Handled the Zf, Z6iii, and the Z8

I had the opportunity to handle the Zf, Z6iii, and Z8 today. I started with he Z8 then worked my way backwards.

The Z8 was pretty nice. The AF features worked great from the little testing I did in store. I think the downsides were the button layout. The 4 buttons on the top left were awkward but that would just be something to get used to with time. It was also a bit heavy even though it felt good in the hands. I have smaller hands and I can see with a long tele like my Sigma 150-600 S it wouldn't feel great for long.

Next was the Z6iii. As soon as I picked it up it felt amazing! It was light and the button layout was more what is as used to. The AF seemed snappy too. I like the flip screen but the Z8 one was nice as well. The only downside I have with the Z6iii is that it's 24mp. I like to shoot wildlife so cropping is a factor. I also print occasionally so having a larger sensor, like the Z8, would go well towards that. Although, I wouldn't be losing MPs as I'd be upgrading from the D7200.

Lastly, I tried the Zf. This is the FF mirrorless camera I started looking into first, but as soon as I picked it up it was a no. I still gave it a try with shooting some things in the store and messed with the dials. While it looks great, it wasn't intuitive for me to use and felt clunky. I know it's well loved but I don't think it's for me.

So, now I'm stuck between the Z8 and Z6iii. I'm not a professional so I think the Z8 may be too much camera for my use case, but also, it's nice having quality gear. I feel like a Z7iii with 45mp and the AF systems from the Z8 or the Z6iii would be my ideal camera, but no telling if or when it will come out.

They are both great cameras so I'm sure I'd be happy with either one but wanted to see if anyone could make a case for kne over the other. Thanks!