Nikon D7500 vs Sony a7 II Comparison
Nikon D7500
Sony a7 II
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | D7500 | a7 II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | April 12, 2017 | November 20, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D7500 takes the lead with a score of 70/100, while the Sony a7 II trails closely with 69/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as announcement dates in the 2010s and being part of the DSLR and mirrorless categories, respectively.
The Nikon D7500 outperforms the Sony a7 II with its larger size, measuring 136 x 104 x 73mm and weighing 1.59lbs. Its launch price is also more affordable, at $1250 compared to the Sony a7 II’s $1600.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 II offers a more compact design, measuring 127 x 96 x 60mm and weighing 1.32lbs. This makes it more convenient for users who prioritize portability.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D7500 offers better value for its price and performance, while the Sony a7 II provides a more compact option for those who prioritize size and weight.
Nikon D7500 vs Sony a7 II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 II wins in the optics comparison with a score of 78/100, while the Nikon D7500 scores 68/100. Both cameras share common specifications such as the CMOS sensor type and the ability to shoot at high speeds. However, there are significant differences between the two cameras that contribute to the Sony a7 II’s higher score.
The Sony a7 II has 24.2 megapixels, which is higher than the Nikon D7500’s 20.9 megapixels. This results in better image quality and detail capture. Additionally, the Sony a7 II has a full-frame sensor, while the Nikon D7500 has an APS-C sensor. Full-frame sensors provide better image quality and low light performance. The Sony a7 II’s sensor also has a higher DXOMARK score of 90 compared to the Nikon D7500’s 86, indicating better overall sensor performance.
Another advantage of the Sony a7 II is its built-in image stabilization, which the Nikon D7500 lacks. This feature helps reduce camera shake and improve image sharpness, especially in low light conditions or when using longer focal length lenses.
Despite these advantages, the Nikon D7500 does have a faster shooting speed of 8 frames per second, compared to the Sony a7 II’s 5 frames per second. This makes the Nikon D7500 more suitable for action photography and capturing fast-moving subjects.
To conclude, the Sony a7 II offers superior optics with its higher megapixel count, full-frame sensor, and built-in image stabilization. However, the Nikon D7500 may be more suitable for those who prioritize faster shooting speeds for action photography.
|
Optics
|
Nikon D7500
|
Sony a7 II
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.9 MP | 24.3 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 5568 x 3712 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. | 15.7 x 23.5 mm | 23.9 x 35.8 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C |  Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 8 fps | 5 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 DX | 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 5 | 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 | 50 | |
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. | 51,200 | 51,200 | |
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. | 100 | 50 | |
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. | 1640000 | 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/ 8000 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 | 117 | |
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 | 2,359,000 dots |
Nikon D7500 vs Sony a7 II Video Performance
The Nikon D7500 outperforms the Sony a7 II in video capabilities, earning a score of 70 out of 100 compared to the Sony a7 II’s score of 56. Both cameras share certain video features, such as the ability to record video in an MP4 format and offering manual control over exposure settings.
The Nikon D7500 excels in several aspects. It offers a maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), which is significantly higher than the Sony a7 II’s Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution. The higher resolution allows the Nikon D7500 to capture more detail and produce sharper videos. Additionally, the Nikon D7500 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which is absent in the Sony a7 II. This feature enables users to create time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 II has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Nikon D7500’s 30fps. This higher frame rate can be beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects and producing smoother slow-motion footage. However, the lower video resolution of the Sony a7 II limits the overall video quality.
In comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon D7500 and the Sony a7 II, it is evident that the Nikon D7500 is superior due to its higher video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. While the Sony a7 II does offer a higher maximum video frame rate, the advantage is not enough to outweigh the benefits provided by the Nikon D7500. Therefore, the Nikon D7500 is the better choice for those prioritizing video performance in their camera selection.
|
Video
|
Nikon D7500
|
Sony a7 II
|
|
|
|
|
||
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. |  4K |  Full HD | |
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. | 3840 x 2160 px | 1920 x 1080 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 | 60 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, MP4 | XAVC S |
Nikon D7500 vs Sony a7 II Features and Benefits
The Nikon D7500 triumphs over the Sony a7 II in features, boasting a score of 83/100 compared to the Sony’s 57/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, including a flip screen, lack of GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the Nikon D7500 outshines the Sony a7 II with its superior features, while the Sony a7 II has some advantages of its own.
The Nikon D7500 has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the Sony a7 II’s 3 inches. The D7500 also features a touchscreen, allowing for easier navigation and control. Additionally, the Nikon D7500 includes Bluetooth connectivity, further enhancing its wireless capabilities. These aspects contribute to the Nikon D7500’s higher feature score.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 II has a higher screen resolution at 1230000 dots, compared to the Nikon D7500’s 922000 dots. This results in a sharper and clearer display on the Sony a7 II. However, it lacks a touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity, which are significant disadvantages compared to the Nikon D7500.
In examining the features of both cameras, the Nikon D7500 is the clear winner due to its larger touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and overall higher feature score. The Sony a7 II, while having a higher screen resolution, falls short in other areas, making it the less appealing option. Thus, the Nikon D7500 is the better choice for those seeking a camera with more advanced features and greater ease of use.
|
Features
|
Nikon D7500
|
Sony a7 II
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in 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 Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 922,000 dots | 1,230,000 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 D7500 vs Sony a7 II Storage and Battery
The Nikon D7500 triumphs over the Sony a7 II in storage and battery with a score of 43/100 compared to Sony’s 35/100. Both cameras possess a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Sony a7 II also supports Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards, offering more storage options.
The Nikon D7500 excels in battery life, providing 950 shots per charge, significantly outlasting the Sony a7 II’s 350 shots. This substantial difference in battery life makes the Nikon D7500 a more reliable option for extended shooting sessions. Both cameras use different battery types, with the Nikon D7500 utilizing the EN-EL15a and the Sony a7 II using the NP-FW50.
Despite the Sony a7 II’s additional memory card compatibility, the Nikon D7500’s superior battery life makes it the clear winner in the storage and battery category.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Nikon D7500
|
Sony a7 II
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
|---|---|---|---|
Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL15a | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 950 shots | 350 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D7500
|
Sony a7 II
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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.' | 24.3 bits | 24.9 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.' | 14 EVs | 13.6 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' | 1483 | 2449 |
|
Scores
|
Nikon D7500
|
Sony a7 II
|
|
Main Features | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Extra Features | |||
Construction and Durability | |||
Handling and Ergonomics | |||
Value for Money | |||
Total Score |
Nikon D7500 vs Sony a7 II – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D7500 or the Sony a7 II:
|
User Scores
|
Nikon D7500
|
Sony a7 II
|
|
B&H photo video | N/A |
|---|