CameraReview

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R IV — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Nikon Z7 II
Nikon
Nikon Z7 II
Mirrorless · 45.75 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
85
SCORE
$2,196.95
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Sony a7R IV
Sony
Sony a7R IV
Mirrorless · 61.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
84
SCORE
$2,481.26
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Best Price →
General
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.
14/10/202016/07/2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 134 x 101 x 70 mm129 x 96 x 78 mm
Camera weight 705 g665 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
45.75 MP05061.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
8256 x 55049504 x 6336
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 35.7
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.
10 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.
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.
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.
256003003280000320003003280000
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.
10240030032800001024003003280000
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.
43903004250300
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 369000009900000576000009900000
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 Ver. 2.0, MP4
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.
420 shots1505000670 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z7 II edges out the Sony a7R IV with a score of 85/100 to 84/100. Both cameras are mirrorless, with the Nikon Z7 II announced in October 2020 and the Sony a7R IV in July 2019. They share similar size dimensions, but the Nikon Z7 II is slightly heavier at 705g compared to the Sony a7R IV’s 665g.

The Nikon Z7 II’s higher score is mainly due to its more recent release and lower launch price of $3399 compared to the Sony a7R IV’s $3500. However, the Sony a7R IV has its advantages with a lighter weight, making it more comfortable for extended use.

Taking into account the scores, prices, and features, the Nikon Z7 II stands as a slightly better option, while the Sony a7R IV remains a solid choice for those who prioritize a lighter camera.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R IV Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z7 II outperforms the Sony a7R IV in optics with a score of 86/100, while the Sony a7R IV has a score of 85/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as a 10 fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras use their respective lens mounts – Nikon Z for the Z7 II and Sony FE for the a7R IV.

The Nikon Z7 II has an advantage with its dual Expeed 6 processor, which contributes to its higher DXOMARK sensor score of 100, compared to the Sony a7R IV’s Bionz X processor and DXOMARK sensor score of 99. This difference in score signifies that the Z7 II has a slightly better overall image quality.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R IV has a higher megapixel count at 61.2, compared to the Nikon Z7 II’s 45.75. This means that the a7R IV can capture more details in images, which can be beneficial for large prints and heavy cropping.

In terms of optics, the Nikon Z7 II is the winner due to its higher score and better overall image quality. However, the Sony a7R IV’s higher megapixel count should not be overlooked, as it may be more suitable for specific photography needs. Both cameras offer excellent performance, and the choice between them will depend on individual preferences and requirements.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R IV Video Performance

The Nikon Z7 II outperforms the Sony a7R IV in video capabilities with a score of 91/100, compared to the Sony’s 70/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution and 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions. Additionally, they both have built-in time-lapse. However, the Nikon Z7 II excels in certain areas, making it the winner in this comparison.

The Nikon Z7 II’s superior video performance is primarily due to its higher max video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the Sony a7R IV’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother, more detailed slow-motion footage, which is beneficial for capturing fast-paced action or creating cinematic effects.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R IV does not have any significant advantages in video capabilities over the Nikon Z7 II. Both cameras share the same max video resolution, dimensions, and time-lapse functionality. The only area where the Sony a7R IV might be considered better is if a user prioritizes still photography over video capabilities, but that is not the focus of this comparison.

Ultimately, the Nikon Z7 II is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities, with its higher score and superior max video frame rate. The Sony a7R IV, while still a capable camera, falls short in this specific comparison. For those who prioritize video performance, the Nikon Z7 II is the better choice.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R IV Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z7 II wins the features comparison with a score of 87/100, while the Sony a7R IV scores 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including touchscreen capability, flip screen, GPS absence, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Nikon Z7 II outperforms the Sony a7R IV in screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen and a resolution of 2,100,000 dots, the Z7 II offers a larger and more detailed display compared to the a7R IV’s 3-inch screen and 1,440,000-dot resolution. This advantage allows for better image review and easier menu navigation on the Z7 II.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R IV does have some advantages despite its lower score. However, these advantages are not related to the features listed above, as both cameras have identical specifications in those areas. Any potential benefits of the a7R IV would need to be found in other aspects of the camera, such as sensor performance or autofocus capabilities.

By comparing the features of the Nikon Z7 II and the Sony a7R IV, it is clear that the Z7 II has a superior screen size and resolution. This gives the camera an edge in user experience and image review. The a7R IV does not outperform the Z7 II in the specified features, but it may have advantages in other areas. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the individual photographer’s priorities and preferences.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R IV Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Nikon Z7 II in storage and battery with a score of 79/100 compared to 71/100. Both cameras feature two memory card slots and USB charging. The Nikon Z7 II accepts SD, CFexpress Type B / XQD cards (UHS-II compatible), while the Sony a7R IV is compatible with SD / SDHC / SDXC cards (UHS-II compatible).

The Sony a7R IV’s superiority lies in its longer battery life, providing 670 shots per charge compared to the Nikon Z7 II’s 420 shots. The Sony a7R IV uses an NP-FZ100 battery, while the Nikon Z7 II utilizes an EN-EL15c battery.

However, the Nikon Z7 II offers more versatility in memory card options, accepting both CFexpress Type B / XQD and SD cards. This can be beneficial for photographers who require faster read and write speeds.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony a7R IV holds an advantage with its longer battery life, while the Nikon Z7 II provides more memory card flexibility. Ultimately, the choice depends on the individual photographer’s priorities and needs.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R IV – Our Verdict

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R IV 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 II or the Sony a7R IV: