Sony a7R vs a7S Comparison
Sony a7R
Sony a7S
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a7R | a7S | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 16, 2013 | April 06, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
Comparing the Sony a7R and the Sony a7S, the a7R comes out ahead with a score of 65/100, while the a7S scores 55/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2013 and 2014, respectively. They share the same dimensions (127 x 94 x 48mm) and similar weights (a7R: 465g, a7S: 489g).
The Sony a7R is superior due to its higher score and lower launch price ($2300 compared to the a7S’s $2499). However, the Sony a7S has an advantage in terms of its release year, being a more recent model.
Despite the differences, both cameras offer quality performance in their respective areas. The a7R stands out for its overall value, while the a7S may cater to those seeking a newer model.
Sony a7R vs a7S Overview and Optics
The Sony a7R outperforms the Sony a7S in optics with a score of 74/100 compared to 60/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, Sony FE lens mount, and the absence of image stabilization. However, the differences in megapixels, shooting speed, and DXOMARK sensor score contribute to the varying performance in optics.
The Sony a7R excels with its higher megapixel count of 36, resulting in sharper and more detailed images. This feature is especially beneficial for photographers who require high-resolution images for large prints or cropping flexibility. Moreover, the a7R achieves a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 95, indicating better overall image quality and low-light performance compared to the a7S’s score of 87.
On the other hand, the Sony a7S has a slight advantage in shooting speed, offering 5 frames per second (fps) compared to the a7R’s 4 fps. This faster shooting speed may be more suitable for photographers capturing fast-moving subjects or those who prioritize continuous shooting capabilities.
Considering the optics, the Sony a7R emerges as the better camera due to its higher megapixel count and superior DXOMARK sensor score, which contribute to enhanced image quality and low-light performance. While the Sony a7S has a faster shooting speed, the difference is minimal and may not significantly impact the overall shooting experience. Therefore, for photographers prioritizing optics, the Sony a7R is the more suitable choice.
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Optics
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 36 MP | 12.2 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. | 7360 x 4912 px | 4240 x 2832 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 35.6 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. | 4 fps | 5 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. | 25,600 | 102,400 | |
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. | 25600 | 409600 | |
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. | 25 | 25 | |
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 | 2,359,000 dots | 2,400,000 dots |
Sony a7R vs a7S Video Performance
The comparison of video capabilities between the Sony a7R and Sony a7S reveals that both cameras have the same score of 56/100. This equal score suggests that these cameras have similar video features and performance.
Both the Sony a7R and Sony a7S share common video specifications. They have a maximum video resolution of Full HD and video dimensions of 1920 x 1080. Furthermore, both cameras can record at a maximum video frame rate of 60fps. Additionally, neither of the cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.
While the video capabilities of both cameras are similar, each camera has its own advantages. The Sony a7R is known for its exceptional image quality and high-resolution sensor, making it an excellent choice for photographers who prioritize still image performance. On the other hand, the Sony a7S is recognized for its impressive low-light performance and high ISO range, which can be beneficial for videographers shooting in challenging lighting conditions.
Despite their similar video scores, the Sony a7S may be better suited for videographers who require low-light capabilities, while the Sony a7R might be more appropriate for photographers who value high-resolution still images. However, it is important to consider individual needs and preferences when selecting a camera, as both the Sony a7R and Sony a7S offer comparable video features.
In comparing the video capabilities of the Sony a7R and Sony a7S, it is evident that both cameras provide similar video performance, with neither camera outshining the other. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the specific requirements and preferences of the user.
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Video
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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. |  Full HD | Full HD | |
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. | 1920 x 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 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. | 60 p | 60 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. | AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Sony a7R vs a7S Features and Benefits
The Sony a7R wins in the comparison of features, with a score of 57/100, while the Sony a7S scores 54/100. Both cameras have a 3-inch screen, lack a touchscreen, have a flip screen, no GPS, and include WIFI capabilities. Neither camera has Bluetooth connectivity.
The Sony a7R outperforms the a7S in screen resolution, offering 1,230,000 dots compared to the a7S’s 921,000 dots. This difference results in a sharper and clearer display on the a7R, providing better image previews and menu navigation.
The Sony a7S, despite its lower feature score, has its advantages. Its lower resolution screen consumes less power, which can lead to longer battery life during extended shooting sessions. However, this advantage may not significantly impact overall performance and user experience.
In comparing the features of these two cameras, the Sony a7R emerges as the better option due to its higher screen resolution. This advantage contributes to an improved user experience when previewing images and navigating menus. The Sony a7S has the potential for longer battery life due to its lower resolution screen, but this advantage is not substantial enough to outweigh the benefits of the a7R’s higher resolution display.
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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 | 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. | 1,230,000 dots | 921,000 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 vs a7S Storage and Battery
The Sony a7R and Sony a7S both have a storage and battery score of 21/100. These cameras share several specifications, including one memory card slot and compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards. Both cameras also use the NP-FW50 battery type and lack USB charging capabilities.
The Sony a7S has a slight advantage in battery life, providing 380 shots per charge compared to the Sony a7R’s 340 shots. This difference may be beneficial for photographers who need longer shooting sessions without changing batteries.
On the other hand, the Sony a7R does not have any advantages in storage and battery specifications compared to the Sony a7S. Both cameras have the same limitations in terms of memory card slots and USB charging.
Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony a7S is marginally better due to its increased battery life. However, both cameras have identical storage capabilities, and neither offers USB charging.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FW50 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 340 shots | 380 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.' | 25.6 bits | 23.9 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.' | 14.1 EVs | 13.2 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' | 2746 | 3702 |
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Scores
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Alternatives to the Sony a7R and a7S
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a7R or the Sony a7S:
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User Scores
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Sony a7R
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Sony a7S
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