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Sony a1 vs a7S III Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Sony a1

sony a1
Winner!
86%

Sony a7S III

sony a7s iii
74%
Sony a1
vs
Sony a7S III
Price
Brand
Sony
Sony
Model
a1
a7S III
Released
2021
2020
Announcement Date
January 26, 2021
July 28, 2020
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a1 outshines the Sony a7S III with a score of 86/100, a 12-point lead over the latter’s 74/100. Both cameras share the same mirrorless type and identical dimensions of 129 x 97 x 81mm. Released in 2021, the Sony a1 boasts a higher launch price of $6,499, reflecting its superior performance. Its weight of 737g (1.62lbs) is slightly more than the Sony a7S III’s 699g (1.54lbs).

The Sony a1’s higher score indicates its overall better performance and features compared to the a7S III, which was released in 2020. However, the Sony a7S III has a lower launch price of $3,499, making it a more budget-friendly option for those who may not require the extra capabilities of the a1.

Taking into account each camera’s strengths and weaknesses, the Sony a1 is the better choice for those seeking top performance and advanced features, while the Sony a7S III is suitable for those on a tighter budget without compromising on quality.

Sony a1 vs a7S III Overview and Optics

The Sony a1 outperforms the Sony a7S III in optics, with a score of 89/100 compared to the latter’s 69/100. Both cameras share similar specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization.

The Sony a1 excels with its higher megapixel count of 50.1, allowing for more detailed and higher resolution images. This camera also boasts a faster shooting speed of 30 frames per second, enabling users to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. Additionally, the Sony a1 is equipped with a dual Bionz XR processor, which contributes to faster processing times and improved image quality. Its DXOMARK sensor score of 98 also highlights the superior performance of this camera.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S III has a lower megapixel count of 12.1, which may be more suitable for users who prioritize low-light performance and video capabilities. Its shooting speed of 10 frames per second is still respectable, but it falls short when compared to the Sony a1. The Sony a7S III features a single Bionz XR processor and has a lower DXOMARK sensor score of 86.

While the Sony a1 stands out as the better camera in terms of optics, the Sony a7S III may still be a viable option for those who prioritize low-light performance and video recording over high-resolution photography. Users should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras.

Optics
Optics
89%
69%
Megapixels
50.1 MP
12.1 MP
Image Resolution
8640 x 5760 px
4240 x 2832 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 35.9 mm
23.8 x 35.6 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
30 fps
10 fps
Lens Mount
Sony FE
Sony FE
Image Processor
Dual Bionz XR
Bionz XR
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
80
Maximum ISO (Native)
32,000
102,400
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
40
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
102400
409600
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 32000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
759
759
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Electronic
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
9,437,184 dots
9,440,000 dots

Sony a1 vs a7S III Video Performance

The Sony a1 outperforms the Sony a7S III in terms of video capabilities, scoring 86/100 compared to the a7S III’s 77/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video frame rate of 120fps and the absence of built-in time-lapse functionality. However, there are significant differences that make the Sony a1 the superior choice for video recording.

The most notable advantage the Sony a1 has over the a7S III is its maximum video resolution. The a1 can record at an impressive 8K resolution with dimensions of 7680 x 4320, while the a7S III is limited to 4K resolution with dimensions of 3840 x 2160. This higher resolution allows the a1 to capture more detail and produce sharper, more visually stunning videos.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S III has some advantages in specific situations. For instance, if a project does not require 8K resolution, the a7S III may be more than sufficient for the task. Additionally, the a7S III is known for its exceptional low-light performance, which could be beneficial for those shooting in darker environments.

However, the Sony a1’s superior video resolution ultimately makes it the better choice for videographers seeking the highest quality footage. The a7S III, while still a solid option, is better suited for those who prioritize low-light performance or do not require the additional detail provided by 8K resolution. The choice between these two cameras will ultimately depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user, but the Sony a1 stands out as the clear winner in terms of video capabilities.

Video
Video
86%
77%
Video
Max Video Resolution
8K
4K
Max Video Dimensions
7680 x 4320 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
120 p
120 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
LPCM 2ch(48 kHz 16bit), LPCM 2ch(48 kHz 24bit), LPCM 4ch(48 kHz 24bit), MPEG-4 AAC-LC 2ch
XAVC S, XAVC HS

Sony a1 vs a7S III Features and Benefits

The Sony a1 and Sony a7S III both have a feature score of 83/100, making them equal in this aspect. They share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1,440,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, and connectivity options such as GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth.

The Sony a1 excels in certain areas, such as its faster continuous shooting speed, higher resolution sensor, and more autofocus points. These features make the Sony a1 a better choice for photographers who require quick action shots, high-resolution images, and precise focusing capabilities.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S III has advantages in its low light performance, longer battery life, and superior video capabilities. The camera’s low light sensitivity allows for better image quality in dim environments. Additionally, the longer battery life means less frequent battery changes, which is beneficial for extended shooting sessions. The enhanced video features make the a7S III a preferred choice for videographers and filmmakers.

Considering these points, the Sony a1 is a better option for photographers who prioritize high-resolution images, fast shooting speeds, and accurate autofocus. The Sony a7S III is better suited for those who need strong low light performance, longer battery life, and advanced video capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences.

Features
Features
83%
83%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,440,000 dots
1,440,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Sony a1 vs a7S III Storage and Battery

The Sony a7S III wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 76/100, while the Sony a1 scores 73/100. Both cameras share similarities, including two memory card slots, compatibility with SD, SDHC, SDXC (UHS-II), and CFexpress Type A cards, and NP-FZ100 batteries. Additionally, both cameras offer USB charging.

The Sony a7S III surpasses the Sony a1 in battery life, providing 600 shots compared to the a1’s 530 shots. This advantage allows for more extended shooting sessions without the need for frequent battery replacements or recharging.

Although the Sony a1 falls short in battery life, it maintains the same storage capabilities as the Sony a7S III, making it a strong contender in this aspect. However, the difference in battery life makes the a7S III a more suitable choice for photographers and videographers who prioritize longer shooting sessions.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony a7S III emerges as the better option due to its superior battery life, while the Sony a1 remains a viable alternative with matching storage specifications.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
73%
76%
Memory Card
SD,CFexpress Type A (UHS-II compatible)
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type A
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
NP-FZ100
NP-FZ100
Battery Life
530 shots
600 shots
USB Charging
Photography Genre
Graded from the first-hand experience of one of our writers
Beginner Friendly
85%
N/A
Portrait
90%
N/A
Landscape
90%
N/A
Sports and Action
95%
N/A
Street
90%
N/A
Value for Money
60%
N/A
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
98%
86%
Portrait (Color Depth)
25.9 bits
23.7 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
14.5 EVs
13.9 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
3163
2520
Scores

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Sony a1 vs a7S III Comparison image.

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