Sony a7S III vs a7C Comparison
Sony a7S III
Sony a7C
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a7S III | a7C | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2020 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 28, 2020 | November 01, 2020 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
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Camera Weight |
The Sony a7C emerges as the winner with a score of 78/100, while the Sony a7S III scores 74/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2020. They share similarities in their camera type and release year.
The Sony a7C has a smaller size (124 x 71 x 60mm) and is lighter (509g) compared to the Sony a7S III (129 x 97 x 81mm, 699g), making it more portable. Additionally, the a7C has a lower launch price of $1799 compared to the a7S III’s $3499.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S III has a better overall performance and advanced features, justifying its higher price.
Considering the specifications and scores, the Sony a7C is the better option for those prioritizing portability and affordability, while the Sony a7S III is suitable for users seeking higher performance and advanced features.
Sony a7S III vs a7C Overview and Optics
The Sony a7C outperforms the Sony a7S III in optics with a score of 80/100 compared to the a7S III’s 69/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a full-frame CMOS sensor, Sony FE lens mount, and built-in image stabilization. They also have the same shooting speed of 10 frames per second.
The a7C’s superiority in optics is due to its higher resolution 24.2-megapixel sensor, which enables the camera to capture more detail and produce better image quality. Additionally, the a7C has a higher DXOMARK score of 95 for its sensor, indicating better overall performance in areas such as dynamic range, color depth, and low light capabilities.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S III has a 12.1-megapixel sensor, which may seem inferior but offers advantages in specific situations. The lower resolution allows for larger pixels on the sensor, resulting in better low light performance and reduced noise in images. Furthermore, the a7S III features the more advanced Bionz XR processor, which provides faster image processing and better overall performance.
While the Sony a7C is the clear winner in optics, the Sony a7S III has its strengths and may be more suitable for certain users. The a7C’s higher resolution and better sensor performance make it an excellent choice for photographers seeking superior image quality. However, the a7S III’s lower resolution and advanced processor might be more appealing to those who prioritize low light performance and fast image processing.
Both cameras have their advantages and cater to different needs, making them suitable choices depending on individual preferences and requirements.
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Optics
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Sony a7C
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 12.1 MP | 24.2 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. | 4240 x 2832 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 | 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 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 XR | 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. | 80 | 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. | 102,400 | 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. | 40 | 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. | 409600 | 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/ 4000 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. | 759 | 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 | 9,440,000 dots | 2,360,000 dots |
Sony a7S III vs a7C Video Performance
The Sony a7S III emerges as the winner in this comparison, scoring 77/100 in video capabilities, while the Sony a7C scores 70/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 4K and video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, there are notable differences in their video features that contribute to the difference in scores.
The Sony a7S III outperforms the a7C in terms of maximum video frame rate, offering 120fps compared to the a7C’s 30fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, making the a7S III a better choice for videographers who require this functionality. Additionally, the a7S III provides better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range, which contributes to its higher video score.
On the other hand, the Sony a7C has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a7S III lacks. This feature enables users to create time-lapse videos without the need for external software or equipment, giving the a7C an advantage in this area.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony a7S III is the superior choice for those who prioritize high-quality video performance, particularly in terms of frame rate and low-light capabilities. However, the Sony a7C may be more appealing to those who value the convenience of built-in time-lapse functionality. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific video requirements and preferences of the user.
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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. |  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. | 120 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 HS | XAVC S |
Sony a7S III vs a7C Features and Benefits
The Sony a7S III wins the features comparison with a score of 83/100, while the Sony a7C scores 81/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a 3-inch screen, touchscreen functionality, flip screen, GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth capabilities.
The Sony a7S III outperforms the a7C with its screen resolution, offering 1,440,000 dots compared to the a7C’s 921,600 dots. This higher resolution provides clearer and sharper image previews, allowing for more precise focusing and framing. This advantage makes the a7S III a better choice for photographers who prioritize image quality and accurate composition.
Despite the lower score, the Sony a7C has its own benefits. While it may not be superior in any specific feature, the a7C’s overall performance is still impressive. Its slightly lower score does not detract from the camera’s quality, and it remains a reliable option for photographers looking for a compact and versatile camera. Additionally, the a7C may be more affordable than the a7S III, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
Considering the points above, the Sony a7S III is the better camera in terms of features, particularly due to its higher screen resolution. However, the Sony a7C is still a strong contender, offering similar specifications and a more affordable price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as image quality, features, and budget.
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Features
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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. | 1,440,000 dots | 921,600 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 a7S III vs a7C Storage and Battery
The Sony a7S III outperforms the Sony a7C in storage and battery with a score of 76/100, while the a7C scores 45/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC (UHS-II compatible) memory cards and use the NP-FZ100 battery type. Additionally, both cameras offer USB charging capabilities.
The a7S III surpasses the a7C with its dual memory card slots, which accept both SD cards and CFexpress Type A cards. This feature provides greater storage flexibility and faster write speeds, making it more suitable for professional use.
On the other hand, the a7C has a longer battery life, offering 740 shots compared to the a7S III’s 600 shots. This advantage may appeal to those who prioritize extended shooting sessions without frequently changing batteries.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7S III proves to be a better choice for professionals who require versatile storage options and faster performance. However, the Sony a7C may be more suitable for casual users who value longer battery life.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type A | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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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. | 600 shots | 740 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.' | 23.7 bits | 25 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.' | 13.9 EVs | 14.7 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' | 2520 | 3407 |
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Scores
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Alternatives to the Sony a7S III and a7C
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a7S III or the Sony a7C:
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User Scores
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Sony a7S III
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Sony a7C
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B&H photo video |
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