Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R II Comparison
Nikon D810
Sony a7R II
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | D810 | a7R II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | June 26, 2014 | June 10, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D810 edges out the Sony a7R II with a score of 72/100 compared to 70/100. Both cameras were released in 2014 and 2015, with launch prices of $3300 and $3198, respectively. They share common specifications, such as being high-quality DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.
The Nikon D810 stands out with its larger size (146 x 123 x 82mm) and heavier weight (980g / 2.16lbs), offering a more robust build. On the other hand, the Sony a7R II is more compact and lightweight (127 x 96 x 60mm, 625g / 1.38lbs), making it more portable and easier to handle.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D810’s higher score reflects its sturdier build, while the Sony a7R II offers portability and ease of use. Both cameras have their merits, and the choice ultimately depends on the photographer’s preferences and needs.
Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7R II outperforms the Nikon D810 in optics, scoring 81/100 compared to the Nikon’s score of 76/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a full-frame CMOS sensor, a shooting speed of 5 frames per second, and lens mounts specific to their respective brands (Nikon F FX for the D810 and Sony FE for the a7R II).
The Sony a7R II’s higher score is mainly due to its superior 42.4-megapixel count, compared to the Nikon D810’s 36.3 megapixels. This difference allows the Sony a7R II to capture more detail in images. Additionally, the Sony a7R II has a slightly better DXOMARK score for its sensor (98) than the Nikon D810 (97), indicating better overall image quality. The Sony a7R II also features image stabilization, which the Nikon D810 lacks. This feature helps reduce the chances of blurry images caused by camera shake.
On the other hand, the Nikon D810 benefits from the Expeed 4 processor, which is a powerful and reliable image processor. However, the Sony a7R II’s Bionz X processor is also highly competent, so this advantage is relatively minor.
In terms of optics, the Sony a7R II is the better camera due to its higher megapixel count, better DXOMARK score, and the presence of image stabilization. The Nikon D810 remains a strong competitor, but its lower score in optics makes it less appealing for photographers prioritizing image quality and detail. While both cameras have their merits, the Sony a7R II’s superior optics make it the preferred choice for photographers who value high-quality images.
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Optics
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7R II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 36.3 MP | 42.4 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. | 7360 x 4912 px | 7952 x 5304 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. | 24 x 35.9 mm | 24 x 35.9 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | 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. | 5 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 FX | 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 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 64 | 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. | 32,000 | 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. | 32 | 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. | 51200 | 102400 | |
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 | 399 | |
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 (tunnel) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 2,359,296 dots |
Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R II Video Performance
The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7R II in video capabilities with a score of 70 out of 100 compared to the Sony’s 56. Both cameras share some common video features, such as having Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, there are notable differences between the two models that contribute to the Nikon’s higher score.
The Nikon D810 boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Sony a7R II’s 30fps. This enables the D810 to capture smoother and more detailed footage, particularly in fast-paced or action-packed scenes. Additionally, the D810’s built-in time-lapse functionality allows for creative and dynamic video effects without the need for external accessories or software.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R II offers 4K video resolution (3840 x 2160), which is a significant step up from the Nikon D810’s Full HD. This higher resolution allows for more detailed and sharper video quality. However, the lack of built-in time-lapse functionality may be a drawback for some users who value this feature.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D810 is the superior choice for videographers who prioritize smooth, high frame rate footage and built-in time-lapse capabilities. The Sony a7R II, while offering higher resolution, falls short in other aspects of video performance and may be better suited for those who prioritize resolution over other features.
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Video
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7R II
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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. | 60 p | 30 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 | XAVCS, AVCHD, MP4 |
Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R II Features and Benefits
The Nikon D810 edges out the Sony a7R II with a feature score of 59/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras have similarities, including screen resolution, lack of touchscreen, absence of GPS, presence of WIFI, and no Bluetooth. However, each camera also has its own advantages.
The Nikon D810 boasts a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the Sony a7R II’s 3-inch screen. This provides users with a better view of their images and easier navigation through menus. Additionally, the D810’s screen resolution is slightly higher at 1,229,000 dots, compared to the a7R II’s 1,228,800 dots. This difference may not be noticeable in everyday use, but it still gives the D810 a slight advantage in terms of image clarity.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R II has a flip screen, which the Nikon D810 lacks. This feature allows for more flexible shooting angles and easier self-portraits. However, this advantage is not enough to outweigh the benefits of the larger screen size and higher resolution offered by the D810.
In comparing the Nikon D810 and Sony a7R II, the D810 takes the lead with its larger screen size and slightly higher resolution. While the a7R II does offer the additional convenience of a flip screen, this advantage is not enough to surpass the benefits of the D810’s larger screen and higher resolution. Ultimately, the Nikon D810’s features make it the better choice between the two cameras.
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Features
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7R II
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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. | 1,229,000 dots | 1,228,800 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 D810 vs Sony a7R II Storage and Battery
The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7R II in storage and battery with a score of 79/100, while the Sony a7R II scores only 16/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the Nikon D810 has two memory card slots and also supports Compact Flash and UDMA cards. The Sony a7R II has only one memory card slot and supports Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards as well.
The Nikon D810’s battery life is significantly longer, providing 1200 shots per charge using the EN-EL15 battery, while the Sony a7R II offers just 290 shots with its NP-FW50 battery. Neither camera has USB charging capabilities.
Despite the lower score, the Sony a7R II’s support for Memory Stick cards may be advantageous to some users. However, the Nikon D810’s superior battery life and additional memory card slot make it a better choice in terms of storage and battery performance.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7R II
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL15 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 1,200 shots | 290 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D810
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Sony a7R II
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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.' | 25.7 bits | 26 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.' | 14.8 EVs | 13.9 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' | 2853 | 3434 |
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Scores
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7R II
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Alternatives to the Nikon D810 and Sony a7R II
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D810 or the Sony a7R II:
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User Scores
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7R II
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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