Are you in the market for a new camera with great video specs? We discuss the best Sony 4K cameras for photos and video. We’ve done the research for you and rounded up the top models on the market. Read on to learn more and decide which one is right for you!
What is the Best Sony 4K Camera?
Before we look at each one in detail, here’s an overview of our top choices. They are in order of the highest-scoring cameras in our database:
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Best Overall
Sony a1
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Highly Recommended
Sony a7R IV
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Highly Recommended
Sony a9 II
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Highly Recommended
Sony a7R IVA
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Highly Recommended
Sony a7 IV
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Highly Recommended
Sony a7R III
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Highly Recommended
Sony a9
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Highly Recommended
Sony a7R V
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Highly Recommended
Sony a7 III
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Highly Recommended
Sony a7C
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Highly Recommended
Sony a6600
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Best Sony 4K Cameras (in Detail!)
1. Sony a1
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2021 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 50.1 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 759 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 32,000 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 30 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. |   |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  |
- Large sensor captures tons of detail
- High frame rate of 30 fps
- Incredible 8K / 30p Ultra HD video
- Eye tracking (human, animal, and bird)
- Easy customization
- Silent shooting for quiet situations
- Expensive
- Small rear LCD screen
- Eye tracking only selected manually
- Highest frame rates only for JPEG, HEIF, and lossy compressed RAW files
- No GPS
The Sony a1 is a professional mirrorless camera. It features a 50.1MP full-frame Exmor RS CMOS sensor and a BIONZ XR image processor. It also has an impressive autofocus system with 759 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detection points, allowing you to capture fast-moving subjects with ease.
The Sony a1 offers 4K video recording with full pixel readout and no pixel binning, allowing you to capture stunning 4K footage with incredible detail and clarity. It also features advanced image stabilization, allowing you to capture smooth and steady footage even when shooting handheld. The a1 has a variety of other features such as a 3″ touchscreen, dual card slots, and a weather-sealed body.
2. Sony a7R IV
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2019 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 61.2 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 425 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 32,000 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- Super high-resolution sensor
- Stunningly sharp image quality
- Excellent face and eye detection AF
- Large, high-resolution EVF
- Sharp 4K Ultra HD video
- Weather sealing to protect from elements
- Long write times
- Poor AF at high frame rates
- No pixel-shift motion compensation
- Complicated menus
- Limited, laggy touchscreen functionality
The Sony a7R IV is a great 4K mirrorless choice. It features a 61MP full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor, 15-stop dynamic range, and 567-point autofocus system. It also has a 5.76 million dot OLED viewfinder, 4K video recording, and 10fps continuous shooting.
It has a robust weather-sealing design, making it suitable for shooting in any environment. The Sony a7R IV is compatible with a wide range of lenses, giving you the flexibility to create the perfect shot.
3. Sony a9 II
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2019 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 693 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 51,200 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 20 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- Impressive 20 fps continuous shooting
- Lightning-fast autofocus
- Improved ergonomics
- Great file transferring speeds
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization to counter camera shake
- No in-camera RAW image processing
- Confusing menus
- Battery performance isn't great
- No S-Log video
- Subpar video quality compared to new full-frame cameras
The Sony a9 II is a powerful camera suitable for professional photographers and videographers. It features a 24.2MP full-frame Exmor RS CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor for capturing high-resolution images with stunning clarity. It also has a fast and accurate autofocus system with 693 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detection points for capturing fast-moving subjects.
The a9 II has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that helps reduce camera shake and blur. It also has a dust and moisture-resistant weather-sealing system. Its fast and reliable Wi-Fi connection makes sharing and transferring images and videos a piece of cake!
4. Sony a7R IVA
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2021 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 61 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 567 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 32,000 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- 61 MP sensor produces Incredible image quality
- Advanced autofocus system with fast and accurate subject tracking
- Built-in 5-axis image stabilization ensures sharper images
- 15-stop dynamic range gives fantastic details in all conditions
- 40 fps 4K video footage is supported by real-time Eye Detection AF
- Only 7 fps burst rate with uncompressed RAW shooting
- Buffer times can be slow, especially with RAW shooting
- Pixel Shift mode can fail if shots include movement
- No built-in flash
- LCD screen is limited with only tilt-motion and no rotation
The Sony a7R IVA features a 61MP sensor and a BIONZ X image processor. Together these provide stunning image quality and fast performance. The camera is capable of shooting 4K video at 30fps, making it popular among videographers. The camera also has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system, allowing you to capture sharp images even in low-light conditions. The a7R IVA has a wide ISO range of 100-32000, allowing you to capture beautiful images in a variety of lighting conditions. It has a fast and accurate autofocus system, with 425 phase-detection points and 567 contrast-detection points.
5. Sony a7 IV
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2021 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony E |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 33 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 759 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 51,200 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- Excellent image quality
- Super responsive autofocus
- 5.5 stops of image stabilization
- Fully articulating rear screen
- Powerful video capabilities (4K / 60p, 10-bit video) and live streaming
- More expensive than the Sony a7 III
- 6 fps with 14-bit lossless compressed or uncompressed RAW files
- Significant distortion with moving subjects using a silent shutter
- Occasional issues with rolling shutter
- Requires a fast memory card
The Sony a7 IV features a 24.2MP full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor. It has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that helps reduce camera shake and blur. The a7 IV has a fast and accurate autofocus system with 425 phase-detection points and 693 contrast-detection points. It also has a wide ISO range of 100-51200, allowing you to capture beautiful images in any lighting condition.
The a7 IV is capable of recording 4K video at 30fps and Full HD video at 120fps, giving you the ability to capture stunning videos with smooth motion and beautiful detail.
6. Sony a7R III
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 42.4 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 425 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 32,000 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- Excellent image resolution
- Wide ISO range with 50 ISO setting
- Sophisticated and reliable AF system
- Dual card slot for more capacity
- Great silent shooting mode for sensitive situations
- No video until image buffer is clear
- Long and complicated menu system
- Slow 10 fps maximum burst
- 4K video is not as smooth compared to newer camera models
The Sony a7R III features a 42.4MP full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor. It also has a fast and accurate autofocus system with 399 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detection points, allowing you to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. Additionally, the a7R III has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that helps reduce camera shake and blur, allowing you to capture sharp images even in low-light conditions. It also has a robust video recording capability, allowing you to capture 4K video at 30fps and Full HD video at 120fps. With its durable magnesium alloy body and weather-sealed design, the a7R III is built to withstand the rigors of professional use.
7. Sony a9
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 693 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 51,200 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 20 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- Impressive 20 fps continuous shooting
- Lightning-fast autofocus
- Great file transferring speeds
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization to counter camera shake
- No in-camera RAW image processing
- Confusing menus
- Battery performance isn't great
- No S-Log video
- Subpar video quality compared to new full-frame cameras
The Sony a9 has a 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor. This allows for fast and accurate autofocus and image capture. It also has a fast 20 fps continuous shooting speed with no blackout, allowing you to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. The a9 has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that helps reduce camera shake and blur. It also has a wide ISO range of 100-51200, great for low light conditions. Finally, the a9 has a robust and durable design that is dust and moisture resistant, making it perfect for outdoor shooting.
8. Sony a7R V
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2022 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 61 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 693 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 32,000 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- High-resolution sensor
- Option to choose bird or animal eye detection automatically
- Autofocus can track cars, trains, airplanes, and insects!
- Big, bright, clear, and sharp electronic viewfinder
- 3.2-inch tilt, flip LCD screen
- Slow frame rate of only 10 fps
- Focus stacking can't be done in-camera
- No in-camera RAW processing
- May be unbalanced with a big lens
- Rolling shutter effect with 8K video
The Sony a7R V is a powerful and versatile full-frame mirrorless camera that is perfect for both professional and amateur photographers. It features a 42.4MP Exmor R CMOS sensor, a BIONZ X image processor, and a 5-axis SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization system. This combination of features allows you to capture stunning images with incredible detail and clarity. Additionally, the a7R V has a wide ISO range of 100-32000, allowing you to capture images in low-light conditions.
The a7R V also features a fast and accurate autofocus system with 425 phase-detection points and a 0.05-second AF acquisition time. This ensures that you can capture sharp and detailed images quickly and easily. Additionally, the a7R V has a 3-inch tiltable LCD touchscreen, allowing you to easily compose and review your images. The a7R V also has a variety of connectivity options, helpful when you’re on the go!
9. Sony A7 III
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 693 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 51,200 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- Quick and accurate 693-point AF
- Wide ISO range with a low 50 setting
- Outstanding dynamic range and low-light performance
- Records stunning 4K video and has live stream capabilities
- Noise reduction can remove details
- Front heavy with big lenses
- Menu system is difficult to get used to
The Sony a7 III is a powerful and versatile camera that is perfect for both professional and amateur photographers. It features a 24.2 megapixel full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor for stunning image quality and fast performance. It also has a wide ISO range of 100-51200, allowing you to capture beautiful images in low light conditions. The A7 III also has a fast and accurate autofocus system with 693 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detection points, allowing you to capture sharp images quickly. Additionally, it has a 5-axis image stabilization system that helps reduce camera shake and blur. Finally, the a7 III has a durable and weather-resistant body, making it a perfect camera for outdoor photography.
10. Sony a7C
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony FE |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 693 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 51,200 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- Tiny, portable full frame body
- Excellent autofocus system
- Good battery life
- Weatherproof magnesium alloy body
- Option of bundling a lightweight 28-60 mm zoom lens kit
- Only two customizable buttons
- Small electronic viewfinder
- No touchscreen menus
- Only has one memory card slot
The Sony a7C is a powerful and versatile camera that is perfect for both professional and amateur photographers. It features a 24.2MP full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor, allowing you to capture stunning images with incredible detail and clarity. The camera also has a fast and accurate autofocus system, allowing you to capture sharp images even in low light conditions. Additionally, the a7C is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry and transport. It also has a variety of features, including 4K video recording, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and a tilting LCD touchscreen. With its impressive features and performance, the Sony a7C is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality camera.
11. Sony a6600
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2019 |
|---|---|
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C |
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras. | Sony E |
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 425 |
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise. | 102,400 |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 11 fps |
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake. | |
Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. | |
- Small, lightweight camera
- Astonishing autofocus
- Terrific battery life
- Silent shooting
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization reduces camera shake
- Rolling shutter during video shooting
- Limited touchscreen controls
- Slow buffer speeds
- No pop-up flash
- Controls can feel cramped for those with large hands
The Sony a6600 is a powerful and versatile camera that is perfect for both professional and amateur photographers. It features a 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor and a BIONZ X image processor, allowing you to capture stunning images with incredible detail and clarity. It also has a fast and accurate autofocus system with 425 phase-detection points and Real-time Eye AF, so you can capture sharp and clear photos of even the most active subjects. Additionally, the a6600 has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system that helps reduce camera shake and blur, allowing you to take sharp photos even in low-light conditions. It also has a long battery life of up to 810 shots per charge, so you can take photos all day without worrying about running out of power. With its lightweight and compact design, the Sony a6600 is the perfect camera for capturing amazing photos and videos on the go.
Our Verdict
In conclusion, the Sony a1 is undoubtedly one of the best Sony 4K cameras for photos and video in 2023. With its impressive features, powerful performance, and excellent quality, it is the perfect choice for any photographer or videographer looking for a top-of-the-line camera.
However it is quite pricey, so beginners may look for another model. That’s why we chose 11 cameras for our list! We hope it has helped you find the perfect sony 4K camera for you!
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