It’s still early in the Z System’s history as I write this (four years), so probably early to give advice, but here are a few thoughts on the cameras that have had some sort of update so far:
- Z50 — The Zfc is really the Z50 II you might have been waiting for. The primary things that got added in the Zfc are USB Power Delivery, as well as some additions and performance tuning of the autofocus system. The Rear LCD goes fully swivel instead of simply tilting. The problem is that you also get a complete UI change from modern Nikon to legacy Nikon. Coupled with the mild nature of the upgrades, I generally don’t recommend that you trade your Z50 in for a Zfc. If you never use the viewfinder, the Z30 is also a Z50 II, but without the viewfinder or flash. Unfortunately, that, too, is a fool’s upgrade proposition: you’ll miss the EVF or the flash at some point in the future.
- Z6 — The Z6 II is a modest upgrade I'd say to skip. The Z6 III, on the other hand, is a compelling tour de force upgrade of this original body. You won't believe the increase in performance, the addition of so many (useful) new options, and the added customization the Z6 III will give you. The Z6 III definitely worth a strong look if you're still using the original Z6 (or even the Z6 II).
- Z7 — Good news for you Z7 users: it’s unlikely that you need the things that changed in the Z7 II. (Many of the changes are the same as with the Z6 II.) Most people opting for the 45mp version of the camera are doing landscape, travel, and general photography. The 900 second shutter speed might be useful, as well as un-cluttering the display are probably the most interesting changes to the Z7-type user. If that’s the case, the II advances probably don’t provide you much bang for the buck. Stick with your Z7 and wait until you see what the Z7 III brings. That’s generally been my advice, anyway: skip a generation of camera before upgrading.
Should you just upgrade to a Z8 or Z9? A lot of folk already have. But you’re talking about a much more expensive mirrorless camera than you had, as both models are significantly bigger and heavier than the Z5/Z6/Z7 bodies. Sure, the feature and performance lists of the Z8 and Z9 are extensive and state-of-the-art. Moreover, with the Zf and Z6 III options, the Z5/Z6 user now has two excellent choices that aren't as costly as the Z8 and Z9.
