CameraReview

Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6000 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Nikon Z50
Nikon
Nikon Z50
Mirrorless · 21 MP · APS-C · 4K video
85
SCORE
$686.46
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Best Price →
Sony a6000
Sony
Sony a6000
Mirrorless · 24.3 MP · APS-C · Full HD video
57
SCORE
$401.84
best of 5 retailers
Best Price →
General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192014
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
10/10/201912/02/2014
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 127 x 94 x 60 mm120 x 67 x 45 mm
Camera weight 450 g344 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
21 MP05024.3 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5568 x 37126000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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.
23.5 x 15.715.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-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.
11 fps04511 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 ZSony E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 6Bionz 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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
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.
512003003280000256003003280000
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.
100302005030200
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.
2048003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
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.
400080032000400080032000
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.
20903001790300
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 236000009900000144000009900000
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.
4KFull HD
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 21601920 x 1080
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.
120 fps60 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, MOVMPEG-4
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 TFT LCDLCD
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.
104000011500015000009216001150001500000
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-I compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL25NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
320 shots1505000360 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a6000 with a score of 73/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras are mirrorless, released in 2019 and 2014 respectively, with launch prices of $859 and $799. They share similar dimensions, but the Nikon Z50 is larger and heavier (127 x 94 x 60mm, 450g) than the Sony a6000 (120 x 67 x 45mm, 344g).

The Nikon Z50’s higher score highlights its better performance and features. The Sony a6000, however, is lighter and more compact, making it more portable. Each camera has its advantages, but the Nikon Z50’s superior score shows it offers more in terms of overall quality and performance.

Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6000 Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a6000 in optics with a score of 72/100 compared to 67/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including an 11 fps shooting speed, a CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, and no image stabilization. However, the Nikon Z50 surpasses the Sony a6000 in certain aspects, while the Sony a6000 has its own advantages.

The Nikon Z50’s superiority can be attributed to its Expeed 6 processor and a higher DXOMARK score of 97 for its sensor, compared to the Sony a6000’s Bionz X processor and DXOMARK score of 82. The Nikon Z50 also features a Nikon Z lens mount, which offers a broader range of lenses and better compatibility with Nikon’s Z series lenses.

On the other hand, the Sony a6000 boasts a higher megapixel count of 24.3, compared to the Nikon Z50’s 21 megapixels. This allows the Sony a6000 to capture more detailed images, giving it an edge in this aspect. Additionally, the Sony a6000 uses a Sony E lens mount, which provides a wide variety of lens options, especially for those already invested in the Sony ecosystem.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon Z50 proves to be the better choice in terms of optics due to its higher score, superior processor, and better sensor performance. However, the Sony a6000’s higher megapixel count and versatile lens mount make it a worthy contender for those seeking more detailed images and a broader lens selection within the Sony ecosystem.

Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6000 Video Performance

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a6000 in video capabilities, with a significantly higher score of 91/100 compared to the Sony a6000’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common video features, but the Nikon Z50 excels in many aspects that give it the advantage in this comparison.

Both the Nikon Z50 and Sony a6000 are capable of recording video, but the Nikon Z50 has a higher maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160) compared to the Sony a6000’s Full HD (1920 x 1080). This means that the Nikon Z50 can capture more detail and produce higher quality videos. Additionally, the Nikon Z50 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, while the Sony a6000 only reaches 60fps. This allows the Nikon Z50 to record smoother slow-motion footage, providing more creative options for videographers.

Moreover, the Nikon Z50 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a6000 lacks. This feature enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional software or equipment, further enhancing the Nikon Z50’s versatility.

The Sony a6000 does not surpass the Nikon Z50 in any video specifications, making it difficult to identify any areas where it is better. The Nikon Z50 simply offers more advanced video features and higher quality output.

Considering the notable differences in video capabilities, the Nikon Z50 is the clear winner in this comparison. With its superior video resolution, frame rate, and time-lapse functionality, the Nikon Z50 provides users with a more versatile and higher quality video experience than the Sony a6000.

Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6000 Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a6000 in features, scoring 86/100 compared to the Sony’s 41/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as flip screens, absence of GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the Nikon Z50 has additional advantages that contribute to its higher score.

The Nikon Z50 has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the Sony a6000’s 3-inch screen. This provides a more comfortable viewing experience for users. Additionally, the Z50’s screen resolution is higher at 1,040,000 dots, compared to the a6000’s 921,600 dots, resulting in a clearer and more detailed image display. The Z50 also comes with a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and offering easier navigation through menus and settings. Furthermore, the Z50 features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless file transfers and remote control functionality.

While the Sony a6000 falls short in the mentioned areas, it still possesses some valuable features. Both cameras have flip screens, which are useful for capturing images from various angles and for vlogging purposes. They also lack GPS, which may not be a significant drawback for some users. Lastly, both cameras have WIFI connectivity, allowing for easy sharing and transferring of images.

Considering the specifications, the Nikon Z50 is a superior camera in terms of features, offering a larger and higher resolution touchscreen, as well as Bluetooth connectivity. The Sony a6000, while lacking in some areas, still provides essential features such as flip screens and WIFI connectivity. Ultimately, the Nikon Z50’s higher score reflects its better performance and range of features, making it a more appealing choice for users seeking a versatile and user-friendly camera.

Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6000 Storage and Battery

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a6000 in storage and battery, scoring 35/100 compared to the Sony’s 21/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Sony a6000 also accommodates Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards.

The Nikon Z50 has a battery life of 320 shots, using an EN-EL25 battery, and offers USB charging. The Sony a6000 lasts slightly longer with 360 shots per charge, using an NP-FW50 battery, but lacks USB charging. While the Sony a6000 provides marginally better battery life, the Nikon Z50’s USB charging feature makes it more convenient for on-the-go use.

Considering these factors, the Nikon Z50 is the better option in terms of storage and battery, especially for users who value convenience and versatility. On the other hand, the Sony a6000 may be suitable for those who prioritize longer battery life and can manage without USB charging.

Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6000 – Our Verdict

Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6000 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Z50 or the Sony a6000: