Sony a7 II vs a7S II Comparison
Sony a7 II
Sony a7S II
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a7 II | a7S II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | November 20, 2014 | September 11, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 II emerges as the winner with a score of 68/100, while the Sony a7S II trails behind at 60/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share the same dimensions of 127 x 96 x 60mm. They were released close to each other, with the a7 II launching in 2014 and the a7S II in 2015.
The Sony a7 II has an advantage in terms of price and weight. It was launched at $1600, and weighs 599g (1.32lbs), making it more affordable and lighter than the a7S II, which was introduced at $3000 and weighs 627g (1.38lbs).
The Sony a7S II, despite its lower score, might appeal to some users due to its more recent release date. This could indicate potential improvements or additional features not present in the a7 II.
Taking these points into consideration, the Sony a7 II is the better choice for those seeking a lighter and more affordable camera, while the a7S II could be suitable for users looking for a more recent model.
Sony a7 II vs a7S II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 II outperforms the Sony a7S II in optics with a score of 78/100 compared to 66/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a shooting speed of 5 frames per second, a CMOS sensor, a Bionz X processor, full frame sensor size, Sony lens mounts, and image stabilization.
The Sony a7 II’s superiority in optics is primarily due to its higher megapixel count of 24.2 compared to the Sony a7S II’s 12.2. This difference allows the a7 II to capture more detailed images, making it more suitable for photography enthusiasts who prioritize image quality. Additionally, the a7 II has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor at 90, compared to the a7S II’s score of 85. This further indicates that the a7 II has a better overall sensor performance, which contributes to its higher optics score.
However, the Sony a7S II has its advantages as well. With its lower megapixel count, the camera is more adept at handling low light situations and producing less noise in images. This makes the a7S II a better option for those who frequently shoot in low light or prioritize video recording, where higher megapixel counts are less critical.
Taking all of these factors into consideration, the Sony a7 II is the better choice for those who prioritize image quality and detail in their photography, thanks to its higher megapixel count and better overall sensor performance. On the other hand, the Sony a7S II is more suitable for low light shooters and videographers, as its lower megapixel sensor allows for better low light performance and less image noise.
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Optics
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.3 MP | 12.2 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 | 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. | 23.9 x 35.8 mm | 23.8 x 35.8 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. | 5 fps | 5 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 | 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 | 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 | 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/ 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 | 169 | |
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 | 2,359,296 dots |
Sony a7 II vs a7S II Video Performance
The Sony a7S II wins the video capabilities comparison with a score of 86/100, while the Sony a7 II scores 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as lacking built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Sony a7S II outperforms the a7 II in terms of video resolution and dimensions. It offers 4K video resolution (3840 x 2160) compared to the a7 II’s Full HD (1920 x 1080). This means that the a7S II delivers a significantly higher level of detail and clarity in video recording, making it ideal for professional use and high-quality content creation.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 II has a higher maximum video frame rate at 60fps, compared to the a7S II’s 30fps. This allows the a7 II to capture smoother video footage, especially when recording fast-moving subjects or action scenes. However, this advantage comes at the cost of lower video resolution and dimensions.
In terms of video performance, the Sony a7S II is the clear winner due to its superior video resolution and dimensions, making it a better choice for professional videographers and content creators. The Sony a7 II, with its higher frame rate, may be suitable for those who prioritize smooth video footage over resolution, but its overall video capabilities are less impressive than the a7S II.
Thus, the Sony a7S II is the better option for users who demand high-quality video performance, while the Sony a7 II might be more suitable for casual users or those who prioritize smoothness in their video recordings.
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Video
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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 | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
Sony a7 II vs a7S II Features and Benefits
The comparison between the Sony a7 II and the Sony a7S II reveals a tie in feature scores, with both cameras scoring 57/100. Despite the identical scores, there are some differences and advantages for each camera.
Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, flip screen, and lack of touchscreen functionality. Additionally, neither camera has GPS, but both offer WIFI connectivity. Bluetooth, however, is absent in both models.
The Sony a7 II holds a slight advantage in screen resolution, boasting 1,230,000 dots compared to the a7S II’s 1,228,800 dots. This minor difference in resolution could result in marginally clearer image previews and menu navigation.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S II is known for its superior low-light performance and higher video recording capabilities, making it a better choice for videographers and photographers working in challenging lighting conditions. While these aspects are not directly reflected in the feature score, they contribute to the overall quality of the camera.
Taking these factors into account, it is evident that the Sony a7 II’s slightly higher screen resolution is a minor advantage, while the a7S II’s superior low-light performance and video capabilities offer more significant benefits. The choice between the two cameras depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences. If low-light performance and video capabilities are a priority, the Sony a7S II is the better option. However, for those who value screen resolution and are less concerned with low-light capabilities, the Sony a7 II may be the more suitable choice.
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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 | 1,228,800 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 a7S II Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 II and the Sony a7S II have the same storage and battery score of 21/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards. They also use the same NP-FW50 battery type and do not offer USB charging.
The a7S II slightly outperforms the a7 II in battery life, providing 370 shots compared to the a7 II’s 350 shots. This difference may benefit those who require longer shooting sessions without changing batteries.
However, the a7 II does not have any advantages over the a7S II in terms of storage and battery. Since both cameras have identical scores and similar specifications, neither camera stands out as a clear winner in this category. Users can expect similar storage and battery performance from both the Sony a7 II and the Sony a7S II.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FW50 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 350 shots | 370 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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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 | 23.6 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 | 13.3 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 | 2993 |
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Scores
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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 |
Alternatives to the Sony a7 II and a7S II
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 a7S II:
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User Scores
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Sony a7 II
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B&H photo video |
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