Nikon Z5 vs. Sony A7III: Which is Better?

Nikon Z5 vs. Sony A7III: Which is Better?

When it comes to cameras, Nikon and Sony are two of the biggest names in the business. Both companies make excellent products, but which one is the best for you? In this article, we will compare the Nikon Z5 vs Sony A7III to help you decide which camera is right for you. We will answer common questions about both cameras and give you a few helpful tips to make your decision easier. So, let’s get started!

How Nikon Made the Z5

The Nikon Z series has been around for a while now, but the Z5 was the first model that really made it a viable option for everyday photographers. The Z5 is a great camera, but it doesn’t quite have the same features as the more expensive models in the series. With the Z51, Nikon has moved closer to parity with Sony’s offerings. Let’s take a look at how they did it.

How Nikon Made the Z5

  • The autofocus system has been greatly improved from previous models and is now on par with Sony’s offering.
  • They’ve also increased the megapixel count to 24.
  • The ISO range has been expanded to 51,200.
  • And perhaps most importantly, they’ve added in-body stabilization.

All of these improvements make the Z51 a much more attractive option for photographers, but there are still some areas where it falls short of the A7III. Let’s take a look at those now.[3]

How Sony Made the A7III

The A7 is the company’s third generation of what has become its bread-and-butter model, the all-rounder mirrorless camera. With a new 24.24MP sensor and updated autofocus system, it’s designed to appeal to a wide range of users, from enthusiasts to professionals.

It’s clear that Sony has listened to feedback from users of the previous A7II model and made some important changes. The most obvious is the inclusion of in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which was a key feature that was missing from the older model. This will be a huge selling point for anyone shooting video or wanting to use longer lenses handheld. The IBIS system on the A7 is effective up to five stops, according to Sony.

Another change is the move to a new autofocus system that uses693 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection AF points. This gives the A7 significantly more coverage than the previous model, which should result in better performance when tracking moving subjects. The A7 also has eye autofocus that’s now available in all modes, not just in portrait mode as on the A7II.[3]

Design

When it comes to design, the Nikon Z5 and Sony A7 differ slightly. The Nikon Z5 has a more traditional DSLR look, while the Sony A7 has a more modern mirrorless camera look. Both cameras are very well-built and have weather-sealing. However, the Sony A7 is slightly larger and heavier than the Nikon Z5.

Design

The control layout of both cameras is similar, with some minor differences. The most notable difference is that the Sony A7 has a touchscreen display, while the Nikon Z5 does not. Both cameras have an electronic viewfinder (EVF), but the EVF on the Sony A7 is slightly larger.[1]

Viewfinder

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a camera is the viewfinder. The Nikon Z has a 0.39-inch, four-way tilting LCD that gives you 100% frame coverage. The Sony A7 has a 0.78-inch XGA OLED Tru-Finder with 100% frame coverage.

Both cameras have their pros and cons when it comes to the viewfinder. The Nikon Z’s smaller size makes it easier to carry around and the tilting feature is great for getting low or high angle shots. However, the Sony A7’s larger viewfinder gives you a better idea of what your shot will look like before you take it.[1]

Rear monitor

The Nikon Z5 has a large and bright three-inch rear monitor, while the Sony A6400 only has a two-inch screen. This is a big advantage for the Nikon, as it makes it much easier to see what you’re shooting and to change settings on the fly.

The Sony A6400 also doesn’t have a touch screen, which can be frustrating if you’re used to using one. The Nikon Z5 does have a touch screen, though it’s not as responsive as some other cameras in this price range.[1]

Sensor

The Nikon Z 50 has a 24.32-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the Sony A7 has a full-frame 42.40 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor. The Sony A7’s sensor is about twice as large as the Nikon Z 50’s, meaning it can capture more light and detail. It also has a higher pixel count, so it produces sharper images.

However, the Nikon Z 50’s sensor is no slouch. It still produces excellent image quality, and its smaller size makes it better suited for action photography and video (more on that later). If you’re primarily interested in still photos, though, the Sony A7 is the better choice.[1]

Autofocus capabilities

The autofocus capabilities of the Nikon Z5 are very good, with fast and accurate subject tracking. The Sony A7’s autofocus system is also excellent, but it can be a bit slower than the Nikon Z5’s in some situations.

Autofocus capabilities

Both cameras have great image quality, but the Sony A7 has slightly better image quality overall. The Nikon Z5 has a higher resolution sensor, which gives it an advantage in terms of detail and sharpness. However, the Sony A7’s sensor is newer and uses a faster image processing chip, which results in better image quality overall.[2]

Continuous shooting

The Nikon Z5 can shoot up to 50 frames per second with its electronic shutter, and 11fps with the mechanical shutter. The Sony a6400 can shoot up to 24fps with its mechanical shutter.

Both cameras have excellent autofocusing systems, but the Nikon Z5’s eye-tracking autofocus is slightly better than the Sony a6400’s.

When it comes to video, the Nikon Z5 can record in up to UHD (3840×216) at 30p, while the Sony a6400 is limited to 1080p at 60p. However, the Sony a6400 has better image stabilization for video.[2]

Video

If you’re a vlogger or YouTuber, the Sony A7 is the better camera for you. It records in up to UHD at 30p with full pixel readout and no binning. The Z5 can only record 1080/60p video. If you’re looking to do any sort of professional video work, the A7 is a better choice.

The autofocus on the A7 is also much better for video. It has phase detection pixels on the sensor that allow it to lock onto subjects quickly and accurately, even when they’re moving around. The Z5’s contrast-detect AF system isn’t as good at tracking moving subjects.[1]

Battery

Nikon Z5 is a great camera for those who are looking for their first DSLR. It has excellent battery life, which is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a camera. The Sony A7III also has great battery life, but it’s not as good as the Nikon Z5.[1]

Lenses

The Nikon Z system has three native lenses available at launch. The 24-50mm f/Four S is the kit lens, and it’s a great all-around option for shooting everything from landscapes to portraits. The 50-250mm f/Four.Five-Six.Three VR is a telephoto zoom lens that’s perfect for wildlife or sports photography, while the 35mm f/18 is a fast prime lens that’s ideal for low-light situations or capturing shallow depth of field effects.

Sony’s E-mount system has over 70 native lenses available, so there’s no shortage of options regardless of what you want to shoot. From wide angle primes to super telephoto zooms, Sony has a lens to fit your needs.[1]

Connectivity comparison

The Nikon Z5 has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi built in, while the Sony A6600 has to rely on an optional separate Wireless Remote Commander unit for wireless control. The Z5’s SnapBridge app lets you transfer low-res images to your phone automatically as you shoot, or use your phone as a remote control. The A6600 can do this too, but again only with an optional extra – the $350 RM-VPRTBT remote commander.

Connectivity comparison

The Z5 also supports Eye-AF in AF-C mode when using adapted lenses (with a firmware update due in December 2019), which is great news for sports and wildlife photographers using long telephoto lenses. The A6600 can’t do this at all.[2]

Price

The Nikon Z5 is the most affordable camera in Nikon’s new Z-series lineup. It has a list price of $850 for the body only, or $1000 with a kit lens. The Sony A7 has a list price of $2000 for the body only, or $2300 with a kit lens.

So, if you’re looking for an affordable option, the Nikon Z5 is the better choice. But if you’re willing to spend a little more money, the Sony A7 offers more features and capabilities.[1]

FAQ

Is there a better camera than Sony A7 III?

The Nikon Z series cameras are a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality camera. The Sony A series cameras are also great cameras, but they have some disadvantages. The Nikon Z series cameras have better build quality, better image quality, and better video quality.

The Sony A series cameras are cheaper, smaller, and lighter than the Nikon Z-series cameras. The Sony A series cameras also have more features and lenses available.

Is the Nikon Z5 good for professional photography?

The Nikon Z5 is a great camera for professional photography, as it offers excellent image quality and performance. However, if you need the absolute best image quality and performance, then the Nikon D850 is a better option.

The Sony A7III is also a great choice for professional photographers, as it offers excellent image quality and performance. However, if you need the absolute best image quality and performance, then the Sony A99II is a better option.

Is a7III still good in 2022?

The Sony a7 is a great camera body and if you have invested in good glass, then it will still serve you well in 2022. The autofocus system is very good and the image quality is excellent even at high ISO settings. However, if you are looking for the best possible image quality, then you should consider upgrading to the Sony a74 or a75. These newer models have better sensors and offer better dynamic range and low light performance.

Is Sony A7 III A Pro camera?

The short answer is yes, the Sony A7 III is a professional camera. It’s packed with features that professionals need, like in-body stabilization and advanced autofocus. But it’s also a great choice for enthusiasts and hobbyists who want a high-quality camera.

Which brand is best for mirrorless cameras?

There’s no easy answer to this question, as it depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, we can take a look at some of the key features of each camera to help you decide which one is right for you.

Both the Nikon Z5 and Sony A7III are great cameras for beginners or anyone looking for a good all-around mirrorless camera. However, there are some key differences between them that may make one better suited for your needs than the other.

What camera has the best color accuracy?

The Nikon Z series has great color accuracy, as does the Sony A series. However, when it comes to choosing between the two, it really depends on your personal preferences. Some people prefer the colors of the Nikon cameras, while others find the Sony images to be more accurate. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which camera you think produces the best colors.

If you are a professional photographer or videographer, then you will probably want to choose a camera with great color accuracy. However, if you are just a hobbyist or amateur photographer, then either camera will likely suffice.

Is the Nikon Z5 good for wedding photography?

The Nikon Z5 is a great entry-level DSLR camera that’s well suited for wedding photography. It has a 24.0 megapixel APS-C sensor, which is large enough to capture high-quality photos and videos. The Z5 also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily transfer files to your computer or smartphone.

Is the Nikon Z5 good for food photography?

The Nikon Z5 is a great option for food photography, as it offers excellent image quality and shooting performance. However, if you’re looking for the best possible image quality, the Sony A7 is the better choice. It’s full-frame sensor produces images that are noticeably sharper and more detailed than those from the Z5’s APS-C sensor. And, if you need fast autofocus for action shots of moving subjects, the A7’s superior autofocus system will give you an edge.

Is the Nikon Z5 good for landscape photography?

The Nikon Z5 might be a better option for landscape photographers. It has a higher resolution sensor and offers great image quality. The Sony A7 is also a great choice for landscapes, as it provides excellent dynamic range and low light performance. However, the Nikon Z5 is the best camera for landscape photography, thanks to its high megapixel count and advanced autofocus system. If you’re looking for the best camera for landscape photography, the Nikon Z5 is the way to go.

Is the Nikon Z5 good for astrophotography?

The short answer is yes, the Nikon Z5 can be used for astrophotography. However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you plan on using this camera for night photography. First, the sensor size is smaller than full frame cameras like the Sony A7III, so you will need to use a wider lens to capture the same amount of sky. Second, the native ISO range only goes up to 6400, so noise may be an issue when photographing dim objects like galaxies and nebulae.

Overall, the Nikon Z5 is a great option for astrophotography if you’re willing to work within its limitations. If you’re looking for a full-frame camera with better low light performance, the Sony A7III is a great option.

Is the Sony A7III good for wedding photography?

The Sony A7III is a great camera for wedding photography. It has great image quality, fast autofocus, and good low light performance. The Nikon Z54 is also a good choice for wedding photography. It has similar image quality to the A7III, but it’s slightly slower in terms of autofocus and low light performance. So, which one is better? That depends on your needs and preferences. If you need a fast autofocus system and excellent low light performance, then the Sony A7III is the better choice. If you don’t mind slightly slower autofocus and lower low light performance, then the Nikon Z54 is a good option. Whichever camera you choose, you’ll be able to take great photos at weddings.

Is the Sony A7III good for food photography?

The Sony A7III is a great camera for food photography. It has a lot of features that make it easy to take great photos of food. The autofocus is fast and accurate, and the image quality is excellent. The Nikon Z5 does not have as many features for food photography, but it still takes great photos of food. The autofocus is slower and less accurate, but the image quality is just as good as the A7III.

Is the Sony A7III good for landscape photography?

The Sony A7III is a great landscape photography camera. It has a high megapixel count, which gives you the ability to capture a lot of detail in your photos. The autofocus system is also very fast and accurate, making it easy to get sharp photos of moving subjects. However, the Nikon Z5 might be a better option for landscape photography if you’re looking for a camera with slightly more features. The Nikon Z5 has an articulated LCD screen, which makes it easier to take pictures at odd angles. It also has built-in GPS, which can be handy for geotagging your photos. Ultimately, though, both cameras are excellent choices for landscape photography and you’ll be able to get great results with either one.

If you’re a wildlife photographer, the Nikon Z5 is the better camera. It has a faster burst shooting rate, which means you’ll be able to capture more action without missing a shot. The autofocus system is also very good at tracking moving subjects, so you can be sure that your photos will be sharp. However, the Sony A7III might be a better choice if you need a longer battery life. The Sony A7III can shoot for up to 610 shots on a single charge, while the Nikon Z5’s battery only lasts for up to 470 shots. So, if you think you’ll be out in the field all day shooting wildlife, the Sony A7III is probably the better option.

Is the Sony A7III good for astrophotography?

The Sony A7III is a great camera for astrophotography. It has a large sensor and can shoot in high ISO without much noise. The Nikon Z54 is also a great camera for astrophotography. It has a smaller sensor but performs well in low light conditions. Both cameras are good for astrophotography, but the Sony A7III is better suited for beginners while the Nikon Z54 is better suited for experienced photographers.

Useful Video: Nikon Z5 vs. Sony A7iii

Conclusion

So, which is the best camera for you? If you’re a professional photographer or videographer, the Nikon Z50 is probably the better option. But if you’re an amateur or hobbyist who wants a great all-around camera, the Sony A7III is probably the better choice. And, of course, there are other great cameras out there to choose from as well. Whichever camera you decide on, just make sure it’s the one that’s right for YOU and your needs. Thanks for reading!

Do you have any questions about the Nikon Z50 vs Sony A7III? Let us know in the comments below!

References:

  1. https://mirrorlesscomparison.com/preview/nikon-z5-vs-sony-a7-iii/
  2. https://www.apotelyt.com/compare-camera/nikon-z5-vs-sony-a7-iii
  3. https://www.thephoblographer.com/2020/07/21/dont-trade-in-your-sony-a7iii-just-yet-the-nikon-z5-looks-pretty-gimped/