CameraReview

Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7 III — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Nikon Z6
Nikon
Nikon Z6
Mirrorless · 24.5 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
81
SCORE
$1,596.95
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Sony a7 III
Sony
Sony a7 III
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
81
SCORE
$1,419
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General
Brand NikonSony
Model Z6a7 III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182018
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
23/08/201827/02/2018
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 134 x 101 x 68 mm127 x 96 x 74 mm
Camera weight 675 g650 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.5 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6048 x 40246000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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 35.923.8 x 35.6
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull 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.
12 fps04510 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 ZSony FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 6Bionz 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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
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.
512003003280000512003003280000
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.
50302005030200
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.
20480030032800002048003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
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.
800080032000800080032000
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.
27303006930300
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 369000009900000235929609900000
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.
4K4K
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 21603840 x 2160
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 fps30 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.
MOV, MP4XAVC S, AVCHD
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 LCDLCD
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.
210000011500015000009216001150001500000
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 XQDSD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL15bNP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
310 shots1505000750 shots1505000
USB charging

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.

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.

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.

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.

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: