Nikon Z9 vs Sony Alpha a7R IIIA
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
Sony Alpha a7R IIIA Black 2017
What Buyers Say
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
The Nikon Z9 is widely praised as a flagship mirrorless camera that delivers outstanding image quality, blazing-fast autofocus, and robust build quality. Enthusiasts and professionals alike appreciate its continuous firmware updates, which have added valuable features and refined performance. While some users note its substantial weight and learning curve, the overwhelming consensus is that it is one of the best cameras available, offering exceptional versatility and reliability.
Pros
- Excellent autofocus speed and accuracy
- Superb image quality and color
- Robust build and weather sealing
- Long battery life
- Continuous firmware updates
Cons
- Heavy and bulky body
- Steep learning curve
- High price point
- Requires new Z-mount lenses for full benefit
Sony Alpha a7R IIIA Black 2017
The Sony A7R IIIA is widely praised for its excellent 42MP image quality, fast burst shooting, and robust autofocus, making it a top choice for both professionals and enthusiasts. Users highlight its value for money, especially compared to newer models, and its ease of use for those transitioning from other brands. However, a few concerns include the lack of firmware updates for tethering in Lightroom and the absence of the newer Sony menu system.
Pros
- Excellent 42MP image quality
- Fast 10fps burst shooting
- Reliable autofocus and tracking
- Great value for money
- Lightweight and compact body
Cons
- No firmware updates for tethering
- Lacks new Sony menu system
- Only one UHS-II SD slot
- No touchscreen LCD
- No built-in Wi-Fi
Scores
Specifications
| Nikon Z9 | Sony Alpha a7R IIIA | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | ||
| Type | Stacked CMOS | BSI-CMOS |
| Size | full-frame | full-frame |
| Megapixels | 45.70000076293945 MP★ | 42.400001525878906 MP |
| ISO Range | 64★ | 100 |
| Processor | EXPEED 7 | BIONZ X |
| Autofocus | ||
| AF Points | ||
| AF Type | Phase Detection: 493 | Phase Detection: 399Contrast Detection: 425 |
| Eye AF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Animal AF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Subject Detection | ✓ | ✓ |
| Shooting | ||
| Burst (Mechanical) | 30 fps★ | 10 fps |
| Burst (Electronic) | 120 fps★ | — |
| Max Shutter | 1/32000 | 1/8000 |
| Electronic Shutter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Video | ||
| Max Resolution | 8K★ | 4K |
| 4K FPS | 120 fps★ | 30 fps |
| 1080p FPS | 100 fps | 100 fps |
| 10-bit | ✓★ | ✗ |
| Log Profile | ✓ | ✓ |
| RAW Video | ✓ | ✓ |
| Codec | ProRes 422 HQ, H.265 | XAVC S, AVCHD, MP4 |
| Display & EVF | ||
| Screen Size | 3.2"★ | 3" |
| Touchscreen | ✓ | ✓ |
| Articulating | ✓ | ✓ |
| EVF Resolution | 3.7M dots | 3.7M dots |
| Build | ||
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 1.16 kg | 0.66 kg★ |
| Battery Life | 700 shots★ | 530 shots |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB | USB-C | USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 |
| HDMI | HDMI Output | Micro-HDMI |
| Hot Shoe | ✓ | ✓ |
Pros & Cons
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
- Strong build (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong video (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong battery (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Below average affordability (9th percentile)9th %ile
Sony Alpha a7R IIIA Black 2017
- Strong display (100th percentile)100th %ile
- Strong battery (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong connectivity (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong build (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Below average affordability (31st percentile)
Verdict
Scores 98 overall, wins 5 of 10 usage categories and 10 of 33 specs.