Nikon D4 vs Sony a6300 Comparison
Nikon D4
Sony a6300
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | D4 | a6300 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2012 | 2016 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 06, 2012 | February 03, 2016 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D4, with a score of 63/100, narrowly edges out the Sony a6300, which scored 61/100. Both cameras were released in the 2010s, with the Nikon D4 in 2012 and the Sony a6300 in 2016. They differ in type, as the Nikon D4 is a DSLR while the Sony a6300 is a mirrorless camera.
The Nikon D4 stands out with its larger size (160 x 157 x 91mm) and heavier weight (1340g), which may offer better stability and durability. However, it comes with a hefty launch price of $5999. On the other hand, the Sony a6300 is more compact (120 x 67 x 49mm) and lightweight (404g), making it a more portable option. Additionally, its launch price is significantly lower at $1000.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D4 may be better suited for professional photographers who prioritize stability and durability, while the Sony a6300 is an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable and portable camera.
Nikon D4 vs Sony a6300 Overview and Optics
The Sony a6300 emerges as the winner in terms of optics, scoring 68/100, while the Nikon D4 lags behind with a score of 63/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as an 11 fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, and no image stabilization.
The Sony a6300 has an edge over the Nikon D4 with its higher megapixel count of 24.2 compared to the D4’s 16.2. This allows the a6300 to capture more detail and produce higher resolution images. Furthermore, the a6300 has a Bionz X processor, offering better image processing capabilities. The Sony E lens mount on the a6300 also provides access to a wide range of high-quality lenses.
On the other hand, the Nikon D4 outperforms the a6300 in terms of sensor quality, boasting a DXOMARK score of 89 compared to the a6300’s 85. This indicates better color depth, dynamic range, and low-light performance. The D4’s full-frame sensor size also contributes to its superior image quality and low-light performance. Additionally, the Nikon F lens mount is compatible with an extensive selection of lenses.
Although the Sony a6300 claims victory in the optics department, the Nikon D4 holds its ground with a superior sensor and lens compatibility. The a6300 is the better choice for those seeking higher resolution images and advanced image processing, while the Nikon D4 is more suitable for photographers who prioritize sensor quality and low-light performance. Both cameras have their strengths and would suit different photographers’ needs.
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Optics
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Nikon D4
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Sony a6300
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.2 MP | 24.2 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4928 x 3280 px | 6000 x 4000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 36 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame |  APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 11 fps | 11 fps | |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Nikon F | Sony E | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 3 | Bionz X | |
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 12,800 | 25,600 | |
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 50 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary. | 204800 | 51200 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 51 | 425 | |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   | | |
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens. | Optical (pentaprism) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 2,359,296 dots |
Nikon D4 vs Sony a6300 Video Performance
The Sony a6300 emerges as the superior camera regarding video capabilities, scoring 91/100, a significant 34-point lead over the Nikon D4, which scores 57/100. Both cameras share some video specifications, such as time-lapse functionality built in, allowing users to create stunning time-lapse videos with ease.
The Sony a6300 outperforms the Nikon D4 in several aspects, including higher video resolution and frame rate. With 4K video resolution and maximum dimensions of 3840 x 2160, the a6300 offers four times the resolution of the Nikon D4, which only provides Full HD with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This difference results in the a6300 delivering crisper and more detailed videos. Additionally, the a6300 boasts a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, four times greater than the D4’s 30fps. This higher frame rate enables smoother slow-motion playback and improved motion capture.
The Nikon D4, while lacking in comparison to the a6300, still provides decent video quality with Full HD resolution and 30fps. For users primarily focused on photography with occasional video recording, the D4 might suffice. However, the Sony a6300 clearly surpasses it in terms of video capabilities.
Considering the significant differences in video specifications, the Sony a6300 is the superior choice for those prioritizing video quality and performance. The Nikon D4, although not as powerful in this aspect, may still be suitable for users with less demanding video requirements.
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Video
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Nikon D4
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Sony a6300
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD |  4K | |
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video. | 1920 x 1080 px | 3840 x 2160 px | |
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect. | 30 p | 120 p | |
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video. |  | | |
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files. | MOV | MPEG-4, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, H.264 |
Nikon D4 vs Sony a6300 Features and Benefits
The Nikon D4 outperforms the Sony a6300 in features with a score of 57/100 compared to the Sony’s 54/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, screen resolution of 921,600 dots, and the absence of a touchscreen and GPS.
The Nikon D4 excels in having a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, providing a better viewing experience for photographers. However, it lacks other modern features such as a flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth, which the Sony a6300 has.
On the other hand, the Sony a6300 offers a flip screen and WiFi connectivity, making it more versatile and user-friendly for various shooting situations and easy sharing of images. However, it does not have Bluetooth, and its screen size is slightly smaller at 3 inches.
While the Nikon D4 has a slight edge in the features score, it is essential to consider the specific needs and preferences of the photographer when choosing between the two cameras. The Nikon D4’s larger screen size is beneficial for those who prioritize a better viewing experience, while the Sony a6300’s flip screen and WiFi connectivity cater to photographers who require more flexibility and convenience in their shooting and sharing process.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D4’s higher score indicates its superiority in terms of features, although the Sony a6300’s additional capabilities may appeal to some photographers depending on their requirements.
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Features
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Nikon D4
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Sony a6300
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera. |  | | |
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs. |  | | |
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions. |  | | |
Screen Type | LCD | LCD | |
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons. |  | | |
Screen Size |  3.2" |  3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 921,600 dots | |
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles. |  | | |
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens. |  | | |
Wi-Fi |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Nikon D4 vs Sony a6300 Storage and Battery
The Nikon D4 outperforms the Sony a6300 in storage and battery with a score of 87/100, while the Sony a6300 scores 24/100. Both cameras lack USB charging capabilities.
The Nikon D4’s superiority stems from its two memory card slots, accepting Compact Flash and XQD cards. This provides more storage flexibility and backup options. Additionally, the D4 boasts an impressive battery life of 2600 shots per charge, using the EN-EL18 battery type.
On the other hand, the Sony a6300 has one memory card slot, compatible with SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Its battery life is significantly lower at 400 shots per charge, utilizing the NP-FW50 battery type.
Considering these factors, the Nikon D4 offers better storage and battery performance, while the Sony a6300 falls short in this comparison.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D4
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Sony a6300
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Memory Card | Compact Flash, XQD | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL18 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 2,600 shots | 400 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D4
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Sony a6300
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 24.7 bits | 24.4 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 13.1 EVs | 13.7 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 2965 | 1437 |
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Scores
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Nikon D4
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Sony a6300
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Nikon D4 vs Sony a6300 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D4 or the Sony a6300:
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User Scores
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Nikon D4
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Sony a6300
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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