New Nikon Zf rumour suggests 10-bit N-Log and 1080p 120 fps video and magnesium build

We recently got our first sneak peek at what the Nikon Zf will look like, but a new set of leaked specifications has provided more information about the Zf (via Nikon Rumors). The leaked specifications claim that Nikon's upcoming camera will shape up to be a capable, if somewhat limited, midranger for hybrid shooters looking for a unique body.

Some of the more interesting new specifications include cropped 4K 60 fps or full-frame 4K 30 fps as well as 1080p 120 fps video, 273-point autofocus with 3D tracking, as seen in the Nikon Z8 and Z9, and support for 10-bit H.265 video with HLG and N-Log formats.

Previously, it was more or less confirmed that the Zf would come with a brand new 24.4 MP backside-illuminated CMOS sensor. Now, it seems as though the camera will also be getting Nikon's latest Expeed 7 processor, granting it an up to 30 fps burst rate when using JPEG or HEIF images and autofocus that should surpass the Z6 II. 

The EVF and rear screen will both reportedly be ported directly from the Z6 II, for better or worse. This means that it should feature a 1.27-cm EVF with 3.69 million dots and 100% coverage of the frame. The fully-articulating display, on the other hand, should be 3.2-inch TFT unit with a resolution of 2.1 million dots.

All of these specifications paint a picture of a Z6 II with a mix of upgrades and downgrades to make something of a less serious Z6 II cousin. The 4K 60 fps video makes the Zf as capable than the Z6 II, but the suggested combination of full-sized SD and microSD card slots is an odd choice that might hobble the camera's performance in some regards. Much like the Z6 II, the Zf will also still make use of a mechanical shutter, indicating that there is still enough rolling shutter in the new sensor that Nikon isn't confident enough to remove that just yet.

The body of the Nikon Zf will reportedly be made of a magnesium alloy and be quite compact at just 144 mm long, 101 mm tall, and 57 mm deep. For reference, the APS-C Zfc measures in at 134.5 mm long, 93.5 mm tall, and 43.5 mm deep. For those looking to upgrade from the Zfc to the full-frame Zf, it could prove to be an easier camera to handle, and the build quality should feel more premium.

The retro-inspired Nikon Zf is set to launch at some point before the end of 2023, and the expected price is around US$2,000 for the body, with lens kits coming in at up to US$2,500. 

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