Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Nikon |
| Model | Z5 | Z7 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2020 | 2018 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
21/07/2020 | 23/08/2018 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 134 x 100.5 x 69.5 mm | 134 x 101 x 68 mm |
| Camera weight | 675 g | 675 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
24 MP050 | 45.7 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
6016 x 4016 | 8256 x 5504 |
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. |
23.9 x 35.9 | 23.9 x 35.9 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Full Frame | Full Frame |
Continuous shooting ⓘThe number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. |
4.5 fps045 | 9 fps045 |
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 Z | Nikon Z |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Expeed 6 | Expeed 6 |
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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 6430200 |
Max ISO ⓘ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. |
512003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
Min 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. |
10030200 | 3230200 |
Max 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. |
1024003003280000 | 1024003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
Max 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. |
800080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
2730300 | 4930300 |
In-body stabilisation ⓘ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. |
Electronic | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | 368640009900000 | 369000009900000 |
| Video | ||
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 | 4K |
Max video format ⓘ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 | 3840 x 2160 |
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 fps | 60 fps |
Timelapse 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. |
MPEG-4, MOV | MOV, MP4 |
| Features | ||
Builtin 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 | TFT 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" | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
10400001150001500000 | 21000001150001500000 |
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 ⓘBuilt-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly. |
✓ | ✓ |
Bluetooth ⓘBluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |
✓ | ✓ |
| Storage & battery | ||
| Memory card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | XQD |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✗ |
| Battery type | EN-EL15c | EN-EL15b |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
470 shots1505000 | 330 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✓ |
The Nikon Z7 takes the lead with a score of 82/100, while the Nikon Z5 trails behind with a 78/100 score. Both cameras are mirrorless and share the same dimensions (134 x 100.5 x 69.5mm) and weight (675g / 1.49lbs). The Nikon Z7, released in 2018, has the advantage of a higher score, reflecting its superior performance and features compared to the Nikon Z5, which was released in 2020. However, the Nikon Z5 has a significantly lower launch price of $1400, compared to the Z7’s $3400, making it a more affordable option for many photographers.
Taking these factors into account, the Nikon Z7 stands out as a better camera due to its higher score, but the Nikon Z5 offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much in terms of performance.
The Nikon Z7 outperforms the Nikon Z5 in optics, with a score of 86/100 compared to the Z5’s 81/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, Expeed 6 processor, full-frame sensor size, Nikon Z lens mount, and image stabilization. However, the Z7 excels in certain areas, making it the winner in this comparison.
The Z7 boasts a higher megapixel count at 45.7, as opposed to the Z5’s 24 megapixels, enabling the Z7 to capture more detail and produce higher resolution images. Moreover, the Z7 has a faster shooting speed of 9 frames per second (fps), while the Z5 lags behind at 4.5 fps. This advantage allows the Z7 to capture fast-moving subjects and action shots with ease. Additionally, the Z7’s sensor receives a slightly higher DXOMARK score of 99, compared to the Z5’s 97, indicating a marginally better image quality.
Despite these advantages, the Z5 still holds its ground. Its lower megapixel count may be preferable for photographers who do not require extremely high-resolution images and prefer smaller file sizes. The Z5’s slower shooting speed may also be sufficient for casual photographers who do not need rapid-fire action shots.
Ultimately, the Nikon Z7’s superior optics make it the preferable choice for professionals and enthusiasts seeking high-resolution images and faster shooting speeds. However, the Nikon Z5 remains a viable option for those who prioritize smaller file sizes and do not require the advanced capabilities offered by the Z7.
The Nikon Z5 and Nikon Z7 both score 83/100 in terms of video capabilities, indicating that they perform similarly in this area. They share several key specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 4K, maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.
There are no significant differences in video performance between the two cameras, as their scores and specifications are identical. Both the Nikon Z5 and Z7 provide users with high-quality video recording options, ensuring crisp and clear footage. The 4K resolution, coupled with the 60fps frame rate, allows for smooth and detailed video capture, while the time-lapse functionality adds another layer of creative possibilities.
Despite their identical scores and specifications, it is essential to consider other factors, such as price and additional features, when determining which camera is more suitable for your needs. The Nikon Z5 is generally more affordable than the Nikon Z7, making it a more attractive option for those on a budget or looking for an entry-level full-frame camera. On the other hand, the Nikon Z7 boasts a higher-resolution sensor and more advanced autofocus system, which may appeal to professionals and advanced enthusiasts.
Given their equal video performance, the choice between the Nikon Z5 and Nikon Z7 ultimately depends on individual preferences and requirements. Both cameras offer impressive video capabilities, ensuring that users can capture high-quality footage in various situations.
The Nikon Z7 emerges as the winner in the feature comparison, scoring 87/100, while the Nikon Z5 scores 72/100. Both cameras share several specs, including a 3.2-inch touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, neither camera features GPS.
The Nikon Z7 outperforms the Z5 in terms of screen resolution, boasting 2,100,000 dots compared to the Z5’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference results in a crisper and clearer display, making it easier for users to review images and navigate the camera settings. The higher feature score of the Z7 also indicates its superiority in other aspects, contributing to its overall better performance.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z5 still has its merits, despite the lower feature score. It shares many of the same essential features as the Z7, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, and wireless connectivity. This makes the Z5 a viable option for those seeking a more budget-friendly camera without sacrificing too many key functionalities.
In comparing the Nikon Z5 and Z7, it is clear that the Z7 offers a better user experience with its higher screen resolution and overall feature score. The Z5, while sharing many of the same specs, falls short in certain areas, making the Z7 the superior choice for those seeking the best performance. However, the Z5 remains a practical option for those prioritizing affordability while still requiring essential camera features.
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Nikon Z7 in storage and battery with a score of 73/100, while the Z7 scores 35/100. Both cameras have USB charging capabilities, making it convenient to charge on the go.
The Z5 boasts two memory card slots that accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-II compatible) cards. This provides greater storage capacity and flexibility for photographers. Additionally, the Z5 has a battery life of 470 shots using the EN-EL15c battery, which is notably longer than the Z7’s battery life.
On the other hand, the Z7 has only one memory card slot and accepts XQD cards. Its battery life is limited to 330 shots using the EN-EL15b battery. Although the Z7 has a shorter battery life, XQD cards offer faster read and write speeds, which can be beneficial for certain types of photography.
Despite the Z7’s advantage in read and write speeds, the Z5’s dual memory card slots and longer battery life make it a better option for most photographers in terms of storage and battery.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Z5 or the Nikon Z7: