CameraReview

Sony a7R IV vs Sony a7S II — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Sony a7R IV
Sony
Sony a7R IV
Mirrorless · 61.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
84
SCORE
$2,481.26
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Sony a7S II
Sony
Sony a7S II
Mirrorless · 12.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
60
SCORE
$1,032.80
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General
Brand SonySony
Model a7R IVa7S II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
16/07/201911/09/2015
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 129 x 96 x 78 mm127 x 96 x 60 mm
Camera weight 665 g627 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
61.2 MP05012.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
9504 x 63364240 x 2832
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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.
23.8 x 35.723.8 x 35.8
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameFull Frame
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
10 fps0455 fps045
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 FESony FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XBionz 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.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
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.
3200030032800001024003003280000
Min 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.
50302005030200
Max 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.
10240030032800004096003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max 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.
800080032000800080032000
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.
42503001690300
In-body stabilisation
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.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 576000009900000235929609900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K4K
Max video format
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 21603840 x 2160
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 fps30 fps
Timelapse 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, MP4MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
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 LCDLCD
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 dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1440000115000150000012288001150001500000
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
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FZ100NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
670 shots1505000370 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7S II with a score of 84/100 compared to 60/100. Both cameras share common features: they are mirrorless, have similar dimensions, and were launched with a price difference of $500. The a7R IV excels with its higher score, a reflection of its superior performance and updated technology since its release in 2019. On the other hand, the a7S II, released in 2015, weighs slightly less at 627g, making it more portable. Despite the weight advantage, the a7R IV stands out as the better camera due to its higher score and advanced specifications. The a7S II remains a viable option for those prioritizing portability and a lower price.

Sony a7R IV vs a7S II Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7S II in optics, scoring 85/100 compared to the a7S II’s 66/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization. However, the a7R IV excels in certain aspects, making it the superior choice in terms of optics.

The a7R IV boasts a remarkable 61.2 megapixels, significantly higher than the a7S II’s 12.2 megapixels. This difference allows the a7R IV to capture finer details and produce higher resolution images. Additionally, the a7R IV has a shooting speed of 10, double that of the a7S II, which has a shooting speed of 5. This makes the a7R IV more efficient in capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in continuous mode.

The DXOMARK score for the a7R IV’s sensor is 99, compared to the a7S II’s 85. This indicates that the a7R IV has a better sensor performance, resulting in improved image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance.

In contrast, the a7S II does not have any notable advantages over the a7R IV in terms of optics. Its lower megapixel count and shooting speed limit its capabilities compared to the a7R IV.

Given these differences, the Sony a7R IV is the clear winner in terms of optics. Its higher megapixel count, shooting speed, and DXOMARK score contribute to its superior performance. While the a7S II shares some common features with the a7R IV, it falls short in key areas, making the a7R IV the better choice for those prioritizing optical performance.

Sony a7R IV vs a7S II Video Performance

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7S II in video capabilities with a score of 70/100, a 14-point lead over the a7S II’s 56/100. Both cameras share the same maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160, as well as a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. However, the a7R IV surpasses the a7S II in certain aspects.

One significant advantage the a7R IV has is its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to capture stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software. The a7S II lacks this functionality, making it less versatile in comparison.

Despite its lower score, the a7S II does have some strengths. Its main advantage lies in its low-light performance and sensitivity, which enables it to capture better quality footage in poorly lit conditions. This can be beneficial for those shooting in challenging environments or during nighttime.

Considering these points, the Sony a7R IV proves to be a better option for those who prioritize video capabilities and versatility. Its built-in time-lapse functionality sets it apart from the a7S II and caters to a wider range of creative possibilities. On the other hand, the Sony a7S II may still be a suitable choice for those who require exceptional low-light performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Sony a7R IV vs a7S II Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7S II in features, scoring 83 out of 100 compared to the a7S II’s 57 points. Both cameras have a 3-inch screen, flip screen, no GPS, and WiFi capabilities. However, the a7R IV has additional advantages that contribute to its higher score.

The a7R IV’s screen has a resolution of 1,440,000 dots, while the a7S II’s screen has a lower resolution of 1,228,800 dots. This difference results in a sharper and clearer display on the a7R IV. Additionally, the a7R IV has a touchscreen, making it more user-friendly and efficient to operate compared to the a7S II, which lacks this feature. The a7R IV also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easier and faster pairing with other devices.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S II does not have any significant advantages over the a7R IV in terms of features. Both cameras share common specifications such as screen size, flip screen, absence of GPS, and WiFi capabilities. The a7S II’s lower score reflects its fewer features compared to the a7R IV.

Considering the differences in features, the Sony a7R IV is the superior camera in this comparison. Its higher screen resolution, touchscreen capability, and Bluetooth connectivity make it a more versatile and user-friendly option. The Sony a7S II, while still a capable camera, falls short in comparison to the a7R IV due to its fewer features and lower score.

Sony a7R IV vs a7S II Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R IV outperforms the Sony a7S II in storage and battery, scoring 79/100 compared to 21/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. However, the a7R IV has two memory card slots, while the a7S II has only one and also accepts Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo.

The a7R IV proves superior with its battery life, providing 670 shots per charge, using the NP-FZ100 battery type. In contrast, the a7S II offers 370 shots per charge and relies on the NP-FW50 battery type. Additionally, the a7R IV supports USB charging, a feature absent in the a7S II.

Although the a7S II falls short in storage and battery, it accommodates Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards, offering users a broader range of memory card options. Despite this advantage, the a7R IV remains the better choice for photographers requiring longer battery life, USB charging, and more memory card slots.

Sony a7R IV vs a7S II – Our Verdict

Sony a7R IV vs a7S 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 IV or the Sony a7S II: