So, if you’re trying to decide between Sony A7R II and A7R III cameras, this blog post is here to help you.
When it comes to high-end mirrorless cameras, there are few that can compete with the Sony A7R II and A7R III.
While both of these are full-frame mirrorless cameras with 42MP sensors and twin 4K video capabilities, there are some key differences and unique sets of features that set them apart.
To help you understand and decide which one is right for you, we’ll take a look at the key differences between the two models in this blog post.
So, here are the differences between the Sony A7rII and A7rIII.
Categories | Sony A7R II | Sony A7R III |
Dimensions | 127 × 96 × 60 mm | 127 × 96 × 74 mm |
Weight | 625g | 657g |
Continuous shooting | 5fps, 30 JPEG/23 RAW | 10fps, 76 JPEG/76 RAW |
Viewfinder | 0.5in 2.36 m dots, 0.78x magnification | 0.5in 3.68 m dots, 0.78x magnification |
Rear screen | 3in tilting, 1.229 m dots | 3in tilting touchscreen, 1.44 m dots |
Autofocus | 399 PD, 25 CF | 399 PD, 425 CF points |
Batteries | NP-FW50, 290 shots | NP-FZ100, 530 shots |
Storage | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I) and Memory Stick variants | Dual Slot SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) |
Now, let’s take a close look at the detailed differences between the Sony A7R II and A7R III.
- Size & Weight
For full-frame cameras, you will find both these camera bodies lighter. In fact, both of these cameras are much more compact than most full-frame DSLRs and some APS-Cs.
However, when you hold the A7R II and A7R III, you won’t notice much difference in size and weight. The main reason is that the Sony A7R III is a slightly heavier model than the A7R II, but the difference is not much.
While the A7R II comes in dimensions of 127 × 96 × 60 mm with a weight of 625 grams, and the A7R III comes in 127 × 96 × 74 mm dimensions with a 657 grams weight.
- Rear LCD & EVF
For the rear LCD & EVF, you will get three big updates on the Sony A7R III that the A7R II doesn’t have. These are-
Categories | Sony A7R II | Sony A7R III |
Screen | 1.229 m dot screen | 1.44 m dot screen |
Touch Capability | No | Yes |
EVF | 2.36M-dot resolution, 0.78x magnification, and 60 fps refresh rate | 3.686M-dot resolution, 0.78x magnification, and a 120 fps refresh rate |
Although you may not find the resolution boost that noticeable, the touch screen can be hugely beneficial to most photographers, especially those who prefer to select focal points on the LCD rather than using the joystick or wheel.
On the other hand, when it comes to EVF, only a few mirrorless cameras can beat the A7R III. In that case, speaking of EVF, the a7R III would be an excellent choice for those who are looking for a near-OVF-level shooting experience.
- Sensor & Image Quality
Both the Sony A7R II and Sony A7R III cameras pack the same full-frame sensor with 42.2 mp, which means you won’t see much of a difference in image quality.
However, with the Sony a7R III, you get a Pixel Shift Multi-Shot mode and front-end LSI, which produces high-ISO image quality, boosts processing power and captures multiple shots to ensure more detail and higher color.
While the a7R II has an ISO range of 100-25600, the a7R III has a slightly wider ISO range of 100-32000. Besides, both cameras are equipped with the Bionz X image processing engine for more accurate, natural, and low-noise image depiction.
You can see the Sony A7RII review to know more details about it.
- Autofocus
Both the A7R II and A7R III have 399 phase-detection AF points, but the A7R III has 425 contrast detection points, while the A7R II has only 25.
However, where with the A7R II’s AF system, you will get faster shooting with average tracking, the A7RIII’s AF system allows you to get lightning-fast AF-S shooting along with strong tracking capabilities.
- Video
When it comes to video, the Sony A7R II offers excellent video capabilities but the A7R III improves quite a bit over the A7R II by offering 4K/30p and 1080p video recording at up to 120 fps.
The A7R III also has additional S-Log options, including a full-frame and super 35 mm mode for video recording.
However, for hybrid shooters to capture high-resolution video and stills, the a7R II is a better and cheaper option that also includes a mic port and headphone port for professional video shooting.
- Physical And Wireless Connections
The A7r II has a Micro USB 2.0 port, while the A7r III has a USB 3.1 Type C port that can transfer images faster than the A7r II. Besides, the Sony A7r III supports Bluetooth for wireless connection, whereas the A7r II lacks behind.
The Bottom Line
Both cameras are superb choices for anyone looking to up their photography game.
The Sony A7rIII is a great camera for those who want to get the most out of their photography with better autofocus, better build quality, 4K video, and slightly improved image quality.
However, there are some areas in which the A7rII still has an edge. In fact, according to one of the best photography websites called GottaPics, “It’s a top-performing camera with high-end features.” Also, the A7rII is a great choice for those who want a more affordable option that still takes great photos with great image quality.
So, these are the differences between the Sony A7rII and A7rIII. Now consider your requirements, and make the best choice for your needs.
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With a solid foundation in technology, backed by a BIT degree, Lucas Noah has carved a niche for himself in the world of content creation and digital storytelling. Currently lending his expertise to Creative Outrank LLC and Oceana Express LLC, Lucas has become a... Read more