CameraReview

Sony a7C vs Sony a7R III — Which Is Better?

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

Sony a7C
Sony
Sony a7C
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
78
SCORE
$1,598
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✓ WINNER
Sony a7R III
Sony
Sony a7R III
Mirrorless · 42.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
83
SCORE
$1,749
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General
Brand SonySony
Model a7Ca7R III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20202017
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
01/11/202025/10/2017
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 124 x 71 x 60 mm127 x 96 x 74 mm
Camera weight 509 g657 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 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 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.
512003003280000320003003280000
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.
69303004250300
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 236000009900000368640009900000
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 SXAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, 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.
921600115000150000014400001150001500000
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 (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.
740 shots1505000650 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7R III takes the lead with a score of 83/100, while the Sony a7C follows closely at 78/100. Both mirrorless cameras share similarities, such as their release years of 2020 and 2017, respectively. However, the a7R III outshines the a7C in certain aspects.

The a7R III has a higher launch price of $3200 compared to the a7C’s $1799, indicating its superior features. Additionally, the a7R III is slightly larger and heavier, measuring 127 x 96 x 74mm and weighing 657g, while the a7C measures 124 x 71 x 60mm and weighs 509g. This extra heft may contribute to a more robust build and better handling.

The a7C, on the other hand, offers a more compact and lightweight design, making it easier to carry around for longer periods. Its lower price also makes it more accessible to a wider range of photographers.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R III stands out as the better option for photographers seeking high-quality performance, while the Sony a7C is ideal for those prioritizing portability and affordability.

Sony a7C vs a7R III Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Sony a7C in optics with a score of 84/100 compared to the a7C’s 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. Despite their similarities, the a7R III emerges as the superior camera in terms of optics.

The a7R III’s advantage lies in its higher megapixel count of 42.4, compared to the a7C’s 24.2 megapixels. This results in sharper, more detailed images captured by the a7R III. Additionally, the a7R III boasts a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 100, compared to the a7C’s score of 95. This higher score reflects the a7R III’s better overall image quality and dynamic range, enabling photographers to capture more information in a single shot.

While the a7C falls short in comparison to the a7R III in terms of optics, it does match the a7R III’s shooting speed of 10 frames per second. This means both cameras can capture fast-moving subjects with equal efficiency.

Considering the points above, the Sony a7R III proves to be the better camera in terms of optics due to its higher megapixel count and DXOMARK sensor score. This makes it ideal for photographers seeking greater image quality and detail. On the other hand, the Sony a7C provides similar shooting speed performance, making it a suitable choice for those prioritizing speed over image resolution. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.

Sony a7C vs a7R III Video Performance

The Sony a7C outperforms the Sony a7R III in video capabilities, scoring 70 out of 100, while the a7R III scores 56. Both cameras share several video features, such as 4K max video resolution, 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions, and a max video frame rate of 30fps. However, there are differences that give the a7C an advantage over the a7R III.

The a7C has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which is absent in the a7R III. Time-lapse is a popular feature for videographers, as it allows the creation of stunning visuals by capturing images over an extended period and compressing them into a short video. This feature gives the a7C an edge, providing more creative options for users.

On the other hand, the a7R III does not offer any significant advantages over the a7C in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras have the same max video resolution, dimensions, and frame rate, making their performance in these aspects equal. The lack of built-in time-lapse functionality puts the a7R III at a disadvantage compared to the a7C.

The Sony a7C’s higher video score reflects its superiority in video features, specifically the built-in time-lapse functionality. This makes it a more versatile option for videographers seeking creative freedom. Meanwhile, the Sony a7R III does not provide any notable advantages in the video department, making it a less attractive choice for those prioritizing video capabilities.

Sony a7C vs a7R III Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R III wins the feature comparison with a score of 83/100, while the Sony a7C scores 81/100. Both cameras have a 3-inch screen, touchscreen capabilities, a flip screen, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth. However, there are some differences that make the Sony a7R III a better camera in terms of features.

The Sony a7R III has a higher screen resolution of 1,440,000 dots, compared to the Sony a7C’s 921,600 dots. This means that the a7R III provides a clearer and more detailed display, making it easier to review images and navigate the camera’s settings. The higher resolution also offers better color accuracy and improved visibility in bright outdoor conditions.

The Sony a7C, despite having a lower feature score, still has some advantages. Its compact size and lighter weight make it more portable and convenient for travel and everyday use. Additionally, the a7C has a more beginner-friendly interface, making it an appealing choice for those who are new to photography or prefer a simpler user experience.

Considering the differences in features, the Sony a7R III is the better camera for those who prioritize a high-resolution display and a more advanced user experience. On the other hand, the Sony a7C is a suitable option for those who value portability and a user-friendly interface. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras depends on the individual preferences and needs of the photographer.

Sony a7C vs a7R III Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Sony a7C in storage and battery with a score of 65/100 compared to 45/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards (UHS-II compatible) and use the NP-FZ100 battery type. However, the a7R III has two memory card slots, providing more storage flexibility, while the a7C has only one slot.

The a7C has a longer battery life with 740 shots per charge, which is 90 shots more than the a7R III’s 650 shots. Additionally, the a7C offers USB charging, making it more convenient for on-the-go charging.

On the other hand, the a7R III’s dual memory card slots provide better storage options, allowing for backup or overflow storage. This feature is especially useful for professional photographers who need to ensure their work is secure.

Taking these points into account, the a7C offers better battery life and charging convenience, while the a7R III provides superior storage options. Users should consider their priorities when choosing between these two cameras.

Sony a7C vs a7R III – Our Verdict

Sony a7C vs a7R III 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 III: