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Sony a7R II

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery
Sony a7R II
70%
General
70%
Price
Brand
Sony
Model
a7R II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2015
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
June 10, 2015
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a7R II receives a score of 70/100 in our evaluation. Announced on June 10, 2015, and released the same year, this mirrorless camera initially cost $3198. It measures 127 x 96 x 60mm and weighs 625g (1.38lbs), making it a relatively compact and lightweight option.

Considering its age, the Sony a7R II still holds up quite well in today’s market, with its specifications remaining competitive. Its compact size and weight make it a portable choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike. This camera proves that quality can stand the test of time.

Sony a7R II Overview and Optics

The optics score for the Sony a7R II stands at 81/100. With a 42.4-megapixel resolution, this camera captures high-quality images. The CMOS sensor and Bionz X processor work together to provide excellent performance in various lighting conditions. The camera’s shooting speed is 5 frames per second, which is suitable for most photography needs.

In today’s competitive market, the Sony a7R II holds its ground with a 98 DXOMARK score for the sensor. The full-frame sensor size ensures sharp and detailed images, while the Sony FE lens mount offers compatibility with a wide range of lenses. The camera also features image stabilization and a 3:2 aspect ratio, making it a solid choice for both professional and amateur photographers.

The Sony a7R II’s optics specifications make it a reliable and versatile camera. Its combination of high-resolution imaging, advanced sensor technology, and compatibility with various lenses ensures that it remains a strong contender in the photography market.

Optics
Optics
81%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
42.4 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
7952 x 5304 px
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.
24 x 35.9 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
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.
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
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
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
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
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
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
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.
102400
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
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
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.
399
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
Viewfinder Resolution
2,359,296 dots

Sony a7R II Video Performance

The Sony a7R II received a video score of 56 out of 100. This camera offers a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160 pixels. It supports a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. However, the a7R II does not provide built-in time-lapse functionality.

Compared to other cameras in today’s market, the a7R II’s video capabilities are decent but not outstanding. The 4K resolution is standard among modern cameras, and the 30fps frame rate is acceptable for most users. The lack of built-in time-lapse functionality is a drawback, as many competing models offer this feature.

The Sony a7R II’s video capabilities are satisfactory for casual users but may not satisfy professionals or enthusiasts seeking advanced features.

Video
Video
56%
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.
4K
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.
3840 x 2160 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.
30 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.
XAVCS, AVCHD, MP4

Sony a7R II Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R II has a feature score of 57 out of 100, which may not seem impressive, but let’s examine the specifications further. The camera has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 1228800 dots. While it lacks a touchscreen, it does have a flip screen, making it useful for various shooting angles.

In terms of connectivity, the a7R II comes with built-in WiFi, allowing for easy sharing and remote control of the camera. However, it does not have GPS or Bluetooth capabilities. In today’s market, these features are considered standard, and the absence of them might be a drawback for some users.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R II has a decent set of features, but it may not stand out as a top choice for those looking for the latest technological advancements. Its strengths lie in other areas, such as its optics and video capabilities, which should be considered when making a decision on whether to purchase this camera.

Features
Features
57%
Built-in 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
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"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1,228,800 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 II Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R II scores 16/100 for storage and battery. It has a single memory card slot that accepts SD, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick Duo, Pro Duo, and Pro-HG Duo cards. The battery life is 290 shots, and it uses the NP-FW50 battery type. Unfortunately, this camera does not support USB charging.

Compared to other cameras in today’s market, the Sony a7R II falls short in storage and battery performance. With only one memory card slot and a relatively low battery life, this camera may not be the best choice for photographers who require extended shooting sessions or greater storage capacity. As technology advances, multiple memory card slots and longer battery life have become standard features in many cameras. Therefore, the a7R II’s storage and battery capabilities do not meet the expectations of contemporary photographers.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
16%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
NP-FW50
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
290 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
98%
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.'
26 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.'
13.9 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'
3434
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video

Sony a7R II Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Sony a7R II compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Sony a7R II photographed on a colored background

Sony a7R II FAQ

Does the Sony a7R II Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

Yes, the Sony a7R II features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system, which helps to reduce camera shake and improve image sharpness in various shooting conditions.

Does the Sony a7R II Support 4K Video Recording?

Yes, the Sony a7R II supports 4K video recording at 30fps, offering high-quality video capture with full-pixel readout and no pixel binning for professional-level results.

What Size Sensor Does The Sony a7R II Have?

The Sony a7R II is equipped with a full-frame 42.4-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, providing high-resolution images and excellent low-light performance.

Does the Sony a7R II Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

No, the Sony a7R II has a single memory card slot that supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, as well as Sony’s Memory Stick PRO Duo and PRO-HG Duo cards.

Does the Sony a7R II Have a Touch Screen?

No, the Sony a7R II does not have a touch screen. It features a 3-inch tilting LCD screen with 1.23 million dots for image composition and review.

Does the Sony a7R II Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

The Sony a7R II has built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer and remote control functionality. However, it does not have Bluetooth connectivity.

Does the Sony a7R II Have GPS?

No, the Sony a7R II does not have built-in GPS. Geotagging can be done using a smartphone’s GPS and transferring location data through the PlayMemories app.

Is the Sony a7R II Weather Sealed?

Yes, the Sony a7R II features a magnesium alloy body with weather sealing, providing protection against dust and moisture for reliable performance in challenging environments.

Does the Sony a7R II Have a Built-in Flash?

No, the Sony a7R II does not have a built-in flash. It does, however, have a hot shoe for attaching external flash units and other accessories.

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