CameraReview

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

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

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 V
Sony
Sony a7R V
Mirrorless · 61 MP · Full Frame · 8K video
85
SCORE
$3,298
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General
Brand NikonSony
Model Z7 IIa7R V
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202022
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
14/10/202026/10/2022
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 134 x 101 x 70 mm131 x 97 x 82 mm
Camera weight 705 g723 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
45.75 MP05061 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 35.935.7 x 23.8
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 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.
3:23:2
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.
43903006930300
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 369000009900000944000009900000
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.
4K8K
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 21607680 x 4320
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 fps120 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, MP4MPEG-4, MOV, H.264, H.265, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I
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"3.2"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2100000115000150000021000001150001500000
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, CFexpress Type A
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 shots1505000530 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z7 II and Sony a7R V both score 85/100, showcasing their quality as mirrorless cameras. Despite this, each camera offers unique advantages. They share the same release year and camera type, but the Nikon Z7 II was announced in October 2020, while the Sony a7R V was announced in October 2022.

The Nikon Z7 II is lighter and more compact, weighing 705g and measuring 134 x 101 x 70mm. This camera also has a lower launch price of $3399, making it more affordable. On the other hand, the Sony a7R V weighs 723g and has dimensions of 131 x 97 x 82mm. Its launch price is $3999, making it a more expensive option.

When choosing between these cameras, the Nikon Z7 II offers a more budget-friendly and lightweight option, while the Sony a7R V is a newer model with a higher price tag. Both cameras provide excellent performance with their equal scores.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R V Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z7 II edges out the Sony a7R V in optics, with a score of 86/100 compared to Sony’s 85/100. Both cameras share many specifications, such as a 10 fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and built-in image stabilization. They also have compatible lens mounts, with the Nikon Z7 II using the Nikon Z mount and the Sony a7R V using the Sony FE mount.

The Nikon Z7 II surpasses the Sony a7R V with its higher DXOMARK sensor score of 100, compared to Sony’s 94. This difference indicates that the Nikon Z7 II has a superior sensor, which contributes to better image quality. Furthermore, the Nikon Z7 II is equipped with a dual Expeed 6 processor, which ensures faster processing and better overall performance.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R V boasts a higher megapixel count of 61, compared to the Nikon Z7 II’s 45.75. This advantage allows the Sony a7R V to capture more detail and produce larger prints. Additionally, the Sony a7R V utilizes a Bionz XR processor, which provides efficient processing and noise reduction capabilities.

Considering the optics, the Nikon Z7 II’s higher DXOMARK sensor score and dual Expeed 6 processor make it a better choice for those seeking superior image quality and performance. However, the Sony a7R V’s higher megapixel count and efficient Bionz XR processor make it a strong contender for photographers who prioritize detail and large print capabilities.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R V Video Performance

The Sony a7R V outperforms the Nikon Z7 II in video capabilities, scoring 100/100 compared to the Nikon’s 91/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a maximum video frame rate of 120fps and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the Sony a7R V has superior features that contribute to its higher score.

The main advantage of the Sony a7R V is its 8K maximum video resolution, which is double the 4K resolution offered by the Nikon Z7 II. The Sony’s maximum video dimensions are also significantly larger at 7680 x 4320, compared to the Nikon’s 3840 x 2160. This higher resolution and larger dimensions provide greater detail and flexibility for videographers, allowing for more creative possibilities in post-production.

The Nikon Z7 II, while not as advanced in video capabilities as the Sony a7R V, still offers a solid performance in this area. Its 4K resolution and 3840 x 2160 video dimensions are suitable for most professional applications, and its 120fps frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality match those of the Sony a7R V. These features still make the Nikon Z7 II a viable option for videographers who may not require the higher resolution provided by the Sony a7R V.

Comparing the video capabilities of the Nikon Z7 II and the Sony a7R V, it is clear that the Sony a7R V offers superior performance with its 8K resolution and larger video dimensions. This makes it the better choice for videographers seeking the highest quality and creative flexibility. However, the Nikon Z7 II remains a strong contender for those who do not require the additional resolution and can still deliver professional results with its 4K capabilities.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R V Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z7 II and Sony a7R V both have identical feature scores of 87/100. They share several common specifications, making them comparable in terms of features. Both cameras have a 3.2-inch touchscreen with a screen resolution of 2,100,000 dots. Additionally, they both have flip screens, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities.

Despite the identical scores, the Nikon Z7 II boasts some advantages over the Sony a7R V. The Nikon Z7 II’s strengths lie in its ergonomic design, making it more comfortable to hold and operate for extended periods. Furthermore, the Nikon Z7 II has a more extensive lens selection, providing users with greater flexibility in their photography.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R V does have some advantages over the Nikon Z7 II. The Sony a7R V excels in its autofocus system, which is faster and more accurate than the Nikon Z7 II. This feature is beneficial for photographers who shoot fast-moving subjects or require precise focus.

In comparing the Nikon Z7 II and Sony a7R V, it is evident that both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. The Nikon Z7 II is better suited for photographers who prioritize ergonomics and lens selection, while the Sony a7R V is ideal for those who need a superior autofocus system. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R V Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R V edges out the Nikon Z7 II in storage and battery, scoring 73/100 compared to the Nikon’s 71/100. Both cameras share similarities, including two memory card slots and USB charging capabilities. The Sony a7R V, however, boasts a better battery life of 530 shots, using the NP-FZ100 battery, while the Nikon Z7 II offers 420 shots with its EN-EL15c battery.

In terms of storage, the Nikon Z7 II accepts SD, CFexpress Type B / XQD (UHS-II compatible) cards, whereas the Sony a7R V uses SD / SDHC / SDXC and CFexpress Type A cards. The Nikon’s compatibility with CFexpress Type B / XQD cards gives it an advantage in terms of faster read and write speeds.

Despite the Nikon Z7 II’s slight edge in storage compatibility, the Sony a7R V’s superior battery life makes it a more reliable choice for extended shooting sessions. Therefore, the Sony a7R V is the better option for photographers prioritizing storage and battery performance.

Alternatives to the Nikon Z7 II and Sony a7R V

Nikon Z7 II vs Sony a7R V 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 V: