SmallRig turns Nikon Z 8 into a compact hybrid powerhouse with new cages and accessory ecosystem ^↺

SmallRig has announced its accessory and cage lineup for the Nikon Z 8 full-frame mirrorless camera, according to Nikon Rumors. The SmallRig Cage, Cage Kit, and Cage for Nikon Z 8 with MB-N12 Battery Grip aim to elevate the Nikon Z 8 by adding mounting points for accessory hardware without adding too much bulk to the camera body. 

The aluminium cages mount to the Z 8 body with a three-point attachment system that aims to balance ruggedness and efficient disassembly. While the SmallRig Cage only comes with the bare-bones aluminium cage, the Cage Kit comes with the cage, a nifty cable clamp, and an ergonomic aluminium top handle to more easily shoot low-angle scenes. The cages feature two Arca-Swiss Quick Release Plates for vertical and horizontal orientation on compatible tripods, stabilisers, and gimbals.

In addition to camera mounting options, the SmallRig cages offer a number of ways to mount accessories to the cameras, including a NATO rail, 1/4"-20 threaded hole, 3/8"-16 threaded hole, ARRI 3/8"-16 locating hole, Quick Detach mount, and cold shoe mount. Of course, all of these added features and extra protection do come at a cost — aside from the monetary one. The SmallRig Cage Kit adds an additional 560 g (1.2 lbs) to the camera's weight, while the Cage and Cage for Nikon Z 8 with MB-N12 Battery Grip add 320 g (0.7 lbs) and 400 g (.9 lbs) respectively.

The Cage Kit also comes with the optional HDMI and USB Type-C cable clamps to secure cables linked to external power and recording apparatus. The Cage Kit for the Nikon Z 8 is the only way to get the cable clamp for the camera at the time of writing, but it's likely SmallRig will release it as a separate accessory at a later stage.

All three of the the SmallRig cages are available for pre-order via the SmallRig site and B&H Photo, with deliveries and official sales starting on May 30. Both the SmallRig Cage Kit for Nikon Z 8 3941 and Cage for Nikon Z 8 with MB-N12 Battery Grip 3982 are US$102.90, while the SmallRig Cage for Nikon Z 8 3940 is US$59.90. These prices are applicable during the pre-order period, during which there is a 15% discount.

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