Hey Everyone ! I hope you find this first look at the new Grip MB-N11 useful ! I will be using this grip more than I first thought I would (mainly a duel battery charger) especially for my use of longer lenses. any questions let me know in comments below. Now I'm off to shoot with the Z 6ii to test AF Thanks for watching !
Another great video. Will you do a video on flash photography using the z cameras Ricci ? In particular about composing for flash photography through an EVF as opposed to an OVF for macro photography with the likes of the R1C1 twin flashes?
Perhaps you shouldn't be surprised by the increasing popularity of this channel, because you seem to know what you're talking about and you express yourself in such an engaging and articulate manner. Looking forward to more of the same...
I have a Z6 and therefore have no intention of purchasing this grip-however, your video was so thorough and well done that I watched the whole thing anyway. Kudos and keep it up!
A thorough and well explained review. Thanks for that. As I am more of a photographer who started out with heavy DSLR I have hold back myself from migrating to mirrorless system inspite of all the convineince associated with mirrorless camera. Another setback was lack of full functing vertical grip in these mirrorless camera and feeling too light and small in hand. It is good thing that Nikon realised the need of its customers, though late and they were a little carried away by the new breed of vloggers who need small and light camera. Now that the second generation Nikon Z 6 and 7 are compatible with vertical grip I am considering migrating to mirrorless system.
Soon going to run out of things which users don't like about Nikon gear, lol. For those of us with large hands this is going to be a god send, thanks for listening Nikon. Great film Ricci thanks, video and sound quality outstanding, full screen on my 27"iMac it looks and sounds truly excellent! Quality info as always, thanks.
I'm a z6 owner with no intention for an upgrade as I'm looking to build up the Holy Trinity but..is soo interesting watching your video !! You are great Ricci 🙌..20.000 a pice of cake !
Great video Ricci. It's a real bummer that the grip can't be used the original Z6/Z7 but oh well. It was great to watch your in-depth review on the grip though!
I don't like arrogance of Nikon Mgmt. 1st they are late to party, then makes same mistakes as sony, now they behave like they are doing us a favour by keep saying we listen to our customers. Their product launch is result of thier attitude.
The lack of an actual vertical grip was one of the primary reasons that I didn't bother with a Z6 or Z7. I've come to rely on them quite heavily with my D750 and D7200, especially when taking portrait orientation shots with heavy lenses. I am excited to see Nikon correct this epic shortcoming with the Z6II and Z7II, and then go further and actually improve on their existing vertical grips by adding new features and getting rid of that whole "battery-in-body" paradigm. Bravo Nikon!
I much preferred the battery grips with contacts under the camera, rather than in the battery compartment. It meant you didn't have to remove the battery door and the grip's smaller without that big bit that pokes up into the battery compartment, making it easier to pack away if not needed. The locking wheel front and back makes for an easier way to make sure it's nice and tight, pity this didn't have the above.
I think they did that because the contacts on the outside were supposedly causing issues with the weather sealing of the cameras. Though I never heard of anyone who actually had issues with it
The grip really looks nice and I feel like it makes the camera similarly big like my D810. Which is great from the perspective of ergonomics, but not so great from the perspective of weight. At least people have more choices now, and the critics have to try harder to complain.
Love the grip! Can’t wait to see your review on the Z 6ii. Looking forward to hearing whether it tracks birds and athletes better than the D500 or D850.
Thank you very much, Ricci. I just received one. I have had some initial trouble removing the battery cover from the camera, and I was very afraid of breaking it. The user's manual didn't help much either. Until using a magnifying glass, I noticed that on the camera body there is a small groove to displace one of the two axes of the door. And then it is the same way to return the door, once the grip is disassembled.
One great feature of the grip not mentioned is that you can shoot tethered or with a bluetooth foolography unleashed controller and mains power the camera at the same time, as 2 usbc ports are needed. This is great for remote camera work. Thanks for taking the time to do this review
I just bought one and was having a bit of buyer’s remorse until this video. Thank you Sir. Your tip on assigning my preferred function to the button on the grip was golden. I still prefer the low profile with the Smart Rig l bracket. I can definitely see situations in where this grip is more appropriate. Glad to have it in my tool box. Thanks for making me realize it and being settled in my purchase. Cheers
Thank you for the straightforward information. I thoroughly appreciate the delivery without all the silly fluff that comes with so many other reviews. Excellent, engaging, channel. Don't change a thing.
I appreciate your detailed and accurate reviews. I don't ever plan to get a battery grip of any sort, but wanted to see what they are about. Learned a lot in this review, great job!
I love the way you go through everything factual, precise and engaging! Best thing is Ricci you are a real photographer! Best Photography Channel on UA-cam and I have my own haha...
Great video. I hope it´s available the same time as the Z6II is. The delivery situation for the new products is currently not really good. I'm still waiting for the TC 2x :-( for my 70-200/2.8S
Yes, Ricci, have found this button conundrum even with my d610, but have set the AF-on button to mirror the Fn button on the body, great 'hack' for things like Lv quick access, or non CPU lens selection, even quick access to self timer mode, etc. acts similarly to the new i menu on the z cameras, but works in combination with it, great 1 button access to menu settings.
I have the MB-N11 and it is a good fit for me because I have large hands and prefer the chunky feel of a DSLR. I have the z 7ii, d850 and d780. I don't like the feel of the mirrorless cameras without the grip. For my hands they are too small. I appreciate the instructional videos. Still working on getting used to the new camera so please keep making videos.
Hey Ricci great work! Can you do a card rewrite speed comparison? Set each camera to 40 shots each and record how long the green write LED stays on for. Thanks
Late to the party but I'm planning on buying a Z 6 II with some accessories and this video helps a lot. Didn't know about the charging capabilities. Thats really cool. Thanks so much!
nice video Ricci, one thing that has come out of this is that Nikon should make a new ftz adaptor, which is similar to the pn-11 extension tube, ie: it has a tripod collar on it, which is rotatable, so when the MB-N11 is attached, people with large hands, or if you want to mount say a 70-200 lens, or larger/heavier the possibility will exist to rotate the mount of the ftz to use its tripod collar to hold the system for you, on a set of sticks. would make the ftz and the use of z's as sports/ wildlife cameras a more versatile and capable option, so that a 300 or 500 PF could be used safely, on this camera platform without the worry of the weight and where to hold it ( save any possibility of the mount being over-stressed due to people holding the camera, NOT the lens!).
I'm definitely waiting for a third party grip for my Nikon Z7 II. I'm not stupid paying over 400€ here in Austria for such a Grip. Since I started Photography in 2014 I only used third party grips for my Nikons and really NEVER had any issues with them (mainly Neewer and Meike). And if so, I could buy 2 ("and a half") Grip for the price of on of a nikon one. I don't get it, why these grips from nikon are always so damn expensive...
This battery grip seems really well thought out. Now that I mostly do video these days I don’t have a good use for it, but it is good to know if I delegate a new Z series to photography that it is available.
Good overview of the grip. I sort of wondered about hot-swapping batteries, but your suggestion makes sense (even though I don't record video so shutting down the camera for brief periods of time is not a big issue for me). But I wish Nikon would make two new FTZ mounts (one that's circular, and another that has a built-in AF motor, even if it has to be larger than the existing FTZ adapter, for those with AF-D screw-driver lenses).
It is sad that Nikon could not follow Fujifilm’s lead and have a three battery layout and also mimic the front function button. All technically possible for sure. Very nice no nonsense review. Thanks.
Hi, thank you for the review. I think you're the only one on UA-cam. Would you say it would be a good idea to swap the batteries around occasionally to even out the usage (drainage) to maintain healthy battery life? Thanks muchly.
Very nice, I have the Z7 right now and the D500 that I use with my 500 PF lens, Have you seen any improvements with AF-C as far as tracking? I just don't know which to sell Z7 for Z7II or sell my D500 and get the Z6II;)
One thing forgot to mention in a previous comment would be for Z6 and Z7 users, I don't know why Nikon can't do a vertical grip with controls, that uses a USB cable to connect to the USB-C or DC-2 (control) port on the camera, which I believe would let you change exposure settings (iso, shutter speed, and aperture at least). It wouldn't be an ideal solution, but it would give some gen 1 Z users an option (there are some third party grips out ther that do this, but they all lack the command dials and focusing stick). At this point, still having my Z7 around, having a grip with just command dials and a shutter button would be enough in some cases (especially if I"m using auto area AF where I don't always need the focusing stick). I know the MB-N11 is a big selling point for the gen 2 bodies and was likely a strategic move (to get people to upgrade) but at the same time, some people with the gen 1 bodies may get frustrated and just switch to some other brand because of this boneheadedness from Nikon. While Canon may have failed on multiple levels with their original R cameras, I do have to say they at least got a proper vertical grip with Controls right and so their users had that when the R/RP were released. That being said, having now bought the MB-N11 I do like how they made it so the battery terminal goes into the battery bay, and not like in the past on most where it just screws into the bottom of the camera and feels "flimsy" or wobbles. The MB-N11 is solid (and I assume the N10 is the same way due to a similar design with the battery terminal). That I do like, and partially for that reason, I think I like this grip better and will use it more (I too, had a grip for my D750 but only used it maybe 1/10 of the time, but it was nice to have for those times I did use it, so I would say people shooting portraiture or wildlife/sports, it's probably worth having the grip even if you don't use it that often), at the very least so you can have more battery power. The added weight and bulk is not bad (better than DSLR grips, but that's expected as DSLRs are bigger). I do wish that Nikon would have put one more custom bottom on the top, or the back, that can be assigned, but at least they put ONE on there, although two would have been better so I could use one for metering, and the other for AF mode selection.
Minor critique on the MB-N11 - the control dials. They either needed to be rubber, or metal like the body. They are plastic, less "grippy" and as a result, harder to turn (perhaps mine isn't broken in yet?). This could just be me being picky - but then, for $395... I expect a lot. Everything else on this grip is fantastic.
the dials on my grip feel like they have the same resistance as the main dials so there could be a Breaking in period but I agree I would of preferred them to be a better material to help in wet or hot conditions.
Another great overview, thanks :) Got a question about what you said about charging with USB-C. Can the grip be used as a charger for when not using the grip in the camera?
@@RicciTalks I can see if the Z6II is used just for stills and both batteries are low then anothe slider pre-loaded with batteries can be dropped in. I use two clip with batteries in for my D500 and D810 when out in the field for long periods
Thank you, Ricci! At first look, specs-wise, the feature that stands out to me is that the "II" cameras have dual processors. I hope that you can report on what this actually means, when using the cameras. Do you see the things we're used to with the Z6 and Z7 happening faster, and/or better? These cameras seem to have great potential, and although I'm happy with both my Z6 and Z7, I'll be highly interested in hearing your reports, once you've used them a bit more. Thank you!
Very informative video, thank you. I have not pulled the trigger on mirrorless yet, but now that I can get a fully functional grip and dual card slots the Z 6 II is on the radar waiting to see what promos will be coming down the road. Off topic but very important to me and maybe a bunch of other photographers. I have been waiting over a year for the firmware update to allow use of CF Express cards in the D500 so I can finally purchase my final DSLR and there may be more people like me. I do not want to invest in expensive XQD cards and then switch to CF Express. Please shake the tree for me, two camera sales are on hold.
Who else could possibly be holding/using a production Z6 II this quick?. :) The grip finally LOOKS good i say, plus the added functionality. However I think it's time for FTZ II release :). And maybe the added screw drive focus which should be possible. I do think it is pure economic thing by Nikon to prevent the use of the D lenses which are out of support, BUT there are just sooo many good ones out there which output just can't be replicated at least for the foreseeable future. Cheers.
Thanks Ricci. A really useful video as one thing I miss since going mirrorless is a battery grip for portrait orientation. I hadn't considered issues with the FTZ until you mentioned it. Is the FTZ tripod screw still usable with the grip as the bulge at the front of the grip look as though it could obscure it?
I was very surprised that Nikon did not design the first Z 6&7 series for using grips. They make the handling much more ergonomic for taking hand held shots.
Everything seems to be getting sorted on the Z cameras. I wish Nikon could add at least 1080p backup. As a hybrid shooter its quite important to me. It means again Im sat waiting before I move from my D750.
Great video as always Ricci - shame Nikon didn't do the MB-N11 since Gen 1 or produced a way of using it in both Gen 1 and Gen 2 - possibly with redressed connectors at top or spring connectors. If Nikon did this they would sold more of these grips both to Gen 1 and Gen 2 customers.
Sorry to be a pain! One more please! Will it take 3rd party batteries? I am hearing that most Z6ii's will not take anything other than the EN-EL15 B or C batteries?
Is the grip plastic or metal? Just curious about what to expect from it. The grip for the D500 is plastic, and, without ever being hit or dropped, it developed cracks; sent it for repair (at my expense) and the replacement plastic part cracked in the same place, which is quite disappointing for a grip that costs as much as a D3xxx body. Hope this one is better.
At least with the hot-swap you can remove the dead outermost battery and drop in a fresh one. And of course this lets you have two or three more if you want, just swap out the dead one while you keep shooting. Plus you can operate the camera entirely from USB power without even worrying about battery replacement - but those wires can be too much to deal with when you're busy!
Thanks for the information for Z6 Z7 cant use this MB-N11. and Damn Nikon for limit it only for Z6ii and Z7ii.. cant just make it for support more version will be selling the product better..
Could you do another Q&A perhaps? I have several wired remotes for my Z6 and Z7, which work very well, but I miss the convenience of the old ML3 wireless ones! I have tried using my iPhone as a remote, but setting up is a faff and never seems to work first time. Any chance of running through Z remote options, please?
Hello Ricci, Just a quick question more about lenses and whats to come. I see you some time are able to get pre-production units I was wondering if you get the opportunity for a Z 105mm S line macro if it can take either of the teleconverters. Would be interesting to know? Keep well, keep save and be happy.
As always, thank you for a fantastic video my friend. My friends and I have really come to rely on your channel for the Z series. I'm looking forward to you putting both new Z's though their comparisons with the old Z's. I'm curious what the autofocus is like with the dual processors now that it's been improved. Can you take a look at that for us? I currently have the D850 and Z6 (to name of few of my cameras). I will be ordering the Z 7 II next and will part with my D850 Cheers /Chris.
The Z6II is a catch up of what supposed to be launched 2 years ago. As a Z6 owner, I would like to do the upgrade but it is very disappointed the bargain trade in price I can get for the Z6
Just tried to trade in my D3 and they didn't even want it, lol. My Mamiya 7II I bought 10 years ago is worth 4 times what I paid for it. New tech gear is throw away paper weight unfortunately.
Ok 2+ things! I assume but its worth an ask.. the USB-C has no data to the camera right? Its just for charging? Question 2 does the USB port power on the camera with out batteries in the cradle? A a usage case might be doing timelapse from a big power bank or wall power for video? And... finally can you ask Nikon what the max Watt for the charge is? The 2019 Mac Pro USBC charger will not charge the Z 6. Most others seem to do it however?
Hey Ricci, nice Video! I like your content very much. Today i sold my z6 and my d850 and Upgrade to an Z6ii. Do you think the Autofocus speed can be so fast as the d850 Tracking focus? I hope they Update the Focus like the z6's . Have a nice day man, greetings from Germany 😁
Hey Everyone !
I hope you find this first look at the new Grip MB-N11 useful !
I will be using this grip more than I first thought I would (mainly a duel battery charger) especially for my use of longer lenses.
any questions let me know in comments below.
Now I'm off to shoot with the Z 6ii to test AF
Thanks for watching !
too small , i use d850s because of their size with grips .. the new cameras are far too small ,
Another great video. Will you do a video on flash photography using the z cameras Ricci ? In particular about composing for flash photography through an EVF as opposed to an OVF for macro photography with the likes of the R1C1 twin flashes?
Can nikon introduce a battery grip for nikon z6
Perhaps you shouldn't be surprised by the increasing popularity of this channel, because you seem to know what you're talking about and you express yourself in such an engaging and articulate manner. Looking forward to more of the same...
Thanks a lot 😊
Totally agree great channel
Agree...cheers from Australia.
When Ricci talks, I listen and am thankful for your videos. They help me making choices. Thanks for that Ricci
Great info as always, you will be at 20,000 soon!
Always trying
I have a Z6 and therefore have no intention of purchasing this grip-however, your video was so thorough and well done that I watched the whole thing anyway. Kudos and keep it up!
Thanks a lot ! Hope fully some of my other videos are useful for you
A thorough and well explained review. Thanks for that. As I am more of a photographer who started out with heavy DSLR I have hold back myself from migrating to mirrorless system inspite of all the convineince associated with mirrorless camera. Another setback was lack of full functing vertical grip in these mirrorless camera and feeling too light and small in hand. It is good thing that Nikon realised the need of its customers, though late and they were a little carried away by the new breed of vloggers who need small and light camera. Now that the second generation Nikon Z 6 and 7 are compatible with vertical grip I am considering migrating to mirrorless system.
Great information. Video quality of the Z6 II looks amazing. Tack sharp on the eye, even you wearing glasses.
Thanks for watching
Soon going to run out of things which users don't like about Nikon gear, lol. For those of us with large hands this is going to be a god send, thanks for listening Nikon. Great film Ricci thanks, video and sound quality outstanding, full screen on my 27"iMac it looks and sounds truly excellent! Quality info as always, thanks.
Thanks a lot ! For watching 😊
We need more releases from Nikon, so we can get more videos. Thank you, as always very informative.
I'm a z6 owner with no intention for an upgrade as I'm looking to build up the Holy Trinity but..is soo interesting watching your video !! You are great Ricci 🙌..20.000 a pice of cake !
That’s brilliant Ricci and you answered the one question I had about the ftz so thank you. I’m really looking forward to buying my Z6ii 😃
Glad it helped
Great video Ricci. It's a real bummer that the grip can't be used the original Z6/Z7 but oh well. It was great to watch your in-depth review on the grip though!
Thanks for watching
I don't like arrogance of Nikon Mgmt. 1st they are late to party, then makes same mistakes as sony, now they behave like they are doing us a favour by keep saying we listen to our customers. Their product launch is result of thier attitude.
The lack of an actual vertical grip was one of the primary reasons that I didn't bother with a Z6 or Z7. I've come to rely on them quite heavily with my D750 and D7200, especially when taking portrait orientation shots with heavy lenses.
I am excited to see Nikon correct this epic shortcoming with the Z6II and Z7II, and then go further and actually improve on their existing vertical grips by adding new features and getting rid of that whole "battery-in-body" paradigm. Bravo Nikon!
I much preferred the battery grips with contacts under the camera, rather than in the battery compartment. It meant you didn't have to remove the battery door and the grip's smaller without that big bit that pokes up into the battery compartment, making it easier to pack away if not needed. The locking wheel front and back makes for an easier way to make sure it's nice and tight, pity this didn't have the above.
I think they did that because the contacts on the outside were supposedly causing issues with the weather sealing of the cameras. Though I never heard of anyone who actually had issues with it
@Code Bunny I shot maybe 300 events with my D850 and grip and never once thought that it would snap off, ever.
@@romanpul I can see if they never replaced the rubber cover after removing it. I shot in rain/hail/sleet and snow fall, all without any problems.
The grip really looks nice and I feel like it makes the camera similarly big like my D810. Which is great from the perspective of ergonomics, but not so great from the perspective of weight. At least people have more choices now, and the critics have to try harder to complain.
Thank you for the review that is full of valuable little details that you can’t know without someone showing you like you did.
Love the grip! Can’t wait to see your review on the Z 6ii. Looking forward to hearing whether it tracks birds and athletes better than the D500 or D850.
That's something I want to know.
Nope
Thank you i am really enjoying your videos i have just ordered the z6ii... i have the z6 at the moment looking forward to seeing the next one
Thank you very much, Ricci. I just received one.
I have had some initial trouble removing the battery cover from the camera, and I was very afraid of breaking it.
The user's manual didn't help much either.
Until using a magnifying glass, I noticed that on the camera body there is a small groove to displace one of the two axes of the door.
And then it is the same way to return the door, once the grip is disassembled.
One great feature of the grip not mentioned is that you can shoot tethered or with a bluetooth foolography unleashed controller and mains power the camera at the same time, as 2 usbc ports are needed. This is great for remote camera work. Thanks for taking the time to do this review
I just bought one and was having a bit of buyer’s remorse until this video. Thank you Sir. Your tip on assigning my preferred function to the button on the grip was golden. I still prefer the low profile with the Smart Rig l bracket. I can definitely see situations in where this grip is more appropriate. Glad to have it in my tool box. Thanks for making me realize it and being settled in my purchase. Cheers
Thank you for the straightforward information. I thoroughly appreciate the delivery without all the silly fluff that comes with so many other reviews. Excellent, engaging, channel. Don't change a thing.
Thank you for your to the point and lucid videos, highly appreciated in these times
Great as always Ricci! Looks like a nice little addition to the Z6 II, Looking forward to sharing my own findings soon with the camera!
I appreciate your detailed and accurate reviews. I don't ever plan to get a battery grip of any sort, but wanted to see what they are about. Learned a lot in this review, great job!
Thank you Ricci you are a quiet knowledgeable voice in a noisy world. Excellent, informative and exemplary review.
Great video. Thank you!!! Looking to buy a Z7ii and the grip is essential for me. I'm convinced.
Now I want one. Take my money Nikon
I love the way you go through everything factual, precise and engaging! Best thing is Ricci you are a real photographer! Best Photography Channel on UA-cam and I have my own haha...
A very informative video as always on this channel. By far the best for Nikon users, thank you very much!
Great video. I hope it´s available the same time as the Z6II is. The delivery situation for the new products is currently not really good. I'm still waiting for the TC 2x :-( for my 70-200/2.8S
Although many have bitched about the lack of vertical grip, I'll bet not many actually buy one.
Yes, Ricci, have found this button conundrum even with my d610, but have set the AF-on button to mirror the Fn button on the body, great 'hack' for things like Lv quick access, or non CPU lens selection, even quick access to self timer mode, etc. acts similarly to the new i menu on the z cameras, but works in combination with it, great 1 button access to menu settings.
I have the MB-N11 and it is a good fit for me because I have large hands and prefer the chunky feel of a DSLR. I have the z 7ii, d850 and d780. I don't like the feel of the mirrorless cameras without the grip. For my hands they are too small. I appreciate the instructional videos. Still working on getting used to the new camera so please keep making videos.
Hey Ricci great work! Can you do a card rewrite speed comparison? Set each camera to 40 shots each and record how long the green write LED stays on for. Thanks
Late to the party but I'm planning on buying a Z 6 II with some accessories and this video helps a lot. Didn't know about the charging capabilities. Thats really cool. Thanks so much!
I got my grip last week, and now I don’t know how I made do without it. Grip using bigger lenses is greatly improved.
nice video Ricci, one thing that has come out of this is that Nikon should make a new ftz adaptor, which is similar to the pn-11 extension tube, ie: it has a tripod collar on it, which is rotatable, so when the MB-N11 is attached, people with large hands, or if you want to mount say a 70-200 lens, or larger/heavier the possibility will exist to rotate the mount of the ftz to use its tripod collar to hold the system for you, on a set of sticks. would make the ftz and the use of z's as sports/ wildlife cameras a more versatile and capable option, so that a 300 or 500 PF could be used safely, on this camera platform without the worry of the weight and where to hold it ( save any possibility of the mount being over-stressed due to people holding the camera, NOT the lens!).
Ahh, someone at Nikon finally took a look at the Lumix G9 battery grip and thought "This looks pretty good..."
I'm definitely waiting for a third party grip for my Nikon Z7 II. I'm not stupid paying over 400€ here in Austria for such a Grip. Since I started Photography in 2014 I only used third party grips for my Nikons and really NEVER had any issues with them (mainly Neewer and Meike). And if so, I could buy 2 ("and a half") Grip for the price of on of a nikon one. I don't get it, why these grips from nikon are always so damn expensive...
Thanks, mate...I just just looking for customization on buttons..... got it
Always with the steady content!!
Trying hard !
Best part of the video is at the when you smile and express your surprise at how many people watch.
You are the Mark Galer for nikon, this is a compliment!
Thank you again Ricci. Very much appreciating.
This battery grip seems really well thought out. Now that I mostly do video these days I don’t have a good use for it, but it is good to know if I delegate a new Z series to photography that it is available.
Good overview of the grip. I sort of wondered about hot-swapping batteries, but your suggestion makes sense (even though I don't record video so shutting down the camera for brief periods of time is not a big issue for me). But I wish Nikon would make two new FTZ mounts (one that's circular, and another that has a built-in AF motor, even if it has to be larger than the existing FTZ adapter, for those with AF-D screw-driver lenses).
Battery door store is the same style as on my older D200 camera what I had for years before changing to D800.
Wow! What a terrific review! Honest and informative. Subscribed.
Ricci, great run-through, looking forward to mine arriving, is the launch date the 5th like the Z6ii? Also does using it retain the weather sealing?
It would be interesting to see a long term review for this product due to some of the complaints from actual owners.
20,000 coming soon bro!!!!! Happy for you
We are getting there !
It is sad that Nikon could not follow Fujifilm’s lead and have a three battery layout and also mimic the front function button. All technically possible for sure. Very nice no nonsense review. Thanks.
What does happen if I power the camera via USB-C plug while filming and I remove the tray? Does it continue operating?
Hi, thank you for the review. I think you're the only one on UA-cam. Would you say it would be a good idea to swap the batteries around occasionally to even out the usage (drainage) to maintain healthy battery life? Thanks muchly.
Very nice, I have the Z7 right now and the D500 that I use with my 500 PF lens, Have you seen any improvements with AF-C as far as tracking? I just don't know which to sell Z7 for Z7II or sell my D500 and get the Z6II;)
Great Info. You are my favorite UA-camr :-)
One thing forgot to mention in a previous comment would be for Z6 and Z7 users, I don't know why Nikon can't do a vertical grip with controls, that uses a USB cable to connect to the USB-C or DC-2 (control) port on the camera, which I believe would let you change exposure settings (iso, shutter speed, and aperture at least). It wouldn't be an ideal solution, but it would give some gen 1 Z users an option (there are some third party grips out ther that do this, but they all lack the command dials and focusing stick). At this point, still having my Z7 around, having a grip with just command dials and a shutter button would be enough in some cases (especially if I"m using auto area AF where I don't always need the focusing stick). I know the MB-N11 is a big selling point for the gen 2 bodies and was likely a strategic move (to get people to upgrade) but at the same time, some people with the gen 1 bodies may get frustrated and just switch to some other brand because of this boneheadedness from Nikon. While Canon may have failed on multiple levels with their original R cameras, I do have to say they at least got a proper vertical grip with Controls right and so their users had that when the R/RP were released.
That being said, having now bought the MB-N11 I do like how they made it so the battery terminal goes into the battery bay, and not like in the past on most where it just screws into the bottom of the camera and feels "flimsy" or wobbles. The MB-N11 is solid (and I assume the N10 is the same way due to a similar design with the battery terminal). That I do like, and partially for that reason, I think I like this grip better and will use it more (I too, had a grip for my D750 but only used it maybe 1/10 of the time, but it was nice to have for those times I did use it, so I would say people shooting portraiture or wildlife/sports, it's probably worth having the grip even if you don't use it that often), at the very least so you can have more battery power. The added weight and bulk is not bad (better than DSLR grips, but that's expected as DSLRs are bigger). I do wish that Nikon would have put one more custom bottom on the top, or the back, that can be assigned, but at least they put ONE on there, although two would have been better so I could use one for metering, and the other for AF mode selection.
Minor critique on the MB-N11 - the control dials. They either needed to be rubber, or metal like the body. They are plastic, less "grippy" and as a result, harder to turn (perhaps mine isn't broken in yet?). This could just be me being picky - but then, for $395... I expect a lot. Everything else on this grip is fantastic.
the dials on my grip feel like they have the same resistance as the main dials so there could be a Breaking in period
but I agree I would of preferred them to be a better material to help in wet or hot conditions.
@@RicciTalks Actually yes they already feel smoother to turn (just got it Friday) 🙂👍🏻
Great explanation👍🏾 I liked the video.
Another great overview, thanks :)
Got a question about what you said about charging with USB-C. Can the grip be used as a charger for when not using the grip in the camera?
Yes it can its charging my batteries not attached to the camera right now
terrific explanation. Thank you!
Great Video Ricci. One question is will there be an option to purchase a spare slider\tray for the new grip?
That’s a great question I’m not too sure.
The slider doesn’t have a specific part number but maybe you could get it as a spare part over time
@@RicciTalks I can see if the Z6II is used just for stills and both batteries are low then anothe slider pre-loaded with batteries can be dropped in. I use two clip with batteries in for my D500 and D810 when out in the field for long periods
Thank you, Ricci! At first look, specs-wise, the feature that stands out to me is that the "II" cameras have dual processors. I hope that you can report on what this actually means, when using the cameras. Do you see the things we're used to with the Z6 and Z7 happening faster, and/or better? These cameras seem to have great potential, and although I'm happy with both my Z6 and Z7, I'll be highly interested in hearing your reports, once you've used them a bit more. Thank you!
Very informative video, thank you. I have not pulled the trigger on mirrorless yet, but now that I can get a fully functional grip and dual card slots the Z 6 II is on the radar waiting to see what promos will be coming down the road. Off topic but very important to me and maybe a bunch of other photographers. I have been waiting over a year for the firmware update to allow use of CF Express cards in the D500 so I can finally purchase my final DSLR and there may be more people like me. I do not want to invest in expensive XQD cards and then switch to CF Express. Please shake the tree for me, two camera sales are on hold.
Who else could possibly be holding/using a production Z6 II this quick?. :) The grip finally LOOKS good i say, plus the added functionality. However I think it's time for FTZ II release :). And maybe the added screw drive focus which should be possible. I do think it is pure economic thing by Nikon to prevent the use of the D lenses which are out of support, BUT there are just sooo many good ones out there which output just can't be replicated at least for the foreseeable future. Cheers.
Added the screw drive would make the FTZ much larger having to accommodate two motors one for aperture and one for focus
@@RicciTalks or we could just have a second ftz for the d lenses AF as well (aperture is on the lenses anyway :) )
Thanks Ricci for informative video. If you can charge batteries in pack does it have to be the new batteries?
No the pack can charge en-el15b and en-el15c batteries
Thanks Ricci. A really useful video as one thing I miss since going mirrorless is a battery grip for portrait orientation.
I hadn't considered issues with the FTZ until you mentioned it. Is the FTZ tripod screw still usable with the grip as the bulge at the front of the grip look as though it could obscure it?
I was very surprised that Nikon did not design the first Z 6&7 series for using grips. They make the handling much more ergonomic for taking hand held shots.
Good review I have one on order with the Nikon z7 II.
I also shoot with an f3/t and I say it's humorous how similar the mb- n11 looks like the md-4
Everything seems to be getting sorted on the Z cameras. I wish Nikon could add at least 1080p backup. As a hybrid shooter its quite important to me. It means again Im sat waiting before I move from my D750.
