CameraReview

Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 IV — Which Is Better?

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

Canon EOS R3
Canon
Canon EOS R3
Mirrorless · 24 MP · Full Frame · 6K video
84
SCORE
$4,399
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Sony a7 IV
Sony
Sony a7 IV
Mirrorless · 33 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
84
SCORE
$1,998
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Best Price →
General
Brand CanonSony
Model EOS R3a7 IV
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20212021
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
14/09/202121/10/2021
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 150 x 143 x 87 mm131 x 96 x 80 mm
Camera weight 1015 g659 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP05033 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6012 x 40167008 x 4672
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 3623.8 x 35.6
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.
30 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 RFSony E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic XBionz XR
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.
1024003003280000512003003280000
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.
100302005030200
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.
20480030032800002044003003280000
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.
105303007590300
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 576000009900000368640009900000
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.
6K4K
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.
6000 x 31643840 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 fps120 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.
MPEG-4MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265
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 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.
4150000115000150000010400001150001500000
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, CFexpress Type B (UHS-II compatible)CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E19NP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
760 shots1505000580 shots1505000
USB charging

The Canon EOS R3 and Sony a7 IV both score 84/100, showcasing their strong performance and capabilities. As mirrorless cameras released in 2021, they share some common specifications, making them powerful contenders in the market.

Both cameras have similar scores, but the Canon EOS R3 stands out with its larger size (150 x 143 x 87mm) and heavier weight (1015g / 2.24lbs), providing a more robust feel. Additionally, the R3 has a higher launch price of $5999, reflecting its premium quality and features.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV is more compact (131 x 96 x 80mm) and lighter (659g / 1.45lbs), making it easier to carry and handle. Its lower launch price of $2499 also makes it a more affordable option for budget-conscious photographers.

Considering these factors, the Canon EOS R3 offers a more premium experience, while the Sony a7 IV provides a lightweight, budget-friendly alternative. Both cameras excel in their respective areas, catering to different preferences and needs in the photography world.

Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 IV Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 IV narrowly edges out the Canon EOS R3 in optics, with a score of 85/100 compared to the R3’s 84/100. Both cameras share several key specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and in-built image stabilization. They also have similar DXOMARK scores for their sensors, with the a7 IV scoring 97 and the R3 scoring 96.

The Sony a7 IV has a higher megapixel count at 33, compared to the R3’s 24. This gives the a7 IV an advantage in capturing more detail and producing larger prints. Additionally, the a7 IV’s Bionz XR processor is efficient and powerful, ensuring quick image processing and less noise at high ISO settings.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS R3 boasts a significantly faster shooting speed of 30 frames per second (fps), compared to the a7 IV’s 10 fps. This makes the R3 better suited for fast-action photography, such as sports and wildlife. Furthermore, the R3’s Digic X processor is also a high-performance processor, enabling fast autofocus and improved low-light performance.

The Canon RF lens mount on the R3 offers a growing selection of high-quality lenses, while the Sony FE lens mount on the a7 IV has an extensive range of lenses available. Both cameras provide ample choices for photographers, depending on their preferences.

Comparing the optics of these cameras, the Sony a7 IV excels in image detail and low-light performance, while the Canon EOS R3 shines in fast-action photography. Both cameras have excellent lens options, making them suitable for various photography styles. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.

Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 IV Video Performance

The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in video capabilities with a score of 96/100 compared to 91/100. Both cameras have a maximum video frame rate of 120fps and built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the EOS R3 offers superior video quality due to its 6K resolution and larger maximum video dimensions of 6000 x 3164. In contrast, the Sony a7 IV provides 4K resolution and max video dimensions of 3840 x 2160.

The Canon EOS R3’s higher resolution allows for more detailed and sharper videos, making it the better choice for professional videographers and filmmakers. The larger video dimensions also give users more flexibility when editing and cropping footage, resulting in higher quality finished products.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV still delivers excellent video quality with its 4K resolution, which is sufficient for most users and purposes. Additionally, the lower resolution may result in smaller file sizes and faster processing times. This can be beneficial for users with limited storage space or those who prioritize speed over maximum video quality.

When comparing the Canon EOS R3 and Sony a7 IV, the EOS R3 clearly offers superior video capabilities due to its higher resolution and larger maximum video dimensions. However, the Sony a7 IV remains a strong contender with its 4K resolution, which is more than adequate for most users. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and requirements, with the EOS R3 being the better option for those seeking the highest possible video quality.

Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 IV Features and Benefits

The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in features, scoring 87/100 compared to the Sony’s 83/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the Canon EOS R3 excels in certain aspects, making it the winner in this comparison.

The Canon EOS R3 boasts a larger screen size of 3.2 inches, compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 3-inch screen. Additionally, the Canon EOS R3’s screen resolution is significantly higher at 4,150,000 dots, while the Sony a7 IV has a resolution of 1,040,000 dots. This difference results in a clearer and more detailed image preview on the Canon EOS R3. The Canon EOS R3 also features GPS functionality, which the Sony a7 IV lacks. This makes it easier for photographers to geotag their images and track shooting locations.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV still holds its ground with a respectable feature score of 83/100. While it may not surpass the Canon EOS R3 in screen size, resolution, or GPS capabilities, it maintains a strong presence in the market with its touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth features. These shared specifications make the Sony a7 IV a viable option for photographers who value connectivity and ease of use.

In comparing the Canon EOS R3 and the Sony a7 IV, the Canon EOS R3 emerges as the superior camera in terms of features. Its larger screen size, higher screen resolution, and GPS capabilities give it an edge over the Sony a7 IV. However, the Sony a7 IV remains a strong contender, offering essential features that photographers appreciate. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 IV Storage and Battery

The Canon EOS R3 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in storage and battery, scoring 81/100 and 76/100, respectively. Both cameras have two memory card slots, but the EOS R3 accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC and CFexpress Type B cards, while the a7 IV takes CFexpress Type A and SD cards. The EOS R3’s battery life lasts for 760 shots, whereas the a7 IV’s battery life is limited to 580 shots.

The EOS R3’s longer battery life and compatibility with CFexpress Type B cards give it an advantage over the a7 IV. The Sony a7 IV, however, has no distinct advantage in storage and battery capabilities. Both cameras offer USB charging, resulting in easy on-the-go power solutions.

In comparing storage and battery, the Canon EOS R3 proves to be the superior choice due to its longer battery life and versatile memory card compatibility. The Sony a7 IV falls short in these aspects, making the EOS R3 the preferable option for photographers seeking better storage and battery performance.

Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 IV – Our Verdict

Canon EOS R3 vs Sony a7 IV 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 R3 or the Sony a7 IV: