Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7 III Comparison
Nikon Z6
Sony a7 III
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | Z6 | a7 III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 23, 2018 | February 27, 2018 | |
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Camera Size | |||
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The Nikon Z6 edges out the Sony a7 III with a score of 81/100 compared to 80/100. 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, contributing to its higher score. 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 83/100, while the Sony a7 III scores 81/100. 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
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.5 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. | 6048 x 4024 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. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm | 23.8 x 35.6 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |||
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 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. | |||
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. | 50 | 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/ 8000 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. | 273 | 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 | 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 56/100. 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. Additionally, the Z6 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which is absent in the Sony a7 III.
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
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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. | |||
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. | 60 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. | 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
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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. | |||
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Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 2,100,000 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 Z6 vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Nikon Z6 in storage and battery with a score of 68/100, 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.
The Nikon Z6, however, does offer USB charging, which the Sony a7 III lacks. 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.
Considering these factors, the Sony a7 III is the superior choice for users prioritizing storage capacity and battery life, while the Nikon Z6 may be more suitable for those who value USB charging convenience.
Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | XQD | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots | |||
Battery Type | EN-EL15b | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 310 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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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.' | 25.3 bits | 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.' | 14.3 EVs | 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' | 3299 | 3722 |
Scores
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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 |
Alternatives to the Nikon Z6 and Sony a7 III
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:
User Scores
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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