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Canon EOS 7D vs Sony a7 IV Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Canon EOS 7D

Canon EOS 7D camera
45%

Sony a7 IV

sony a7 iv
Winner!
84%
Canon EOS 7D
vs
Sony a7 IV
Price
Brand
Canon
Sony
Model
EOS 7D
a7 IV
Released
2009
2021
Announcement Date
September 01, 2009
October 21, 2021
Camera Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 7D with a score of 84/100, compared to the Canon’s 45/100. Both cameras share common features such as launch price, announcement date, and release year. However, the Sony a7 IV’s mirrorless design offers a more compact and lightweight build, measuring 131 x 96 x 80mm and weighing 659g. In contrast, the Canon EOS 7D is a bulkier DSLR, measuring 148 x 111 x 74mm and weighing 860g.

The Sony a7 IV’s higher score reflects its superior performance and advanced technology. Its mirrorless design allows for a more portable and user-friendly experience. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D’s DSLR design provides a more traditional photography experience and might appeal to those who prefer a heftier camera.

Taking all these factors into account, the Sony a7 IV emerges as a clear winner for its compact design, lighter weight, and higher performance score. The Canon EOS 7D, while not as highly rated, may still hold appeal for those loyal to DSLR cameras.

Canon EOS 7D vs Sony a7 IV Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in optics, scoring 85 out of 100 compared to the 7D’s 43. Both cameras share similarities in their specifications, such as having a CMOS sensor type and a shooting speed of 8 for the 7D and 10 for the a7 IV. However, the differences in specs contribute to the higher score of the Sony a7 IV.

The Sony a7 IV has a significant advantage with its 33-megapixel resolution, compared to the Canon 7D’s 18 megapixels. This increased resolution allows for more detailed images. Additionally, the a7 IV features a superior processor, the Bionz XR, which results in faster image processing and improved performance. The Sony a7 IV also has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 97, indicating better image quality compared to the 7D’s score of 66.

Another notable difference is the sensor size. The Sony a7 IV boasts a full-frame sensor, while the Canon 7D has an APS-C sensor. The full-frame sensor provides better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. Furthermore, the Sony a7 IV has built-in image stabilization, which the Canon 7D lacks, making it easier to capture sharp images in various shooting conditions.

The Canon EOS 7D, however, has the advantage of the Canon EF-S lens mount, which offers a wider selection of lenses than the Sony FE mount. This could be beneficial to photographers who already have a collection of Canon lenses or prefer the Canon lens lineup.

Considering the specifications, the Sony a7 IV stands out as the better option in terms of optics, with its higher resolution, better sensor performance, and image stabilization. The Canon EOS 7D may still appeal to those who prefer the Canon lens ecosystem, but its overall performance in optics falls short compared to the Sony a7 IV.

Optics
Optics
43%
85%
Megapixels
18 MP
33 MP
Image Resolution
5184 x 3456 px
7008 x 4672 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
14.9 x 22.3 mm
23.8 x 35.6 mm
Sensor Format
APS-C
Full Frame
Frame Rate
8 fps
10 fps
Lens Mount
Canon EF-S
Sony E
Image Processor
Dual Digic 4
Bionz XR
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
6,400
51,200
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
100
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
12800
204400
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
0
759
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Optical (pentaprism)
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
N/A
3,686,400 dots

Canon EOS 7D vs Sony a7 IV Video Performance

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in video capabilities, with a video score of 91/100 compared to the 7D’s 43/100. This significant difference highlights the superior video performance of the a7 IV.

Both cameras share some common specs, such as the ability to record video. However, the Sony a7 IV offers higher video resolution, with 4K (3840 x 2160) compared to the Canon EOS 7D’s Full HD (1920 x 1080). This increased resolution provides sharper and more detailed video footage. Additionally, the a7 IV has a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the 7D’s 30fps. This allows for smoother video playback and the option to create impressive slow-motion footage. The Sony a7 IV also includes built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Canon EOS 7D lacks.

While the Canon EOS 7D falls behind in video capabilities, it still offers Full HD video recording, which may be sufficient for casual users or those prioritizing photography over videography. However, it is clear that the Sony a7 IV is the superior choice for those seeking advanced video features and performance.

Considering the substantial difference in video scores and the advanced features of the Sony a7 IV, it is evident that the a7 IV is the better option for individuals focused on video capabilities. The Canon EOS 7D may be a suitable choice for those who require basic video functionality, but the Sony a7 IV is the clear winner in this comparison.

Video
Video
43%
91%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
4K
Max Video Dimensions
1921 x 1080 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
30 p
120 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
MOV
MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265

Canon EOS 7D vs Sony a7 IV Features and Benefits

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 7D, scoring 83 points in features compared to the 7D’s 54 points. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size and lack of GPS. However, the a7 IV excels in various aspects, making it a superior choice for photographers seeking advanced features.

The Sony a7 IV’s screen resolution is higher at 1,040,000 dots, compared to the Canon 7D’s 920,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a sharper and clearer display, enhancing the user experience. Additionally, the a7 IV has a touchscreen and a flip screen, making it more versatile and user-friendly, while the 7D lacks these features.

The a7 IV offers wireless connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling seamless transfer of photos and remote control of the camera. The Canon 7D does not have these connectivity options, limiting its usability in this regard.

Despite the Canon 7D’s lower feature score, it is worth noting that it still delivers solid performance and image quality. For photographers who prioritize other aspects, such as optics and video capabilities, the 7D may still be a suitable choice.

Ultimately, the Sony a7 IV’s higher feature score results from its advanced specifications, such as a higher screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. These features make it the better option for those seeking a more versatile and user-friendly camera. On the other hand, the Canon EOS 7D remains a viable option for photographers who prioritize other aspects of camera performance.

Features
Features
54%
83%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3"
Screen Resolution
920,000 dots
1,040,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Canon EOS 7D vs Sony a7 IV Storage and Battery

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS 7D in storage and battery, scoring 76/100 compared to the Canon’s 35/100. Both cameras differ in memory card slots, battery life, and USB charging capabilities.

The Sony a7 IV has two memory card slots, accepting CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II compatible) cards, while the Canon EOS 7D has one slot for Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, and Microdrive cards. The Sony’s dual slots provide more flexibility and storage capacity.

In terms of battery life, the Canon EOS 7D is superior with 800 shots, using an LP-E6 battery. The Sony a7 IV offers 580 shots with its NP-FZ100 battery. However, the Sony a7 IV compensates with USB charging, enabling users to charge the camera on-the-go, a feature absent in the Canon EOS 7D.

Considering these factors, the Sony a7 IV has an advantage in storage options and charging flexibility, while the Canon EOS 7D offers longer battery life per charge.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
35%
76%
Memory Card
Compact Flash (Type I or II), UDMA, Microdrive
CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible)
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
LP-E6
NP-FZ100
Battery Life
800 shots
580 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
66%
97%
Portrait (Color Depth)
22 bits
25.4 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
11.7 EVs
14.7 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
854
3379
Scores

Canon EOS 7D vs Sony a7 IV – Our Verdict

Canon EOS 7D vs Sony a7 IV Comparison image.

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