Sony a7 III vs a9 Comparison
Sony a7 III
Sony a9
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a7 III | a9 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2018 | 2017 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 27, 2018 | April 19, 2017 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 III and Sony a9 both scored highly in our evaluation, making them excellent mirrorless cameras. Both cameras were announced in 2017-2018 and share similar dimensions, with the a7 III measuring 127 x 96 x 74mm and the a9 at 127 x 96 x 63mm. They also have comparable weights, with the a7 III weighing 650g and the a9 at 673g. The a9 boasts a slightly slimmer design, which could be an advantage for some users.
Taking these factors into account, both cameras offer excellent performance, but the a7 III may be the better choice for those on a budget. Meanwhile, the a9’s slimmer design might appeal to those who prioritize portability.
Sony a7 III vs a9 Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 III and the Sony a9 have identical scores for optics, both receiving an 81/100. This similarity is reflected in their shared specifications. Both cameras have 24.2 megapixels, CMOS sensor types, Bionz X processors, full-frame sensor sizes, Sony FE lens mounts, and image stabilization. Despite these commonalities, there are differences that set them apart.
The Sony a9 has a faster shooting speed of 20 frames per second, compared to the a7 III’s 10 frames per second. This advantage allows the a9 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the a9’s sensor has a lower DXOMARK score of 92, compared to the a7 III’s score of 96. The lower DXOMARK score indicates that the a9’s sensor is not as efficient at capturing image details as the a7 III’s sensor.
Conversely, the Sony a7 III has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, which means it can capture better image quality and details than the a9. However, its slower shooting speed of 10 frames per second may not be suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Considering these differences, the Sony a9 is better suited for photographers who prioritize capturing fast-moving subjects, while the Sony a7 III is more appropriate for photographers who value image quality and detail. Despite their identical optics scores, these cameras cater to different needs and preferences.
|
Optics
|
Sony a7 III
|
Sony a9
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 24.2 MP | |
|---|---|---|---|
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 | 6000 x 4000 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. | 23.8 x 35.6 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. | 10 fps | 20 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. | 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. | 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. | 51,200 | 51,200 | |
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. | 204800 | 204800 | |
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. | 693 | 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 | 2,359,296 dots | 3,686,400 dots |
Sony a7 III vs a9 Video Performance
The Sony a7 III and the Sony a9 are similar in terms of video capabilities, but the a7 III takes the lead. They share several video specifications, making them equally competitive in this aspect.
Both cameras offer a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160, ensuring high-quality video output. Additionally, they both have a maximum video frame rate of 30fps, which is sufficient for capturing smooth motion in video recordings. Only the a7 III has built-in time-lapse functionality.
|
Video
|
Sony a7 III
|
Sony a9
|
|
|
|
|
||
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. |  4K | 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. | 3840 x 2160 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. | 30 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, AVCHD | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Sony a7 III vs a9 Features and Benefits
The Sony a9 slightly outperforms the Sony a7 III in features, scoring 83/100 compared to the a7 III’s 81/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screen, GPS absence, and WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Sony a9 surpasses the a7 III in screen resolution, boasting 1,440,000 dots compared to the a7 III’s 921,600 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and more detailed image preview and playback experience for photographers.
On the other hand, the Sony a7 III does not have any features that make it superior to the Sony a9. However, it is worth mentioning that the a7 III comes close to the a9’s performance, with only a 2-point difference in feature score. This similarity indicates that the a7 III is still a competitive camera, offering most of the essential features that the a9 provides.
Considering these points, the Sony a9 is the better camera in terms of features. Its higher screen resolution offers an improved image preview experience, making it the more appealing option for photographers who prioritize this aspect. However, the Sony a7 III is not far behind, and its near-identical performance should not be overlooked. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, with the a9 being the top choice for those who value screen resolution above all.
|
Features
|
Sony a7 III
|
Sony a9
|
|
|
|
|
||
Built-in 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 | 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. | 921,600 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 III vs a9 Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Sony a9 in storage and battery with a score of 81 compared to 65. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. However, the a7 III also supports Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards, while the a9 is only UHS-II compatible.
The a7 III’s battery life is superior at 750 shots, 100 more than the a9’s 650 shots. Both cameras use the NP-FZ100 battery type and do not have USB charging. The longer battery life of the a7 III offers an advantage for extended shooting sessions.
The a9 does not provide any notable advantages in storage and battery when compared to the a7 III. Therefore, the a7 III is the better choice for those prioritizing storage and battery performance.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Sony a7 III
|
Sony a9
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
|---|---|---|---|
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. | 750 shots | 650 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Sony a7 III
|
Sony a9
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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.' | 25.1 bits | 24.9 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.' | 14.7 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' | 3722 | 3517 |
|
Scores
|
Sony a7 III
|
Sony a9
|
|
Main Features | N/A | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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 III and a9
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 a9:
|
User Scores
|
Sony a7 III
|
Sony a9
|
|
B&H photo video | N/A |
|---|