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Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7 III Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Nikon Z6

Nikon Z6 camera image
81%
Draw!

Sony a7 III

Sony A7 III camera
81%
Nikon Z6
vs
Sony a7 III
Price
Brand
Nikon
Sony
Model
Z6
a7 III
Released
2018
2018
Announcement Date
August 23, 2018
February 27, 2018
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Nikon Z6 and the Sony a7 III are neck to neck with a score of 81. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2018 with a launch price of $2000. They share similar dimensions, with the Z6 measuring 134 x 101 x 68mm and weighing 675g, while the a7 III has dimensions of 127 x 96 x 74mm and weighs 650g.

The Nikon Z6 outperforms the Sony a7 III in certain aspects. However, the Sony a7 III also has its own advantages over the Z6, making it a strong competitor. Ultimately, each camera’s strengths and weaknesses will determine which one is the better fit for a specific user’s needs.

Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z6 outperforms the Sony a7 III in optics with a score of 83, while the Sony a7 III scores 81. Both cameras share similarities in specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, they both have similar megapixel counts, with the Nikon Z6 at 24.5 and the Sony a7 III at 24.2.

The Nikon Z6 excels in its shooting speed, offering 12 frames per second, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 10 frames per second. This difference allows the Nikon Z6 to capture fast-moving subjects more efficiently. The Z6 also benefits from the Expeed 6 processor, contributing to its faster performance.

Despite its lower optics score, the Sony a7 III has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 96, compared to the Nikon Z6’s 95. This indicates that the Sony a7 III has a slightly better sensor quality. The a7 III also uses the Sony FE lens mount, which provides access to a wider range of lenses compared to the Nikon Z lens mount.

When considering both cameras, the Nikon Z6’s faster shooting speed and strong processor make it a better choice for action photography. However, the Sony a7 III’s higher sensor score and wider lens compatibility make it a viable option for photographers who prioritize image quality and lens versatility. Each camera has its strengths, and the final decision should depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Optics
Optics
83%
81%
Megapixels
24.5 MP
24.2 MP
Image Resolution
6048 x 4024 px
6000 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.9 mm
23.8 x 35.6 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
12 fps
10 fps
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
Sony FE
Image Processor
Expeed 6
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200
51,200
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
204800
204800
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
273
693
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Electronic
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
3,690,000 dots
2,359,296 dots

Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7 III Video Performance

The Nikon Z6 emerges as the superior camera in terms of video capabilities, scoring 83/100, while the Sony a7 III receives a score of 70. This 27-point difference highlights the disparity in their performance.

Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as the maximum video resolution of 4K and maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, the Nikon Z6 offers a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 30fps. This results in smoother video playback and increased flexibility for slow-motion effects in the Nikon Z6.

Although the Sony a7 III is outperformed by the Nikon Z6 in these aspects, it still maintains a respectable video score of 56/100. The camera’s 4K video resolution and 3840 x 2160 video dimensions allow for high-quality video recording. However, the lower frame rate and lack of time-lapse functionality may limit its appeal for videographers seeking advanced features.

Comparing the Nikon Z6 and Sony a7 III, it is evident that the Nikon Z6 offers superior video capabilities. Its higher frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality provide additional creative options for users. While the Sony a7 III is not without merit, its lower score and limited features make the Nikon Z6 the better choice for videographers.

Video
Video
83%
56%
Video
Max Video Resolution
4K
4K
Max Video Dimensions
3840 x 2160 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
30 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV, MP4
XAVC S, AVCHD

Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z6 outperforms the Sony a7 III in features with a score of 87/100 compared to Sony’s 81/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including touchscreen capability, the absence of GPS, and the presence of WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Nikon Z6 excels with its 3.2-inch screen size and a screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, providing a larger and clearer display for users. However, it does not have a flip screen, which is a feature present in the Sony a7 III. The Sony a7 III’s flip screen is advantageous for capturing images and videos from different angles and perspectives.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 III’s screen is slightly smaller at 3 inches, and its screen resolution is lower at 921,600 dots. The lower resolution may affect the clarity and sharpness of the display when previewing images and videos.

Despite the Nikon Z6’s higher feature score, the Sony a7 III has its own strength with the flip screen, making it a better choice for those who prioritize flexibility and versatility in their photography. However, the Nikon Z6’s larger screen size and higher resolution offer a superior display experience, which may be more important for some users.

Taking these factors into account, both cameras have their unique advantages. The Nikon Z6’s larger and higher-resolution screen provides an enhanced display experience, while the Sony a7 III’s flip screen offers flexibility in capturing images and videos. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s personal preferences and priorities in their photography needs.

Features
Features
87%
81%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
TFT LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3"
Screen Resolution
2,100,000 dots
921,600 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Nikon Z6 in storage and battery with a score of 81/100, compared to the Nikon Z6’s 33/100. Both cameras have USB charging capabilities, but the Sony a7 III has a significantly longer battery life, providing 750 shots per charge compared to the Nikon Z6’s 310 shots. Additionally, the Sony a7 III accepts a wider range of memory cards, including SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo, while the Nikon Z6 only accepts XQD cards.

The Sony a7 III’s advantage lies in its two memory card slots, allowing for more storage capacity and flexibility. In contrast, the Nikon Z6 has only one memory card slot, limiting its storage options. The longer battery life and greater storage capacity make the Sony a7 III a more versatile choice for extended shoots and varied storage needs.

Both models offer USB charging. This feature allows for convenient charging on-the-go, providing an advantage for users who need to charge their camera without access to a dedicated charger.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
35%
81%
Memory Card
XQD
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL15b
NP-FZ100
Battery Life
310 shots
750 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
95%
96%
Portrait (Color Depth)
25.3 bits
25.1 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
14.3 EVs
14.7 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
3299
3722
Scores
Main Features
N/A
84%
Extra Features
N/A
72%
Construction and Durability
N/A
67%
Handling and Ergonomics
N/A
67%
Value for Money
N/A
110%
Total Score
N/A
81%

Alternatives to the Nikon Z6 and Sony a7 III

Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7 III Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Z6 or the Sony a7 III:

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