Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7C Comparison
Nikon Z5
Sony a7C
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | Z5 | a7C | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2020 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 21, 2020 | November 01, 2020 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon Z5 and the Sony a7C both score 78/100, making it a tie in terms of overall performance. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2020, with the Z5 announced on 07/21 and the a7C on 11/01. They share common features, but each has its unique advantages.
The Nikon Z5 is larger, measuring 134 x 100.5 x 69.5mm, and weighs 675g. It is priced at $1400, making it more affordable than the Sony a7C. This lower price point provides a better value for users on a budget.
On the other hand, the Sony a7C is more compact, measuring 124 x 71 x 60mm, and weighs only 509g. It is priced at $1799, which is higher than the Nikon Z5. However, its smaller size and lighter weight make it more portable and convenient for on-the-go photography.
Both cameras have their strengths, with the Nikon Z5 offering a better price and the Sony a7C providing greater portability. Ultimately, the choice depends on the user’s preferences and needs.
Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7C Overview and Optics
The Nikon Z5 narrowly edges out the Sony a7C in terms of optics, with a score of 81/100 compared to the a7C’s 80/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as having 24 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, and built-in image stabilization. They also have their respective lens mounts: Nikon Z for the Z5 and Sony FE for the a7C.
The Nikon Z5 boasts a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, at 97, compared to the Sony a7C’s 95. This difference indicates that the Z5 has better overall image quality and low light performance. Additionally, the Z5 is equipped with a more advanced processor, the Expeed 6, which contributes to faster image processing and better noise reduction.
On the other hand, the Sony a7C has a slightly higher megapixel count of 24.2, which may result in marginally better image resolution. The a7C also has a clear advantage in shooting speed, at 10 frames per second, doubling the Z5’s 4.5. This makes the a7C more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography.
In terms of optics, the Nikon Z5 offers better image quality and low light performance due to its higher DXOMARK score and more advanced processor. However, the Sony a7C provides faster shooting speed and slightly better image resolution. Choosing between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer. For those who prioritize image quality and low light performance, the Nikon Z5 is the better choice. Conversely, photographers who need faster shooting speeds and higher resolution should opt for the Sony a7C.
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Optics
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7C
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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/ 4000 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 | 2,360,000 dots |
Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7C Video Performance
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Sony a7C in video capabilities with a score of 83/100, a 13-point lead over the Sony a7C’s score of 70/100. Both cameras feature a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160, providing high-quality visuals. Additionally, both cameras offer built-in time-lapse functionality, allowing for creative video options.
The Nikon Z5 excels in its maximum video frame rate of 60fps, twice the Sony a7C’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother motion capture and improved slow-motion video playback, providing a more versatile video experience for users.
While the Sony a7C falls short in the frame rate category, it still offers the same 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality as the Nikon Z5, making it a viable option for those who prioritize these features. However, its lower video score and frame rate make it less competitive in comparison to the Nikon Z5.
Given the higher video score and superior frame rate, the Nikon Z5 proves to be the better choice for those seeking optimal video performance. The Sony a7C, although not as strong in this aspect, still offers satisfactory video quality with 4K resolution and time-lapse capabilities. Ultimately, users must consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras.
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Video
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7C
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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 |
Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7C Features and Benefits
The Sony a7C outperforms the Nikon Z5 with a feature score of 81/100 compared to the Nikon Z5’s 72/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including touchscreen capability, flip screens, WiFi, Bluetooth, and the absence of GPS.
The Sony a7C excels in its overall feature score, which indicates a better camera experience. The Nikon Z5 has a larger screen size at 3.2 inches compared to the Sony a7C’s 3 inches. However, the Sony a7C has a higher screen resolution of 921,600 dots, while the Nikon Z5 has a slightly lower resolution of 1,040,000 dots. This difference in resolution allows the Sony a7C to provide a clearer and sharper image display.
Despite the difference in feature scores, the Nikon Z5 has some advantages. Its larger screen size may appeal to users who prefer more display area for composing and reviewing images. The Nikon Z5 also offers a higher screen resolution, which may be beneficial for photographers who demand more precise image review and composition.
Considering the features of both cameras, the Sony a7C emerges as the winner due to its higher overall score, reflecting better performance in various aspects. The Nikon Z5, though trailing in overall score, offers a larger screen size and slightly higher screen resolution, which may be preferable for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, as both offer a range of features suited to different photography styles and needs.
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Features
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7C
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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 a7C Storage and Battery
The Nikon Z5 outperforms the Sony a7C in storage and battery with a score of 73/100, compared to the a7C’s 45/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards (UHS-II compatible) and offer USB charging capabilities. However, the Z5 takes the lead with its dual memory card slots, providing more storage options and backup capabilities than the a7C’s single slot.
Although the Z5’s battery life is shorter at 470 shots compared to the a7C’s 740 shots, its EN-EL15c battery type still performs well. The a7C’s longer battery life, using the NP-FZ100 battery, is its main advantage in this comparison. However, the Z5’s superior storage capabilities give it a clear edge over the a7C.
Considering both storage and battery aspects, the Nikon Z5 proves to be a better choice with its higher score and dual memory card slots, despite a slightly shorter battery life. The Sony a7C’s longer battery life is a notable advantage, but its single memory card slot limits its overall storage potential.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7C
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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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 | 740 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon Z5
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Sony a7C
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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 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 | 3407 |
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Scores
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7C
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Nikon Z5 vs Sony a7C – Our Verdict
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 a7C:
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User Scores
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Nikon Z5
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Sony a7C
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B&H photo video |
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