Canon EOS R8 vs Sony a7 IV Comparison
Canon EOS R8
Sony a7 IV
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Brand | Canon | Sony | |
Model | EOS R8 | a7 IV | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2023 | 2021 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 08, 2023 | October 21, 2021 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
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Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 IV outshines the Canon EOS R8 with a score of 84/100 compared to the R8’s 76/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the Canon EOS R8 measuring 133 x 86 x 70mm and the Sony a7 IV at 131 x 96 x 80mm. They also both have comparable launch prices, with the R8 at $1499 and the a7 IV at $2499.
The Sony a7 IV surpasses the Canon EOS R8 due to its higher score, which signifies its superior features and performance. However, the Canon EOS R8 has its advantages, including its lighter weight of 461g compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 659g. This makes the R8 more convenient for portability and travel.
Taking into account the scores, specifications, and prices, the Sony a7 IV emerges as the stronger contender in this comparison. The Canon EOS R8, though, remains a viable option for those prioritizing a lighter camera without compromising on quality.
Canon EOS R8 vs Sony a7 IV Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS R8 in optics with a score of 85/100 compared to the R8’s 77/100. Both cameras share several similar specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, and compatible lens mounts (Canon RF for the R8 and Sony FE for the a7 IV). However, the Sony a7 IV has some advantages that lead to its higher score.
The Sony a7 IV boasts a higher megapixel count at 33 compared to the Canon EOS R8’s 24. This difference allows the a7 IV to capture more detailed images, making it a better choice for photographers who require high-resolution output. Additionally, the a7 IV’s DXOMARK sensor score is 97, while the R8’s is 94, indicating that the a7 IV’s sensor delivers better overall image quality. The a7 IV also features image stabilization, which the R8 lacks, providing an advantage for photographers who shoot handheld or in low light conditions.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS R8 has a significantly higher shooting speed of 40 frames per second, compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 10 frames per second. This makes the R8 a more suitable option for action and sports photography, where capturing fast-moving subjects is crucial.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 IV emerges as the better camera in terms of optics due to its higher megapixel count, superior sensor performance, and image stabilization. However, the Canon EOS R8 might be more suitable for certain photography niches, such as sports and action, owing to its faster shooting speed. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.
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Optics
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Sony a7 IV
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP | 33 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. | 6000 x 4000 px | 7008 x 4672 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. | 36 x 24 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. | 40 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 E | |
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 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. |  3:2 | 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. | 50 | 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. | 102400 | 204400 | |
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/ 4000 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 | 759 | |
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 | 2,360,000 dots | 3,686,400 dots |
Canon EOS R8 vs Sony a7 IV Video Performance
The Canon EOS R8 and the Sony a7 IV have the same video score of 91/100, indicating that both cameras possess strong video capabilities. The shared specifications include a 4K max video resolution with dimensions of 3840 x 2160 and built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Canon EOS R8 has a higher max video frame rate of 180fps compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 120fps. This advantage allows the EOS R8 to capture smoother slow-motion footage, which is beneficial for videographers working with action scenes or sports events. The higher frame rate of the EOS R8 makes it the superior choice for capturing fast-paced movement in high-resolution video.
While the Sony a7 IV has a lower max video frame rate, it still offers solid video capabilities with its 120fps. For many users, this frame rate is sufficient for capturing high-quality video content. The a7 IV is not necessarily worse than the EOS R8, but it does not have the same level of performance in terms of frame rate.
Both the Canon EOS R8 and the Sony a7 IV are strong contenders in the video department, with each camera offering impressive 4K video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality. The EOS R8 takes the lead with its higher max video frame rate, making it the better option for capturing fast-paced action. However, the Sony a7 IV remains a reliable choice for users who do not require the additional frame rate capabilities. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will depend on the specific video needs of the user.
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Video
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Canon EOS R8
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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. |  4K | 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. | 3840 x 2160 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. | 180 p | 120 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. | MP4, H.264, H.265 | MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265 |
Canon EOS R8 vs Sony a7 IV Features and Benefits
The Canon EOS R8 wins the features comparison with a score of 85/100, while the Sony a7 IV scores slightly lower at 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras are equipped with WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Canon EOS R8 outperforms the Sony a7 IV mainly due to its higher screen resolution of 1,620,000 dots compared to the Sony’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference provides the EOS R8 with a clearer and more detailed display for composing and reviewing images.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV does not have any specific advantages over the Canon EOS R8 in terms of features. Both cameras offer similar capabilities, but the Canon EOS R8’s higher screen resolution gives it the edge in this comparison.
Considering the features of both cameras, the Canon EOS R8 proves to be the better option due to its higher screen resolution, which enhances the user experience while composing and reviewing images. The Sony a7 IV, while still a capable camera, does not offer any distinct advantages over the EOS R8 in terms of features. Therefore, the Canon EOS R8 is the superior choice for photographers seeking a camera with better features.
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Features
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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" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,620,000 dots | 1,040,000 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 R8 vs Sony a7 IV Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Canon EOS R8 in storage and battery with a score of 76/100 compared to the R8’s 35/100. Both cameras share the feature of USB charging compatibility.
The a7 IV excels with its dual memory card slots, accepting both CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II compatible) cards. This provides versatility and increased storage options. Additionally, the a7 IV boasts a superior battery life of 580 shots, using the NP-FZ100 battery type.
On the other hand, the Canon EOS R8 has a single memory card slot, accepting SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I and II compatible) cards. Its battery life is shorter at 370 shots, utilizing the LP-E17 battery type.
Considering these aspects, the Sony a7 IV offers better storage and battery performance, making it a more reliable choice for extended shooting sessions and versatile storage options. Meanwhile, the Canon EOS R8 is more limited in both areas, which may affect its suitability for certain users.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I and II compatible) | CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | LP-E17 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 370 shots | 580 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | N/A | ||
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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.' | N/A | 25.4 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.' | N/A | 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' | N/A | 3379 |
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Scores
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Canon EOS R8
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Sony a7 IV
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Canon EOS R8 vs Sony a7 IV Alternatives
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User Scores
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Sony a7 IV
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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