Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S II Comparison
Nikon D810
Sony a7S II
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | D810 | a7S 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 | 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.
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Optics
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 36.3 MP | 12.2 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 | 4240 x 2832 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 | 23.8 x 35.8 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 | 102,400 | |
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 | 409600 | |
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 | 169 | |
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 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.
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Video
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S 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 | 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.
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Features
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S 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 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.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S 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 | 370 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D810
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Sony a7S 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 | 23.6 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 | 13.3 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 | 2993 |
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Scores
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S II
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Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S 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 D810 or the Sony a7S II:
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User Scores
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S II
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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