Sony a1 vs a7S III Comparison
Sony a1
Sony a7S III
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a1 | a7S III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2021 | 2020 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | 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.
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Optics
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Sony a1
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Sony a7S III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 50.1 MP | 12.1 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. | 8640 x 5760 px | 4240 x 2832 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 FE | |
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 | 80 | |
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 | 102,400 | |
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 | 40 | |
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 | 409600 | |
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 | 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.
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Video
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Sony a1
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Sony a7S 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. |  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 | 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.
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Features
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Sony a7S 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" | 3" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,440,000 dots | 1,440,000 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 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.
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Storage and Battery
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Sony a7S III
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Memory Card | SD,CFexpress Type A (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type A | |
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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 | 600 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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Photography Genre
Graded from the first-hand experience of one of our writers |
Sony a1
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Sony a7S III
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Beginner Friendly | 
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Portrait | 
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Landscape | 
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Sports and Action | 
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Street | 
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Value for Money | 
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Sony a1
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Sony a7S 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.' | 25.9 bits | 23.7 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 | 13.9 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 | 2520 |
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Scores
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Sony a1
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Sony a7S III
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Alternatives to the Sony a1 and a7S III
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 a7S III:
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User Scores
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Sony a1
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Sony a7S III
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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