Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
 82
SCORE
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✓ WINNER
 84
SCORE
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|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Sony |
| Model | Z7 | a7 IV |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2018 | 2021 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
23/08/2018 | 21/10/2021 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 134 x 101 x 68 mm | 131 x 96 x 80 mm |
| Camera weight | 675 g | 659 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
45.7 MP050 | 33 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
8256 x 5504 | 7008 x 4672 |
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 | 23.8 x 35.6 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Full Frame | Full 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 fps045 | 10 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 Z | Sony E |
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 XR |
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. |
3:2 | 3:2 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
6430200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 512003003280000 |
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. |
3230200 | 5030200 |
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. |
1024003003280000 | 2044003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
3044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
800080032000 | 800080032000 |
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. |
4930300 | 7590300 |
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. |
Electronic | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | 369000009900000 | 368640009900000 |
| 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. |
4K | 4K |
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 2160 | 3840 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 fps | 120 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, MP4 | MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265 |
| 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 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 | 3.2" | 3" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
21000001150001500000 | 10400001150001500000 |
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 | XQD | CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible) |
| 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. |
330 shots1505000 | 580 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✓ | ✓ |
The Sony a7 IV edges out the Nikon Z7 with a score of 84/100 compared to 82/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the Nikon Z7 measuring 134 x 101 x 68mm and weighing 675g, while the Sony a7 IV is slightly smaller at 131 x 96 x 80mm and lighter at 659g.
The Sony a7 IV has the advantage of being a more recent release, hitting the market in 2021, compared to the Nikon Z7’s 2018 release. This newer camera also boasts a lower launch price of $2499, making it more accessible than the Nikon Z7’s $3400 price tag.
However, the Nikon Z7 still holds its own, offering a solid performance in a compact and lightweight design. While the Sony a7 IV may have a slight edge in terms of score, both cameras are strong contenders in the mirrorless market. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preferences and specific photography needs.
The Nikon Z7 takes the lead in optics with a score of 86/100, compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 85/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, they both use their respective lens mounts – Nikon Z for the Z7 and Sony FE for the a7 IV.
The Nikon Z7 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in terms of megapixels and DXOMARK sensor score. With 45.7 megapixels and a DXOMARK score of 99, the Z7 offers higher image resolution and better sensor performance compared to the a7 IV’s 33 megapixels and DXOMARK score of 97. This results in sharper, more detailed images from the Nikon Z7.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV has a slight advantage in shooting speed, clocking in at 10 frames per second (fps) compared to the Nikon Z7’s 9 fps. This may benefit photographers who prioritize capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in burst mode.
The Nikon Z7’s Expeed 6 processor and the Sony a7 IV’s Bionz XR processor both contribute to their respective camera’s performance. However, the difference in processors does not significantly impact the optics comparison.
Taking all factors into consideration, the Nikon Z7 emerges as the superior camera in terms of optics due to its higher megapixel count and better sensor performance. However, the Sony a7 IV’s faster shooting speed may appeal to particular photographers. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras should be based on individual needs and preferences, keeping in mind the slight edge the Nikon Z7 has in image quality.
The Sony a7 IV surpasses the Nikon Z7 in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the Nikon Z7’s 83/100. Both cameras share common video features, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a valuable feature for videographers.
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Nikon Z7 in terms of its maximum video frame rate. The a7 IV boasts a frame rate of 120fps, while the Z7 reaches only 60fps. This difference allows the Sony a7 IV to provide smoother slow-motion footage and gives videographers more flexibility in post-production. The increased frame rate is a significant advantage that contributes to the Sony a7 IV’s higher video score.
Although the Nikon Z7 falls short in terms of video frame rate, it still offers strong video capabilities. With its 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality, the Z7 is a suitable option for many videographers. However, the lower frame rate limits its versatility compared to the Sony a7 IV.
Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, the Sony a7 IV is the superior choice due to its higher frame rate. The Nikon Z7 remains a viable option for those who do not require the additional flexibility provided by the a7 IV’s 120fps. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific requirements of the videographer and their desired outcome.
The Nikon Z7 emerges as the winner in this comparison with a feature score of 87/100, compared to the Sony a7 IV’s score of 83/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a touchscreen, flip screen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity. Neither camera offers GPS capabilities.
The Nikon Z7 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in terms of screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen, the Z7 provides a larger display than the a7 IV’s 3-inch screen. Additionally, the Z7’s screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots significantly surpasses the a7 IV’s 1,040,000 dots. This results in a clearer and more detailed view of your images and settings on the Nikon Z7.
In contrast, the Sony a7 IV does not have any distinct advantages over the Nikon Z7 in the features category. Both cameras offer similar functionalities, with the Z7 holding an edge in screen size and resolution.
To conclude, the Nikon Z7 is the superior camera in terms of features, surpassing the Sony a7 IV in screen size and resolution. This advantage allows for a better viewing experience when composing shots and reviewing images. The Sony a7 IV, while not offering any specific advantages, still provides a solid set of features, making it a viable option for photographers seeking a user-friendly camera with essential functionalities.
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Nikon Z7 in storage and battery, scoring 76 points compared to the Z7’s 35 points. Both cameras share USB charging capabilities and require rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. However, the Sony a7 IV has a longer battery life of 580 shots, while the Nikon Z7 only offers 330 shots.
Moreover, the Sony a7 IV provides two memory card slots, accepting both CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II compatible) cards. In contrast, the Nikon Z7 has only one memory card slot, compatible with XQD cards. The additional memory card slot and compatibility with more card types make the Sony a7 IV more versatile in terms of storage.
The Nikon Z7 has no specific advantage in storage and battery over the Sony a7 IV. Given the disparities in battery life and memory card options, the Sony a7 IV proves to be a more practical choice for photographers who prioritize extended shooting sessions and flexible storage options.
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 IV:
