CameraReview

Nikon Z7 vs Sony a7 III — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Nikon Z7
Nikon
Nikon Z7
Mirrorless · 45.7 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
82
SCORE
$1,245
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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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Best Price →
General
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.
45.7 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
8256 x 55046000 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.
9 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.
643020010030200
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.
256003003280000512003003280000
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.
32302005030200
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.
10240030032800002048003003280000
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.
49303006930300
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.
330 shots1505000750 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z7 edges out the Sony a7 III with a score of 82/100 compared to the latter’s 81. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2018, with the Nikon Z7 being announced in August and the Sony a7 III in February. They have similar sizes and weights, with the Nikon Z7 measuring 134 x 101 x 68mm and weighing 1.49lbs, while the Sony a7 III measures 127 x 96 x 74mm and weighs 1.43lbs.

Taking these factors into account, the Nikon Z7 stands out as the winner in terms of performance, while the Sony a7 III offers a more affordable option without compromising too much on quality.

Nikon Z7 vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z7 outperforms the Sony a7 III in optics with a score of 86/100 compared to 81/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. They also have different lens mounts, with the Nikon Z7 using a Nikon Z mount and the Sony a7 III using a Sony FE mount.

The Nikon Z7 excels in several areas. It has a higher megapixel count of 45.7, while the Sony a7 III has 24.2 megapixels. This difference allows the Nikon Z7 to capture more detailed images. Additionally, the Nikon Z7 has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 99, compared to the Sony a7 III’s score of 96. The Nikon Z7’s Expeed 6 processor also contributes to its better performance in image processing and overall image quality.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 III has a slightly faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, compared to the Nikon Z7’s 9 frames per second. This advantage may be beneficial for photographers who prioritize capturing fast-moving subjects. However, the difference in shooting speed is minimal and may not be significant for most users.

Considering the higher score and better specifications, the Nikon Z7 proves to be the superior camera in terms of optics. Its higher megapixel count and better sensor performance make it a more powerful choice for photographers who prioritize image quality. While the Sony a7 III has a marginally faster shooting speed, the overall advantages of the Nikon Z7 make it the better option for most users.

Nikon Z7 vs Sony a7 III Video Performance

The Nikon Z7 outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities, with a video score of 83/100 compared to the Sony’s 70. Both cameras share similarities in their video specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 4K and maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, there are notable differences in their video performance that favor the Nikon Z7.

The Nikon Z7 surpasses the Sony a7 III with a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the Sony’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and the ability to create slow-motion footage, providing more versatility in video production.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 III still offers impressive video capabilities despite its lower score. With a 4K video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, it can produce high-quality footage suitable for various purposes. However, its lower video frame rate limits its versatility compared to the Nikon Z7.

Nikon Z7 vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z7 outperforms the Sony a7 III in the features category, with a score of 87/100 compared to the Sony’s 81/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, Bluetooth, and the absence of GPS. However, there are key differences that contribute to the Nikon Z7’s higher score.

The Nikon Z7’s screen size is larger, at 3.2 inches compared to the Sony a7 III’s 3 inches. This difference allows for better visibility and an enhanced user experience. Moreover, the Nikon Z7 offers a significantly higher screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 921,600 dots. The higher resolution results in a sharper and more detailed display, giving the Nikon Z7 a clear advantage in this aspect.

Despite the lower score, the Sony a7 III does have some advantages over the Nikon Z7, although not in the area of features. The Sony a7 III is known for its excellent autofocus system and longer battery life, both of which can be important for certain types of photography.

Taking these points into account, it is evident that the Nikon Z7 surpasses the Sony a7 III in terms of features, mainly due to its larger and higher-resolution screen. However, it is essential to consider the specific needs of the photographer when choosing between the two cameras. While the Nikon Z7 offers a better display and overall feature set, the Sony a7 III might be the preferred choice for photographers who prioritize autofocus performance and battery life.

Nikon Z7 vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery

The Sony a7 III triumphs over the Nikon Z7 in storage and battery with a score of 81 compared to the Nikon’s 33/100. Both cameras have USB charging capabilities, allowing for convenient charging options.

The Sony a7 III excels with two memory card slots, accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards, providing more storage flexibility. Additionally, its battery life is more than double that of the Nikon Z7, with 750 shots per charge using the NP-FZ100 battery.

The Nikon Z7, on the other hand, has a single memory card slot accepting only XQD cards and a battery life of 330 shots using the EN-EL15b battery. Despite its lower score, the Nikon Z7 still offers USB charging, which the Sony a7 III lacks.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony a7 III clearly outperforms the Nikon Z7 in terms of storage and battery life. This makes it a more practical choice for longer shooting sessions and increased storage options.

Nikon Z7 vs Sony a7 III – Our Verdict

Nikon Z7 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 Z7 or the Sony a7 III: