Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7 III Comparison
Nikon Z5
Sony a7 III
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | Z5 | a7 III | |
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. | July 21, 2020 | February 27, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 III edges out the Nikon Z5 with a score of 81 compared to the Z5’s 78/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar sizes and weights, with the a7 III being slightly smaller and lighter. The Nikon Z5 was released in 2020 with a launch price of $1400, while the Sony a7 III was released in 2018 and had a launch price of $2000.
The Sony a7 III gains its higher score due to its better overall performance and features. However, the Nikon Z5 has the advantage of a lower price tag, making it more accessible for consumers on a budget.
Considering these factors, the Sony a7 III is the better choice for those seeking top-notch performance, while the Nikon Z5 offers a more affordable option without sacrificing too much in terms of quality.
Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics
The Nikon Z5 and Sony a7 III both scored 81/100 in optics, indicating a tie in this aspect. Both cameras share several common specifications, including 24 and 24.2 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras feature their respective lens mounts, with the Nikon Z5 using the Nikon Z mount, and the Sony a7 III using the Sony FE mount.
The Nikon Z5 has a slight advantage with its Expeed 6 processor and a DXOMARK score of 97 for its sensor, providing better image quality and processing capabilities. The higher DXOMARK score means that the Nikon Z5’s sensor performs slightly better than the Sony a7 III’s sensor, with a score of 96. The Nikon Z5 also has a shooting speed of 4.5, which is suitable for most photography needs.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 III has a faster shooting speed of 10, making it more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography. Its Bionz X processor, although not as advanced as the Nikon Z5’s Expeed 6, still provides reliable image processing and performance.
Both cameras excel in their respective areas, with the Nikon Z5 having a slight edge in image quality and processing, and the Sony a7 III being better for action photography due to its faster shooting speed. Depending on the individual photographer’s needs and preferences, either camera can be a suitable choice for their photography requirements.
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Optics
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7 III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP | 24.2 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. | 6016 x 4016 px | 6000 x 4000 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. | 23.9 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. | 4.5 fps | 10 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 Z | 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 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 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 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. | 51,200 | 51,200 | |
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. | 100 | 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. | 102400 | 204800 | |
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. | 273 | 693 | |
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. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 3,686,400 dots | 2,359,296 dots |
Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7 III Video Performance
The Nikon Z5 emerges as the winner in the video capabilities comparison, scoring 83 out of 100 points, while the Sony a7 III scores 70 points. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 4K and maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160.
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Sony a7 III in several aspects. Firstly, it has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 30fps. This allows for smoother and more detailed video capture, particularly when filming fast-moving subjects or scenes. Both cameras have a built-in time-lapse functionality, which enables the creation of stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment.
Although the Sony a7 III falls short in some areas, it still offers reliable video capabilities. Its 4K video resolution and 3840 x 2160 video dimensions ensure high-quality video capture.
The Sony a7 III remains a viable option for those who prioritize 4K video resolution and do not require the additional features offered by the Nikon Z5.
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Video
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7 III
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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. |  4K | 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. | 3840 x 2160 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. | MPEG-4, MOV | XAVC S, AVCHD |
Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits
The Sony a7 III surpasses the Nikon Z5 in features with a score of 81/100, while the Nikon Z5 scores 72/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. However, neither camera has GPS functionality.
The Sony a7 III stands out with a higher feature score. Despite having a slightly smaller screen size at 3 inches compared to the Nikon Z5’s 3.2 inches, the Sony a7 III compensates with a higher screen resolution of 921,600 dots, while the Nikon Z5 has 1,040,000 dots. This difference in resolution contributes to the Sony a7 III’s better image quality, making it a more desirable camera for photographers who prioritize sharpness and clarity in their images.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z5 offers some advantages despite its lower feature score. Its larger screen size provides a better viewing experience, which may be beneficial for photographers who prefer a more spacious and comfortable display when composing and reviewing images. The Nikon Z5’s slightly lower screen resolution does not significantly impact the overall image quality, making it still suitable for most photography needs.
Considering the features of both cameras, the Sony a7 III emerges as the superior option due to its higher score and better screen resolution. However, the Nikon Z5 remains a viable choice for those who prioritize a larger screen size. Both cameras provide excellent features, such as touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities, making them suitable for various photography styles and preferences.
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Features
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7 III
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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. | 1,040,000 dots | 921,600 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 Z5 vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery
Both cameras share similarities, such as having two memory card slots and accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. However, the Z5 has an edge with its compatibility with UHS-II cards, allowing for faster read and write speeds.
In terms of battery life, the Sony a7 III outperforms the Nikon Z5, offering 750 shots per charge, while the Z5 provides 470 shots. Both cameras posess USB charging, making it more convenient for on-the-go charging.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7 III
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL15c | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 470 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon Z5
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Sony a7 III
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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.' | N/A | 25.1 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.' | N/A | 14.7 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' | N/A | 3722 |
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Scores
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7 III
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Alternatives to the Nikon Z5 and Sony a7 III
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 a7 III:
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User Scores
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7 III
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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