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Sony a7 Specs and Scores

Optics
Video
Features
Storage and Battery
Sony a7
63%
General
Sony a7
63%
Price
Brand
Sony
Model
a7
Released
2013
Announcement Date
October 16, 2013
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a7 scores a 63/100 in general specifications. Launched in 2013 with a price of $1700, this mirrorless camera measures 127 x 94 x 48mm and weighs 474g (1.04lbs). Considering the years that have passed since its release, the Sony a7 still holds up decently in today’s market. Its size and weight make it a convenient option for photographers looking for a compact and lightweight camera.

Sony a7 Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 receives a score of 70/100 for its optics. This camera boasts 24 megapixels, a shooting speed of 5 frames per second, and utilizes a CMOS sensor. The processor is a Bionz X, and the DXOMARK score for the sensor is 90. With a full-frame sensor size, the Sony a7 has a Sony E lens mount and a 3:2 aspect ratio. However, it lacks image stabilization.

In the current market, the Sony a7’s optics remain competitive. The 24-megapixel resolution offers detailed images, while the 5 fps shooting speed is suitable for most photography needs. The CMOS sensor and Bionz X processor ensure high-quality image processing. The full-frame sensor size provides excellent low-light performance and a shallow depth of field, which is ideal for portrait and landscape photography. The Sony E lens mount supports a wide range of lenses, but the absence of image stabilization may affect image sharpness in certain situations.

Considering these specifications, the Sony a7 offers solid optics for photographers. Although it may not be the top choice for those seeking advanced features, it remains a reliable option for many users.

Optics
Optics
Sony a7
70%
Megapixels
24 MP
Image Resolution
6000 x 4000 px
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
23.9 x 35.8 mm
Sensor Format
Full Frame
Frame Rate
5 fps
Lens Mount
Sony FE
Image Processor
Bionz X
Aspect Ratio
3:2
Minimum ISO (Native)
100
Maximum ISO (Native)
25,600
Minimum ISO (Expanded)
100
Maximum ISO (Expanded)
25600
Minimum Shutter Speed
30 s
Maximum Shutter Speed
1/ 8000 s
Autofocus Points
117
In-body Stabilization
Viewfinder Type
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
2,359,000 dots

Sony a7 Video Performance

The Sony a7 has a video score of 56/100, which is a modest rating compared to other cameras in the market. The camera’s maximum video resolution is Full HD, with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This resolution is lower than the 4K video capability found in many modern cameras. The maximum video frame rate is 60fps, which provides smooth and clear footage.

Unfortunately, the Sony a7 does not have a built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a feature that is increasingly common in today’s cameras. This lack of time-lapse capability may be a drawback for some users.

Considering the video capabilities of the Sony a7, it is evident that the camera falls short in some aspects compared to the more advanced options available in the market. While it may be suitable for casual users or those who prioritize other features, those who require high-quality video performance may want to explore other options.

Video
Video
Sony a7
56%
Video
Max Video Resolution
Full HD
Max Video Dimensions
1920 x 1080 px
Max Video Frame Rate
60 p
Time-Lapse Built In
Video File Format
AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4

Sony a7 Features and Benefits

The Sony a7 features section receives a score of 57 out of 100. With a 3-inch screen size and a resolution of 1,230,000 dots, the display is clear but lacks the convenience of a touchscreen. However, the camera compensates with a flip screen, allowing for versatile shooting angles.

Despite not having GPS capabilities, the Sony a7 is equipped with Wi-Fi, enabling easy sharing and transfer of photos. The absence of Bluetooth may limit connectivity options, but the Wi-Fi feature remains useful for most users.

In the competitive camera market, the Sony a7’s features are decent but not groundbreaking. The lack of a touchscreen, GPS, and Bluetooth are noticeable drawbacks. However, the flip screen and Wi-Fi capabilities do provide users with functional benefits.

Features
Features
Sony a7
57%
Built-in Flash
External Flash
GPS
Weather Sealing
Screen Type
LCD
Touch Screen
Screen Size
3"
Screen Resolution
1,230,000 dots
Flip Screen
Live View
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth

Sony a7 Storage and Battery

The Sony a7 receives a storage and battery score of 21/100. This camera has one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards. In comparison to other cameras in today’s market, having only one memory card slot may be a limitation for some users who require more storage capacity or backup options.

The Sony a7’s battery life is 340 shots per charge, using an NP-FW50 battery. This battery life is relatively low compared to many modern cameras, which can offer more than 500 shots per charge. Additionally, the camera lacks USB charging capabilities, making it less convenient for on-the-go photographers who may need to recharge their batteries quickly.

Considering these factors, the Sony a7’s storage and battery capabilities may not meet the expectations of some users in today’s fast-paced and high-capacity photography market.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
Sony a7
21%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
NP-FW50
Battery Life
340 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sony a7
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
90%
Portrait (Color Depth)
24.8 bits
Landscape (Dynamic Range)
14.2 EVs
Sports (Low-Light ISO)
2248
Scores
Sony a7
User Scores
Sony a7

Sony a7 Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Sony a7 compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Sony a7 photographed on a colored background

Sony a7 FAQ

Does the Sony a7 Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

The Sony a7 does not have built-in image stabilization. However, many compatible lenses offer optical stabilization to help reduce camera shake and blur in images.

Does the Sony a7 Support 4K Video Recording?

The Sony a7 does not support 4K video recording. Its maximum video resolution is Full HD 1080p at 60 frames per second.

What Size Sensor Does The Sony a7 Have?

The Sony a7 features a full-frame 24.3MP Exmor CMOS sensor, which provides excellent image quality and low-light performance.

Does the Sony a7 Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

The Sony a7 does not have a dual memory card slot. It only has a single SD card slot for storage.

Does the Sony a7 Have a Touch Screen?

The Sony a7 does not have a touch screen. However, it has a 3-inch tiltable LCD screen for composing images and navigating menus.

Does the Sony a7 Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

The Sony a7 has built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer and remote control capabilities, but it does not have Bluetooth connectivity.

Does the Sony a7 Have GPS?

The Sony a7 does not have built-in GPS. However, you can use the PlayMemories Mobile app to geotag your images with your smartphone’s GPS data.

Is the Sony a7 Weather Sealed?

Yes, the Sony a7 features a durable magnesium alloy body with weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture, allowing for use in various conditions.

Does the Sony a7 Have a Built-in Flash?

The Sony a7 does not have a built-in flash, but it does have a multi-interface shoe for attaching external flashes and other accessories.

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