Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 III Comparison
Canon EOS R3
Sony a7 III
Price | |||
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS R3 | a7 III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2021 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 14, 2021 | February 27, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Sony a7 III with a score of 84 compared to 81. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless models with compact designs. The Canon EOS R3, released in 2021 and measures 150 x 143 x 87mm, weighing 2.24lbs. The Sony a7 III, released in 2018 and measures 127 x 96 x 74mm, weighing 1.43lbs.
The Canon EOS R3’s higher score reflects its superior performance and advanced features. Its larger size and weight indicate a more robust build and potential for greater durability. However, the Sony a7 III has the advantage of being lighter and more compact, making it easier to carry and handle during shoots. Additionally, the Sony a7 III offers a more budget-friendly option with its lower launch price.
When considering these specifications, the Canon EOS R3 emerges as a better option for professionals seeking top-tier performance, while the Sony a7 III caters to those prioritizing portability and affordability.
Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics
The Canon EOS R3 emerges as the winner in the optics comparison, scoring 84/100, while the Sony a7 III trails slightly behind with a score of 81/100. Both cameras share several key specifications, including 24-megapixel CMOS sensors, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. Additionally, they both have a DXOMARK sensor score of 96, indicating that their sensors perform similarly in terms of image quality.
The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Sony a7 III in several aspects. Its shooting speed of 30 frames per second (fps) is significantly faster than the Sony a7 III’s 10 fps, allowing for better capturing of fast-moving subjects. Moreover, the Canon EOS R3 features a more advanced Digic X processor, which contributes to improved image processing and overall camera performance.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 III has a slight advantage in terms of megapixels, boasting 24.2 as opposed to the Canon EOS R3’s 24. Additionally, the Sony a7 III utilizes the Sony FE lens mount, which offers a wide range of compatible lenses for various photography needs. However, these advantages may not be significant enough to outweigh the benefits provided by the Canon EOS R3’s faster shooting speed and advanced processor.
Taking these factors into account, the Canon EOS R3 stands out as the superior choice in terms of optics, due to its faster shooting speed and advanced processor. However, the Sony a7 III remains a solid option for photographers who prioritize a wider range of compatible lenses and a slightly higher megapixel count.
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Optics
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Canon EOS R3
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Sony a7 III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP | 24.2 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 6012 x 4016 px | 6000 x 4000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
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 36 mm | 23.8 x 35.6 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | Full Frame | |
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 | 10 fps | |
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 RF | Sony FE | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Digic X | 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. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
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 | 51,200 | |
Minimum 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. | 100 | 50 | |
Maximum 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. | 204800 | 204800 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 8000 s | 1/ 8000 s | |
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. | 1,053 | 693 | |
In-body Stabilization 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. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 5,760,000 dots | 2,359,296 dots |
Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 III Video Performance
The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities with a score of 96 out of 100, compared to the Sony a7 III’s score of 70. Both cameras share some common video specifications, but the differences in their performance are significant.
Both the Canon EOS R3 and the Sony a7 III have the ability to record high-quality video. However, the Canon EOS R3 is superior in several aspects. The EOS R3 can record at a maximum resolution of 6K, with dimensions of 6000 x 3164 pixels. This higher resolution allows for more detailed and sharper video footage. Additionally, the EOS R3 has a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, providing smoother motion and the ability to create stunning slow-motion footage.
The Sony a7 III has a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160 pixels. While this resolution is still considered high-quality, it falls short when compared to the EOS R3’s 6K capabilities. The a7 III’s maximum video frame rate is 30fps, which is significantly lower than the EOS R3’s 120fps. Despite its lower score, the Sony a7 III may still be a suitable choice for users who prioritize other features or have a lower budget. However, for those who require high-quality video capabilities, the Canon EOS R3 is our clear winner.
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Video
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Canon EOS R3
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Sony a7 III
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  6K |  4K | |
Max Video Dimensions 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. | 6000 x 3164 px | 3840 x 2160 px | |
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 p | 30 p | |
Time-Lapse 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. | MPEG-4 | XAVC S, AVCHD |
Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Sony a7 III with a feature score of 87/100, compared to the Sony a7 III’s score of 81/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon EOS R3’s superior features include a larger screen size of 3.2 inches and a significantly higher screen resolution of 4,150,000 dots. This results in a clearer, more detailed display for easier navigation and image review. Furthermore, the Canon EOS R3 offers GPS functionality, allowing users to geotag their images for precise location data.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 III, while scoring lower in features, still offers a solid set of specifications. It has a slightly smaller screen size of 3 inches and a lower screen resolution of 921,600 dots. Despite this, the Sony a7 III maintains a high-quality display and shares the same essential connectivity options as the Canon EOS R3, excluding GPS.
In terms of features, the Canon EOS R3 holds a clear advantage over the Sony a7 III, particularly in screen size, screen resolution, and GPS capabilities. However, the Sony a7 III remains a strong contender in the market, offering many similar features to the Canon EOS R3. Users should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras, as both provide high-quality options for photography enthusiasts.
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Features
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Canon EOS R3
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Sony a7 III
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | LCD | LCD | |
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 Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 4,150,000 dots | 921,600 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery
The Canon EOS R3 and the Sony a7 III score highly in storage and battery with a score of 81. Both cameras share the same number of memory card slots, which is two. They also accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, but the Canon EOS R3 supports CFexpress Type B cards (UHS-II compatible), while the Sony a7 III uses Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.
The Canon EOS R3 offers a slightly longer battery life with 760 shots compared to the Sony a7 III’s 750 shots.
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Storage and Battery
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Canon EOS R3
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Sony a7 III
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, CFexpress Type B (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E19 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 760 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Canon EOS R3
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Sony a7 III
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 25 bits | 25.1 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 14.7 EVs | 14.7 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 4086 | 3722 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS R3
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Sony a7 III
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 III – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS R3 or the Sony a7 III:
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User Scores
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Canon EOS R3
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Sony a7 III
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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