Sony a7 II vs a7R IV Comparison
Sony a7 II
Sony a7R IV
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a7 II | a7R IV | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2019 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | November 20, 2014 | July 16, 2019 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7 II with a score of 84/100 compared to 68/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as being mirrorless and having similar dimensions. The a7R IV, however, is slightly larger and heavier at 129 x 96 x 78mm and 665g, while the a7 II measures 127 x 96 x 60mm and weighs 599g.
The a7R IV’s higher score highlights its superior features, such as a more recent release date (2019) and a higher launch price ($3500), indicating advanced technology and performance. On the other hand, the a7 II, released in 2014, offers a more affordable option at $1600, making it a better choice for those on a budget.
In comparing these two cameras, the Sony a7R IV stands out as a more advanced and feature-rich option, while the Sony a7 II offers affordability for those with budget constraints.
Sony a7 II vs a7R IV Overview and Optics
The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7 II in optics, with a score of 85/100 compared to 78/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, Sony lens mounts, and image stabilization. However, the a7R IV has superior features that contribute to its higher score.
The a7R IV boasts a remarkable 61.2 megapixels, significantly more than the a7 II’s 24.2 megapixels. This difference allows for greater image detail and better performance in large print photography. Additionally, the a7R IV has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, double the a7 II’s 5 frames per second. This faster speed enables the a7R IV to capture fast-moving subjects with ease. Furthermore, the a7R IV’s sensor has a DXOMARK score of 99, outshining the a7 II’s score of 90, indicating better overall image quality and low-light performance.
On the other hand, the a7 II has some advantages, such as being more affordable and lighter in weight, making it a suitable choice for those on a budget or who prioritize portability. However, these advantages do not outweigh the optical superiority of the a7R IV.
Taking all factors into account, the Sony a7R IV proves to be the better camera in terms of optics, offering higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and better sensor performance. While the Sony a7 II remains a viable option for those with budget constraints or seeking a more compact camera, those seeking top-notch optical performance should opt for the Sony a7R IV.
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Optics
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Sony a7 II
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Sony a7R IV
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.3 MP | 61.2 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 | 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. | 23.9 x 35.8 mm | 23.8 x 35.7 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. | 5 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 E | Sony FE | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Bionz X | Bionz X | |
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. | 50 | 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. | 51,200 | 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. | 51200 | 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/ 8000 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. | 117 | 425 | |
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 | 2,359,000 dots | 5,760,000 dots |
Sony a7 II vs a7R IV Video Performance
The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7 II in video capabilities, with a score of 70/100 compared to the a7 II’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, but the a7R IV has notable advantages that contribute to its higher score.
The a7R IV and a7 II both offer Full HD video recording, with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, the a7R IV takes it a step further with 4K video resolution and dimensions of 3840 x 2160, providing more detail and higher quality footage. The a7R IV’s maximum video frame rate is 30fps, whereas the a7 II can reach up to 60fps. Despite having a lower frame rate, the a7R IV’s 4K resolution compensates for this difference.
Another advantage of the a7R IV is its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a7 II lacks. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software.
The a7 II’s higher frame rate of 60fps is its only advantage over the a7R IV. This higher frame rate can be useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or creating slow-motion footage. However, the overall video quality and capabilities of the a7R IV are superior.
The Sony a7R IV’s 4K video resolution, larger video dimensions, and built-in time-lapse functionality make it the better choice for videographers and content creators. While the Sony a7 II has a higher frame rate, it falls short in other aspects of video performance. Therefore, the a7R IV is the clear winner in video capabilities.
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Video
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Sony a7 II
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Sony a7R IV
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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. |  Full HD |  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. | 1920 x 1080 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. | 60 p | 30 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. | XAVC S | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Sony a7 II vs a7R IV Features and Benefits
The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7 II in features with a score of 83/100 compared to the latter’s 57/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, flip screen, lack of GPS, and Wi-Fi connectivity. However, the a7R IV surpasses the a7 II in specific aspects, making it the superior camera in terms of features.
The a7R IV boasts a higher screen resolution of 1,440,000 dots, as opposed to the a7 II’s 1,230,000 dots, resulting in a sharper and clearer display. Furthermore, the a7R IV has a touchscreen, making navigation and control more intuitive and user-friendly. Additionally, the a7R IV includes Bluetooth connectivity, providing more options for remote control and file transfer.
While the a7 II trails behind in these features, it still offers a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity, which are useful for various shooting situations and transferring files. However, its lack of a touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity hinder its overall capabilities compared to the a7R IV.
Considering the differences in features, the Sony a7R IV is the clear winner, with a higher screen resolution, touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity. These enhancements contribute to a more seamless and efficient shooting experience. On the other hand, the Sony a7 II is a decent option for those seeking a camera with a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity, but its limitations in other features make it less competitive in comparison to the a7R IV.
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Features
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Sony a7R IV
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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. | 1,230,000 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 a7 II vs a7R IV Storage and Battery
The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7 II in storage and battery, earning a score of 79/100 compared to the a7 II’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, as well as Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo. However, the a7R IV surpasses the a7 II with two memory card slots and compatibility with UHS-II cards, offering users greater storage flexibility.
The a7R IV’s battery life of 670 shots significantly exceeds the a7 II’s 350 shots, thanks to its NP-FZ100 battery. Additionally, the a7R IV supports USB charging, providing further convenience to users. The a7 II, with its NP-FW50 battery, lacks this feature.
Considering these aspects, the Sony a7R IV is the superior camera in terms of storage and battery capabilities, while the Sony a7 II falls short in comparison. The a7R IV’s enhanced storage options and extended battery life make it a more practical choice for photographers.
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Storage and Battery
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Sony a7R IV
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FW50 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 350 shots | 670 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Sony a7 II
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Sony a7R IV
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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.' | 24.9 bits | 26 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.' | 13.6 EVs | 14.8 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' | 2449 | 3344 |
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Scores
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Sony a7 II
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Sony a7R IV
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Sony a7 II vs a7R IV – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a7 II or the Sony a7R IV:
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User Scores
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Sony a7 II
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Sony a7R IV
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B&H photo video |
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