CameraReview

Nikon D7500 vs Nikon Z50 — Which Is Better?

Nikon D7500 versus Nikon Z50
Side by side47 specifications
Nikon · DSLR · 20.9 MP · APS-C · 4K video Nikon D7500
89
WINNER
Nikon · Mirrorless · 21 MP · APS-C · 4K video Nikon Z50
85
SCORE
Nikon D7500
Nikon Z50
General
Released
ⓘ
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20172019
Announcement date
ⓘ
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
April 12, 2017October 10, 2019
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 136 x 104 x 73 mm127 x 94 x 60 mm
Camera weight 720 g450 g
Optics68/10072/100
Read the Optics Comparison

Nikon D7500 vs Z50 Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the Nikon D7500 in optics, scoring 72/100 compared to the D7500’s 68/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a 20.9-megapixel (D7500) and 21-megapixel (Z50) CMOS sensor, an APS-C sensor size, and no image stabilisation. However, there are key differences that make the Z50 a superior option in terms of optics.

The Nikon Z50 has a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second, while the D7500 has a shooting speed of 8 frames per second. This difference allows the Z50 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the Z50 features a more advanced Expeed 6 processor, which contributes to better image quality and faster processing times.

Another significant advantage of the Z50 is its higher DXOMARK score of 97, compared to the D7500’s score of 86. This higher score reflects the Z50’s superior sensor performance, leading to improved image quality and better low-light performance. Moreover, the Z50 uses the Nikon Z lens mount, which offers a wider range of compatible lenses and better optical performance than the Nikon F DX mount found on the D7500.

While the D7500 does not outshine the Z50 in any specific optical aspect, it still delivers respectable image quality and performance for its price range. Therefore, it remains a viable option for photographers on a tighter budget or those who prefer the Nikon F DX lens system.

Considering these factors, the Nikon Z50 is the clear winner in terms of optics, offering better overall image quality, faster shooting speed, and a more extensive lens selection. The Nikon D7500, though not as strong in optics, still holds its own as a reliable camera for photographers with specific preferences or budget constraints.

Megapixels
ⓘ
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20.9 MP05021 MP050
Image resolution
ⓘ
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5568 x 37125568 x 3712
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.
15.7 x 23.523.5 x 15.7
Sensor format
ⓘ
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-C
Continuous shooting
ⓘ
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
8 fps04511 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 F DXNikon Z
Image processor
ⓘ
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 5Expeed 6
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.
1003020010030200
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.
512003003280000512003003280000
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.
1003020010030200
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.
164000030032800002048003003280000
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.
800080032000400080032000
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.
5103002090300
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.
Optical (pentaprism)Electronic
Viewfinder dots N/A236000009900000
Video70/10091/100
Read the Video Comparison

Nikon D7500 vs Z50 Video Performance

The Nikon Z50 emerges as the superior camera in terms of video capabilities, boasting a video score of 91 compared to the Nikon D7500’s 70. Both cameras share key specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 maximum video dimensions. Additionally, each camera has time-lapse functionality built in, making them suitable for capturing stunning sequences of events over time.

In terms of advantages, the Nikon Z50 excels with a significantly higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, as opposed to the D7500’s 30fps. This impressive frame rate allows the Z50 to capture smoother, more detailed footage, especially when filming fast-paced action or slow-motion scenes. This major difference contributes to the Z50’s higher video score and makes it a more appealing choice for videographers.

On the other hand, the Nikon D7500 does not offer any specific advantages over the Z50 in the realm of video capabilities. Its lower frame rate and matching video specifications result in a lower video score, making it less attractive for users who prioritize video performance.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Nikon Z50 stands out as the superior camera for video capabilities with its impressive 120fps frame rate, despite sharing several common specifications with the D7500. While the D7500 may be a reliable option for general photography, those seeking to capture high-quality video should opt for the Nikon Z50 for its enhanced performance and higher video score.

Video
ⓘ
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
YesYes
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.
30 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.
YesYes
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
Features83/10086/100
Read the Features Comparison

Nikon D7500 vs Z50 Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z50 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 86/100, while the Nikon D7500 scores 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3.2-inch screen size, touchscreen capability, flip screen, lack of GPS, and the presence of WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Nikon Z50 outperforms the D7500 in screen resolution, boasting 1,040,000 dots compared to the D7500’s 922,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and more detailed display, allowing users to better preview and review images. The improved screen resolution is a significant advantage that contributes to the Z50’s higher feature score.

On the other hand, the Nikon D7500 does not have any specific features that make it better than the Z50. Both cameras share the same set of features, with the Z50’s higher screen resolution being the only notable difference. As a result, the D7500’s lower score is due to the lack of additional advantages compared to the Z50.

Considering the specifications and features of both cameras, the Nikon Z50 is the superior choice due to its higher screen resolution. The Nikon D7500, although not having any unique advantages, remains a solid option for those who may not prioritize screen resolution as highly. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras comes down to individual preferences and priorities, but the Nikon Z50’s higher feature score reflects its overall better performance in this comparison.

Builtin flash
ⓘ
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
YesYes
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.
YesYes
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.
YesYes
Screen type LCDTFT LCD
Touch screen
ⓘ
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
YesYes
Screen size 3.2"3.2"
Screen dots
ⓘ
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
922000115000150000010400001150001500000
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.
YesYes
Live view
ⓘ
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
YesYes
Wi-Fi
ⓘ
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
YesYes
Bluetooth
ⓘ
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
YesYes
Storage & battery43/10035/100
Read the Storage & battery Comparison

Nikon D7500 vs Z50 Storage and Battery

The Nikon D7500 outperforms the Nikon Z50 in storage and battery with a score of 43/100 compared to the Z50’s 35/100. Both cameras possess one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Z50 is UHS-I compatible, offering faster data transfer rates.

The D7500 excels with a battery life of 950 shots, using the EN-EL15a battery. This is significantly greater than the Z50’s 320 shots, powered by the EN-EL25 battery. The longer battery life allows for extended shooting sessions and less frequent battery changes.

The Z50’s advantage lies in its USB charging capability, allowing for convenient charging through a power bank or computer. This feature is absent in the D7500.

Considering the higher score and longer battery life, the D7500 is the stronger choice for storage and battery performance. However, the Z50’s USB charging offers added convenience for on-the-go users.

Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots ✗✗
Battery type EN-EL15aEN-EL25
Battery life
ⓘ
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
950 shots1505000320 shots1505000
USB charging NoYes

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