Nikon Z50 vs Sony a7 III Comparison
Nikon Z50
Sony a7 III
Price | |||
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | Z50 | a7 III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2019 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 10, 2019 | February 27, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 III emerges as the winner with a score of 81, compared to the Nikon Z50‘s score of 73/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2018 and 2019, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the Sony a7 III being slightly heavier at 650g compared to the Nikon Z50’s 450g.
The Sony a7 III’s higher score reflects its superior performance and features. Its launch price of $2000 is significantly higher than the Nikon Z50’s $859, which may suggest that it offers better quality and functionality. However, the Nikon Z50 has its advantages, such as its lighter weight, making it more portable and convenient for users.
Considering these factors, the Sony a7 III is the better choice for those seeking advanced features and performance, while the Nikon Z50 is a more budget-friendly option for users prioritizing portability.
Nikon Z50 vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 III emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 81/100, outperforming the Nikon Z50, which scores 72/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a CMOS sensor, similar shooting speeds (Nikon Z50 at 11 and Sony a7 III at 10), and lens mounts designed for their respective systems (Nikon Z and Sony FE).
The Sony a7 III excels in several areas, contributing to its higher score. With 24.2 megapixels, it provides higher resolution images than the Nikon Z50’s 21 megapixels. Additionally, the Sony a7 III features a full-frame sensor, offering superior image quality and better low-light performance compared to the Nikon Z50’s APS-C sensor. The inclusion of image stabilization in the Sony a7 III also sets it apart, ensuring sharper images in various shooting conditions.
On the other hand, the Nikon Z50 holds a slight advantage in terms of shooting speed (11 fps vs. 10 fps) and its DXOMARK sensor score of 97, compared to the Sony a7 III’s score of 96. These factors, however, do not significantly impact the overall optics performance in favor of the Nikon Z50.
After examining the optics specifications and performance of both cameras, it is evident that the Sony a7 III stands out as the superior option. Its higher resolution, full-frame sensor, and image stabilization features contribute to its higher score and better overall performance. While the Nikon Z50 maintains a slight edge in shooting speed and DXOMARK sensor score, these factors do not outweigh the advantages offered by the Sony a7 III.
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Optics
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Nikon Z50
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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. | 21 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. | 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 | 23.8 x 35.6 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C |  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. | 11 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. | 204800 | 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/ 4000 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. | 209 | 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 | 2,360,000 dots | 2,359,296 dots |
Nikon Z50 vs Sony a7 III Video Performance
The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities with a significant difference in their scores: 91 for the Nikon Z50 and 70 for the Sony a7 III. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 maximum video dimensions. However, the Nikon Z50 excels in other aspects, making it the better choice for video recording.
The Nikon Z50 offers a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the 30fps of the Sony a7 III. This means that the Nikon Z50 can capture smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, giving creators more flexibility in their video projects.
The Sony a7 III does not offer any notable advantages in video capabilities over the Nikon Z50. Its lower video score, limited frame ratemake it a less appealing choice for those focused on video performance.
Given these points, the Nikon Z50 stands as the superior choice for video capabilities. Its higher video score, increased maximum video frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality give users a more versatile and powerful tool for capturing high-quality video content. The Sony a7 III, while still a capable camera, falls short in this particular aspect.
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Video
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Nikon Z50
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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. | 120 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 Z50 vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits
The Nikon Z50 emerges as the winner in the feature comparison against the Sony a7 III, with a score of 86 out of 100 points, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 81 points. Both cameras possess several common features, including a touchscreen, flip screen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, neither camera has GPS functionality.
The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Sony a7 III in screen specifications, with a larger 3.2-inch screen compared to the Sony a7 III’s 3-inch screen. Additionally, the Z50 boasts a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, while the Sony a7 III has a resolution of 921,600 dots. These factors contribute to the Nikon Z50’s higher feature score and make it a better choice for photographers who prioritize a larger, more detailed screen for image composition and review.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 III does not outperform the Nikon Z50 in any specific feature category, as both cameras share similar specifications in connectivity and the absence of GPS. However, it is essential to consider that the Sony a7 III is still a strong contender in the mirrorless camera market, offering reliable performance and a user-friendly interface.
When comparing the Nikon Z50 and the Sony a7 III based on their features, the Z50 takes the lead with its larger and higher-resolution screen. While the Sony a7 III does not surpass the Z50 in any specific feature, it remains a competent option for photographers who value performance and ease of use.
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Features
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Nikon Z50
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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 | 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 a7 III Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Nikon Z50 in storage and battery, scoring 81 compared to the Z50’s 35/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the a7 III also supports Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards, offering more storage options. Additionally, the a7 III has two memory card slots, while the Z50 has only one.
The Sony a7 III’s battery life is significantly longer, providing 750 shots per charge, compared to the Nikon Z50’s 320 shots. The a7 III uses an NP-FZ100 battery, while the Z50 uses an EN-EL25 battery.
Despite the Z50’s USB charging advantage, the Sony a7 III is the clear winner in storage and battery performance due to its greater number of memory card slots, wider range of supported memory cards, and longer battery life.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon Z50
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Sony a7 III
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL25 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 320 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon Z50
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Sony a7 III
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | N/A | ||
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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 Z50
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Sony a7 III
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Main Features | |||
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Construction and Durability | |||
Handling and Ergonomics | |||
Value for Money | |||
Total Score |
Nikon Z50 vs Sony a7 III – 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 a7 III:
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User Scores
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Nikon Z50
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Sony a7 III
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