What To Know
- The Nikon D780 has a slight advantage in burst shooting speed, capturing 12 fps compared to the A7C’s 10 fps.
- The Sony A7C has a clear advantage in video capabilities, offering 4K UHD video recording at up to 60 fps.
- Additionally, the A7C features a full-width HDMI port for external recording, while the D780 only has a micro-HDMI port.
In the realm of mirrorless photography, the Nikon D780 and Sony A7C stand as two formidable contenders. Both cameras boast impressive features, but which one emerges victorious in the battle for supremacy? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Nikon D780 and Sony A7C, providing you with the insights to make an informed decision.
Key Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Nikon D780 | Sony A7C |
| — | — | — |
| Sensor | 24.5MP full-frame CMOS | 24.2MP full-frame CMOS |
| Image Processor | EXPEED 6 | Bionz X |
| Autofocus System | 51-point phase-detect | 693-point phase-detect |
| Burst Shooting | 12 fps | 10 fps |
| ISO Range | 100-51200 | 100-51200 |
| Video Resolution | 4K UHD at 30 fps | 4K UHD at 60 fps |
| Viewfinder | Optical, 0.7x magnification | Electronic, 0.59x magnification |
| LCD Screen | 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen | 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen |
| Body Weight | 840 grams | 509 grams |
Image Quality
Both the Nikon D780 and Sony A7C produce excellent image quality, with sharp details and vibrant colors. However, the D780 has a slight edge in resolution with its 24.5MP sensor compared to the A7C’s 24.2MP sensor. This difference is negligible in most practical applications, but it may become noticeable in large prints or extreme cropping situations.
Autofocus Performance
The Sony A7C boasts an impressive 693-point phase-detect autofocus system, which provides fast and accurate focusing in even the most challenging lighting conditions. The Nikon D780’s 51-point phase-detect autofocus system is also capable, but it may struggle in low-light situations compared to the A7C.
Burst Shooting and Buffer
The Nikon D780 has a slight advantage in burst shooting speed, capturing 12 fps compared to the A7C’s 10 fps. However, both cameras offer ample buffer capacity, ensuring that you can capture a significant number of shots before the buffer fills up.
Video Capabilities
The Sony A7C has a clear advantage in video capabilities, offering 4K UHD video recording at up to 60 fps. The Nikon D780 is limited to 4K UHD at 30 fps, which may not be sufficient for professional videographers. Additionally, the A7C features a full-width HDMI port for external recording, while the D780 only has a micro-HDMI port.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The Nikon D780 features a traditional optical viewfinder with 0.7x magnification, providing a bright and clear view of the scene. The Sony A7C has an electronic viewfinder with 0.59x magnification, which offers a wider field of view but may exhibit some lag or distortion in certain situations. Both cameras have tilting LCD screens, but the D780’s screen is slightly larger at 3.2 inches compared to the A7C’s 3.0 inches.
Body and Ergonomics
The Nikon D780 is a larger and heavier camera than the Sony A7C, weighing 840 grams compared to 509 grams. However, the D780’s larger size provides a more comfortable grip and better handling for extended shooting sessions. The A7C’s compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for travel and street photography.
Key Points: The Victor Emerges
Both the Nikon D780 and Sony A7C are excellent mirrorless cameras, but each one excels in different areas. If you prioritize image quality, burst shooting speed, and ergonomics, the Nikon D780 is the better choice. However, if video capabilities, autofocus performance, and compactness are your main concerns, the Sony A7C is the clear winner. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has better low-light performance?
A: The Sony A7C has a better low-light performance due to its more advanced autofocus system and higher ISO range.
Q: Is the Nikon D780 weather-sealed?
A: Yes, the Nikon D780 is weather-sealed, making it suitable for use in harsh outdoor conditions.
Q: Can the Sony A7C shoot in RAW format?
A: Yes, the Sony A7C can shoot in both RAW and JPEG formats.
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Nikon D780 has a longer battery life, rated for approximately 2260 shots per charge compared to the A7C’s 740 shots.
Q: Is the Sony A7C compatible with Nikon lenses?
A: No, the Sony A7C is not compatible with Nikon lenses without an adapter.
