CameraReviews.com
menu
Hi Camera Lovers 👋 If you buy a camera through our referral links, you support our site at no cost to you 😉 Full info here.

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R III Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Nikon D810

nikon d810
72%

Sony a7R III

sony a7r iii
Winner!
83%
Nikon D810
vs
Sony a7R III
Price
Brand
Nikon
Sony
Model
D810
a7R III
Released
2014
2017
Announcement Date
June 26, 2014
October 25, 2017
Camera Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a7R III emerges as the winner with a score of 83/100, outperforming the Nikon D810, which scored 72/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as their announcement year and similar launch prices of $3200 and $3300, respectively.

The Sony a7R III excels with its mirrorless design, which contributes to its lighter weight of 657g and compact size of 127 x 96 x 74mm. On the other hand, the Nikon D810 is a DSLR camera, weighing 980g and measuring 146 x 123 x 82mm. While the Nikon D810 does not surpass the Sony a7R III in these aspects, it remains a reliable camera with a decent score.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R III proves to be the superior option due to its higher score and compact design, while the Nikon D810 still offers quality performance as a DSLR camera.

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R III Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Nikon D810 in optics, scoring 84 out of 100 compared to the D810’s 76. Both cameras share some common specifications, including a full-frame CMOS sensor, but there are notable differences that contribute to the Sony’s superior performance.

The Sony a7R III boasts a higher megapixel count at 42.4, compared to the Nikon D810’s 36.3, enabling it to capture more detail in images. Additionally, the a7R III has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, doubling the D810’s 5 frames per second. This allows the Sony camera to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. The a7R III also has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 100, compared to the D810’s 97, indicating better overall image quality.

One advantage the Nikon D810 has over the Sony a7R III is its Nikon F FX lens mount, which provides access to a wider range of lenses compared to the Sony FE mount. However, the Sony a7R III features image stabilization, which the Nikon D810 lacks. This helps reduce camera shake and improve image sharpness, particularly in low-light situations.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R III emerges as the superior choice for optics due to its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, better sensor score, and image stabilization. The Nikon D810’s main advantage lies in its lens compatibility, but this is not enough to surpass the Sony’s overall performance in this category.

Optics
Optics
76%
84%
Megapixels
36.3 MP
42.4 MP
Image Resolution
7360 x 4912 px
7952 x 5304 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 35.9 mm
24 x 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
5 fps
10 fps
Lens Mount
Nikon F FX
Sony FE
Image Processor
Expeed 4
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
64
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000
32,000
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
32
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
51200
102400
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
51
425
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (tunnel)
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
N/A
3,686,400 dots

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R III Video Performance

The Nikon D810 emerges as the winner in video capabilities with a score of 70/100, while the Sony a7R III scores 56/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as the presence of built-in time-lapse functionality in the Nikon D810 and the absence of it in the Sony a7R III. However, there are significant differences that contribute to their respective scores.

The Nikon D810 outperforms the Sony a7R III with its higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the 30fps offered by the Sony a7R III. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and better slow-motion effects, making the Nikon D810 more suitable for professional video work.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R III boasts a higher maximum video resolution of 4K (3840 x 2160), compared to the Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution offered by the Nikon D810. This means that the Sony a7R III provides greater detail and clarity in its video output, which may be preferred by some users.

Despite the higher video resolution of the Sony a7R III, the Nikon D810’s superior video frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality make it a more versatile option for videographers. The Sony a7R III’s advantage in video resolution may not be as significant for users who prioritize smooth motion and time-lapse capabilities in their video work.

Taking all these factors into account, the Nikon D810 proves to be the better choice for video capabilities due to its higher score, which reflects its higher maximum video frame rate and the presence of built-in time-lapse functionality. The Sony a7R III, while offering higher video resolution, falls short in other aspects that contribute to overall video performance.

Video
Video
70%
56%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
30 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R III Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R III emerges as the winner in the features comparison, with a score of 83/100, while the Nikon D810 scores 59/100. Both cameras share certain specifications, such as having a WIFI connection and no GPS. However, the Sony a7R III outperforms the Nikon D810 in several aspects, making it the superior choice in terms of features.

The Sony a7R III has a touchscreen, which the Nikon D810 lacks. This feature makes it easier for users to navigate menus and select focus points. Additionally, the Sony a7R III has a flip screen, enabling users to take photos and videos from various angles and positions. The Nikon D810 does not have this functionality. Furthermore, the Sony a7R III has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless and convenient sharing and transfer of files.

In terms of screen size and resolution, the Nikon D810 has a slightly larger screen at 3.2 inches compared to the Sony a7R III’s 3 inches. However, the Sony a7R III has a higher screen resolution of 1,440,000 dots, providing a clearer and sharper display than the Nikon D810’s 1,229,000 dots.

Despite the Nikon D810’s larger screen, the Sony a7R III’s superior features such as touchscreen, flip screen, and Bluetooth connectivity make it the better choice. The Nikon D810’s only advantage is its slightly larger screen, which does not outweigh the benefits of the Sony a7R III’s other features.

Based on this comparison, the Sony a7R III is the clear winner in terms of features, providing users with a more versatile and user-friendly experience. The Nikon D810 falls short in several areas, making it less appealing for those seeking a camera with advanced features.

Features
Features
59%
83%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3.2"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,229,000 dots
1,440,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R III Storage and Battery

The Nikon D810 surpasses the Sony a7R III in storage and battery, scoring 79/100 compared to Sony’s 65/100. Both cameras share two memory card slots and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. However, the Nikon D810 also supports Compact Flash and UDMA cards, offering more storage options.

The D810’s battery life is superior, providing 1200 shots per charge, while the a7R III manages only 650 shots. The Nikon uses an EN-EL15 battery, and the Sony relies on an NP-FZ100. Neither camera offers USB charging.

Although the Nikon D810 excels in storage compatibility and battery life, the Sony a7R III has the advantage of UHS-II compatibility for faster data transfer. This distinction may be beneficial for photographers prioritizing speed.

Considering storage and battery performance, the Nikon D810 is the stronger choice overall, with longer battery life and broader memory card compatibility. The Sony a7R III lags behind but offers faster data transfer rates with UHS-II support.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
79%
65%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Compact Flash, UDMA
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
EN-EL15
NP-FZ100
Battery Life
1,200 shots
650 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
97%
100%
Portrait (Color Depth)
25.7 bits
26 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
14.8 EVs
14.7 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2853
3523
Scores

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R III – Our Verdict

Nikon D810 vs Sony a7R III Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon D810 or the Sony a7R III:

User Scores
B&H photo video
Spotted a mistake with these specs? Please let us know so we can update it!