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Nikon D780 — full-frame DSLR · 2020
Nikon

Nikon D780

full-frame DSLR · 2020

84
/ 100
From $2,299
VS
Nikon Z6 — full-frame · 2018
Nikon

Nikon Z6

full-frame · 2018

84
/ 100
From $1,999
Specdex verdict

Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.

In our weighted Specdex score, Nikon D780 lands at 84 and Nikon Z6 at 84. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.

Pick Nikon D780 if…

  • ✓Mature system, great used market
  • ✓Proven lens lineup
  • ✓Often on sale

Pick Nikon Z6 if…

  • ✓Mature system, great used market
  • ✓Proven lens lineup
  • ✓Often on sale
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Winner by scenario

Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate test

Ergonomics

Tie

Compared on the ergonomics sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Photo

Tie

Compared on the photo sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Autofocus

Tie

Compared on the autofocus sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Value for money

Nikon Z6

Specdex score per dollar at MSRP

Nikon Z6 more score per dollar ($1,999 vs $2,299).

Nikon D780 84
vs
84 Nikon Z6

Score breakdown

Nikon D780
84
photo 84
video 76
autofocus 80
ergonomics 86
Nikon Z6
84
photo 84
video 76
autofocus 80
ergonomics 86

Specs side-by-side

Nikon D780 versus Nikon Z6 — full spec comparison
Spec Nikon D780 Nikon Z6
Format
full-frame DSLR
full-frame
Release year
2020
2018

Nikon D780

Pros
  • +Mature system, great used market
  • +Proven lens lineup
  • +Often on sale
Cons
  • −Older AF system
  • −Heavier than modern mirrorless
  • −Firmware updates trailed off

Nikon Z6

Pros
  • +Mature system, great used market
  • +Proven lens lineup
  • +Often on sale
Cons
  • −Older AF system
  • −Heavier than modern mirrorless
  • −Firmware updates trailed off

FAQ: Nikon D780 vs Nikon Z6

Which is better, Nikon D780 or Nikon Z6? +

Both score 84 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.

Is Nikon D780 worth the price? +

At $2,299, Nikon D780 delivers a Specdex score of 84 — strongest in ergonomics.

Is Nikon Z6 worth the price? +

At $1,999, Nikon Z6 delivers a Specdex score of 84 — strongest in ergonomics.

Does Nikon D780 or Nikon Z6 last longer? +

Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.

Which is the better value, Nikon D780 or Nikon Z6? +

Nikon Z6 — more score per dollar ($1,999 vs $2,299). Specdex score per dollar at MSRP.