Sony a7R III vs a7R IV Comparison
Sony a7R III
Sony a7R IV
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a7R III | a7R IV | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 | 2019 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 25, 2017 | July 16, 2019 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7R IV emerges as the winner with a score of 84/100, just one point ahead of the Sony a7R III, which scored 83/100. Both cameras share key specifications: they are mirrorless models released by Sony in 2017 and 2019, respectively. The a7R IV has the edge due to its slightly larger size (129 x 96 x 78mm) and marginally heavier weight (665g), which can provide a more comfortable grip and improved durability.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R III boasts a lower launch price of $3200 compared to the a7R IV’s $3500, making it a more affordable option for budget-conscious photographers. Despite the slight difference in scores, both cameras offer impressive performance and share essential features, making them suitable choices for photographers of various skill levels.
Sony a7R III vs a7R IV Overview and Optics
The Sony a7R IV emerges as the winner in our optics comparison with a score of 85/100, just one point ahead of the Sony a7R III, which scored 84/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization.
The Sony a7R IV outperforms the a7R III primarily due to its higher megapixel count of 61.2, compared to the a7R III’s 42.4 megapixels. This higher resolution allows for more detailed images, making it ideal for photographers who require superior image quality.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R III achieves a DXOMARK sensor score of 100, which is one point higher than the a7R IV’s score of 99. This suggests that the a7R III may have a slight advantage in terms of overall image quality, despite its lower megapixel count.
Both cameras possess a shooting speed of 10 frames per second, indicating that they are equally capable of capturing fast-moving subjects.
In terms of optics, the Sony a7R IV’s higher megapixel count makes it the better choice for photographers who require more detailed images. However, the a7R III’s marginally higher DXOMARK sensor score indicates that it may still produce excellent image quality. Since both cameras share many common specifications, the choice between the two may ultimately come down to personal preference and specific needs.
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Optics
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Sony a7R III
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Sony a7R IV
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 42.4 MP | 61.2 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 | 9504 x 6336 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 35.7 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. | 10 fps | 10 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. | 32,000 | 32,000 | |
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. | 425 | 425 | |
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 | 3,686,400 dots | 5,760,000 dots |
Sony a7R III vs a7R IV Video Performance
The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7R III in video capabilities with a video score of 70/100, compared to the a7R III’s 56/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and maximum video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, both cameras support a maximum video frame rate of 30fps.
The a7R IV’s superiority in video capabilities is primarily due to its built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a7R III lacks. This feature allows the a7R IV users to create stunning time-lapse videos, adding versatility and creativity to their videography. The higher video score of the a7R IV reflects its enhanced capabilities and features, making it a more appealing choice for videographers.
On the other hand, the a7R III does not offer any significant advantages over the a7R IV in terms of video capabilities. It has the same maximum video resolution, dimensions, and frame rate as the a7R IV. The lower video score of the a7R III is mainly because it does not have the time-lapse functionality found in the a7R IV.
Considering the differences in video capabilities, the Sony a7R IV is the clear winner in this comparison. Its built-in time-lapse functionality sets it apart from the a7R III, providing an additional creative tool for videographers. The a7R III, while still offering solid video performance, does not have any standout features to surpass the a7R IV. Therefore, those seeking a camera with superior video capabilities should opt for the Sony a7R IV.
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Video
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Sony a7R IV
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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. | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Sony a7R III vs a7R IV Features and Benefits
The Sony a7R IV wins the comparison with a feature score of 97/100, while the Sony a7R III scores 83/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1,440,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capabilities. Neither camera has GPS functionality.
The a7R IV outperforms the a7R III in several aspects. The a7R IV’s higher feature score reflects its overall superiority. The winning camera boasts a higher resolution, providing more detailed images and better cropping flexibility. Additionally, the a7R IV has a better autofocus system that allows for faster and more precise focusing. This camera also has a more extensive native ISO range, which benefits low-light photography and dynamic range performance.
The a7R III, despite having a lower feature score, still has some advantages. Its lower price makes it a more affordable option for photographers on a budget. Furthermore, the a7R III has a slightly better battery life, allowing for longer shooting sessions without needing to recharge or swap batteries.
Considering the various aspects of both cameras, the Sony a7R IV is the better choice for those seeking higher resolution, improved autofocus, and better low-light performance. However, the Sony a7R III remains a strong contender for photographers looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing too much in terms of features and capabilities.
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Features
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Sony a7R IV
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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. | 1,440,000 dots | 1,440,000 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 III vs a7R IV Storage and Battery
The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7R III in the storage and battery department, scoring 79/100 as opposed to the latter’s 65/100. Both cameras have two memory card slots and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards with UHS-II compatibility. They also use the same NP-FZ100 battery type.
The a7R IV’s edge lies in its slightly longer battery life, providing 670 shots compared to the a7R III’s 650 shots. Additionally, the a7R IV supports USB charging, making it more convenient for on-the-go photographers who need to recharge their batteries without relying on a separate charger.
The a7R III, while not offering USB charging, still provides a decent battery life of 650 shots, sufficient for most photography sessions. However, its lack of USB charging may be a drawback for some users.
Considering the storage and battery capabilities, the Sony a7R IV is a better choice due to its extended battery life and USB charging option, while the a7R III remains a reliable option for those who can manage without USB charging.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FZ100 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 650 shots | 670 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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Photography Genre
Graded from the first-hand experience of one of our writers |
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Sony a7R IV
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Beginner Friendly | 
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Portrait | 
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Landscape | 
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Sports and Action | 
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Street | 
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Value for Money | 
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Sony a7R III
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Sony a7R IV
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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 | 26 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.' | 14.7 EVs | 14.8 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' | 3523 | 3344 |
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Scores
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Sony a7R III
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Sony a7R IV
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Sony a7R III vs a7R IV Alternatives
So, Sony a7R III vs a7R IV? Both cameras will serve you very well. The A7R IV is a better camera but at a higher price. If you are willing to spend the extra cash, the a7R IV is what most photographers would choose. However, if you want to go for the more budget-friendly a7R III, you will still get a powerful camera.
Still not ready to make a decision? Check out our other popular camera comparisons for inspiration:
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User Scores
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Sony a7R III
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Sony a7R IV
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B&H photo video |
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