CameraReview

Sony a7C vs Sony a7R II — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Sony a7C
Sony
Sony a7C
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
78
SCORE
$1,598
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Sony a7R II
Sony
Sony a7R II
Mirrorless · 42.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
70
SCORE
$1,013.44
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General
Brand SonySony
Model a7Ca7R II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
01/11/202010/06/2015
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 124 x 71 x 60 mm127 x 96 x 60 mm
Camera weight 509 g625 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05042.4 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40007952 x 5304
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 35.624 x 35.9
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 fps0455 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 FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XBionz 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.
512003003280000256003003280000
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.
20480030032800001024003003280000
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.
400080032000800080032000
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.
69303003990300
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 236000009900000235929609900000
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.
30 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.
XAVC SXAVCS, AVCHD, MP4
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.
921600115000150000012288001150001500000
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)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FZ100NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
740 shots1505000290 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7C outperforms the Sony a7R II with a score of 78/100 compared to 70/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the a7C being slightly smaller at 124 x 71 x 60mm and lighter at 509g. The a7R II, released in 2015, is larger at 127 x 96 x 60mm and weighs 625g.

The a7C’s higher score highlights its advantages over the a7R II. Launched in 2020 with a price of $1,799, it offers a more modern and affordable option. Its compact size and lighter weight make it more convenient for users.

On the other hand, the a7R II, priced at $3,198 upon release, might still appeal to some photographers due to its specific features and capabilities. However, it is essential to consider the price difference and the fact that it is an older model.

Taking all these factors into account, the Sony a7C is the better choice for most users, offering a superior combination of performance, size, and affordability.

Sony a7C vs a7R II Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R II wins in the optics comparison with a score of 81/100, while the Sony a7C scores 80/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization. However, there are differences that make each camera stand out in its own way.

The Sony a7R II has a higher megapixel count at 42.4, compared to the 24.2 megapixels of the a7C. This results in the a7R II capturing more detail and producing higher resolution images. Additionally, the a7R II has a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 98, compared to the 95 of the a7C, indicating a better overall image quality and performance.

On the other hand, the Sony a7C has a faster shooting speed of 10 frames per second, while the a7R II has a shooting speed of 5 frames per second. This allows the a7C to capture fast-moving subjects and action shots more effectively than the a7R II.

In terms of optics, the Sony a7R II is the better choice for photographers seeking higher resolution and image quality. The higher megapixel count and DXOMARK score make it an excellent option for professional and enthusiast photographers who require detailed and high-quality images.

However, the Sony a7C is more suitable for those who prioritize speed and capturing fast-moving subjects. The faster shooting speed makes it an ideal choice for sports and wildlife photography, where quick reactions and short capture times are crucial.

Therefore, the choice between the Sony a7C and the Sony a7R II depends on individual preferences and requirements, with the a7R II being the winner in terms of image quality and resolution, and the a7C excelling in speed and action photography.

Sony a7C vs a7R II Video Performance

The Sony a7C outperforms the Sony a7R II in video capabilities, scoring 70 out of 100, while the a7R II scores 56. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as having a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, they both offer a maximum video frame rate of 30fps.

The Sony a7C has an advantage over the a7R II with its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional equipment or software. This added convenience makes the a7C a more versatile option for videographers.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R II does not offer any significant advantages in terms of video capabilities when compared to the a7C. Both cameras have the same video resolution, dimensions, and frame rate, making the a7R II a less appealing choice for those primarily focused on video features.

Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony a7C is the superior camera for videographers due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. The a7R II, while still offering 4K resolution and a 30fps frame rate, falls short in comparison due to its lack of time-lapse capabilities. For those prioritizing video features, the Sony a7C is the better choice between these two cameras.

Sony a7C vs a7R II Features and Benefits

The Sony a7C outperforms the Sony a7R II in features with a score of 81/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras share some specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, flip screen, no GPS, and WIFI connectivity. However, the a7C has additional advantages that contribute to its higher score.

The a7C is superior in terms of user experience, offering a touchscreen for easier navigation and control. Additionally, it includes Bluetooth connectivity, making it more versatile for transferring files and controlling the camera remotely. These added features make the a7C more user-friendly and efficient for photographers.

On the other hand, the a7R II does have a higher screen resolution of 1,228,800 dots, compared to the a7C’s 921,600 dots. This provides a clearer and more detailed image on the camera’s screen. However, this advantage is not enough to outweigh the benefits offered by the a7C.

While the a7R II does have a higher screen resolution, the a7C’s touchscreen and Bluetooth capabilities make it a more appealing option for photographers who value convenience and ease of use. The a7C’s higher feature score reflects its superiority in these aspects, making it the better camera in terms of features.

In comparing the Sony a7C and a7R II, it is clear that the a7C offers a more advanced and user-friendly experience. The a7R II’s higher screen resolution is a minor advantage, but it cannot compete with the a7C’s touchscreen and Bluetooth capabilities. Ultimately, the Sony a7C is the better choice for photographers seeking a camera with more advanced features.

Sony a7C vs a7R II Storage and Battery

The Sony a7C outperforms the Sony a7R II in storage and battery with a score of 45/100, a 29-point difference from the a7R II’s 16/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. However, the a7C is UHS-II compatible, while the a7R II also accepts Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards.

The a7C’s superior performance is evident in its battery life, offering 740 shots compared to the a7R II’s 290 shots. The a7C uses the NP-FZ100 battery, while the a7R II relies on the NP-FW50 battery. Additionally, the a7C has USB charging capability, which the a7R II lacks.

The a7R II does not hold any advantages over the a7C in storage and battery. The a7C’s longer battery life and USB charging make it the better choice for extended shooting sessions and more convenient charging options. The a7R II’s additional memory card compatibility does not significantly impact its performance compared to the a7C. Therefore, the Sony a7C is the clear winner in storage and battery performance.

Sony a7C vs a7R II – Our Verdict

Sony a7C vs a7R 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 a7C or the Sony a7R II: