Sony a7S III vs Sony FX3 Comparison
Sony a7S III
Sony FX3
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Brand | Sony | Ricoh | |
Model | a7S III | FX3 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2020 | 2021 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | July 28, 2020 | February 23, 2021 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
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.
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Optics
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Sony a7S III
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Sony FX3
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 12.1 MP | 12.1 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 | 4240 × 2832 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 | 35.6 x 23.8 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 E | |
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 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. |  3:2 | 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 | 80 | |
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 | 102,400 | |
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 | 40 | |
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 | 409600 | |
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. | 759 | 627 | |
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 | None | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 9,440,000 dots | N/A |
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.
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Video
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Sony a7S III
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Sony FX3
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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 | 120 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 | MPEG-4, MOV, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-1 |
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.
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Features
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Sony a7S III
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Sony FX3
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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 | TFT 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 | 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 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.
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Storage and Battery
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Sony a7S III
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Sony FX3
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type A | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type A | |
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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 | 600 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Sony a7S III
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Sony FX3
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | N/A | ||
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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 | N/A | |
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 | N/A | |
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 | N/A |
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Scores
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Sony a7S III
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Sony FX3
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Alternatives to the Sony a7S III and Sony FX3
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:
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User Scores
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Sony a7S III
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Sony FX3
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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