Should I upgrade from the Nikon D850 to the Nikon Z8?
Upgrading is likely worth it. Nikon's FTZ II adapter gives autofocus with AF-S and AF-P lenses; older screw-drive AF-D lenses focus manually.
What you gain
- faster bursts (20fps vs 7fps)
- better video (8K 60p vs 4K 30p)
- in-body stabilisation
- a lighter body (910g vs 1005g)
- a mirrorless electronic viewfinder showing the exposure before you shoot, and modern subject-detection autofocus
- 6 years of newer processing and autofocus (2017 → 2023)
What you give up
- Nothing significant on paper
What it costs
| Z8 new | £2,999 |
| Z8 used (MPB, typical) | £2,360 |
| Your D850 trade-in (rough estimate) | ≈ £660 |
| Net cost buying used | ≈ £1,700 |
Trade-in estimates assume about two-thirds of the typical MPB resale price; real offers vary with condition and shutter count.
Specs side by side
Nikon D850 specs · Nikon Z8 specs · full comparison · best lenses for the Z8
Other upgrade paths
Frequently asked questions
Should I upgrade from the Nikon D850 to the Nikon Z8?
The upgrade is likely worth it. You gain faster bursts (20fps vs 7fps), better video (8K 60p vs 4K 30p), in-body stabilisation, a lighter body (910g vs 1005g).
How much does it cost to upgrade from the D850 to the Z8?
The Z8 costs £2,999 new and about £2,360 used at MPB. Trading in a used D850 might bring roughly £660, so the net cost is around £1,700 buying used (a rough estimate: get quotes from MPB, Wex and Park Cameras).
Will my D850 lenses work on the Z8?
Nikon's FTZ II adapter gives autofocus with AF-S and AF-P lenses; older screw-drive AF-D lenses focus manually.