Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Sony |
| Model | Z9 | a7R V |
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2021 | 2022 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
28/10/2021 | 26/10/2022 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 149 x 150 x 91 mm | 131 x 97 x 82 mm |
| Camera weight | 1340 g | 723 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
46 MP050 | 61 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 | 9504 x 6336 |
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 | 35.7 x 23.8 |
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. |
30 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 FE |
Image processor ⓘThe image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. |
Expeed 7 | 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 | 320003003280000 |
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 | 1024003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
90044080 | 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. |
3200080032000 | 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 | 6930300 |
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 | 368640009900000 | 944000009900000 |
| 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. |
8K | 8K |
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. |
7680 x 4320 | 7680 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 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 | MPEG-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 | 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" | 3.2" |
Screen dots ⓘScreen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. |
20889601150001500000 | 21000001150001500000 |
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 | CFexpress, XQD | SD / SDHC / SDXC, CFexpress Type A |
| Dual memory card slots | ✓ | ✓ |
| Battery type | EN-EL18d | NP-FZ100 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
740 shots1505000 | 530 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✓ | ✓ |
The Nikon Z9 edges out the Sony a7R V with a score of 87/100 compared to the latter’s 85/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in the 2021-2022 period. They share some specifications, such as being mirrorless and having similar announcement dates.
The Nikon Z9 is superior in certain aspects, such as a higher score and a larger camera size (149 x 150 x 91mm). This larger size may provide better ergonomics for some users. Additionally, the Z9 is heavier (1340g), which could offer increased stability during shooting.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R V has its advantages, including a lower launch price ($3999) and a more compact size (131 x 97 x 82mm). The lighter weight (723g) may be more comfortable for extended use and travel.
Taking into account each camera’s strengths and weaknesses, the Nikon Z9’s higher score represents its overall better performance, while the Sony a7R V offers a more budget-friendly and compact option. Both cameras are strong contenders, and the choice ultimately depends on the individual preferences and needs of the photographer.
The Nikon Z9 outperforms the Sony a7R V in optics with a score of 88/100, compared to the Sony a7R V’s score of 85/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras have their respective lens mounts, with the Nikon Z9 using the Nikon Z mount and the Sony a7R V using the Sony FE mount.
The Nikon Z9 excels with its Expeed 7 processor, which contributes to its impressive shooting speed of 30 frames per second. This high-speed performance is beneficial for capturing fast-paced action and sports photography. Moreover, the Nikon Z9’s sensor has a DXOMARK score of 98, indicating superior image quality and low-light performance.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R V boasts a remarkable 61-megapixel resolution, which is significantly higher than the Nikon Z9’s 46-megapixel resolution. This advantage allows the Sony a7R V to produce larger and more detailed images, making it ideal for landscape and commercial photography. However, the Sony a7R V’s Bionz XR processor results in a lower shooting speed of 10 frames per second, and its sensor has a slightly lower DXOMARK score of 94.
Considering these factors, the Nikon Z9 is the better choice for photographers who prioritize speed and overall image quality, as evidenced by its higher optics score. On the other hand, the Sony a7R V is more suitable for those who focus on high-resolution images without the need for fast shooting speeds. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
The Nikon Z9 and Sony a7R V both achieve a video score of 100/100, indicating their exceptional video capabilities. These cameras share several common features, including a maximum video resolution of 8K, maximum video dimensions of 7680 x 4320, a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite having the same score, the Nikon Z9 offers specific advantages over the Sony a7R V. However, it is important to note that these advantages do not affect the overall video score. The Z9’s strengths lie in its unique features, which may provide a more enjoyable user experience for some videographers.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R V has its own set of unique features that may appeal to some users. While the video capabilities are on par with the Nikon Z9, the a7R V may offer additional benefits in other areas, such as ergonomics or user interface. This means that the a7R V is not inferior to the Z9, but rather provides a different experience for videographers.
Both the Nikon Z9 and Sony a7R V are exceptional video cameras, offering top-of-the-line performance and features. Users should consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras, as their video capabilities are evenly matched. The choice ultimately comes down to the unique strengths and experiences that each camera offers, ensuring that both the Z9 and the a7R V are excellent options for videographers.
The Nikon Z9 and Sony a7R V both achieve a feature score of 87/100, making them equal in this aspect. These cameras share several specifications, such as a 3.2-inch touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities. However, there are differences between the two that make each one stand out.
The Nikon Z9 has an advantage over the Sony a7R V with its built-in GPS feature. This allows photographers to geotag their images, making it easier to organize and locate photos based on location. This is a valuable feature for those who travel and document their journeys through photography.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R V has a slightly higher screen resolution at 2,100,000 dots compared to the Nikon Z9’s 2,088,960 dots. This difference may provide a marginally better viewing experience, allowing photographers to see more details when reviewing their images. However, this difference is minimal and may not be a significant factor for most users.
Both cameras are strong contenders with their advanced features, and choosing between them depends on individual preferences. The Nikon Z9’s GPS functionality may be more appealing to travel photographers, while the Sony a7R V’s marginally better screen resolution may be a deciding factor for those who prioritize image review quality. In the end, both cameras offer a robust set of features that cater to a variety of photography needs.
The Nikon Z9 outperforms the Sony a7R V in storage and battery with a score of 79, compared to Sony’s 73. Both cameras have two memory card slots and support USB charging. They also accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Nikon Z9 accepts a wider range of memory cards, including CFexpress and XQD, making it more versatile in storage options.
The Nikon Z9 also boasts a longer battery life of 740 shots, using the EN-EL18d battery type, whereas the Sony a7R V provides 530 shots with its NP-FZ100 battery. This difference gives the Nikon Z9 an advantage in extended shooting sessions.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R V supports the compact CFexpress Type A cards, which may be preferable for some users due to their smaller size. Nevertheless, the Nikon Z9’s broader compatibility and longer battery life make it the superior choice for storage and battery performance.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Z9 or the Sony a7R V: