CameraReview

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R III — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Canon
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
DSLR · 30.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
75
SCORE
$1,399.99
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✓ WINNER
Sony a7R III
Sony
Sony a7R III
Mirrorless · 42.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
83
SCORE
$1,749
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General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS 5D Mark IVa7R III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162017
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
25/08/201625/10/2017
Camera type DSLRMirrorless
Camera size 151 x 116 x 76 mm127 x 96 x 74 mm
Camera weight 890 g657 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
30.4 MP05042.4 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6720 x 44807952 x 5304
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
24 x 3624 x 35.9
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
7 fps04510 fps045
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.
Canon EFSony FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 6+Bionz X
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
320003003280000320003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
50302005030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
10240030032800001024003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
800080032000800080032000
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.
6103004250300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
Optical (pentaprism)Electronic
Viewfinder dots N/A368640009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
4096 x 21603840 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
120 fps30 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MOV, MP4XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type TFT LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3.2"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1620000115000150000014400001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible), Compact FlashSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E6NNP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
900 shots1505000650 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7R III emerges as the winner with a score of 83/100, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV trails behind with a score of 75/100. Both cameras share similarities in their release years, 2016 for Canon and 2017 for Sony, and launch prices, $3500 for Canon and $3200 for Sony.

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with its lighter weight of 657g and smaller size of 127 x 96 x 74mm. Additionally, the Sony camera is a mirrorless type, offering advantages in portability and modern technology.

However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a DSLR, which some photographers may prefer for its optical viewfinder and longer battery life. The camera’s weight of 890g and size of 151 x 116 x 76mm make it more substantial and sturdy in hand.

In the end, the Sony a7R III excels in portability and modern features, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV offers a more traditional DSLR experience.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R III Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in optics, with a score of 84/100 compared to the Canon’s 76/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and their respective lens mounts, Canon EF for the 5D Mark IV and Sony FE for the a7R III.

The Sony a7R III has a higher megapixel count at 42.4, allowing for more detailed images, while the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a lower count of 30.4. The a7R III also has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second compared to the 5D Mark IV’s 7 frames per second. The DXOMARK score for the Sony a7R III’s sensor is 100, which is higher than the Canon 5D Mark IV’s score of 91. Additionally, the a7R III has image stabilization, which the 5D Mark IV lacks. These advantages make the Sony a7R III a better option for those who prioritize image quality and stability.

However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has its strengths, such as the Digic 6+ processor, which provides efficient performance and image processing, while the Sony a7R III uses the Bionz X processor. The Canon’s EF lens mount offers a wider selection of lenses compared to the Sony’s FE mount, which can be beneficial for photographers who already have a collection of Canon lenses or need specific lenses for their work.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R III offers better image quality and stability due to its higher megapixel count, faster shooting speed, better sensor score, and image stabilization. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, on the other hand, provides efficient performance with its processor and a wider lens selection. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R III Video Performance

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Sony a7R III in video capabilities, with a video score of 91/100 compared to the Sony’s 56/100. Both cameras share the feature of 4K video resolution, but the Canon 5D Mark IV has a higher maximum video dimension of 4096 x 2160, while the Sony a7R III offers 3840 x 2160.

One significant advantage of the Canon 5D Mark IV is its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the Sony a7R III’s 30fps. This allows the Canon camera to capture smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, providing more creative options for videographers. Additionally, the Canon 5D Mark IV has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a7R III lacks. This feature enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional equipment or software.

While the Sony a7R III has a lower video score, it still offers 4K video resolution, which is a strong feature for those interested in capturing high-quality footage. However, its lower maximum video frame rate and lack of built-in time-lapse functionality make it less versatile than the Canon 5D Mark IV.

Considering the higher video score, larger maximum video dimensions, faster maximum video frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the superior camera for videography. The Sony a7R III remains a suitable choice for those primarily interested in 4K video resolution, but it falls behind the Canon 5D Mark IV in overall video capabilities.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R III Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in the features category, scoring 83 out of 100 points compared to the Canon’s 74 points. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as touchscreen functionality and WiFi capabilities. However, there are notable differences that set the two cameras apart.

The Sony a7R III surpasses the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV with its flip screen and Bluetooth connectivity. The flip screen provides flexibility for shooting at various angles, making it a more versatile option. Additionally, Bluetooth allows for seamless connectivity with other devices, further enhancing the user experience.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a larger screen size and a higher screen resolution than the Sony a7R III. The 3.2-inch screen with a resolution of 1,620,000 dots provides a clearer and more detailed display for users. Moreover, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV features GPS functionality, which the Sony a7R III lacks. This allows users to geotag their images, a useful feature for travel and landscape photographers.

Taking these points into consideration, it is evident that the Sony a7R III’s flip screen and Bluetooth connectivity make it the better choice in terms of features. However, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV’s larger screen size, higher screen resolution, and GPS functionality should not be overlooked, as these features might be more important to certain users. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras will depend on the individual’s priorities and preferences.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R III Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV outperforms the Sony a7R III in storage and battery, scoring 71/100 compared to Sony’s 65/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots, but the Canon accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I compatible) and Compact Flash cards, while the Sony is compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) cards only.

Canon’s advantage lies in its longer battery life, offering 900 shots per charge with its LP-E6N battery, compared to Sony’s 650 shots using the NP-FZ100 battery. However, neither camera supports USB charging.

Despite its lower score, the Sony a7R III’s UHS-II compatibility allows for faster read and write speeds, which could be beneficial for some users.

In terms of storage and battery, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV proves to be the superior choice due to its longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility. The Sony a7R III, while inferior in these aspects, still offers a notable advantage with its UHS-II compatibility for faster data transfer.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R III – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV vs Sony a7R III Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV or the Sony a7R III: