Once you're used to the smaller, lighter Z bodies you won't want to go back to DSLR. And the benefits of the EVF cannot be overstated. I can do everything in the EFV that I used to do with a combination of viewfinder and back LCD on the DSLR. This means when I go shooting with the Z camera I can leave my reading glasses at home since with the diopter tuned for my eye, I don't need the glasses while shooting. That is a huge advantage. Furthermore, it's fantastic to immediately see when framing an image whether you're over- or underexposing. You fix that immediately BEFORE starting to shoot. No need to first take an image and then displaying it on the back screen to check for clipped highlights or underexposure.
Totally understand where you coming from, and in our club I hear the praises of small and light from many members, they love their Z cameras.
Members who recently bought the original Z6 Z7 and earlier lenses are struggling to sell cameras and lenses to move into the Z6 and 7 II with the 2.8 glass etc , in my mind no sooner do they do that and there will be I am certain a version 3 out.
I am 120kg built like the Rock Dwayne Johnson, I have hands the size of King Kong I cant use my D850 with out a grip, I find it hard to use a phone and type, I can carry my girlfriend over my shoulder for kilometers (when she has partied to hard LOL)
Really I guess I don't like 1st or second and third generational models, I like to lag behind and wait for the 4th generation like the D850, I skipped the D800 D800E D810 as my D3x still did the job brilliantly, and still dose today.
Mates just got there D6 in December and now a Z9 is announced, soon there will be a Canon 84mp version trumping the Z9, my heavens what's next.
The industry is in a state of major revaluation not evolution, we see new models flying out like smartphones do, all chasing that market share offering bells and whistles.
I agree the evf of mirrorless is great, but I will wait for the breeding of the Z9 to filter down into 4th generation Z consumer grade with refinements before investing in new glass and system, by the time this happens there will be likely more and better glass offered again.
I find I get more results and satisfaction by working on my style and technique, and Steve has a bunch of that info available.
I think the Z series will if done properly be the best around eventually as they have the IQ already, the large lens mount, they have the edge in that area
Great listening learning and chatting.
Only and opinion
Oz down under.