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Sony a7R II vs SLT Alpha 99 II Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Sony a7R II

Sony A7R II camera image
70%

Sony SLT Alpha 99 II

Sony SLT Alpha 99 II
Winner!
77%
Sony a7R II
vs
Sony SLT Alpha 99 II
Price
Brand
Sony
Sony
Model
a7R II
SLT Alpha 99 II
Released
2015
2016
Announcement Date
June 10, 2015
September 19, 2016
Camera Type
Mirrorless
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony SLT Alpha 99 II comes out on top with a score of 77/100, compared to the Sony a7R II, which scores 70/100. Both cameras share similarities such as their announcement year – 2015 for the a7R II and 2016 for the Alpha 99 II – and similar launch prices of $3198 and $3200, respectively.

The winning Alpha 99 II has a larger size (143 x 104 x 76mm) and a heavier weight (849g) than the a7R II (127 x 96 x 60mm, 625g). However, the a7R II has the advantage of being a mirrorless camera, which makes it more compact and portable.

Considering these factors, the Alpha 99 II offers superior performance, while the a7R II provides the benefit of easier portability. Each camera brings its strengths to the table, making the choice dependent on individual preferences and needs.

Sony a7R II vs SLT Alpha 99 II Overview and Optics

The Sony SLT Alpha 99 II wins in the optics comparison with a score of 82/100, while the Sony a7R II scores 81/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including 42.4 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, and image stabilization. These similarities contribute to the overall quality and performance of both cameras.

The winning camera, the Sony SLT Alpha 99 II, has a faster shooting speed of 12 frames per second, compared to the Sony a7R II’s 5 frames per second. This advantage allows the Alpha 99 II to capture fast-moving subjects and action scenes more effectively. Additionally, the Alpha 99 II uses the Sony Alpha lens mount, offering compatibility with a wide range of lenses.

On the other hand, the Sony a7R II has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, with a rating of 98 compared to the Alpha 99 II’s 92. This means the a7R II’s sensor performs better in terms of image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance. The a7R II also features the Sony FE lens mount, providing access to a different selection of lenses.

Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. The Sony SLT Alpha 99 II is better for capturing fast action due to its higher shooting speed and benefits from a wider range of compatible lenses with the Sony Alpha mount. Conversely, the Sony a7R II has a superior sensor performance, making it more suitable for photographers prioritizing image quality and low-light capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Optics
Optics
81%
82%
Megapixels
42.4 MP
42.4 MP
Image Resolution
7952 x 5304 px
7952 x 5304 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
CMOS
Sensor Size
24 x 35.9 mm
24 x 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Full Frame
Frame Rate
5 fps
12 fps
Lens Mount
Sony FE
Sony Alpha
Image Processor
Bionz X
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
25,600
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
50
50
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
102400
102400
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
399
79
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Electronic
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
2,359,296 dots
2,359,296 dots

Sony a7R II vs SLT Alpha 99 II Video Performance

The Sony SLT Alpha 99 II outperforms the Sony a7R II in video capabilities with a score of 77/100, compared to the a7R II’s score of 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution and 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions. However, there are key differences that contribute to the Alpha 99 II’s superior video performance.

The most notable advantage of the Alpha 99 II is its max video frame rate of 120fps, while the a7R II only offers 30fps. This allows the Alpha 99 II to capture smoother, more detailed slow-motion footage, making it a better choice for videographers who require high-quality slow-motion capabilities.

On the other hand, both cameras lack built-in time-lapse functionality. This means that users seeking to create time-lapse videos will need to resort to external software or devices to achieve this effect, regardless of which camera they choose.

In terms of video performance, the Sony SLT Alpha 99 II clearly surpasses the Sony a7R II, mainly due to its higher max video frame rate. The Alpha 99 II caters to videographers who demand advanced slow-motion capabilities, while the a7R II falls short in this aspect. Despite both cameras lacking built-in time-lapse functionality, the overall video performance of the Alpha 99 II makes it a more suitable choice for videography purposes.

Video
Video
56%
77%
Video
Max Video Resolution
4K
4K
Max Video Dimensions
3840 x 2160 px
3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate
30 p
120 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
XAVCS, AVCHD, MP4
XAVCS, AVCHD, MP4

Sony a7R II vs SLT Alpha 99 II Features and Benefits

The Sony SLT Alpha 99 II outperforms the Sony a7R II in terms of features, scoring 70 out of 100, while the Sony a7R II scores 57. Both cameras share several specifications: they have 3-inch screens with a resolution of 1228800 dots, flip screens, and no touchscreens or GPS.

The Sony SLT Alpha 99 II has a clear advantage in connectivity, as it features Bluetooth, which the Sony a7R II lacks. This allows for easy transfer of images and remote control of the camera via compatible devices. The Sony a7R II, on the other hand, offers Wi-Fi connectivity, while the Alpha 99 II does not. Wi-Fi enables users to transfer images wirelessly and use their smartphones as remote controls.

Despite the higher feature score of the Sony SLT Alpha 99 II, the Sony a7R II has its own strengths. The presence of Wi-Fi connectivity makes it more versatile for photographers who need to share their images quickly or control their camera remotely. However, the lack of Bluetooth may be a drawback for some users who prefer that method of connectivity.

To conclude, the Sony SLT Alpha 99 II has a higher feature score due to its Bluetooth capabilities, making it better for users who prioritize that form of connectivity. The Sony a7R II, with its Wi-Fi connectivity, is more suitable for those who value wireless image transfer and remote control through their smartphones. Both cameras have their own advantages and are tailored to different user preferences.

Features
Features
57%
70%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
TFT LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
3"
Screen Resolution
1,228,800 dots
1,228,800 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Sony a7R II vs SLT Alpha 99 II Storage and Battery

The Sony SLT Alpha 99 II outperforms the Sony a7R II in storage and battery with a score of 60/100 compared to 16/100. Both cameras share compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, and neither offers USB charging. However, the Alpha 99 II has two memory card slots compared to the a7R II’s single slot, providing more storage flexibility.

The Alpha 99 II also boasts a longer battery life at 490 shots, while the a7R II manages only 290 shots. This difference enhances the Alpha 99 II’s usability as it requires less frequent battery changes. The a7R II does not offer any advantages in storage and battery over the Alpha 99 II.

Given these points, the Sony SLT Alpha 99 II proves to be superior in storage and battery performance, making it a more practical choice for photographers who require extended shooting sessions and storage options.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
16%
60%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
NP-FW50
NP-FM500H
Battery Life
290 shots
490 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
98%
92%
Portrait (Color Depth)
26 bits
25.4 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
13.9 EVs
13.4 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
3434
2317
Scores

Alternatives to the Sony a7R II and SLT Alpha 99 II

Sony a7R II vs SLT Alpha 99 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 a7R II or the Sony SLT Alpha 99 II:

User Scores
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