Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7C Comparison
Nikon Z6
Sony a7C
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | Z6 | a7C | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 | 2020 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 23, 2018 | November 01, 2020 | |
Camera Type | |||
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon Z6 emerges as the winner with a score of 81/100, while the Sony a7C trails slightly behind at 78/100. Both cameras share the same mirrorless camera type and were released within two years of each other, with the Nikon Z6 launching in 2018 and the Sony a7C in 2020.
The Nikon Z6’s higher score reflects its superior general specifications. It boasts a larger size (134 x 101 x 68mm) and a heavier weight (675g / 1.49lbs), which may offer users a more robust and stable shooting experience. However, the Sony a7C has its advantages too. It is more compact (124 x 71 x 60mm) and lighter (509g / 1.12lbs), making it a more portable option for photographers on the go.
Considering these differences, the Nikon Z6 is better suited for those who prefer a sturdier camera, while the Sony a7C is ideal for those who value portability and ease of use.
Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7C Overview and Optics
The Nikon Z6 outperforms the Sony a7C in optics with a score of 83/100 compared to the Sony a7C’s 80/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. They also have the same DXOMARK score for the sensor at 95.
The Nikon Z6 has a slight advantage in megapixels, featuring 24.5 compared to the Sony a7C’s 24.2. This difference contributes to the higher overall score for the Nikon Z6. Additionally, the Nikon Z6 has a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, compared to the Sony a7C’s 10 frames per second. This faster shooting speed allows the Nikon Z6 to capture more images in a shorter amount of time, making it a better choice for action photography or situations requiring quick shot-taking.
The Sony a7C, although scoring lower in optics, has its merits. Its lens mount is the versatile Sony FE, which supports a wide range of lenses, providing more options for photographers in terms of lens selection. The Nikon Z6, on the other hand, uses the Nikon Z lens mount, which is more limited in available lens choices.
In terms of optics, the Nikon Z6 is the better camera due to its higher megapixel count and faster shooting speed. However, the Sony a7C offers more lens options with its Sony FE lens mount. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the individual photographer’s needs and preferences.
Optics
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Nikon Z6
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Sony a7C
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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/ 4000 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 | 2,360,000 dots |
Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7C Video Performance
The Nikon Z6 outperforms the Sony a7C in video capabilities with a score of 83/100 compared to the a7C’s 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 maximum video dimensions. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Nikon Z6 surpasses the Sony a7C in terms of video frame rate, offering a maximum of 60fps, while the a7C only reaches 30fps. This higher frame rate allows the Z6 to capture smoother and more detailed motion in videos, providing better quality and versatility for videographers.
On the other hand, the Sony a7C does not have any significant advantages over the Nikon Z6 in video capabilities. Both cameras share the same maximum video resolution, dimensions, and time-lapse features. The main drawback of the a7C is its lower video frame rate, which limits its ability to capture fast-moving subjects and produce high-quality slow-motion footage.
Taking into account the higher video score and the superior frame rate, the Nikon Z6 is the clear winner in terms of video performance. The Z6 provides better quality and flexibility for capturing various types of video content, making it a more suitable choice for videographers. The Sony a7C, while still offering decent video capabilities, falls short in comparison to the Nikon Z6.
Video
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Nikon Z6
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Sony a7C
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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 |
Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7C Features and Benefits
The Nikon Z6 outperforms the Sony a7C with a feature score of 87 out of 100, compared to the Sony a7C’s 81 out of 100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a touchscreen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities.
The Nikon Z6 excels with a larger screen size of 3.2 inches and a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, providing a clearer and more detailed display. However, the Sony a7C has the advantage of a flip screen, which allows for more flexible shooting angles and is particularly useful for vloggers or self-portraits. The Sony a7C’s screen measures 3 inches with a resolution of 921,600 dots.
Despite the flip screen advantage of the Sony a7C, the Nikon Z6’s superior screen size and resolution contribute to its higher feature score. The larger screen allows for better framing and reviewing of images, while the higher resolution ensures a more accurate representation of the colors and details in the images.
On the other hand, the Sony a7C might be a better choice for those who prioritize the flexibility of a flip screen over screen size and resolution. The flip screen provides versatility in capturing images and videos from various angles and makes it easier to shoot in tight spaces or challenging positions.
Both cameras offer excellent features, but the Nikon Z6 takes the lead with its larger and higher-resolution screen. The Sony a7C, however, may appeal to those who value the convenience of a flip screen. Ultimately, the choice depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences in terms of features and usability.
Features
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Sony a7C
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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 | |||
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 a7C Storage and Battery
The Sony a7C outperforms the Nikon Z6 in storage and battery with a score of 45/100, compared to the Nikon Z6’s 35/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and support USB charging. However, there are significant differences in battery life and memory card compatibility.
The Sony a7C has a longer battery life, capable of taking 740 shots with its NP-FZ100 battery, whereas the Nikon Z6 only manages 310 shots using the EN-EL15b battery. This makes the Sony a7C more suitable for extended photography sessions without the need for frequent battery changes.
Additionally, the Sony a7C accepts a wider range of memory cards, including SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-II compatible), offering more flexibility and storage options for photographers. In contrast, the Nikon Z6 is limited to XQD memory cards, which may not be as readily available or cost-effective.
Despite its lower score, the Nikon Z6’s use of XQD memory cards provides faster read and write speeds than SD cards, potentially benefiting users who require high-speed data transfer. However, this advantage may not be significant for most photographers.
Considering the longer battery life and broader memory card compatibility, the Sony a7C is the better choice for storage and battery performance. While the Nikon Z6’s XQD card support may benefit some users, the overall advantages of the Sony a7C make it the superior option in this category.
Storage and Battery
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Nikon Z6
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Sony a7C
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Memory Card | XQD | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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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 | 740 shots | |
USB Charging |
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon Z6
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Sony a7C
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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 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 | 3407 |
Scores
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Nikon Z6
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Sony a7C
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Nikon Z6 vs Sony a7C – Our Verdict
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 a7C:
User Scores
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Nikon Z6
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Sony a7C
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B&H photo video |
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