Great informative videos. Looking forward to getting this .
Great video as always Ricci - shame Nikon didn't do the MB-N11 since Gen 1 or produced a way of using it in both Gen 1 and Gen 2 - possibly with redressed connectors at top or spring connectors. If Nikon did this they would sold more of these grips both to Gen 1 and Gen 2 customers.
Would have loved for them to add one or two additional programmable buttons on the back.
Sorry to be a pain! One more please! Will it take 3rd party batteries? I am hearing that most Z6ii's will not take anything other than the EN-EL15 B or C batteries?
Is the grip plastic or metal? Just curious about what to expect from it. The grip for the D500 is plastic, and, without ever being hit or dropped, it developed cracks; sent it for repair (at my expense) and the replacement plastic part cracked in the same place, which is quite disappointing for a grip that costs as much as a D3xxx body. Hope this one is better.
Really handy vid mate, cheers :)
Many thanks for this excellent and very detailed review! Helped me a lot! Greetings from Vienna, Enver
I wish you could use the battery in the camera. Having three batteries is super handy shooting weddings and long events.
At least with the hot-swap you can remove the dead outermost battery and drop in a fresh one. And of course this lets you have two or three more if you want, just swap out the dead one while you keep shooting. Plus you can operate the camera entirely from USB power without even worrying about battery replacement - but those wires can be too much to deal with when you're busy!
Good review and some good tips
Thanks for the information for Z6 Z7 cant use this MB-N11. and Damn Nikon for limit it only for Z6ii and Z7ii.. cant just make it for support more version will be selling the product better..
I just want the grip because I like big chunky looking cameras
Brilliant thanks mate
Thank you 🙏
Ya, I wish there were Fn1/Fn2 on the grips.
So it's not compatible with Z6 and Z7, wow, amazing nikon!
Thanks Ricci. Does having the grip installed maintain full weather sealing? Thanks & keep up the good work.
Yes it does
Good day. I love your videos. I'm wondering if this grip has weather sealing or not?
Thanks Ricci for the informative video as always.
Have you been able to spot any full cages for the Z6 II with the MB-N11 attached?
I bought a grip for my D500. I have never used it.
Could you do another Q&A perhaps? I have several wired remotes for my Z6 and Z7, which work very well, but I miss the convenience of the old ML3 wireless ones! I have tried using my iPhone as a remote, but setting up is a faff and never seems to work first time. Any chance of running through Z remote options, please?
How do you remove the battery door on the Z7II without breaking it?
I am also looking for an answer to this question! Please help Ricci : )
Great video, and great grip. Ricci is the video shot on 50 1.8 ?
Please test the Nikkor 1.2 S 50 mm against the Zeiss Otus mainly for color rendition , micro contrast and color fringing, I am torn between the two.
Hello Ricci, Just a quick question more about lenses and whats to come. I see you some time are able to get pre-production units I was wondering if you get the opportunity for a Z 105mm S line macro if it can take either of the teleconverters. Would be interesting to know? Keep well, keep save and be happy.
Very informative as always . Thank you so much. cheers ..
As always, thank you for a fantastic video my friend. My friends and I have really come to rely on your channel for the Z series. I'm looking forward to you putting both new Z's though their comparisons with the old Z's. I'm curious what the autofocus is like with the dual processors now that it's been improved. Can you take a look at that for us? I currently have the D850 and Z6 (to name of few of my cameras). I will be ordering the Z 7 II next and will part with my D850 Cheers /Chris.
The Z6II is a catch up of what supposed to be launched 2 years ago. As a Z6 owner, I would like to do the upgrade but it is very disappointed the bargain trade in price I can get for the Z6
Just tried to trade in my D3 and they didn't even want it, lol. My Mamiya 7II I bought 10 years ago is worth 4 times what I paid for it. New tech gear is throw away paper weight unfortunately.
Ok 2+ things! I assume but its worth an ask.. the USB-C has no data to the camera right? Its just for charging? Question 2 does the USB port power on the camera with out batteries in the cradle? A a usage case might be doing timelapse from a big power bank or wall power for video? And... finally can you ask Nikon what the max Watt for the charge is? The 2019 Mac Pro USBC charger will not charge the Z 6. Most others seem to do it however?
Hey Ricci, nice Video! I like your content very much. Today i sold my z6 and my d850 and Upgrade to an Z6ii. Do you think the Autofocus speed can be so fast as the d850 Tracking focus? I hope they Update the Focus like the z6's . Have a nice day man, greetings from Germany 😁
P.s. i am a Wildlife Photographer