Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 61
SCORE
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✓ WINNER
 81
SCORE
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| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Sony |
| Model | D5500 | a7 III |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2015 | 2018 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
06/01/2015 | 27/02/2018 |
| Camera type | DSLR | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 124 x 97 x 70 mm | 127 x 96 x 74 mm |
| Camera weight | 420 g | 650 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
24.2 MP050 | 24.2 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
6000 x 4000 | 6000 x 4000 |
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. |
15.6 x 23.5 | 23.8 x 35.6 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | Full Frame |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. |
5 fps045 | 10 fps045 |
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 DX | Sony FE |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Expeed 4 | 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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
Max ISO ⓘ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. |
256003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
Min 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. |
10030200 | 5030200 |
Max 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. |
256003003280000 | 2048003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
Max 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. |
400080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
390300 | 6930300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘ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 (pentamirror) | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | N/A | 235929609900000 |
| Video | ||
Video ⓘIndicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |
✓ | ✓ |
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 format ⓘ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 | 3840 x 2160 |
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. |
60 fps | 30 fps |
Timelapse 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 | XAVC S, AVCHD |
| Features | ||
Builtin flash ⓘA built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |
✓ | ✗ |
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 dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
10370001150001500000 | 9216001150001500000 |
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 ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. |
✓ | ✓ |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |
✗ | ✓ |
| Storage & battery | ||
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✓ |
| Battery type | EN-EL14 | NP-FZ100 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
820 shots1505000 | 750 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✓ |
The Sony a7 III takes the lead with a score of 80/100, outperforming the Nikon D5500 which has a score of 61/100. Both cameras were released with a few years between them, the Nikon D5500 in 2015 and the Sony a7 III in 2018. They share similarities in size, with the Nikon D5500 measuring 124 x 97 x 70mm and the Sony a7 III at 127 x 96 x 74mm.
The Sony a7 III, being a mirrorless camera, is better in terms of technology, offering faster autofocus and improved image quality. However, the Nikon D5500, as a DSLR, has the advantage of being lighter, weighing only 420g compared to the Sony a7 III at 650g.
When considering the launch price, the Nikon D5500 is more budget-friendly with a price tag of $900, while the Sony a7 III sits at a higher $2000. While the Sony a7 III outperforms the Nikon D5500, the Nikon camera still provides value for those looking for a lighter and more affordable option.
The Sony a7 III emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 81/100, surpassing the Nikon D5500, which scored 65/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as 24.2 megapixels and a CMOS sensor type. However, it is the differences that set them apart and contribute to the Sony a7 III’s higher score.
The Sony a7 III excels due to its superior shooting speed of 10, compared to the Nikon D5500’s 5. Additionally, the Sony a7 III has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 96, while the Nikon D5500’s score is 84. The Sony a7 III also boasts a full-frame sensor size, whereas the Nikon D5500 has an APS-C sensor size. The lens mount for the Sony a7 III is the Sony FE, and the camera includes image stabilization.
The Nikon D5500, despite its lower score, has some advantages. It features a Nikon F DX lens mount and is equipped with an Expeed 4 processor. Although the Nikon D5500 lacks image stabilization, its processor is still a solid choice for photography enthusiasts.
In the end, the Sony a7 III’s superior shooting speed, higher sensor score, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization make it a better choice for those seeking advanced optics. The Nikon D5500, while not as impressive in the optics department, is still a reliable option for casual photographers or those on a budget.
The Nikon D5500 outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities with a score of 70/100 as opposed to the Sony a7 III’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as having built-in microphones and HDMI output. However, there are key differences that make the Nikon D5500 a superior choice for video recording.
The Nikon D5500 offers a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 30fps. This allows the Nikon D5500 to capture smoother video footage, particularly in fast-paced situations or when recording slow-motion scenes. Additionally, the Nikon D5500 features built-in time-lapse functionality, enabling users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 III boasts a 4K video resolution, resulting in higher video quality than the Nikon D5500’s Full HD resolution. However, this advantage is somewhat diminished by the lower frame rate, which can make the footage appear less smooth.
Regarding the video capabilities of both cameras, the Nikon D5500 stands out as the better choice due to its higher video score, faster frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality. While the Sony a7 III offers higher video resolution, its lower frame rate may not be suitable for all users, particularly those seeking to capture smooth footage in high-paced scenarios. Ultimately, the Nikon D5500 provides a more versatile and user-friendly video experience.
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Nikon D5500 with a feature score of 81/100 compared to 59/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, WIFI connectivity, and the absence of GPS. Despite these similarities, the Sony a7 III surpasses the Nikon D5500 in specific areas, contributing to its higher score.
The Sony a7 III offers Bluetooth connectivity, which the Nikon D5500 lacks. This feature allows for seamless file transfers and remote control options, enhancing the user’s experience. Additionally, the Sony a7 III has a more robust build, providing increased durability for various shooting conditions.
The Nikon D5500, however, excels in screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen and a resolution of 1,037,000 dots, it surpasses the Sony a7 III’s 3-inch screen and 921,600-dot resolution. This advantage grants the user a clearer and more detailed view of their images, aiding in composition and review.
Despite the Nikon D5500’s superior screen size and resolution, the Sony a7 III’s higher feature score indicates that it is a more versatile and well-rounded camera. The addition of Bluetooth connectivity and a more durable build contribute to its overall superiority. While the Nikon D5500 may offer a better display, the Sony a7 III remains the preferred choice for those seeking a camera with a broader range of features and improved performance.
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Nikon D5500 in the storage and battery category, scoring 68/100 compared to the Nikon’s 35/100. Both cameras possess similarities, such as accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards and lacking USB charging capabilities.
The Sony a7 III excels with its dual memory card slots, which also support Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo formats. This feature allows for greater storage capacity and versatility. However, the Nikon D5500 has a slightly longer battery life, offering 820 shots per charge compared to the Sony’s 750 shots.
Despite the Nikon D5500’s marginally superior battery life, the Sony a7 III’s overall storage and battery capabilities make it the better choice. The dual memory card slots and compatibility with various memory card formats give users more flexibility and options for their photography needs.
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D5500 or the Sony a7 III:
