Nikon D500 vs Sony a7 III Comparison

The Sony a7 III, with a score of 80/100, edges out the Nikon D500, which scored 75/100. Both cameras share similar specifications, such as being released with a $2000 launch price. However, the Sony a7 III is a mirrorless camera, while the Nikon D500 is a DSLR.

The Sony a7 III boasts a lighter weight of 650g and smaller dimensions (127 x 96 x 74mm) compared to the Nikon D500’s 860g weight and larger size (147 x 115 x 81mm). This makes the Sony a7 III more portable and easier to handle. Additionally, the Sony a7 III was released in 2018, making it a more recent model than the Nikon D500, which was released in 2016.

On the other hand, the Nikon D500 has its own advantages as a DSLR camera. DSLRs typically offer a wider selection of lenses and can provide better performance in certain shooting situations.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 III is the winner due to its higher score, lighter weight, and smaller size, making it a more convenient option for photographers. However, the Nikon D500 remains a strong contender, especially for those who prefer DSLR cameras and their benefits.

Nikon D500 vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Nikon D500 in optics, with a score of 81/100 compared to the D500’s 69/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, a shooting speed of 10fps, and a lens mount specific to their respective brands (Nikon F DX for the D500 and Sony FE for the a7 III).

The Sony a7 III’s superiority in optics is due to several factors. It has a higher megapixel count of 24.2, allowing for more detailed images. The a7 III also boasts a full-frame sensor, which contributes to its impressive DXOMARK score of 96. This sensor size enables better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. Additionally, the a7 III features image stabilization, allowing for sharper images and steadier videos.

On the other hand, the Nikon D500 has a smaller APS-C sensor and a lower DXOMARK score of 84. While the D500’s 20.9-megapixel count is lower than the a7 III’s, it is still sufficient for capturing high-quality images. The D500 also utilizes the Expeed 5 processor, which is known for its speed and efficiency.

Despite these differences, both cameras are capable of producing excellent images, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user. The Sony a7 III’s advantages in optics make it the better choice for those who prioritize image quality and low-light performance, while the Nikon D500’s strengths lie in its speed and efficiency, making it a solid option for action and sports photography.

The Nikon D500 outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities with a score of 70/100, while the Sony a7 III scores 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution, 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions, and a max video frame rate of 30fps. However, the higher score of the Nikon D500 reveals its advantages in this aspect.

The Nikon D500 excels with its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7 III lacks. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos effortlessly, providing a creative edge and versatility in capturing dynamic scenes. The higher video score of the Nikon D500 is a result of this additional functionality.

Despite its lower score, the Sony a7 III still offers solid video performance, matching the Nikon D500 in resolution, dimensions, and frame rate. While it does not have the built-in time-lapse feature, skilled users can still achieve time-lapse effects through post-processing. The Sony a7 III’s video capabilities are not inferior, but rather lack the convenience provided by the Nikon D500’s built-in feature.

Comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D500 and Sony a7 III, the Nikon D500 emerges as the winner due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Sony a7 III remains a viable option for those who prioritize other aspects of camera performance or who do not mind using post-processing techniques for time-lapse videos.

The Nikon D500 triumphs over the Sony a7 III in terms of features, scoring 87/100 compared to the latter’s 81/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth capabilities. However, neither camera offers GPS functionality.

The Nikon D500 surpasses the Sony a7 III in screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen, the D500 provides a larger display than the a7 III’s 3-inch screen. The higher resolution of 2,359,000 dots in the D500’s screen ensures sharper and clearer image previews, compared to the a7 III’s 921,600 dots. These factors contribute to the D500’s superior feature score.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 III has its advantages as well. Although it falls short in terms of screen size and resolution, it still offers a touchscreen and flip screen, making it a suitable choice for users prioritizing these features. Additionally, it matches the D500 in offering WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, ensuring seamless communication with other devices.

Considering each camera’s features, the Nikon D500 proves to be the stronger contender due to its larger screen size and higher resolution. These factors enhance the user experience, enabling more precise image previews and adjustments. However, the Sony a7 III remains a viable option for those who prioritize touchscreen and flip screen capabilities, as well as WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences and requirements.

The Nikon D500 outperforms the Sony a7 III in storage and battery with a score of 79/100 compared to Sony’s 68/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and do not support USB charging. However, the differences in their performance lie in the types of memory cards accepted and battery life.

The Nikon D500 accepts SD, SDHC, SDXC (UHS-II compatible), and XQD memory cards, while the Sony a7 III accepts SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards. The Nikon D500’s compatibility with UHS-II and XQD cards offers faster read and write speeds, resulting in better performance.

In terms of battery life, the Nikon D500 takes the lead with 1240 shots per charge, while the Sony a7 III only provides 750 shots. The Nikon D500 uses an EN-EL15 battery, and the Sony a7 III uses an NP-FZ100 battery. The longer battery life of the Nikon D500 enables photographers to capture more images before needing to change or recharge the battery.

While the Sony a7 III has a lower score, it still offers compatibility with Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards, which can be an advantage for users already owning these types of cards.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D500 proves to be the better option for storage and battery performance, while the Sony a7 III still provides decent capabilities in this aspect.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D500 or the Sony a7 III:

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