CameraReview

Sony a7 III vs Sony a7S — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Sony a7 III
Sony
Sony a7 III
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
81
SCORE
$1,419
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Sony a7S
Sony
Sony a7S
Mirrorless · 12.2 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
55
SCORE
$613
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Best Price →
General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20182014
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
27/02/201806/04/2014
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 127 x 96 x 74 mm127 x 94 x 48 mm
Camera weight 650 g489 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05012.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40004240 x 2832
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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.
23.8 x 35.623.8 x 35.6
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
10 fps0455 fps045
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 FESony FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XBionz 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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
5120030032800001024003003280000
Min 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.
50302005030200
Max 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.
20480030032800004096003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
800080032000800080032000
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.
6930300250300
In-body stabilisation
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 235929609900000240000009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4KFull HD
Max video format
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.
3840 x 21601920 x 1080
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.
30 fps60 fps
Timelapse 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, AVCHDXAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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 LCDLCD
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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
92160011500015000009210001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG DuoSD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FZ100NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
750 shots1505000380 shots1505000
USB charging

Sony a7 III vs a7S Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Sony a7S in optics, scoring 81/100 compared to the a7S’s 60/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, and Sony FE lens mount. However, the a7 III proves to be the superior camera in various aspects.

The a7 III boasts 24.2 megapixels, resulting in higher-resolution images compared to the a7S’s 12.2 megapixels. Additionally, the a7 III has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, coming in at 96 against the a7S’s 87, which indicates better overall image quality. The a7 III also features a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, doubling the a7S’s 5 frames per second. This allows for capturing fast-moving subjects with ease. Furthermore, the a7 III has image stabilization, providing steadier shots and reduced camera shake, which the a7S lacks.

On the other hand, the a7S has its advantages in specific scenarios. Its lower megapixel count can be beneficial for low-light photography, as it allows for larger individual pixels that capture more light. Consequently, the a7S may produce better image quality in low-light conditions.

Given these differences, the Sony a7 III emerges as the superior camera in terms of optics. Its higher resolution, better sensor performance, faster shooting speed, and image stabilization make it a more versatile and capable camera. While the a7S may have an edge in low-light situations, the a7 III’s overall performance and features make it the clear winner in this comparison.

Sony a7 III vs a7S Video Performance

The Sony a7 III and the Sony a7S both have a video score of 56/100, making them equal in terms of overall video capabilities. They share some common specifications, such as not having built-in time-lapse functionality.

However, the Sony a7 III has an advantage in video resolution, as it can record 4K video with dimensions of 3840 x 2160 pixels, while the Sony a7S has a maximum video resolution of Full HD with dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This means that the a7 III can capture more detail and provide higher quality video footage compared to the a7S.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S has a higher maximum video frame rate of 60fps, compared to the a7 III’s 30fps. This allows the a7S to record smoother video, especially when capturing fast-moving subjects or in slow-motion playback. This feature might be beneficial for specific video applications, such as sports or action videography.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony a7 III stands out for its superior video resolution, making it a better choice for those who prioritize video quality and detail. The Sony a7S, with its higher frame rate, may be more suitable for users who need smoother video capture for specific purposes. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s preferences and intended use.

Sony a7 III vs a7S Features and Benefits

The Sony a7 III is the winner in the features comparison, with a score of 81/100, while the Sony a7S scores 54/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, flip screen, no GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the a7 III outperforms the a7S in several aspects.

The Sony a7 III has a slightly higher screen resolution at 921,600 dots, compared to the a7S’s 921,000 dots. This difference provides a slightly clearer and more detailed image preview on the a7 III. Additionally, the a7 III has a touchscreen, making it easier and more convenient for users to navigate through menus and settings. The a7 III also features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless connection to compatible devices for easy file transfers and remote control.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S does not have a touchscreen or Bluetooth connectivity, putting it at a disadvantage in terms of user experience and convenience. However, the a7S still maintains a solid set of features with its flip screen and WIFI capabilities.

Considering these points, the Sony a7 III is the better camera in terms of features, as it offers a higher screen resolution, touchscreen functionality, and Bluetooth connectivity. These enhancements improve the user experience and provide more convenience for photographers and videographers. Although the Sony a7S lacks these additional features, it remains a capable camera with its flip screen and WIFI capabilities. In comparing the two cameras, the Sony a7 III stands out as the superior choice for those prioritizing advanced features and ease of use.

Sony a7 III vs a7S Storage and Battery

The Sony a7 III outperforms the Sony a7S in storage and battery, scoring 68/100 compared to the a7S’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo memory cards. However, the a7 III has two memory card slots, while the a7S has only one. This gives the a7 III a significant advantage in storage capacity and versatility.

In terms of battery life, the a7 III lasts for 750 shots, using the NP-FZ100 battery type. On the other hand, the a7S provides 380 shots with its NP-FW50 battery. Neither camera offers USB charging. The a7 III’s superior battery life ensures extended shooting time, making it more convenient for photographers.

The only advantage of the a7S is its lower weight, but this does not compensate for its inferior storage and battery performance. Therefore, the Sony a7 III is the clear winner in this category, offering greater storage capacity and longer battery life for a more efficient photography experience.

Sony a7 III vs a7S – Our Verdict

Sony a7 III vs a7S Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a7 III or the Sony a7S: