Sony a7R III vs a7R IV Comparison

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sony a7R IV

A groundbreaking mirrorless camera. It has professional features and outstanding performance. It’s a dream camera for many photographers.

See Full Specs >

Still not ready to make a decision? Check out our other popular camera comparisons for inspiration:

• Canon EOS R5 vs Sony a1
• Sony A7 III vs A7R III
• Canon R5 vs Sony a7R IV
• Sony a1 vs Sony a7R IV
• Canon R7 vs R10
• Sony a7S vs a7R
• Canon 700D vs 1200D (T5i vs T5)