Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S Comparison
Nikon D810
Sony a7S
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | D810 | a7S | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | June 26, 2014 | April 06, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  DSLR |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon D810, with a score of 72/100, outperforms the Sony a7S, which has a score of 55/100. Both cameras were released in 2014, with the D810 announced on 06/26 and the a7S on 04/06. They differ in type, with the D810 being a DSLR and the a7S a mirrorless camera. The Nikon D810 has a higher launch price of $3300 compared to the Sony a7S’s $2499.
The D810 excels with its larger size (146 x 123 x 82mm) and heavier weight (980g / 2.16lbs), offering more professional handling and stability. On the other hand, the Sony a7S is more compact (127 x 94 x 48mm) and lighter (489g / 1.08lbs), making it more travel-friendly and easier to carry.
Therefore, the Nikon D810 is a better choice for professionals seeking a robust camera, while the Sony a7S is ideal for those prioritizing portability.
Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S Overview and Optics
The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7S in optics with a score of 76/100, while the Sony a7S scores 60/100. Both cameras have similar specifications, such as a shooting speed of 5 frames per second, CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, and no image stabilization. They also have different lens mounts, with the Nikon D810 using the Nikon F FX mount and the Sony a7S using the Sony FE mount.
The Nikon D810 is better in terms of optics due to its higher megapixel count of 36.3, which enables it to capture more detailed images compared to the Sony a7S with 12.2 megapixels. Additionally, the D810’s Expeed 4 processor and a DXOMARK score of 97 for its sensor contribute to its superior performance in capturing high-quality images.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S has its advantages. Its Bionz X processor allows for faster image processing and better low-light performance. The lower megapixel count also results in larger individual pixels on the sensor, which can be beneficial for low-light photography. However, the a7S’s DXOMARK score of 87 for its sensor is lower than the D810’s, indicating that the overall image quality may not be as impressive.
Considering the specifications and scores, the Nikon D810 stands out as the better option for photographers who prioritize high-quality images and detail. The Sony a7S, while not as strong in optics, may still be suitable for those who require better low-light performance and faster image processing.
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Optics
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S
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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 35.6 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 | 25 | |
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 | 2,400,000 dots |
Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S Video Performance
The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7S in video capabilities, earning a score of 70 out of 100 compared to the Sony a7S’s 56. Both cameras share several common specifications, including Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels and a maximum video frame rate of 60fps.
The Nikon D810 has an advantage over the Sony a7S with its built-in time-lapse functionality, which allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without requiring additional equipment or software. This feature is particularly useful for capturing scenes with gradual changes, such as sunsets or the movement of stars in the night sky. The Sony a7S lacks this built-in feature, making it less versatile for time-lapse videography.
While the Sony a7S does not excel in any specific video aspect compared to the Nikon D810, it still provides good video quality with identical resolution, dimensions, and frame rate. However, the lower score indicates that the overall video performance may not be as strong as the Nikon D810.
Taking into account the video specifications and scores, the Nikon D810 is the superior choice for videographers. Its built-in time-lapse functionality sets it apart from the Sony a7S, providing an additional creative tool for users. Although the Sony a7S offers similar video quality in terms of resolution and frame rate, its lack of time-lapse functionality and lower overall score make it a less competitive option for video enthusiasts.
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Video
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S
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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 | 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. | 1920 x 1080 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. | 60 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 | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S Features and Benefits
The Nikon D810 emerges as the winner in the features comparison with a score of 59/100, while the Sony a7S trails behind with a score of 54/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the lack of a touchscreen and GPS, as well as the inclusion of WiFi connectivity. However, the differences in their features contribute to the disparity in scores.
The Nikon D810 surpasses the Sony a7S in terms of screen size and resolution. Its 3.2-inch screen is larger than the 3-inch screen found on the Sony a7S. Additionally, the Nikon D810 boasts a higher screen resolution of 1,229,000 dots compared to the Sony a7S’s 921,000 dots. This results in a crisper and more detailed display on the Nikon D810, making it more enjoyable to use for image review and menu navigation.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S does have one advantage over the Nikon D810: it features a flip screen. This allows for greater flexibility in composing shots from various angles, particularly when shooting from low or high perspectives. The Nikon D810 lacks this useful feature.
Considering the features of both cameras, the Nikon D810 stands out as the better choice due to its larger, higher-resolution screen. While the Sony a7S does offer the advantage of a flip screen, this single feature may not be enough to compensate for the overall lower feature score. Ultimately, the Nikon D810’s superior features make it a more versatile and user-friendly camera compared to the Sony a7S.
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Features
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S
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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 | 921,000 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 D810 vs Sony a7S Storage and Battery
The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7S in storage and battery, scoring 79/100 compared to the Sony’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and lack USB charging. However, the D810 has two memory card slots and also supports Compact Flash and UDMA cards, while the a7S only has one slot and supports Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.
The D810’s battery life is significantly longer at 1200 shots, using an EN-EL15 battery, compared to the a7S’s 380 shots with its NP-FW50 battery. This difference in battery life gives the D810 a clear advantage for extended shooting sessions.
Although the Sony a7S has a lower score in storage and battery, it does not necessarily mean it is an inferior camera. The a7S may excel in other aspects, such as video performance or low-light capabilities. However, when considering storage and battery alone, the Nikon D810 stands out as the superior choice.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S
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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 | 380 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon D810
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Sony a7S
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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 | 23.9 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.' | 14.8 EVs | 13.2 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 | 3702 |
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Scores
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S
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Nikon D810 vs Sony a7S – 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:
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User Scores
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Nikon D810
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Sony a7S
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