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!
Sony a1
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:
- 4K Ultra HD video recording with HDR
- 30 fps full-frame shooting
- Fast Hybrid Autofocus & Real-time Tracking
- 5-axis in-body stabilization for blur-free images
- Instant sharing with built-in WiFi & Bluetooth.
- 61 megapixel resolution for stunning detail
- 15 stops of dynamic range
- 4K HDR video recording
- Fast hybrid autofocus for still and video capture
- 567-point phase detection autofocus
- Signature full-frame 24.2MP CMOS sensor
- 20fps blackout-free continuous shooting
- Real-time AF/AE calculations up to 60 times/sec
- Internal UHD 4K video recording with full pixel readout
- 61 megapixel resolution for stunning photos
- 4K video with advanced AF tracking for great videos
- High-speed autofocus with Real-time Eye AF
- Up to 10fps continuous shooting
- 15 stops of dynamic range for great low-light performance
- 24.2MP sensor for incredibly clear images
- 10fps continuous shooting for capturing decisive moments
- Fast and reliable autofocus for accurate and efficient focus
- 4K video recording for superb video quality
- 5-axis image stabilization for smooth, shake-free footage
- 5-axis SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization for 4K video
- 42.4MP full-frame sensor for stunning resolution and detail
- 10fps continuous shooting with autofocus/AE tracking
- 15-stop dynamic range for amazing colors and low-light performance
- 24.2MP full-frame image sensor
- Ultra-fast shutter speeds up to 20fps
- Incredibly fast and accurate autofocus
- Wide ISO range and 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- 4K video recording with professional-grade image quality
- 42MP full-frame sensor for stunning clarity
- Fast shooting speed with 10fps
- 5-axis image stabilization for sharp shots
- 4K video recording for high-quality footage
- Fast Hybrid AF for quick autofocusing
- 24.2MP full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor
- 693-point autofocus system for high-speed, precise AF
- 10fps burst shooting with AE/AF tracking
- 4K video with full pixel readout, no pixel binning
- Compact size for travel
- Interchangeable lenses
- 24MP full-frame sensor
- Up to 15 stops of dynamic range
- 4K video for high resolution recordings
- 24MP APS-C sensor for stunning photos
- Up to 11 fps continuous shooting
- High-speed 425-point AF system and real-time AF tracking
- Touchscreen LCD and silent shooting mode
- 4K HDR video with pro features and stabilized video
Best Sony 4K Cameras (in Detail!)
1. Sony a1
| Released |
Released
2021
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
50.1 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
759 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
30 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
 |
| Video |
Video
|
- Large sensor captures tons of detail
- High frame rate of 30 fps
- Eye tracking (human, animal, and bird)
- Easy customization
- Silent shooting for quiet situations
- Incredible 8K/30p Ultra HD video
- Expensive
- Highest frame rates only for JPEG, HEIF, and lossy compressed RAW files
- Eye tracking only selected manually
- Small rear LCD screen
- 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 |
Released
2019
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
61.2 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
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 |
Released
2019
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
693 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
20 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
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 |
Released
2021
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
61 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
567 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
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 |
Released
2021
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony E
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
33 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
759 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
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 |
Released
2017
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
42.4 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
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 |
Released
2017
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
693 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
20 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
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 |
Released
2022
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
61 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
693 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
Video
|
- High-resolution sensor
- Automatic bird or animal eye detection
- 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 |
Released
2018
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
693 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
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 |
Released
2020
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
Full Frame |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony FE
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
693 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
51,200 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
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 |
Released
2019
|
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 APS-C |
| Lens Mount |
Lens Mount
Sony E
|
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
| Maximum ISO (Native) |
Maximum ISO (Native)
102,400 |
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| In-body Stabilization |
In-body Stabilization
|
| Video |
Video
|
- Astonishing autofocus
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization reduces camera shake
- Silent shooting
- Terrific battery life
- Small, lightweight camera
- Slow buffer speeds
- Controls feel cramped with large hands
- Limited touchscreen controls
- No pop-up flash
- Rolling shutter recording video
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.
Sony a1
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!
