CameraReview

Sony a7S III vs Sony FX3 — Which Is Better?

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

Sony a7S III
Sony
Sony a7S III
Mirrorless · 12.1 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
74
SCORE
$3,399.76
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✓ WINNER
Sony FX3
Ricoh
Sony FX3
Mirrorless · 12.1 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
75
SCORE
$4,198
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General
Brand SonyRicoh
Model a7S IIIFX3
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202021
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
28/07/202023/02/2021
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 129 x 97 x 81 mm129.7 x 77.8 x 84.5 mm
Camera weight 699 g640 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.1 MP05012.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4240 x 28324240 × 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 35.635.6 x 23.8
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 fps04510 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 E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XRBionz XR
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.
80302008030200
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.
10240030032800001024003003280000
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.
40302004030200
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.
40960030032800004096003003280000
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.
75903006270300
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.
ElectronicNone
Viewfinder dots 944000009900000N/A
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 fps120 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, XAVC HSMPEG-4, MOV, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-1
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 LCDTFT 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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1440000115000150000014400001150001500000
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 (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type ASD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type A
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.
600 shots1505000600 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony FX3 takes the lead with a score of 75/100, slightly outperforming the Sony a7S III, which scores 74/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2020 and 2021, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the a7S III measuring 129 x 97 x 81mm and the FX3 at 129.7 x 77.8 x 84.5mm.

The FX3 has an advantage due to its lighter weight of 640g compared to the a7S III’s 699g. However, the a7S III is more affordable with a launch price of $3499, while the FX3 costs $3900.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony FX3 earns its higher score with a more compact and lighter design, making it a better option for those prioritizing portability. On the other hand, the Sony a7S III offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing much in terms of performance.

Sony a7S III vs Sony FX3 Overview and Optics

The Sony FX3 wins in the optics comparison with a score of 71/100, while the Sony a7S III scores slightly lower at 69/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as 12.1 megapixels, 10 fps shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, Bionz XR processor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization.

The FX3’s advantage lies in its DXOMARK sensor score of 94, compared to the a7S III’s score of 86. This means the FX3 provides better image quality and low-light performance. Additionally, the FX3 has a Sony E lens mount, which offers a wider range of lenses compared to the Sony FE mount on the a7S III. This versatility allows the FX3 to adapt to various shooting scenarios more easily.

Despite its lower score, the a7S III still has its merits. It features a Sony FE lens mount, which is specifically designed for full-frame cameras. This means that the lenses used on the a7S III are optimized for its sensor size, potentially providing better image quality in certain situations. However, the difference in lens mount is not a major drawback, as both cameras are compatible with a wide array of lenses.

In comparing the optics of the Sony a7S III and the Sony FX3, the FX3 takes the lead due to its higher DXOMARK sensor score and lens mount versatility. However, the a7S III remains a strong contender with its full-frame optimized lens mount. Both cameras are equipped with impressive specifications, making them suitable for various photography and videography needs.

Sony a7S III vs Sony FX3 Video Performance

The Sony FX3 outperforms the Sony a7S III in video capabilities, boasting a higher video score of 91/100 compared to the a7S III’s 77/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution, 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions, and a max video frame rate of 120fps. However, the FX3 surpasses the a7S III in certain aspects, making it the superior choice for videographers.

A key advantage of the Sony FX3 is its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a7S III lacks. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse footage without the need for additional equipment or software, providing greater creative flexibility and convenience.

The Sony a7S III, while trailing behind the FX3 in video capabilities, still offers high-quality video performance. Its video score of 77/100 is respectable and can meet the needs of many users. However, it does not surpass the FX3 in any specific video-related specifications.

When comparing the video capabilities of the Sony a7S III and the Sony FX3, the FX3 emerges as the clear winner. Its higher video score and built-in time-lapse functionality set it apart from the a7S III, making it a more versatile and powerful tool for videographers. While the a7S III is still a strong contender in the realm of video performance, it does not offer any unique advantages over the FX3 in this area. For those seeking the best in video capabilities, the Sony FX3 is the recommended choice.

Sony a7S III vs Sony FX3 Features and Benefits

The Sony a7S III and Sony FX3 both have a feature score of 83 out of 100, indicating that these cameras are quite similar in terms of features. They share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1,440,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen capabilities, flip screen, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras have WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

Despite their similarities, the Sony a7S III has some advantages over the Sony FX3. The a7S III is known for its exceptional low-light performance, making it an excellent choice for photographers and videographers who often work in challenging lighting conditions. It also offers more autofocus points, providing greater flexibility and precision when focusing on subjects.

On the other hand, the Sony FX3 boasts a more compact and lightweight design, making it a more portable option for those who need to travel with their camera frequently. The FX3 also features a top handle with additional mounting points and controls, which can be beneficial for videographers who require easy access to audio and other accessories.

In terms of features, both the Sony a7S III and Sony FX3 are strong contenders, with their shared specifications making them suitable for various photography and videography needs. The a7S III excels in low-light performance and autofocus capabilities, while the FX3 offers a more portable design and additional mounting options. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific requirements and preferences of the user.

Sony a7S III vs Sony FX3 Storage and Battery

The Sony a7S III and Sony FX3 have identical storage and battery scores, both achieving a 76/100. These cameras share several specifications, such as the number of memory card slots (2) and the types of memory cards accepted (SD/SDHC/SDXC – UHS-II compatible, CFexpress Type A). Additionally, both cameras utilize the same battery type (NP-FZ100) and offer USB charging.

Battery life is also the same for both cameras, with each providing 600 shots per charge. As there is no clear winner in this category, both cameras perform equally well in terms of storage and battery capabilities.

Despite the tie in this category, the Sony a7S III and Sony FX3 each offer reliable storage and battery options, making them suitable choices for various photography and videography needs. Users can expect consistent performance from either camera when considering storage and battery features.

Alternatives to the Sony a7S III and Sony FX3

Sony a7S III vs Sony FX3 Comparison image.

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 FX3: