The Z9 has the same 45.7 MP resolution as the Z7 and Z7II cameras, but uses a much faster stacked CMOS sensor which improves autofocus and continuous shooting performance.

The Z9 is the first Nikon Z camera to support 8K video, which can be recorded internally at 60 fps in 12-bit N-RAW.

[6][7] On February 29, 2024, NASA revealed a signed agreement between them and Nikon to develop the Handheld Universal Lunar Camera (HULC) as the first handheld camera to be used on the Moon, for use beginning with the Artemis III mission.

Notable features added by firmware updates include: Firmware 2.0 adding internal N-RAW video recording, "pre-release capture" and 120 Hz operation of the electronic viewfinder.

Firmware 4.0 added "auto capture", which can automatically trigger shutter release upon motion, subject or distance detection, and improved autofocus as well as video functions.