CameraReview

Nikon Z6 II vs Sony a9 II — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Nikon Z6 II
Nikon
Nikon Z6 II
Mirrorless · 24.5 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
83
SCORE
$1,546.95
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Sony a9 II
Sony
Sony a9 II
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
82
SCORE
$3,429.40
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General
Brand NikonSony
Model Z6 IIa9 II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202019
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
14/10/202003/10/2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 134 x 101 x 70 mm129 x 96 x 76 mm
Camera weight 705 g678 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.
35.9 x 23.923.8 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.
14 fps04520 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.
Dual 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.
8000800320003200080032000
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 369000009900000368640009900000
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.
120 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.
2100000115000150000014400001150001500000
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 SD, CFexpress Type B / XQD (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL15cNP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
410 shots1505000690 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z6 II edges out the Sony a9 II with a score of 83/100 compared to 82/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the Z6 II measuring 134 x 101 x 70mm and the a9 II at 129 x 96 x 76mm. The Nikon Z6 II is slightly heavier at 705g, while the Sony a9 II weighs 678g.

The Z6 II has the advantage of being more affordable with a launch price of $1995, compared to the a9 II’s $4500. However, the Sony a9 II has the benefit of being slightly lighter, making it more portable for photographers on the go.

Considering the small difference in scores, both cameras offer excellent performance, but the Nikon Z6 II stands out as the better value due to its lower price point. The Sony a9 II’s reduced weight may be a deciding factor for some photographers, but overall, the Z6 II is the winner in this comparison.

Nikon Z6 II vs Sony a9 II Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z6 II wins the optics comparison with a score of 83/100, while the Sony a9 II scores 82/100. Both cameras share similarities in specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, they both have their respective lens mounts – Nikon Z for the Z6 II and Sony FE for the a9 II.

The Nikon Z6 II outperforms the Sony a9 II in some aspects. It has a slightly higher megapixel count (24.5 vs. 24.2), a dual Expeed 6 processor, and a better DXOMARK score for its sensor (94 vs. 93). These features contribute to the Z6 II’s superior image quality and processing capabilities.

On the other hand, the Sony a9 II excels in shooting speed, boasting 20 fps compared to the Z6 II’s 14 fps. This advantage makes the a9 II more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography.

While the Nikon Z6 II delivers better image quality and processing power, the Sony a9 II offers a faster shooting speed. The choice between the two cameras ultimately depends on the photographer’s priorities and preferences. If image quality and processing capabilities are the main concerns, the Nikon Z6 II is the better choice. However, if capturing fast-moving subjects is the primary goal, the Sony a9 II may be more suitable. Both cameras provide exceptional optics, and each has its advantages, making them strong contenders in the full-frame mirrorless camera market.

Nikon Z6 II vs Sony a9 II Video Performance

The Nikon Z6 II outperforms the Sony a9 II in video capabilities, scoring 91 out of 100 points compared to the Sony a9 II’s 70 points. Both cameras offer 4K video resolution with maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, and both have built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Nikon Z6 II surpasses the Sony a9 II in several aspects.

The most significant advantage of the Nikon Z6 II is its maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is four times higher than the Sony a9 II’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, giving filmmakers and videographers greater creative flexibility.

While the Sony a9 II does not outperform the Nikon Z6 II in any specific video-related aspect, it still offers solid video capabilities. Its 4K resolution, maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, and built-in time-lapse functionality provide users with a reliable and versatile video tool. However, its maximum video frame rate of 30fps limits its potential for slow-motion capture.

To sum up, the Nikon Z6 II is the superior choice for video capabilities due to its higher video score and significantly better maximum video frame rate. The Sony a9 II, while not as impressive in this area, remains a reliable option for those who do not require high frame rate slow-motion capture. Ultimately, filmmakers and videographers should consider the Nikon Z6 II for its enhanced creative flexibility and superior video performance.

Nikon Z6 II vs Sony a9 II Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z6 II outperforms the Sony a9 II in features with a score of 87/100, while the Sony a9 II scores 83/100. Both cameras possess a touchscreen, WIFI, Bluetooth, and lack GPS. However, the Nikon Z6 II surpasses the Sony a9 II in some aspects, while the Sony a9 II has its own advantages.

The Nikon Z6 II boasts a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the Sony a9 II’s 3-inch screen. Additionally, the Nikon Z6 II has a higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, providing clearer and sharper image previews than the Sony a9 II’s 1,440,000 dots. These specifications make the Nikon Z6 II more user-friendly and efficient for photographers who prioritize display quality.

On the other hand, the Sony a9 II has a flip screen, which the Nikon Z6 II lacks. This feature enables more versatile shooting angles and eases self-portrait photography. While the Nikon Z6 II leads in screen size and resolution, the Sony a9 II’s flip screen offers flexibility that some photographers may find more valuable.

In comparing the Nikon Z6 II and the Sony a9 II, each camera has its own strengths and weaknesses. The Nikon Z6 II excels in screen size and resolution, making it ideal for photographers who prioritize image clarity. The Sony a9 II, with its flip screen, offers versatility for various shooting angles. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the photographer’s specific needs and preferences.

Nikon Z6 II vs Sony a9 II Storage and Battery

The Sony a9 II outperforms the Nikon Z6 II in storage and battery with a score of 79/100 compared to the Nikon’s 71/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots, and both offer USB charging. The Nikon Z6 II accepts SD, CFexpress Type B / XQD (UHS-II compatible) memory cards, while the Sony a9 II uses SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) cards.

The Sony a9 II has a longer battery life, providing 690 shots per charge with its NP-FZ100 battery, compared to the Nikon Z6 II’s 410 shots using its EN-EL15c battery. This difference in battery life gives the Sony a9 II a clear advantage for extended shooting sessions.

The Nikon Z6 II, however, has the benefit of supporting CFexpress Type B / XQD cards, which offer faster read and write speeds than the SD cards used in the Sony a9 II. This advantage may be useful for photographers who require rapid data transfer for high-resolution images or continuous shooting.

In terms of storage and battery, the Sony a9 II is the superior choice due to its longer battery life. The Nikon Z6 II’s advantage in memory card compatibility may be beneficial for some photographers, but the Sony a9 II remains the better option for most users.

Alternatives to the Nikon Z6 II and Sony a9 II

Nikon Z6 II vs Sony a9 II 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 II or the Sony a9 II: