Sony a1 vs Sony a7 IV
Comparison
Sony a1
Sony a7 IV
Price |
from
Check Price
|
from
Check Price
| |
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a1 | a7 IV | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2021 | 2021 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 26, 2021 | October 21, 2021 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a1 outperforms the Sony a7 IV with a score of 86/100 compared to 84/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2021. They share similar dimensions, with the a1 measuring 129 x 97 x 81mm and the a7 IV at 131 x 96 x 80mm. The a1 is slightly heavier at 737g, while the a7 IV weighs 659g.
The a1’s higher score indicates its superior performance. Its launch price of $6499 reflects its advanced features and capabilities. On the other hand, the a7 IV is more affordable at $2499, making it a better option for budget-conscious consumers.
While the a1 offers top-notch performance, the a7 IV is a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. Both cameras provide excellent results, but the a1’s higher score shows that it has an edge in performance.
Sony a1 vs a7 IV Overview and Optics
The Sony a1 outperforms the Sony a7 IV in optics with a score of 89/100, compared to 85/100 for the a7 IV. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization.
The Sony a1 excels with its 50.1-megapixel resolution, providing greater detail and image quality than the a7 IV’s 33 megapixels. Additionally, the a1 boasts a faster shooting speed of 30 frames per second (fps), compared to the a7 IV’s 10 fps. This allows for better capturing of fast-moving subjects and action shots. The a1 also benefits from a dual Bionz XR processor, enhancing its overall performance and processing speed. Furthermore, the a1’s sensor has a higher DXOMARK score of 98, indicating superior image quality.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV still offers solid performance in optics, despite its lower score. Its 33-megapixel resolution is sufficient for most photography needs, and its 10 fps shooting speed is adequate for general use. The a7 IV also features a Bionz XR processor, ensuring reliable performance and processing capabilities. Its sensor has a DXOMARK score of 97, which is only slightly lower than the a1’s score, indicating that the a7 IV still delivers high-quality images.
Comparing the two cameras, the Sony a1 is the clear winner in optics due to its higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and superior sensor performance. However, the Sony a7 IV remains a strong contender, offering reliable performance and image quality for most photographers.
|
Optics
|
Sony a1
|
Sony a7 IV
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 50.1 MP | 33 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 8640 x 5760 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. | 24 x 35.9 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. | Sony FE | Sony E | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Dual Bionz XR | 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. | 32,000 | 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/ 32000 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. | 759 | 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 | 9,437,184 dots | 3,686,400 dots |
Sony a1 vs a7 IV Video Performance
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Sony a1 in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the a1’s 86/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 120fps. This allows both models to capture smooth slow-motion footage at high-resolution settings.
The winning camera, the Sony a7 IV, has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a significant advantage for videographers. Time-lapse is an essential feature for those looking to create dynamic and visually stunning videos, making the a7 IV a more versatile option in terms of video capabilities.
However, the Sony a1 has a higher maximum video resolution of 8K (7680 x 4320), compared to the a7 IV’s 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution. This means the a1 can capture more detailed footage, which is beneficial for professional videographers who require superior image quality for their work. Despite this advantage, the a1’s higher resolution does not outweigh the a7 IV’s overall video performance and features.
While the Sony a1 has a higher maximum video resolution, the Sony a7 IV’s built-in time-lapse functionality and higher video score make it the better choice for videographers. The a7 IV offers more flexibility and creative options for users, ensuring it stands out as the superior option for video capabilities. The a1, on the other hand, is more suitable for those who prioritize video resolution above all else. Therefore, the Sony a7 IV is the recommended choice for videographers seeking the best video performance in these two models.
|
Video
|
Sony a1
|
Sony a7 IV
|
|
|
|
|
||
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. |  8K |  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. | 7680 x 4320 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 | 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. | LPCM 2ch(48 kHz 16bit), LPCM 2ch(48 kHz 24bit), LPCM 4ch(48 kHz 24bit), MPEG-4 AAC-LC 2ch | MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265 |
Sony a1 vs a7 IV Features and Benefits
The Sony a1 and the Sony a7 IV both have a feature score of 83/100, making them evenly matched in this aspect. They share several common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, a flip screen, no GPS, and both have WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Sony a1 stands out with a higher screen resolution of 1,440,000 dots compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 1,040,000 dots. This difference provides the Sony a1 with a sharper and more detailed display, which is beneficial for reviewing images and navigating menus.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV does not have any features that are better than the Sony a1, as their feature scores are identical and the only difference in specifications is the lower screen resolution. However, this does not mean that the Sony a7 IV is a worse camera, as it still offers a high-quality display and a range of useful features that are on par with the Sony a1.
Considering these factors, both cameras are strong contenders in terms of features. The Sony a1 has a slight advantage due to its higher screen resolution, but the Sony a7 IV remains a reliable option with its similar specifications. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, as they both offer a robust set of features for photographers and videographers alike.
|
Features
|
Sony a1
|
Sony a7 IV
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in 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 | 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. | 1,440,000 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. |  | | |
Sony a1 vs a7 IV Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Sony a1 in storage and battery with a score of 76/100 compared to the Sony a1’s 73/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including two memory card slots, compatibility with SD and CFexpress Type A (UHS-II) cards, the NP-FZ100 battery type, and USB charging capability.
The Sony a7 IV’s advantage lies in its longer battery life of 580 shots, which surpasses the Sony a1’s 530 shots. This difference allows the Sony a7 IV users to capture more images without needing to recharge or replace the battery.
On the other hand, the Sony a1 does not have any distinct advantages in storage and battery over the Sony a7 IV. Both cameras offer similar storage capabilities, making them equally suitable for various photography and videography needs.
Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony a7 IV has a slight edge over the Sony a1, primarily due to its extended battery life. This advantage may benefit photographers who require longer shooting sessions without frequent battery replacements or recharging.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Sony a1
|
Sony a7 IV
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD,CFexpress Type A (UHS-II compatible) | CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible) | |
|---|---|---|---|
Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FZ100 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 530 shots | 580 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
Photography Genre
Graded from the first-hand experience of one of our writers |
Sony a1
|
Sony a7 IV
|
|
Beginner Friendly | 
| N/A | |
|---|---|---|---|
Portrait | 
| N/A | |
Landscape | 
| N/A | |
Sports and Action | 
| N/A | |
Street | 
| N/A | |
Value for Money | 
| N/A |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Sony a1
|
Sony a7 IV
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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.' | 25.9 bits | 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.' | 14.5 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' | 3163 | 3379 |
|
Scores
|
Sony a1
|
Sony a7 IV
|
Alternatives to the Sony a1 and a7 IV
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a1 or the Sony a7 IV:
|
User Scores
|
Sony a1
|
Sony a7 IV
|
|
B&H photo video | N/A |
|---|