Sony a7R II vs SLT Alpha 99 II Comparison
Sony a7R II
Sony SLT Alpha 99 II
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a7R II | SLT Alpha 99 II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2015 | 2016 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | 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.
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Optics
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Sony a7R II
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Sony SLT Alpha 99 II
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 42.4 MP | 42.4 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 | 7952 x 5304 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 | 24 x 35.9 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 | 12 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 Alpha | |
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 | 25,600 | |
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 | 102400 | |
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 | 79 | |
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 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.
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Video
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Sony a7R II
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Sony SLT Alpha 99 II
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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 | 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. | 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.
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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 | 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. | 1,228,800 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 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.
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Storage and Battery
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Sony SLT Alpha 99 II
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FW50 | NP-FM500H | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 290 shots | 490 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 | 25.4 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 | 13.4 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 | 2317 |
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Scores
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Sony a7R II
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Sony SLT Alpha 99 II
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Alternatives to the Sony a7R II and SLT Alpha 99 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 SLT Alpha 99 II:
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User Scores
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Sony a7R II
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Sony SLT Alpha 99 II
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B&H photo video |
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