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Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S II Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Nikon D810

nikon d810
Winner!
72%

Sony a7S II

Sony A7S II mirrorless camera image
60%
Nikon D810
vs
Sony a7S II
Price
Brand
Nikon
Sony
Model
D810
a7S II
Released
2014
2015
Announcement Date
June 26, 2014
September 11, 2015
Camera Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7S II with a score of 72/100 compared to 60/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as being released in the mid-2010s with the D810 in 2014 and the a7S II in 2015, and having a high launch price of $3300 and $3000, respectively.

The D810 excels with its DSLR camera type, larger size (146 x 123 x 82mm), and heavier weight (980g / 2.16lbs), providing a more professional feel. On the other hand, the a7S II has its merits as a mirrorless camera, boasting a more compact size (127 x 96 x 60mm) and lighter weight (627g / 1.38lbs), making it more portable and travel-friendly.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D810 is the superior option for those seeking a professional and sturdy camera, while the Sony a7S II caters to users who prefer a more compact and lightweight device.

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S II Overview and Optics

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7S II in optics with a score of 76/100 compared to the Sony’s 66/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as a shooting speed of 5, a CMOS sensor type, and a full-frame sensor size. Additionally, both cameras use different lens mounts – the Nikon D810 with Nikon F FX and the Sony a7S II with Sony FE.

The Nikon D810 excels in several aspects, including a higher megapixel count of 36.3 compared to the Sony a7S II’s 12.2, resulting in more detailed images. The D810 also has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 97, indicating better overall image quality. Moreover, the Nikon D810 is equipped with the Expeed 4 processor, which further contributes to its image quality.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S II has some advantages, such as built-in image stabilization, a feature absent in the Nikon D810. This allows for steadier shots and can help reduce camera shake, especially in low-light situations. The a7S II also uses the Bionz X processor, which, while not as powerful as the Expeed 4, still delivers good image quality.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D810 is the superior choice in terms of optics due to its higher megapixel count, better DXOMARK sensor score, and Expeed 4 processor. However, the Sony a7S II should not be overlooked, as its built-in image stabilization and Bionz X processor provide solid performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras comes down to the individual’s priorities and preferences in terms of image quality and stabilization.

Optics
Optics
76%
66%
Megapixels
36.3 MP
12.2 MP
Image Resolution
7360 x 4912 px
4240 x 2832 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 35.9 mm
23.8 x 35.8 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
5 fps
5 fps
Lens Mount
Nikon F FX
Sony FE
Image Processor
Expeed 4
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
64
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000
102,400
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
32
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
51200
409600
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
51
169
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (tunnel)
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
N/A
2,359,296 dots

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S II Video Performance

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7S II in video capabilities with a score of 70/100 compared to the Sony’s 56/100. Both cameras offer high-quality video recording, but there are key differences in their specifications that set them apart.

The Nikon D810 and Sony a7S II share some common video specifications. Both cameras have a maximum video resolution of Full HD (1920 x 1080), and each has built-in features for video recording. However, the similarities end there.

The Nikon D810 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, allowing for smoother video playback compared to the Sony a7S II, which has a maximum frame rate of 30fps. Additionally, the Nikon D810 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7S II lacks.

Despite its lower video score, the Sony a7S II does have an advantage in its 4K video resolution (3840 x 2160), offering four times the resolution of Full HD. This means that the Sony a7S II can capture more detail in its video recordings compared to the Nikon D810. However, this advantage is diminished by the lower maximum frame rate and the lack of time-lapse functionality.

Taking all of these factors into account, the Nikon D810 emerges as the superior choice for video capabilities due to its higher maximum frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality. While the Sony a7S II does offer 4K video resolution, it falls short in other crucial areas. The Nikon D810 provides a more versatile and user-friendly video recording experience, making it the better option for those prioritizing video capabilities in their camera choice.

Video
Video
70%
56%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
30 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S II Features and Benefits

The Nikon D810 triumphs over the Sony a7S II in the features category with a score of 59 out of 100, compared to the Sony’s 57. Both cameras share several specifications, including the absence of a touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth. They also both offer Wi-Fi connectivity.

The Nikon D810 has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the Sony a7S II’s 3 inches. Additionally, the D810’s screen resolution is slightly higher at 1,229,000 dots, versus the a7S II’s 1,228,800 dots. These factors contribute to the D810’s superior score in features.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S II does outshine the Nikon D810 in one aspect: it has a flip screen. This feature allows for more flexible shooting angles and can be particularly useful for capturing images and videos from challenging perspectives.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon D810 secures its lead in the features category with its larger screen size and higher screen resolution, providing a better viewing experience for photographers. Meanwhile, the Sony a7S II’s flip screen gives it an edge in versatility. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences, as each offers unique advantages in terms of features.

Features
Features
59%
57%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,229,000 dots
1,228,800 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S II Storage and Battery

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7S II in storage and battery with a score of 79/100, compared to the Sony’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the Nikon D810 additionally supports Compact Flash and UDMA cards, and has two memory card slots, while the Sony a7S II has only one and accepts Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.

The Nikon D810’s battery life is significantly longer at 1200 shots, using the EN-EL15 battery, while the Sony a7S II’s battery life is limited to 370 shots with the NP-FW50 battery. Neither camera offers USB charging.

In terms of storage and battery, the Nikon D810 is the clear winner with its longer battery life, additional memory card slot, and wider range of supported memory cards. The Sony a7S II falls behind in this aspect, with a shorter battery life and fewer memory card options.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
79%
21%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL15
NP-FW50
Battery Life
1,200 shots
370 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
97%
85%
Portrait (Color Depth)
25.7 bits
23.6 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
14.8 EVs
13.3 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2853
2993
Scores

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S II – Our Verdict

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S II Comparison image.

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