Sony a7R II vs a7S II Comparison
Sony a7R II
Sony a7S II
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a7R II | a7S II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2015 | 2015 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | June 10, 2015 | September 11, 2015 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7R II takes the lead with a score of 70/100, while the Sony a7S II trails behind at 60/100. Both cameras are mirrorless, announced in 2015, and share identical dimensions of 127 x 96 x 60mm. The a7R II has a slight edge in weight, being 2g lighter at 625g.
The a7R II’s higher score reflects its superior performance in certain areas, such as its higher launch price of $3,198 compared to the a7S II’s $3,000. This suggests that the a7R II offers more advanced features or better overall quality.
However, the a7S II may still have its advantages, despite its lower score. Users should weigh the pros and cons of each camera based on their specific needs and preferences. Ultimately, both cameras offer impressive specifications, and the choice between them comes down to individual priorities and requirements.
Sony a7R II vs a7S II Overview and Optics
The Sony a7R II outperforms the Sony a7S II in optics with a score of 81/100 compared to 66/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization. The shooting speed for both cameras is also the same at 5 frames per second.
The a7R II has a clear advantage in terms of megapixels, boasting 42.4 compared to the a7S II’s 12.2. This difference allows the a7R II to capture more detailed and higher-resolution images. Additionally, the a7R II has a superior DXOMARK score for its sensor at 98, compared to the a7S II’s score of 85, which means the a7R II has better overall sensor performance.
The a7S II, on the other hand, does not have any specific advantages in optics compared to the a7R II. Both cameras have the same shooting speed, sensor type, processor, sensor size, lens mount, and image stabilization, making them equal in these aspects.
Based on the comparison, the Sony a7R II is the better choice for photographers who prioritize image quality, resolution, and sensor performance. The higher megapixel count and superior DXOMARK sensor score make it the ideal camera for capturing detailed images. The a7S II, while not having any advantages in optics, still offers a solid performance with its shared specifications with the a7R II. Ultimately, the higher score of the a7R II reflects its superiority in optics, making it the recommended choice for those seeking better image quality.
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Optics
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 42.4 MP | 12.2 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. | 7952 x 5304 px | 4240 x 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. | 24 x 35.9 mm | 23.8 x 35.8 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. | 5 fps | 5 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 X | 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. | 100 | 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. | 25,600 | 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. | 50 | 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. | 102400 | 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. | 399 | 169 | |
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 | 2,359,296 dots | 2,359,296 dots |
Sony a7R II vs a7S II Video Performance
The Sony a7R II and the Sony a7S II both have a video score of 56/100, indicating no clear winner in this category. These two cameras share several video specifications, making them comparable in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras have a maximum video resolution of 4K and maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, they both have a maximum video frame rate of 30fps and neither camera has time-lapse functionality built in.
Despite the identical scores, there may be some differences in the video quality of the Sony a7R II and the Sony a7S II. The Sony a7R II could have better color reproduction, dynamic range, or image stabilization, leading to improved video performance. On the other hand, the Sony a7S II might offer better low-light performance, faster autofocus, or higher bitrate recording, which could result in superior video quality.
While both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, it is important to consider the specific needs of the user when choosing between the Sony a7R II and the Sony a7S II. If better color reproduction, dynamic range, or image stabilization are important factors, the Sony a7R II may be the better choice. However, if low-light performance, fast autofocus, or higher bitrate recording are more important, the Sony a7S II could be the more suitable option.
Ultimately, the decision between the Sony a7R II and the Sony a7S II will depend on the individual requirements of the user. Both cameras offer solid video capabilities, making either choice a viable option for capturing high-quality video.
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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. | 30 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. | XAVCS, AVCHD, MP4 | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
Sony a7R II vs a7S II Features and Benefits
The Sony a7R II and Sony a7S II both have a feature score of 57/100. Examining their similarities and differences reveals the strengths and weaknesses of each camera.
Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1228800-dot screen resolution, flip screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Neither camera has a touchscreen, GPS, or Bluetooth capabilities.
The Sony a7R II excels in certain aspects. Its strengths include a higher resolution sensor, better image quality, and more autofocus points, resulting in improved performance for photography enthusiasts. The a7R II also offers a faster continuous shooting rate, which is beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S II has its own advantages. It is particularly known for its outstanding low-light performance, with a higher ISO range that allows for better image quality in darker environments. Additionally, the a7S II offers superior video capabilities, including 4K recording and enhanced video stabilization. This makes it a better choice for videographers and filmmakers.
Both cameras have their unique features and cater to different user preferences. The Sony a7R II is better suited for photographers seeking high-resolution images and faster shooting rates, while the Sony a7S II is ideal for those prioritizing low-light performance and advanced video capabilities.
Given their identical feature scores and shared specifications, choosing between these two cameras ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user. Each camera excels in its own domain, making them both strong contenders in the market.
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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. | 1,228,800 dots | 1,228,800 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 a7R II vs a7S II Storage and Battery
The Sony a7S II wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 21/100, while the Sony a7R II scores 16/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The a7S II outperforms the a7R II in battery life, providing 370 shots per charge compared to the a7R II’s 290 shots. This longer battery life makes the a7S II more suitable for extended shooting sessions. However, the a7R II does not have any advantages over the a7S II in terms of storage and battery.
Considering these points, the Sony a7S II proves to be the better choice for photographers who prioritize longer battery life and require uninterrupted shooting sessions.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FW50 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 290 shots | 370 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.' | 26 bits | 23.6 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 | 13.3 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' | 3434 | 2993 |
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Scores
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Alternatives to the Sony a7R II and a7S II
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a7R II or the Sony a7S II:
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User Scores
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B&H photo video |
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