RB67 vs RZ67: Ultimate Mamiya Medium Format Showdown
The Mamiya RB67 is a fully mechanical 6×7 medium-format SLR launched in 1970, while the RZ67 is its 1982 successor that adds electronic shutter control and interchangeable film backs without removing the lens. Think RB = Rotating Back, RZ = Revolving Zeiss—both shoot 120/220 roll film but handle very differently.
Photographers still confuse them because second-hand ads often lump “RZ67” into “RB67” listings and the bodies look nearly identical. In reality, one needs a battery for every speed (RZ) and the other fires even when dead (RB). That battery anxiety keeps the RB67 alive on remote shoots and the RZ67 favored in studios.
Key Differences
RB67: fully mechanical, 1/400 top speed, rotating back, single-crank film advance. RZ67: electronic 1–1/400, AE prism option, revolving back, quick-swap inserts, needs 6 V battery. Weight is similar, but RZ lenses have electronic contacts for auto-exposure.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose RB67 if you hike, shoot long exposures, or fear electronics. Choose RZ67 if you need fast film swaps, flash sync at all speeds, or tethered studio work. Both share glass; RZ lenses cost more but open up automation.
Examples and Daily Life
Street shooter loads RB67 with 400H, no battery worries. Fashion studio swaps RZ67 backs between color and B&W mid-set, syncing strobes at 1/400. Wedding shooter carries both: RB for ceremony, RZ for reception formals.
Can I use RB67 lenses on the RZ67?
Yes, with a simple adapter, but you lose electronic shutter control and must cock the lens manually.
Does the RZ67 work without its battery?
Only at 1/400 mechanical speed; all slower speeds and metering stop.
Which body is cheaper today?
RB67 bodies and lenses cost 30-50 % less on the used market.