CameraReview
Sony a7S III
74
SCORE
Sony · Mirrorless · 12.1 MP · Full Frame · 4K video

Sony a7S III

General 74Optics 69Video Performance 77Features and Benefits 83Storage and Battery 76
From $3,399.76 — 4 offers
KEY FACTS
BrandSony
Modela7S III
Released2020
Announcement date28/07/2020
Camera typeMirrorless
What We Like
Not yet summarised.
Worth Knowing
Pricey
Low 12.2 MP resolution for photos
Poor battery performance
No 8K video

General 74

Brand
Sony
Model
a7S III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2020
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
28/07/2020
Camera type
Mirrorless
Camera size
129 x 97 x 81 mm
Camera weight
699 g

Optics 69

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4240 x 2832
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
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.
23.8 x 35.6
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full 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 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 FE
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XR
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
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
8030200
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.
1024003003280000
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.
4030200
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.
4096003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
3044080
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.
800080032000
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.
7590300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Yes
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
Viewfinder dots
944000009900000
Read our notes on optics

The Sony a7S III receives a score of 74/100, making it a strong contender in the mirrorless camera market. Announced on July 28, 2020, and released the same year, this camera comes with a launch price of $3499. Its dimensions are 129 x 97 x 81mm, and it weighs 699g or 1.54lbs. The specifications of the a7S III showcase its competitive edge and make it a solid choice for photographers and videographers alike.

Sony a7S III Overview and Optics

The optics of the Sony a7S III receive a score of 69/100. With 12.1 megapixels, a shooting speed of 10 fps, and a Bionz XR processor, this camera is equipped to capture high-quality images. Its CMOS sensor has a DXOMARK score of 86 and is a full-frame sensor, ensuring excellent performance in various lighting conditions.

The Sony a7S III features a Sony FE lens mount, which allows for a wide range of lens choices. Additionally, the camera has built-in image stabilization, making it easier to capture sharp and steady images. Its aspect ratio is 3:2, which is a standard format for most photography needs.

Considering the specifications, the Sony a7S III’s optics perform well in the current market. While it may not be the highest-scoring camera, it offers a solid combination of features that cater to various photography requirements. The camera’s optics are reliable and suitable for photographers seeking quality performance in their equipment.

Sony a7S III Video Performance 77

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K
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 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.
120 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.
No
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, XAVC HS
Read our notes on sony a7s iii video performance

The Sony a7S III boasts a video score of 77 out of 100. This score reflects the camera’s impressive capabilities in the realm of video recording. The a7S III supports a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160. This high resolution allows for crisp and clear video footage, meeting the demands of today’s market.

Furthermore, the camera offers a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, enabling users to capture smooth, slow-motion footage. However, the a7S III lacks built-in time-lapse functionality, which might disappoint some users seeking this feature.

Taking all these factors into account, the Sony a7S III presents a strong option for videographers and content creators. While not perfect, its video capabilities are competitive and cater to the needs of modern users.

Sony a7S III Features and Benefits 83

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
No
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.
Yes
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Yes
Screen type
LCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Yes
Screen size
3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
14400001150001500000
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.
Yes
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Yes
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Yes
Read our notes on sony a7s iii features and benefits

The Sony a7S III earns a feature score of 83/100, showcasing a competitive set of specifications. With a 3-inch screen and a resolution of 1,440,000 dots, the camera offers a clear and crisp display. Users benefit from the convenience of a touchscreen and a flip screen, enabling versatile shooting angles and easy navigation.

Although the camera lacks GPS functionality, it compensates with both WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities. These features ensure seamless connectivity and effortless sharing of images with other devices. The Sony a7S III’s specifications prove its worth in today’s market, meeting the demands of modern photography enthusiasts.

The Sony a7S III stands as a strong contender among contemporary cameras, boasting an array of sought-after features. Its high feature score reflects its capabilities and relevance in the current photography landscape.

Sony a7S III Storage and Battery 76

Memory card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible), CFexpress Type A
Dual memory card slots
Yes
Battery type
NP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
600 shots1505000
USB charging
Yes
Read our notes on sony a7s iii storage and battery

The Sony a7S III receives a storage and battery score of 76/100. This camera has two memory card slots, which accept SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) and CFexpress Type A cards. This dual-slot feature enables users to have ample storage and backup options while shooting.

In terms of battery life, the a7S III can capture up to 600 shots with its NP-FZ100 battery. Additionally, the camera supports USB charging, providing convenience for on-the-go photographers. This battery performance is competitive in the current market, allowing for extended shooting sessions.

Taking into account the storage and battery capabilities, the Sony a7S III proves to be a reliable option for photographers and videographers alike, with its versatile memory card support and solid battery life.