Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7 III Comparison
Nikon Z7 II
Sony a7 III
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | Z7 II | a7 III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 14, 2020 | February 27, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Nikon Z7 II outperforms the Sony a7 III with a score of 85 compared to 81. Both mirrorless cameras share similarities, such as their launch prices of $3399 and $2000, respectively. Additionally, their sizes are quite comparable, with the Nikon Z7 II measuring 134 x 101 x 70mm and the Sony a7 III at 127 x 96 x 74mm.
The Nikon Z7 II excels with its higher score, indicating a better overall camera. This camera’s advantages include its more recent release year of 2020, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 2018 release. However, the Sony a7 III has a lighter weight of 650g, making it more portable than the 705g Nikon Z7 II.
While both cameras offer excellent performance and features, the Nikon Z7 II comes out on top due to its higher score and more recent release. The Sony a7 III, though, remains a strong contender with its lighter weight and lower price point.
Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics
The Nikon Z7 II outperforms the Sony a7 III in terms of optics, scoring 86/100 compared to 81/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as a 10 fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. They also have different lens mounts, with the Nikon Z7 II using the Nikon Z mount and the Sony a7 III using the Sony FE mount.
The Nikon Z7 II has a clear advantage in the megapixel department, with 45.75 compared to the Sony a7 III’s 24.2, allowing for higher resolution images. Additionally, the Nikon Z7 II features a dual Expeed 6 processor, which contributes to faster image processing and improved performance. Its DXOMARK sensor score of 100 further emphasizes the Nikon Z7 II’s superiority in image quality.
Although the Sony a7 III falls short in some aspects, it still has a respectable DXOMARK sensor score of 96, ensuring good image quality. The Bionz X processor in the Sony a7 III also contributes to efficient image processing. However, it is essential to note that it has fewer megapixels and a lower sensor score compared to the Nikon Z7 II.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Nikon Z7 II proves to be the superior choice in terms of optics with its higher megapixel count, dual Expeed 6 processor, and better DXOMARK sensor score. While the Sony a7 III remains a strong contender, it does not surpass the Nikon Z7 II in this specific aspect.
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Optics
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Nikon Z7 II
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Sony a7 III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45.75 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. | 8256 x 5504 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. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 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. | Dual 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. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 64 | 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. | 25,600 | 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. | 32 | 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. | 102400 | 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/ 8000 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. | 439 | 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 | 2,359,296 dots |
Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7 III Video Performance
The Nikon Z7 II outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities with a score of 91/100 compared to the Sony’s 70. Both cameras share the same max video resolution of 4K and max video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, the differences in their video performance become clear when examining other specifications.
The Nikon Z7 II boasts a higher max video frame rate of 120fps, which is significantly superior to the Sony a7 III’s 30fps. This means that the Nikon Z7 II can capture smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, giving videographers greater flexibility in their projects.
While the Sony a7 III falls short in some areas, it is still a capable camera for video production. Its 4K resolution and max video dimensions are on par with the Nikon Z7 II, ensuring high-quality video output.
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Video
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Nikon Z7 II
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Sony a7 III
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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. |  4K | 4K | |
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. | 120 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, AVCHD |
Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits
The Nikon Z7 II outperforms the Sony a7 III in features with a score of 87/100, compared to the Sony’s 81/100. Both cameras share some similar specifications, including a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, neither camera has GPS functionality.
The Nikon Z7 II has a larger screen size of 3.2 inches compared to the Sony a7 III’s 3-inch screen. Additionally, the Nikon Z7 II boasts a higher screen resolution, with 2,100,000 dots, while the Sony a7 III has a screen resolution of 921,600 dots. These differences contribute to the Nikon Z7 II’s superior display and user experience.
Though the Sony a7 III falls short in some areas, it still offers a solid set of features. It matches the Nikon Z7 II in terms of touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth capabilities. However, the Sony a7 III does not surpass the Nikon Z7 II in any specific feature.
Considering the feature scores and specifications, the Nikon Z7 II is the better camera in terms of features. The larger screen size and higher screen resolution provide a more enjoyable user experience. Although the Sony a7 III is a competent camera with a decent set of features, it does not outshine the Nikon Z7 II in any particular aspect. Buyers seeking a camera with superior features should opt for the Nikon Z7 II, while those satisfied with a solid, reliable camera can consider the Sony a7 III.
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Features
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Nikon Z7 II
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Sony a7 III
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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 |  3.2" |  3" | |
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 Z7 II vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery
The Nikon Z7 II and the Sony a7 III both have two memory card slots, but the Nikon Z7 II accepts SD, CFexpress Type B / XQD (UHS-II compatible) cards, whereas the Sony a7 III uses SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo cards.
The Sony a7 III surpasses the Nikon Z7 II in battery life, offering 750 shots compared to the Nikon’s 420 shots. This longer battery life makes the Sony a7 III more suitable for extended use without needing frequent battery replacements or recharging. The choice between these two cameras ultimately depends on individual preferences for USB charging and battery life.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon Z7 II
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Sony a7 III
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Memory Card | SD, CFexpress Type B / XQD (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL15c | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 420 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon Z7 II
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Sony a7 III
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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.' | 26.3 bits | 25.1 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.' | 14.7 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' | 2841 | 3722 |
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Scores
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Nikon Z7 II
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Sony a7 III
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7 III – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Z7 II or the Sony a7 III:
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User Scores
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Nikon Z7 II
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Sony a7 III
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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