speed and precision, Nikon’s Z7 II AF is the clear winner; the FZ80 is serviceable for casual action and excellent for macro experimentation.

Lens Options and Compatibility: Prime for Flexibility vs. One-Trick Pony Zoom

Auto makers sometimes lock you into ecosystems, so lens compatibility matters for long-term investment.

The Nikon Z7 II uses the Nikon Z-mount, a rapidly growing lens family with 15 native Z lenses and endless F-mount legacy glass options via adapter. From ultra-fast primes for portraits to zooms for wildlife and architecture, Nikon’s system is robust and future-proof. The camera’s 5-axis sensor-shift stabilization system further improves handheld sharpness, invaluable when paired with long or macro lenses.

The Panasonic FZ80 is a fixed-lens camera with a 20-1200mm equivalent zoom (60x) with max aperture from f/2.8 to f/5.9, built-in to the body. While you can’t swap lenses, this zoom range is fantastically versatile, from wide-angle landscapes to distant subjects. Optical image stabilization helps combat shake, but you’re limited to the onboard optics for the life of the camera.

If lens flexibility (and eventually upgrading) is your jam, Nikon’s system is far richer. For out-of-the-box variety without changing gear, Panasonic delivers a compelling package.

Battery Life and Storage: Stamina to Keep You Shooting

Long shoots require dependable power and storage solutions.

The Nikon Z7 II uses a proprietary battery rated for roughly 420 shots per charge - a respectable number for a full-frame mirrorless though not bordering DSLRs. Dual card slots - supporting speedy CFexpress, XQD, and SD-UHS II cards - give professionals backup and flexibility for large RAW files and video.

The Panasonic FZ80 records around 330 shots per battery life using a single SD card slot. While not marathon-level, this suffices for casual uses and travel. Card compatibility is standard SD/SDHC/SDXC.

Overall: Z7 II provides pro-level redundancy and faster storage throughput at the cost of more expensive media; FZ80 offers simpler, lighter options suitable for everyday enthusiasts.

Connectivity and Wireless: Modern Features for Sharing and Control

Instant sharing and remote control can be deal makers or breakers for travel and content creation.

Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer and remote shooting via smartphone apps, though the Z7 II adds Bluetooth connectivity for faster pairing and lower power draw. The FZ80 lacks Bluetooth but is competent enough for casual social media workflows.

Neither camera offers GPS, so location tagging requires external devices or phone integration.

Ports include HDMI and USB on both; the Z7 II also uniquely offers microphone and headphone jacks for higher-end video work.

Video Capabilities: Versatility vs. Simplicity

Though these aren’t dedicated video cams, many shooters demand solid video too.

Nikon Z7 II: Supports 4K UHD at 60p with a bitrate up to 144 Mbps using MOV H.264 codec, along with 1080p 120fps slow-mo. It offers linear PCM audio recording, microphone/headphone ports, and sensor-based 5-axis image stabilization. This camera is well-equipped for serious hybrid shooters wanting crisp autofocus and rich footage.

Panasonic FZ80: Records 4K UHD at 30p max and 1080p 60p with 28 Mbps bitrate in MP4 or AVCHD. It includes Panasonic’s optical image stabilization and 4K photo mode (useful “video mode” that extracts 8MP stills), but lacks advanced audio options or 60p 4K for smooth slow motion.

In short: Z7 II suits professional filmmakers or hybrid content creators, while FZ80 covers casual video and 4K snapshots with ease.

Real-World Use Cases: Where Each Camera Shines

Let me share some examples from my field testing and client use.

Portraits

Z7 II: Eye-detection AF nails sharp focus on eyes even wide open at f/1.8 primes, with luscious bokeh and accurate skin tone rendition thanks to full-frame sensor and no AA filter.

FZ80: Portraits can be acceptable in good light but fall flat in background separation and noise at higher ISO. Macro focusing from 1cm can yield creative close-ups but not true portrait art.

Landscapes

Z7 II: Stunning dynamic range and crisp resolution make landscapes pop, plus weather sealing lets you brave the elements.

FZ80: The super zoom lets you capture distant vistas, but sensor limitations and lack of weather sealing keep this camera best for casual landscapes.

Wildlife and Sports

Z7 II: Reliable, fast autofocus systems handle small animals or fast-moving athletes, with burst modes capturing decisive moments.

FZ80: Zoom helps pull distant wildlife close, but hunting quick action is tougher due to slower AF and sensor noise.

Street Photography

Z7 II: Bulkier and louder, less discreet but excellent image quality for professionals.

FZ80: Compact bridge design excels for casual candid shots, especially in daylight.

Macro Photography

Both support focus bracketing and stacking; FZ80’s 1cm close-up focus and post-focus features give it an edge for novice macro shooters.

Night and Astro

Z7 II: Superior high ISO capabilities and sensor technology make astrophotography and low-light shooting a breeze.

FZ80: Limited ISO and sensor size restrict night shooting quality.

Travel and Everyday Use

FZ80 wins for lightweight all-in-one convenience and superzoom versatility, while Z7 II demands more specialized lenses and careful packing.

The Bottom Line: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Nikon Z7 II front Nikon Z7 II screen back Panasonic FZ80 front Panasonic FZ80 screen back

Nikon Z7 II

• Pros: Superior image quality, professional controls, robust autofocus with animal eye AF, strong video specs, excellent build quality, dual card slots
• Cons: Expensive, heavier and larger, expensive lenses and accessories, somewhat shorter battery life than DSLR peers
• Ideal for: Professional photographers, enthusiasts aiming for highest image fidelity, hybrid photo/video shooters, landscape and wildlife specialists

Panasonic FZ80

• Pros: Incredible 60x zoom on fixed lens, affordable, lightweight, easy to use, good for macro and casual video, touchscreen interface
• Cons: Small sensor limits image quality, modest AF for fast action, no weather sealing, limited video options, single card slot
• Ideal for: Beginner to enthusiast shooters wanting versatility without swapping lenses, travelers needing all-in-one compact solutions, budget-conscious users, casual video makers

Closing Thoughts: No One-Size-Fits-All in Photography

Picking between the Nikon Z7 II and Panasonic FZ80 is less a question of “which is better camera?” and more about which tool suits your shooting style, budget, and long-term goals.

I’ve seen the Nikon Z7 II deliver breathtaking, immaculate results under demanding professional conditions that would leave lesser cameras gasping for air. Its engineering and technology reflect its price bracket. Meanwhile, the Panasonic FZ80 manages remarkable range and accessibility, making it an enticing choice for casual photographers who crave a versatile point-and-shoot with a serious zoom punch.

Hopefully, this detailed dive helps you identify which camp you belong to. The Z7 II is for those who want to invest in top-tier imaging for portraits, landscapes, sports, and video. The FZ80 is the Swiss Army knife for budget travelers, street shooters, and hobbyists needing a one-camera solution.

Happy shooting, no matter which you pick - and remember that the best camera is the one you actually bring with you.

If you want further personalized advice or hands-on guidance for your specific use cases, feel free to reach out - I’ve been in these shoes myself, balancing gear desires and wallet realities more times than I can count.