Just saw this thread. I'm actually very satisfied with the current performance of the Nikon Z8 Mirrorless Body. Based on technical data from sources like Photons to Photos or Thom Hogans analysis, the sensor is still performing at the top of its class. The hardware is solid and I have no complaints regarding the processing power... basically, the Expeed 7 is quite future-proof. For cost-conscious shooters, waiting for a Mark II isnt necessary. Nikon usually follows a four-year cycle for their professional bodies, putting a refresh around late 2026 or 2027. A better move would be investing in high-end optics like the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S or perhaps finding a deal on a Nikon Z9 Full-Frame Mirrorless if you need the integrated grip. Firmware 2.0 has already addressed most of the minor AF issues, which makes the current kit work well for almost any scenario. Checking Nikons firmware roadmap is usually a more reliable indicator of near-term value than hunting for Mark II rumors.

Regarding what #1 said about "Honestly, I don't think we'll see a Z8..." - yeah, William is spot on. I'm very satisfied with the current hardware and dont see a technical reason to rush a replacement. The thermal management in the current body is basically incredible... it works well even during long 8K sessions which is where most cameras fail. One thing to be careful about though is wishing for higher resolution or faster chips too early. Thats a recipe for reliability issues. If they pushed the specs further right now, theyd likely run into the same overheating nightmares that plagued other brands early on. Tbh Id rather have a camera thats slightly older but 100% dependable than a Mark II that shuts down every 20 minutes because the internals cant handle the data rate. Stick with whats proven for now.

Man I wish I found this thread sooner. Would have saved me so much hassle.

been digging into the sensor charts on dxomark and it is pretty clear why nikon isnt rushing. the current stack in the Nikon Z8 Mirrorless Body is still basically top tier. if you look at the Sony A7R V Mirrorless Camera, it has more megapixels but the readout speed on the z8 is way better for video and moving subjects. i checked the dpreview studio comparison tool recently too. the z8 holds its own against the Canon EOS R5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera in almost every meaningful metric. the canon has that eye control af which is neat tech, but for raw image quality and thermal stability, i have no complaints with the nikon. there just isnt a technical gap right now that makes a mark ii necessary. stick with what works, the current body is a beast.

Honestly, I don't think we'll see a Z8 Mark II anytime soon. The original Z8 is still a powerhouse and Nikon will likely concentrate on other areas of their lineup first. My guess would be no earlier than 2027, if at all.

Canon has just announced the EOS R5 Mark II, I think now Nikon is working on Z8II.