Nikon D800 vs Sony Alpha A7
- Full frame
- 36 megapixels
- Nikon F
-
54
Overall -
34
Imaging -
59
Features -
69
Size -
0
Price
- Full frame
- 24 megapixels
- Sony E
-
55
Overall -
31
Imaging -
57
Features -
77
Size -
0
Price
Nikon D800 vs Sony Alpha A7: a Complete Review and Comparison
Are you looking for the best camera to suit your needs? Due to a wide range of options, making a wise and weighted decision can be rather challenging. Which specs to keep in mind? What are the key pros and cons of each model? This comparison should give some helpful hints!
In this review, we are going to make a detailed comparison of two cameras that fall into different categories. While the first model we are looking at, Nikon D800 belongs to a Semi-Pro DSLR category, the other model, Nikon D800 is a Pro Mirrorless camera. Nikon D800 is equipped with a 36.0 MP CMOS sensor, while Sony Alpha A7 comes with a 24.0 MP CMOS sensor.
Both cameras we are going to look at in our overview fall into two different categories - DSLR and MirrorLess. Keeping in mind all the distinctive features of each category, it will be hard to make a detailed comparison of these two models. However, we will do our best to make this review as unbiased and detailed as possible.
To get started, let’s take a look at some of the key features of Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 and, after this, we can go on to our detailed comparison of these models.
Nikon D800 Key Features:
- 36.0 MP Full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 6400 (Expands to 25600)
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3.2″ Fixed Type Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 4.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps), 640 x 424 (24 fps)
- Built-in Wireless: No
- Dimensions: 146 x 123 x 82 mm
- Weight: 900 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Replaced Nikon D700. Compare
- Replaced by Nikon D810. Compare
Sony Alpha A7 Key Features:
- 24.0 MP Full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 25600
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3″ Tilting Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 5.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 127 x 94 x 48 mm
- Weight: 474 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: No
Nikon D800 was substituted by Nikon D810.
Be sure to check out some of our other overviews that may also interest you:
Nikon D800 vs. D810
Nikon D810 vs. Sony Alpha A7
Nikon D800 substituted Nikon D700.
Be sure to check out some of our other overviews that may also interest you:
Nikon D800 vs. D700
Nikon D700 vs. Sony Alpha A7
Why is Nikon D800 a better choice than Sony Alpha A7
| Storage Slots | 2 vs 1 | Extra storage slot |
| Sensor Resolution | 36.0 MP vs 24.0 MP | 33.3% more pixels |
| Sensor Area | 861.6 mm2 vs 855.62 mm2 | 0.7% larger pixel area |
| Built-In Flash | Yes vs No | All the lenses are stabilized |
| Flash Range | 12 vs No | 12 better flash range |
| Screen Size | 3.2″ vs 3″ | 0.2" larger screen |
| Battery Life | 900 shots vs 340 shots | 560 more frames with a single charge |
| Dxo Color Depth | 25.3 vs 24.8 | Better color depth |
| Dxo Dynamic Range | 14.4 vs 14.2 | Better dynamic range |
| Dxo Low Light Iso | 2853 vs 2248 | Better High ISO performance |
What are the key reasons to pick Sony Alpha A7 over Nikon D800
| Wireless Connectivity | Built-In vs No | Better connectivity |
| NFC | Yes vs No | Easy wireless connectivity with compatible devices |
| Continuous Shooting | 5 fps vs 4 fps | 1 fps faster |
| Number Of Focus Points | 117 vs 51 | 66 more focus points |
| Number Of Cross Focus Points | 25 vs 15 | 10 more cross focus points |
| Screen Resolution | 1,230k dots vs 921k dots | 25.1% higher resolution screen |
| Weight | 474 g vs 900 g | 426 g lighter |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.71 vs 0.7 | 0.01 better magnification |
Key PROs of Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7
| Screen Size | 3.2″ | 3″ | Large display |
| Viewfinder | Optical (pentaprism) | Electronic | Better framing and control |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| Sensor Resolution | 36.0 MP | 24.0 MP | Bigger prints and more details |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | Yes | Yes | Very handy for portraits |
| Microphone Port | Yes | Yes | High quality audio recording option |
| Headphone Port | Yes | Yes | Better video control |
| Bracketing | Yes | Yes | Useful for tough lighting conditions and HDR |
| Flash Sync Port | Yes | Yes | Port for Flash Sync |
| Environmental Sealing | Yes | Yes | Shoot at tough conditions |
Key CONs of Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7
| Touch Screen | No | No | No touch screen |
| Continuous Shooting | 4.0 fps | 5.0 fps | Low continuous shooting |
| Image Stabilization | No | No | No image stabilization |
Nikon D800 vs Sony Alpha A7: Comparing Two Models By Physical Characteristics
Before heading straight to the technical characteristics of each model, let’s start with comparing their physical specs. Let’s start with looking at the physical difference of the two products. Below are images that clearly show the sizes of Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 from the front view.
Now, let’s go on and see how the reviewed models are different or similar by the top view.
After looking at these images, you should get a clear idea of each model’s dimensions and how they are different from each other. However, we are not going to stop there. The next characteristic worth looking at is the weight. Of course, not every photographer is concerned about the weight, for example, it wouldn't be a decisive point for those who shoot in a studio. However, it is still an important factor because if you happen to go on a long photo session or just love having the camera with you wherever you go, you want to be sure that the chosen model isn't too heavy.
Speaking of weight, Sony Alpha A7 is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 426g less than the Nikon D800. This difference, in fact, can become a significant disadvantage for the photographers, who prefer to have their cameras with them wherever they go.
Comparing Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 by the type of Sensor and Resolution
Sensor is, without a doubt, the most significant element of every digital camera. Its type, size, and resolution are the factors that define the quality of future shots. Thus, it is barely possible to pick a suitable camera without looking at these specs.
Are Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 any different in terms of sensor type?
In fact, that's exactly what makes these two models really different. Thus, it is a good point to consider if your are choosing between these two cameras. Nikon D800 features a 36.0 MP Full frame sized CMOS sensor . Sony Alpha A7, in its turn, comes with a 24.0 MP Full frame sized CMOS sensor and Bionz X processor , which makes it significantly different from the first model.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 by the size of their sensors.
Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 are identical by this indicator, as each feature a sensor of the same size. Thus, both cameras will provide the same level of control in terms of the depth of field if you use them with the same focal length and aperture.
For Which Fields Of Photography Are Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 Suitable?
If you are interested in photography or has made a career in this field, you should know that different types of shooting actually require different camera characteristics. While one model can produce outstanding portraits, at the same time, it can be terrible for shooting landscapes, and so on. Thus, before you purchase a specific camera, it is vital to decide, which type of shooting you do most often and consider an option that suits it the most.
This section of our comparison is devoted to the performance of Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 in different fields of photography. Here we are going to look at the five main areas and evaluate how well each of the reviewed models performs in them. This will help you choose an option that suits your needs the most depending on your interest in one or several of these fields.
| Photography Type | Nikon D800 | Sony Alpha A7 |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
|
| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
Nikon D800 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (36 MP)
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- You might not like Nikon skintone
- No Image Stabilization
Sony Alpha A7 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.8 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon D800 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Large Full frame(35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- Big battery life (900 shots)
Disadvantages:
- Big size (146 x 123 x 82 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Sony Alpha A7 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Large Full frame(35.8 x 23.9 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (127 x 94 x 48 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Nikon D800 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Environmental Sealing
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (51)
- Nice Low Light ISO (2853)
- Big size (146 x 123 x 82 mm)
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (4.0 fps)
- Small Number of CrossFocus Points (15)
- Bad Max Native ISO (6400)
Sony Alpha A7 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Environmental Sealing
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (117)
- Big Number of CrossFocus Points (25)
- Nice Low Light ISO (2248)
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (5.0 fps)
- Small battery life (340 shots)
Nikon D800 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (900 g)
- Big size (146 x 123 x 82 mm)
Sony Alpha A7 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.8 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (474 g)
- Big size (127 x 94 x 48 mm)
- No Built-in Flash
Nikon D800 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (36 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (14.4)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
- Nice Low Light ISO (2853)
Disadvantages:
- Bad Max Native ISO (6400)
Sony Alpha A7 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.8 x 23.9 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (14.2)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
- Nice Low Light ISO (2248)
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesComparison of Nikon D800 vs Sony Alpha A7: Final Verdict
Hopefully, our detailed overview of these models has helped you consider all the main specs, pros and cons of each cameras. Maybe, after reading this comparison, some of you have already decided which option to opt for depending on your needs and preferences. However, if you are still wondering which option is a better choice, Nikon D800 or Sony Alpha A7, below you can see what scores each of them received in five different aspects. To wrap up, we have used our unique Decision Algorithm that assesses different camera models upon 63 different factors including their price, and, if possible, DxO Mark scores. This algorithm allows us to make our verdict more consistent and objective.
What is our final verdict? Based on our comparison and the final scores of Nikon D800 and Sony Alpha A7 here is what we can say in conclusion:
According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Sony Alpha A7 deserves a higher Total Score than the Nikon D800. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Nikon D800 vs Sony Alpha A7 Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Nikon D800 | Sony Alpha A7 | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Nikon | Sony |
| Model | D800 | Alpha A7 |
| Announced | Jun 11, 2012 | Jan 22, 2014 |
| Body Type | Mid-size SLR | SLR-style mirrorless |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | Full frame | Full frame |
| Sensor Dimensions | 35.9 x 24 mm | 35.8 x 23.9 mm |
| Sensor Area | 861.60 mm2 | 855.62 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 36.0 MP | 24.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 7360 x 4912 | 6000 x 4000 |
| Max Native ISO | 6,400 | 25,600 |
| Max Boosted ISO | 25,600 | n/a |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Nikon F | Sony E |
| Number of Lenses | 287 | 83 |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1x | 1x |
| Macro Focus Range | ||
| AutoFocus | ||
| AF Touch |  |
|
| AF Continuous | |
|
| AF Single | |
|
| AF Tracking | |
|
| AF Selective | |
|
| AF Center | |
|
| AF Multi Area | |
|
| AF Live View | |
|
| AF Face Detection | |
|
| AF Contrast Detection | |
|
| AF Phase Detection | |
|
| Number of Focus Points | 51 | 117 |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | 15 | 25 |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Fixed Type | Tilting |
| Screen Size | 3.2″ | 3″ |
| Screen Resolution | 921k dots | 1,230k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Optical (pentaprism) | Electronic |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 0k dots | 2,359k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | 0.7 | 0.71 |
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 s | 1/8000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 4.0 fps | 5.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 12 | 0 |
| Flash Modes | Auto, Red-eye, Slow sync, Rear curtain, High-speed sync | no built-in flash |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
|
| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| DxO Sensor Scores | ||
| DxO Sensor Score | 95 | 90 |
| DxO Color Depth | 25.3 | 24.8 |
| DxO Dynamic Range | 14.4 | 14.2 |
| DxO Low Light ISO | 2853 | 2248 |
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps), 640 x 424 (24 fps) | 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p) |
| Max Video Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Video Formats | MPEG-4, H.264 | MPEG-4, AVCHD |
| Microphone Port | |
|
| Headphone Port | |
|
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless Connectivity | |
|
| HDMI | |
|
| USB | USB 3.0 | USB 2.0 |
| Physical | ||
| Environmental Sealing | |
|
| Water Proof | |
|
| Dust Proof | |
|
| Shock Proof | |
|
| Crush Proof | |
|
| Freeze Proof | |
|
| Weight | 900 g | 474 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 146 x 123 x 82 mm | 127 x 94 x 48 mm |
| Battery Life | 900 shots | 340 shots |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | Battery Pack |
| Battery Model | EN-EL15 | NP-FW50 |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | Optional | |
| Storage Type | Compact Flash (Type I), SD/SDHC/SDXC UHS-I compliant | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo |
| Storage Slots | 2 | 1 |
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