Sony a1 vs a7R V Comparison
Sony a1
Sony a7R V
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a1 | a7R V | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2021 | 2022 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 26, 2021 | October 26, 2022 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a1 edges out the Sony a7R V with a score of 86/100 compared to 85/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless models, announced in 2021 and 2022 respectively. They have similar sizes, with the a1 measuring 129 x 97 x 81mm and the a7R V at 131 x 97 x 82mm. The a7R V is slightly lighter at 723g, while the a1 weighs 737g.
The Sony a1’s higher score reflects its superior performance and features, justifying its higher launch price of $6499 compared to the a7R V’s $3999. However, the Sony a7R V offers advantages in terms of a more recent release date and a lighter weight, making it a more budget-friendly and portable option.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a1 stands out as the more advanced camera, but the Sony a7R V remains a strong contender for those seeking a more affordable and lightweight alternative.
Sony a1 vs a7R V Overview and Optics
The Sony a1 emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 89/100, while the Sony a7R V trails behind with a score of 85/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization. These features contribute to the overall quality and performance of both cameras.
The Sony a1 outperforms the a7R V in several aspects. Its dual Bionz XR processor offers faster image processing, contributing to its impressive shooting speed of 30 frames per second (fps). The a1 also boasts a higher DXOMARK score of 98 for its sensor, indicating superior image quality. Although the a1 has fewer megapixels (50.1) compared to the a7R V’s 61 megapixels, its faster shooting speed and better sensor performance make it a more versatile and powerful choice for photographers.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R V’s advantage lies in its higher megapixel count, which allows for greater image resolution and detail. However, its shooting speed of 10 fps is significantly slower than the a1, and its DXOMARK sensor score of 94 is lower, suggesting a slight compromise in image quality. The a7R V’s single Bionz XR processor is also less efficient compared to the a1’s dual Bionz XR.
Given these comparisons, the Sony a1 stands out as the better option in terms of optics, with its faster shooting speed, superior sensor performance, and more efficient processor. The Sony a7R V, while offering higher resolution images, falls short in other areas that contribute to overall camera performance. Therefore, photographers seeking a versatile and powerful camera should opt for the Sony a1.
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Optics
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Sony a1
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Sony a7R V
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 50.1 MP | 61 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 | 9504 x 6336 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 | 35.7 x 23.8 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 | 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 | 32,000 | |
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 | 102400 | |
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 | 693 | |
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 a7R V Video Performance
The Sony a7R V outperforms the Sony a1 in video capabilities with a score of 100/100 compared to the Sony a1’s 86/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as the maximum video resolution of 8K and maximum video dimensions of 7680 x 4320. They also have the same maximum video frame rate of 120fps.
The Sony a7R V is superior due to its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony a1 lacks. This feature allows the a7R V to capture stunning time-lapse sequences without requiring additional accessories or software. The higher score of the a7R V reflects its improved video capabilities, including the time-lapse function that sets it apart from the Sony a1.
While the Sony a1 does not surpass the a7R V in video capabilities, it still offers impressive features with its 8K resolution, 120fps frame rate, and large video dimensions. The a1 is a capable camera for video recording, but the a7R V simply has more to offer in this category.
Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, the Sony a7R V is the clear winner with its perfect score and built-in time-lapse functionality. The Sony a1, although not the top choice in this comparison, remains a powerful camera for video recording with its high resolution and frame rate. Users seeking the best video features should opt for the Sony a7R V, while those who can forgo the time-lapse functionality may still find the Sony a1 to be a satisfactory option.
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Video
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Sony a1
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Sony a7R V
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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 | 8K | |
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 | 7680 x 4320 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, MOV, H.264, H.265, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I |
Sony a1 vs a7R V Features and Benefits
The Sony a7R V emerges as the winner in this comparison, scoring 87/100 in features, while the Sony a1 scores 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including touchscreen capability, flip screen functionality, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, neither camera has GPS functionality.
The Sony a7R V outperforms the Sony a1 in terms of screen size and resolution. With a 3.2-inch screen and a resolution of 2,100,000 dots, the a7R V offers a larger and sharper display than the a1’s 3-inch screen with a resolution of 1,440,000 dots. This difference provides a better viewing experience for users, making it easier to review captured images and navigate the camera’s menus.
On the other hand, the Sony a1, despite its lower feature score, may still be preferred by some users. The camera’s specifications, such as touchscreen capability, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth, are on par with the Sony a7R V. Additionally, its 83/100 feature score indicates that it is still a high-quality camera. However, it is essential to consider other aspects, such as general specifications, optics, and video performance, to determine if the a1 is the better choice for specific use cases.
In comparing the features of the Sony a1 and the Sony a7R V, the a7R V takes the lead due to its larger and higher-resolution screen. However, both cameras share many similarities, and the a1 may still be suitable for some users. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on individual preferences and requirements.
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Features
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Sony a1
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Sony a7R V
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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" |  3.2" | |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 1,440,000 dots | 2,100,000 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 a7R V Storage and Battery
The Sony a1 and Sony a7R V tie in storage and battery performance, both scoring 73/100. They share identical specs: two memory card slots, compatibility with SD, SDHC, SDXC, and CFexpress Type A cards, a battery life of 530 shots, and the use of the NP-FZ100 battery type. Both cameras also offer USB charging capabilities.
Despite the identical scores, there are slight differences. The Sony a1 has UHS-II compatibility, potentially providing faster transfer speeds. However, this advantage is minor, as both cameras support the same memory cards and formats.
In conclusion, the Sony a1 and Sony a7R V have comparable storage and battery performance. No significant differences set them apart in this category, making them equal choices for users prioritizing storage and battery life.
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Storage and Battery
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Sony a1
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Sony a7R V
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Memory Card | SD,CFexpress Type A (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, 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 | 530 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 a7R V
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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 a7R V
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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.' | 25.9 bits | N/A | |
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 | N/A | |
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 | N/A |
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Scores
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Sony a1
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Sony a7R V
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Alternatives to the Sony a1 and a7R V
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 a7R V:
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User Scores
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Sony a1
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Sony a7R V
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