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Nikon D780 — full-frame DSLR · 2020
Nikon

Nikon D780

full-frame DSLR · 2020

84
/ 100
From $2,299
VS
Sony A7R III — full-frame · 2017
Sony

Sony A7R III

full-frame · 2017

84
/ 100
From $3,199
Specdex verdict

Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.

In our weighted Specdex score, Nikon D780 lands at 84 and Sony A7R III at 84. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.

Pick Nikon D780 if…

  • ✓Mature system, great used market
  • ✓Proven lens lineup
  • ✓Often on sale

Pick Sony A7R III if…

  • ✓Mature system, great used market
  • ✓Proven lens lineup
  • ✓Often on sale
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Winner by scenario

Derived from the sub-score breakdown · not a separate test

Ergonomics

Tie

Compared on the ergonomics sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Photo

Tie

Compared on the photo sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Autofocus

Tie

Compared on the autofocus sub-score

Effectively tied — neither pulls a 2-point weighted lead.

Value for money

Nikon D780

Specdex score per dollar at MSRP

Nikon D780 more score per dollar ($2,299 vs $3,199).

Nikon D780 84
vs
84 Sony A7R III

Score breakdown

Nikon D780
84
photo 84
video 76
autofocus 80
ergonomics 86
Sony A7R III
84
photo 84
video 76
autofocus 80
ergonomics 86

Specs side-by-side

Nikon D780 versus Sony A7R III — full spec comparison
Spec Nikon D780 Sony A7R III
Format
full-frame DSLR
full-frame
Release year
2020
2017

Nikon D780

Pros
  • +Mature system, great used market
  • +Proven lens lineup
  • +Often on sale
Cons
  • −Older AF system
  • −Heavier than modern mirrorless
  • −Firmware updates trailed off

Sony A7R III

Pros
  • +Mature system, great used market
  • +Proven lens lineup
  • +Often on sale
Cons
  • −Older AF system
  • −Heavier than modern mirrorless
  • −Firmware updates trailed off

FAQ: Nikon D780 vs Sony A7R III

Which is better, Nikon D780 or Sony A7R III? +

Both score 84 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.

Is Nikon D780 worth the price? +

At $2,299, Nikon D780 delivers a Specdex score of 84 — strongest in ergonomics.

Is Sony A7R III worth the price? +

At $3,199, Sony A7R III delivers a Specdex score of 84 — strongest in ergonomics.

Does Nikon D780 or Sony A7R III last longer? +

Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.

Which is the better value, Nikon D780 or Sony A7R III? +

Nikon D780 — more score per dollar ($2,299 vs $3,199). Specdex score per dollar at MSRP.