Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 78
SCORE
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✓ WINNER
 85
SCORE
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|
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Sony |
| Model | Z5 | a6500 |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2020 | 2016 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
21/07/2020 | 06/10/2016 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 134 x 100.5 x 69.5 mm | 120 x 67 x 53 mm |
| Camera weight | 675 g | 453 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
24 MP050 | 24.2 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 | 6000 x 4000 |
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 | 15.6 x 23.5 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Full Frame | APS-C |
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 | 11 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 | Sony E |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Expeed 6 | 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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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 | 10030200 |
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 | 512003003280000 |
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 | 400080032000 |
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 | 4250300 |
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 | 235929609900000 |
| 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 | 30 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 | MPEG-4, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0 |
| 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 | 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 dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
10400001150001500000 | 9216001150001500000 |
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) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✗ |
| Battery type | EN-EL15c | NP-FW50 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
470 shots1505000 | 350 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Nikon Z5 comes out on top with a score of 78/100, while the Sony a6500 trails behind with a score of 72/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as being mirrorless and having a launch price of $1400.
The Nikon Z5 outshines the Sony a6500 with its larger size (134 x 100.5 x 69.5mm) and heavier weight (675g / 1.49lbs), which may offer better handling and stability. However, the Sony a6500 has its advantages with a more compact design (120 x 67 x 53mm) and lighter weight (453g / 1.00lbs), making it more portable for those on the go.
Taking these points into consideration, the Nikon Z5 is the superior option for those seeking a more robust camera, while the Sony a6500 is ideal for those prioritizing portability and convenience.
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Sony a6500 in optics with a score of 81/100, a 7-point difference from the Sony a6500’s score of 74/100. Both cameras have 24-megapixel sensors, CMOS sensor types, and in-body image stabilization. However, the Nikon Z5 excels in several aspects that contribute to its higher score.
The Nikon Z5 has a full-frame sensor, which captures more light and detail than the Sony a6500’s APS-C sensor. This advantage is reflected in the Z5’s higher DXOMARK sensor score of 97, compared to the a6500’s score of 85. The Z5 also benefits from Nikon’s Expeed 6 processor, which delivers superior image processing and noise reduction.
In terms of lens compatibility, the Nikon Z5 uses the Nikon Z lens mount, which offers access to a growing range of high-quality lenses. On the other hand, the Sony a6500 uses the Sony E lens mount, which also provides a wide variety of lens options but is generally considered less advanced than the Nikon Z mount.
The Sony a6500 does surpass the Nikon Z5 in shooting speed, boasting an impressive 11 frames per second compared to the Z5’s 4.5. This makes the a6500 a more suitable choice for fast-action photography, such as sports and wildlife.
Taking all factors into account, the Nikon Z5 stands as the superior camera in terms of optics, thanks to its full-frame sensor, higher DXOMARK score, and advanced lens mount. The Sony a6500, while having a faster shooting speed, falls behind the Z5 in overall optical performance.
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Sony a6500 in video capabilities, scoring 83/100 compared to the Sony a6500’s 77/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, the Nikon Z5 and Sony a6500 differ in other aspects, making one more suitable for specific video requirements than the other.
The Nikon Z5 has an advantage in its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a6500 lacks. This feature allows the Nikon Z5 users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment. The built-in time-lapse functionality makes the Nikon Z5 a more versatile and user-friendly option for those interested in this type of videography.
On the other hand, the Sony a6500 boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, while the Nikon Z5 only reaches up to 60fps. This higher frame rate allows the Sony a6500 to capture smoother slow-motion footage, making it an ideal choice for videographers who prioritize slow-motion capabilities in their work.
When comparing the video capabilities of these two cameras, the Nikon Z5 stands out for its built-in time-lapse functionality, making it a more versatile and convenient option. The Sony a6500, however, excels in capturing smooth slow-motion footage due to its higher maximum video frame rate. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the specific video requirements and preferences of the user.
The Sony a6500 wins the features comparison with a score of 81/100, while the Nikon Z5 scores 72/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and the absence of GPS. However, there are differences that contribute to the Sony a6500’s higher score.
The Sony a6500 has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 921,600 dots, while the Nikon Z5 has a larger 3.2-inch screen with a higher resolution of 1,040,000 dots. Despite the Nikon Z5’s larger screen size and resolution, the Sony a6500 still offers a competitive display for photographers and videographers.
The winning camera, the Sony a6500, is better in terms of its overall feature score. This higher score shows that the camera is superior in various aspects, making it a more desirable option for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike. The Sony a6500’s features cater to the needs of users, providing a more efficient and enjoyable experience.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z5 still has its advantages. Its larger screen size and higher resolution may appeal to users who prioritize a bigger and clearer display for their work. However, these benefits do not outweigh the overall superiority of the Sony a6500.
In comparing the Nikon Z5 and Sony a6500, the Sony a6500 emerges as the winner due to its higher feature score. While the Nikon Z5 has a larger screen and higher resolution, the Sony a6500’s overall performance and capabilities make it a better choice for photographers and videographers.
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Sony a6500 in storage and battery, scoring 73/100 compared to Sony’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD / SDHC / SDXC memory cards, but the Nikon Z5 also has two memory card slots while the Sony a6500 only has one. Additionally, the Z5 is compatible with UHS-II memory cards, offering faster read and write speeds.
The Nikon Z5’s battery life surpasses the Sony a6500, providing 470 shots per charge, while the a6500 only delivers 350 shots. The Z5 uses the EN-EL15c battery, and the a6500 uses the NP-FW50 battery. Furthermore, the Z5 supports USB charging, making it more convenient for on-the-go charging, whereas the a6500 lacks this feature.
The Sony a6500 does have an advantage in accepting Memory Stick Pro Duo cards, providing an alternative storage option. However, this does not outweigh the benefits offered by the Nikon Z5.
With superior storage capabilities, longer battery life, and USB charging, the Nikon Z5 is the clear winner in this comparison, making it a better choice for photographers prioritizing these features.
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 Sony a6500:
