Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
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✓ WINNER
 85
SCORE
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 67
SCORE
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|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Sony |
| Model | Z50 | a7 II |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2019 | 2014 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
10/10/2019 | 20/11/2014 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 127 x 94 x 60 mm | 127 x 96 x 60 mm |
| Camera weight | 450 g | 599 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
21 MP050 | 24.3 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
5568 x 3712 | 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. |
23.5 x 15.7 | 23.9 x 35.8 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
APS-C | Full Frame |
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 fps045 | 5 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 | 5030200 |
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 | 512003003280000 |
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 | 5030200 |
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. |
2048003003280000 | 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. |
400080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
2090300 | 1170300 |
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 | 236000009900000 | 235900009900000 |
| 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 | Full 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 2160 | 1920 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 fps | 60 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 | XAVC S |
| 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 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 | 12300001150001500000 |
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 Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo |
| 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 shots1505000 | 350 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✓ | ✓ |
The Nikon Z50 emerges as the winner with a score of 73/100, while the Sony a7 II scores 69/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and have similar dimensions, with the Z50 measuring 127 x 94 x 60mm and the a7 II at 127 x 96 x 60mm. The Nikon Z50 has an advantage in weight, being lighter at 450g compared to the Sony a7 II’s 599g. This makes the Z50 more portable and easier to handle.
The Sony a7 II, however, was released in 2014 and had a higher launch price of $1600, while the Nikon Z50 was introduced in 2019 at a more affordable $859. Despite its age, the Sony a7 II still offers good performance and features.
Considering the scores, weight, and price differences, the Nikon Z50 stands out as the better choice for those seeking a portable and budget-friendly camera, while the Sony a7 II remains a solid option for those who prefer its features and don’t mind the additional weight.
The Sony a7 II emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 78/100, outperforming the Nikon Z50’s score of 72/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor and lens mounts specific to their respective brands – Nikon Z for the Z50 and Sony E for the a7 II.
The Sony a7 II has a clear advantage with its 24.2-megapixel resolution, full-frame sensor, and built-in image stabilization. These features contribute to better image quality and low-light performance compared to the Z50’s 21-megapixel resolution and APS-C sensor size. Additionally, the image stabilization ensures sharper images when shooting handheld or in low light conditions.
However, the Nikon Z50 has its strengths, such as a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second compared to the Sony a7 II’s 5 frames per second. This makes the Z50 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography. Furthermore, the Z50’s sensor received a higher DXOMARK score of 97, compared to the a7 II’s score of 90, indicating better overall sensor performance.
In terms of optics, the Sony a7 II proves to be superior due to its higher resolution, full-frame sensor, and image stabilization. These features make it an excellent choice for photographers seeking better image quality and low-light performance. On the other hand, the Nikon Z50’s faster shooting speed and higher DXOMARK sensor score make it a strong contender for action photography and situations where capturing fast-moving subjects is crucial.
The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a7 II in video capabilities, with a significant difference in their scores: 91 out of 100 for the Nikon Z50 and 56 out of 100 for the Sony a7 II. Both cameras share some common video specifications, but the Nikon Z50 excels in various areas.
Both the Nikon Z50 and Sony a7 II have a maximum video resolution and maximum video frame rate. However, the Nikon Z50 boasts a 4K resolution with dimensions of 3840 x 2160, while the Sony a7 II only offers Full HD resolution with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Furthermore, the Nikon Z50 has a higher maximum video frame rate at 120fps, whereas the Sony a7 II is limited to 60fps.
The Nikon Z50’s advantages extend beyond resolution and frame rate. Its built-in time-lapse functionality allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software. The Sony a7 II lacks this feature, making it less versatile in terms of video production.
The Sony a7 II does not have any specific advantages over the Nikon Z50 in terms of video capabilities. Its lower score reflects its inferior performance in this area.
Based on these comparisons, the Nikon Z50 is the clear winner for video capabilities. Its superior resolution, frame rate, and time-lapse functionality make it a better choice for videographers and content creators. The Sony a7 II falls short in these aspects, making it less suitable for those prioritizing video performance.
The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a7 II in features, scoring 86/100 compared to the Sony a7 II’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as a flip screen, no GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the Nikon Z50 has superior specifications in several areas, while the Sony a7 II offers a few advantages as well.
The Nikon Z50 has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the Sony a7 II’s 3 inches. Additionally, the Nikon Z50 features a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and convenient for navigating menus and settings. The Nikon Z50 also has Bluetooth connectivity, which the Sony a7 II lacks. This allows for easier pairing with smartphones and other devices for image sharing and remote control.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 II has a higher screen resolution of 1,230,000 dots, compared to the Nikon Z50’s 1,040,000 dots. This results in a slightly sharper display on the Sony a7 II, which can be beneficial for reviewing images and video.
Comparing the two cameras, the Nikon Z50 stands out as the better option due to its larger touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity. These features contribute to a more convenient and enjoyable user experience. However, the Sony a7 II’s higher screen resolution is a noteworthy advantage for those who prioritize image quality in their camera’s display.
Considering the features of both cameras, the Nikon Z50 offers a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience, making it the winner in this comparison. The Sony a7 II, while having a superior screen resolution, falls short in other areas, resulting in a lower overall feature score.
The Nikon Z50 and the Sony a7 II are close in storage and battery. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Sony a7 II also supports Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards.
The Nikon Z50’s battery life is slightly lower at 320 shots, compared to the Sony a7 II’s 350 shots. The Nikon uses an EN-EL25 battery, while the Sony utilizes an NP-FW50 battery.
In terms of storage and battery, the Sony a7 II, however, has a marginally better battery life and supports additional memory card types.
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 a7 II:
