What To Know
- The Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 are two of the most popular flagship cameras on the market, offering a combination of speed, image quality, and features that make them ideal for a wide range of photographers.
- The A9 II has a clear advantage in terms of burst shooting speed, but the D850’s burst shooting capabilities are still very good.
- The A9 II has a list price of $4,499, while the D850 has a list price of $3,299.
The Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 are two of the most popular flagship cameras on the market, offering a combination of speed, image quality, and features that make them ideal for a wide range of photographers. But how do they compare to each other? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the key differences between the two cameras, including their sensor, autofocus system, burst shooting capabilities, video features, and more. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which camera is right for you.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 both feature full-frame sensors, but there are some key differences between the two. The A9 II has a 24-megapixel sensor, while the D850 has a 45-megapixel sensor. This means that the D850 can capture more detail in images, but it also means that its files are larger.
In terms of image quality, both cameras produce excellent results. The A9 II’s images are sharp and detailed, with good dynamic range and color reproduction. The D850’s images are also sharp and detailed, but they may have a slightly better dynamic range. Overall, the image quality of both cameras is very close, and it’s likely that you’ll be happy with the results from either one.
Autofocus System
The autofocus system is one of the most important features of a camera for photographers who shoot moving subjects. The Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 both have excellent autofocus systems, but they work in different ways.
The A9 II uses a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus. This system is very fast and accurate, and it can track moving subjects even in low-light conditions. The D850 also uses a hybrid autofocus system, but it uses a different combination of phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus points. This system is also very fast and accurate, but it may not be as good at tracking moving subjects in low-light conditions.
Burst Shooting Capabilities
The Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 both offer impressive burst shooting capabilities. The A9 II can shoot up to 20 frames per second (fps) with the mechanical shutter and 30 fps with the electronic shutter. The D850 can shoot up to 9 fps with the mechanical shutter and 12 fps with the electronic shutter.
The A9 II has a clear advantage in terms of burst shooting speed, but the D850’s burst shooting capabilities are still very good. Both cameras can capture a large number of images in a short period of time, making them ideal for shooting sports, wildlife, and other fast-paced subjects.
Video Features
Both the Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 offer excellent video capabilities. The A9 II can record 4K video at up to 60 fps, while the D850 can record 4K video at up to 30 fps. Both cameras also offer 1080p video recording at up to 120 fps.
The A9 II has a few advantages over the D850 in terms of video features. First, the A9 II has a full-frame sensor, which allows it to capture more detail in video footage. Second, the A9 II has a built-in image stabilization system, which can help to reduce camera shake. Third, the A9 II has a headphone jack, which allows you to monitor the audio while you’re recording video.
Build Quality and Weather Resistance
The Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 are both very well-built cameras. They both have magnesium alloy bodies that are weather-sealed to protect them from dust and moisture. The A9 II is slightly lighter than the D850, but both cameras are relatively heavy.
The A9 II has a few advantages over the D850 in terms of build quality. First, the A9 II has a more robust lens mount. Second, the A9 II has a better grip, which makes it more comfortable to hold. Third, the A9 II has a larger LCD screen.
Price
The Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 are both expensive cameras. The A9 II has a list price of $4,499, while the D850 has a list price of $3,299. However, both cameras can be found for less than their list prices.
The A9 II is a more expensive camera than the D850, but it also offers a number of advantages, including a faster burst shooting speed, a more advanced autofocus system, and better video features.
Which Camera is Right for You?
The Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 are both excellent cameras. The A9 II is a better choice for photographers who need a fast burst shooting speed, a more advanced autofocus system, and better video features. The D850 is a better choice for photographers who need a high-resolution sensor, a more robust build quality, and a lower price.
Beyond the Comparison
In addition to the key differences discussed above, there are a few other things to consider when choosing between the Sony A9 II and Nikon D850.
- Lens selection: Sony and Nikon have a wide range of lenses available for their cameras, but there are some differences in the selection. Sony has a larger selection of mirrorless lenses, while Nikon has a larger selection of DSLR lenses.
- Ecosystem: Sony and Nikon have different ecosystems of cameras, lenses, and accessories. If you already have a collection of Sony or Nikon gear, you may want to stick with the same brand for your next camera.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, the best camera for you is the one that you feel most comfortable with. If you have the opportunity, try out both the Sony A9 II and Nikon D850 before making a decision.
Reaping the Benefits of Both Cameras
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, you could consider using both the Sony A9 II and Nikon D850. This would give you access to the best features of both cameras, including the A9 II’s fast burst shooting speed and advanced autofocus system and the D850’s high-resolution sensor and robust build quality.
Of course, this would also be a more expensive option. But if you’re a serious photographer who needs the best possible image quality and performance, it may be worth considering.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
- Which camera has a better autofocus system?
The Sony A9 II has a more advanced autofocus system than the Nikon D850. The A9 II’s autofocus system is faster, more accurate, and better at tracking moving subjects.
- Which camera has a higher burst shooting speed?
The Sony A9 II has a higher burst shooting speed than the Nikon D850. The A9 II can shoot up to 20 fps with the mechanical shutter and 30 fps with the electronic shutter. The D850 can shoot up to 9 fps with the mechanical shutter and 12 fps with the electronic shutter.
- Which camera has a better video quality?
The Sony A9 II has a better video quality than the Nikon D850. The A9 II can record 4K video at up to 60 fps, while the D850 can record 4K video at up to 30 fps. The A9 II also has a full-frame sensor, which allows it to capture more detail in video footage.
