Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6100 Comparison
Nikon Z50
Sony a6100
Price | |||
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | Z50 | a6100 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2019 | 2019 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 10, 2019 | August 28, 2019 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon Z50 emerges as the winner with a score of 73/100, while the Sony a6100 trails behind at 66/100. Both cameras share similarities, being mirrorless, launched in 2019, and having similar dimensions. The Z50 measures 127 x 94 x 60mm and weighs 450g, while the a6100 is slightly smaller and lighter at 120 x 67 x 59mm and 396g.
The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a6100 in several aspects, justifying its higher score. However, the Sony a6100 has its advantages, such as a lower launch price of $750 compared to the Z50’s $859. This makes the a6100 a more budget-friendly option.
Taking everything into account, the Nikon Z50 is the superior camera due to its better specifications and performance, but the Sony a6100 can be a more affordable alternative for those on a tighter budget.
Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6100 Overview and Optics
The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a6100 in terms of optics, scoring 72/100 compared to the Sony’s 68/100. Both cameras share several similarities in their specifications, including an 11 fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, APS-C sensor size, and the absence of image stabilization. However, there are differences that contribute to the Nikon Z50’s higher score.
The Nikon Z50 has a superior processor, the Expeed 6, compared to the Sony a6100’s Bionz X processor. This difference results in better image processing and overall performance in the Nikon Z50. Additionally, the Nikon Z50’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 97, compared to the Sony a6100’s score of 82. This indicates that the Nikon Z50’s sensor has better image quality and low-light performance.
On the other hand, the Sony a6100 has a slightly higher megapixel count of 24, compared to the Nikon Z50’s 21 megapixels. This means that the Sony a6100 can capture more detail in its images, but the difference in megapixels is not drastic enough to compensate for the Nikon Z50’s other advantages.
The lens mounts are also different, with the Nikon Z50 using a Nikon Z mount and the Sony a6100 using a Sony E mount. This difference impacts the variety of lenses available for each camera. The Nikon Z50 is compatible with Nikon’s vast range of Z-mount lenses, while the Sony a6100 can use Sony’s E-mount lenses.
Despite the Sony a6100’s higher megapixel count, the Nikon Z50’s superior processor, sensor, and lens compatibility make it the better camera in terms of optics. The Nikon Z50 delivers better image quality and performance, making it the winner in this comparison.
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Optics
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Nikon Z50
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Sony a6100
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 21 MP | 24 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. | 5568 x 3712 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. | 23.5 x 15.7 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 11 fps | 11 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 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 | |
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 | 32,000 | |
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 | 100 | |
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. | 204800 | 51000 | |
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/ 4000 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. | 209 | 425 | |
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 | 2,360,000 dots | 1,440,000 dots |
Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6100 Video Performance
The Nikon Z50 and Sony a6100 both have a video score of 91/100, indicating an equal performance in video capabilities. These cameras share several specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K, maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite the identical scores, there are areas where each camera excels. The Nikon Z50’s advantages include its ergonomics and user-friendly interface, making it easier for beginners to navigate and adjust settings. This allows for a more enjoyable experience when shooting videos. The Z50 also has a larger grip, which provides better stability during video recording.
On the other hand, the Sony a6100 has its own strengths. It offers better autofocus performance, ensuring that subjects remain sharp and in focus throughout the video. This is particularly useful for fast-paced action or moving subjects. Additionally, the a6100 has a more compact and lightweight design, making it a more portable option for on-the-go video shooting.
Both the Nikon Z50 and Sony a6100 cameras deliver excellent video performance, with each offering unique benefits. The Z50’s user-friendly interface and ergonomic design make it an appealing choice for those prioritizing ease of use and stability. In contrast, the a6100’s superior autofocus and compact design cater to users who need a portable camera with reliable focusing capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras depends on individual preferences and specific video shooting requirements.
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Video
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Nikon Z50
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Sony a6100
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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. | 120 p | 120 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 | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S, H.264 |
Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6100 Features and Benefits
The Nikon Z50 wins in the features comparison with a score of 86/100, while the Sony a6100 scores 68/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. Neither camera has built-in GPS.
The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a6100 in terms of screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen and a resolution of 1,040,000 dots, the Z50 provides a clearer and larger display for composing and reviewing images than the a6100’s 3-inch screen with 921,600 dots resolution. This advantage enhances the user experience in various shooting situations.
On the other hand, the Sony a6100 does not surpass the Nikon Z50 in any specific features. Both cameras are on par in terms of connectivity and usability. However, the a6100’s lower feature score indicates that it might not be as versatile or user-friendly as the Z50.
Considering the features of both cameras, the Nikon Z50 proves to be the superior option due to its larger and higher-resolution screen. This advantage contributes to a more enjoyable and efficient shooting experience. The Sony a6100, while still offering a range of useful features, does not excel in any particular area compared to the Z50. Therefore, for photographers prioritizing usability and image review quality, the Nikon Z50 is the better choice.
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Features
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Nikon Z50
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Sony a6100
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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 | TFT 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 Z50 vs Sony a6100 Storage and Battery
The Sony a6100 wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 37/100, while the Nikon Z50 scores 35/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and support USB charging. They also accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the Sony a6100 has an additional compatibility with Memory Stick Pro Duo cards.
The Sony a6100 outperforms the Nikon Z50 in battery life, offering 420 shots per charge compared to the Z50’s 320 shots. This makes the a6100 more suitable for longer shooting sessions. The Nikon Z50, however, falls short in this aspect, offering fewer shots per charge.
In terms of storage and battery, the Sony a6100 holds a slight advantage over the Nikon Z50 due to its longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon Z50
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Sony a6100
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL25 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 320 shots | 420 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon Z50
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Sony a6100
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Scores
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Nikon Z50
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Sony a6100
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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 |
Nikon Z50 vs Sony a6100 – Our Verdict
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 a6100:
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User Scores
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Nikon Z50
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Sony a6100
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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