CameraReview

Sony a7 IV vs Sony a9 II — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Sony a7 IV
Sony
Sony a7 IV
Mirrorless · 33 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
84
SCORE
$1,998
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Sony a9 II
Sony
Sony a9 II
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
82
SCORE
$3,429.40
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Best Price →
General
Brand SonySony
Model a7 IVa9 II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20212019
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
21/10/202103/10/2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 131 x 96 x 80 mm129 x 96 x 76 mm
Camera weight 659 g678 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
33 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
7008 x 46726000 x 4000
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 fps04520 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 ESony FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XRBionz 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.
512003003280000512003003280000
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.
20440030032800002048003003280000
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.
8000800320003200080032000
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.
75903006930300
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 368640009900000368640009900000
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.
4K4K
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 21603840 x 2160
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 fps30 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.
MPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265XAVC S, AVCHD
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.
1040000115000150000014400001150001500000
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 CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FZ100NP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
580 shots1505000690 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7 IV emerges as the winner with a score of 84/100, while the Sony a9 II trails closely behind with 82/100. Both cameras are mirrorless, launched in 2021 and 2019 respectively, and share similar dimensions. The a7 IV measures 131 x 96 x 80mm and weighs 659g, while the a9 II measures 129 x 96 x 76mm and weighs 678g.

The a7 IV outperforms the a9 II with a lower launch price of $2499 compared to the a9 II’s $4500. This makes the a7 IV a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. On the other hand, the a9 II’s slightly smaller size and marginally higher score indicate that it may offer some advantages in terms of portability and performance.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 IV is a better choice for those seeking a high-quality camera at a more affordable price, while the Sony a9 II may appeal to photographers prioritizing portability and performance.

Sony a7 IV vs a9 II Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 IV is the winner in optics, with a score of 85/100, compared to the Sony a9 II’s score of 82/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, full-frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization. However, the Sony a7 IV has some advantages that contribute to its higher score.

The Sony a7 IV boasts a higher megapixel count at 33, compared to the Sony a9 II’s 24.2 megapixels. This results in a more detailed and sharper image quality, which is particularly beneficial for large prints or heavy cropping. The a7 IV also has a superior processor, the Bionz XR, which enhances image processing speed and performance. Furthermore, the a7 IV has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 97, indicating better overall image quality compared to the a9 II’s score of 93.

On the other hand, the Sony a9 II has a faster shooting speed at 20 frames per second, compared to the a7 IV’s 10 frames per second. This makes the a9 II more suitable for action and sports photography, where capturing fast-moving subjects is crucial.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony a7 IV is the better camera in terms of optics due to its higher megapixel count, superior processor, and better DXOMARK sensor score. However, the Sony a9 II still has its merits, particularly for photographers who prioritize shooting speed. Both cameras offer excellent performance, but the Sony a7 IV edges out the a9 II in the optics department.

Sony a7 IV vs a9 II Video Performance

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Sony a9 II in video capabilities, scoring 91/100 compared to the a9 II’s 70/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a valuable feature for creating dynamic and engaging videos.

The Sony a7 IV boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, while the Sony a9 II only reaches 30fps. This advantage allows the a7 IV to capture smoother, more detailed slow-motion footage, making it a more versatile option for videographers who require varied shooting capabilities. The a7 IV’s higher score reflects its superior performance in this area.

On the other hand, the Sony a9 II does not have any notable video advantages over the a7 IV. With a lower maximum video frame rate and no additional features to differentiate it from the a7 IV, the a9 II’s lower score is justified. The camera’s video performance is not poor, but it does not excel in any specific aspect when compared to the a7 IV.

Considering the differences in video capabilities, the Sony a7 IV is the clear winner. Its higher maximum video frame rate enables more creative and flexible shooting options, while the a9 II does not offer any unique video features to compete with the a7 IV. For those prioritizing video performance, the Sony a7 IV is the superior choice.

Sony a7 IV vs a9 II Features and Benefits

The Sony a7 IV and Sony a9 II both have a feature score of 83/100, making them evenly matched in terms of features. They share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen, touchscreen capability, flip screen, and lack of GPS. Both cameras also have WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Sony a9 II has a superior screen resolution of 1,440,000 dots compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 1,040,000 dots. This higher resolution provides a clearer and more detailed display, enhancing the user’s experience when reviewing images or composing shots. This is the key advantage of the Sony a9 II over the Sony a7 IV.

However, the Sony a7 IV does not present any significant advantages over the Sony a9 II in terms of features. Both cameras offer a similar set of capabilities, making them suitable for various photography and videography needs.

Based on these comparisons, the Sony a9 II stands out due to its higher screen resolution. This advantage makes it a better choice for those who prioritize image quality and display clarity. On the other hand, the Sony a7 IV offers no unique benefits over the Sony a9 II, making it a less compelling option.

While both cameras have strong feature sets, the Sony a9 II’s superior screen resolution gives it a slight edge over the Sony a7 IV. Users should consider their individual preferences and requirements when choosing between these two high-performing cameras.

Sony a7 IV vs a9 II Storage and Battery

The Sony a9 II edges out the Sony a7 IV in storage and battery, scoring 79/100 compared to the Sony a7 IV’s 76/100. Both cameras share similarities in this category, including two memory card slots, NP-FZ100 battery type, and USB charging capabilities.

The a9 II outperforms the a7 IV in battery life, offering 690 shots per charge compared to the a7 IV’s 580 shots. This advantage allows users to capture more images without worrying about recharging or changing batteries as often. In contrast, the a7 IV accepts both CFexpress Type A and SD (UHS-II compatible) memory cards, providing more versatility in storage options compared to the a9 II, which only accepts SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) cards.

Despite the a7 IV’s storage flexibility, the a9 II’s superior battery life makes it the better choice for photographers who prioritize longer shooting sessions. However, the a7 IV remains a strong contender for those seeking more storage options in their camera.

Sony a7 IV vs a9 II – Our Verdict

Sony a7 IV vs a9 II 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 IV or the Sony a9 II: