Sony A7R II sensor review: New high water mark in sensor dynamics Introduction Specifications and FeaturesWith the original Sony A7R mirrorless camera offering a related sensor and therefore similar performance to the much larger and heavier Nikon D810 SLR, it’s perhaps unsurprising that the update to that model, the Sony A7R II, is one of the most talked-about models of the year. Another big difference is the autofocus system, which is clearly the best on the A7R II when compared to the other cameras, including the A7S II. The Sony a7R II was once the reigning king, and in late 2020, it is still at the top of the camera food chain in terms of what matters most in digital image capture: IMAGE QUALITY. Soon after, Sony announced the much-anticipated A7R II mirrorless camera, a second iteration of the high-resolution line of A7-series cameras. Rather than a semi-glossy finish, the A7R II sports a matte, speckled look that’s a bit closer to that of a high-end DSLR. Nov 4, 2015 Video: What's in the future for Sony's Alpha system? (ii) The feels. There is also an option to shoot in Super 35 format with full pixel readout and no pixel binning. #mergeRow-gdpr fieldset label {font-weight: normal;} /* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block. And those are relatively minor changes compared to the changes from the original A7R. Of course, this is one of the fastest-moving areas in camera technology, and we’ll no doubt see even more improvements by 2016. Although Sony says the A7S is the best option for shooting video with a full-frame compact system camera, the A7R II is the first full-frame CSC to … Another issue that concerns the original Sony A7R is that its control layout doesn’t feel 100 easy and natural. First of all, there are no other full-frame cameras on the market that offer IBIS. (i) The specs in a nutshell. The Sony A7R II has a very good EVF. - - - Review Update: Named as the … This is a huge plus, because it effectively stabilizes every lens attached to these camera bodies, even short focal prime lenses that traditionally do not come with image stabilization. Not a good idea to release something that is not quite ready for prime time. Sony’s a7R II, initially released fall 2015, marks the official successor to the acclaimed A7R. Jason Miller - November 9, 2015. Presuming you shoot it with the best new ZEISS FE lensesand Sony GM lenses, the system works great. The Sony A7R II doesn’t radically alter the basic design template of the A7R. Z6ii vs. Z7ii which has better tonal gradation? In many ways, it represents the culmination of all the best features, improvements, and technology of all previous a7 cameras. It looks similar, but the two certainly aren’t the same. As I have already mentioned above, the A7R II now has 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which down-grades to 3-axis IBIS when non-native lenses are used. The big difference between the first generation A7R and A7R II is in the weight and cost – the latter is much heavier in comparison (thanks to the positive change in ergonomics) and the cost has gone up dramatically from $2,299 MSRP to $3,199. #mc-embedded-subscribe-form input[type=checkbox]{display: inline; width: auto;margin-right: 10px;} In fact, that’s where Sony certainly has a competitive advantage over other manufacturers. Resolution boss. Photo: Brent Durand . The sensor technology has been changed on the A7R II – while the previous generation A7R had a 36 MP CMOS sensor, the new A7R II sports a 42 MP BSI CMOS sensor, which is supposed to deliver better image quality in comparison. Let's talk about it. With a full-frame sensor, the range has offered image quality similar to some of the very best DSLRs, such as the Nikon D810 and Canon 5DS R. All this remains true of this series. With a full-frame sensor, … There are other slight menu changes and tweaks. Weather-proofing is also a feature. */ Sony a7R II vs. Other Camera Formats: The Sony A7 series sits somewhat in its own class of camera. The jump down from a decent DSLR optical viewfinder may not be as huge as you might imagine if you haven’t used an up-to-date one in a while. Another huge difference is the ability to record 4K video, although it proved to be not as practical in the field due to overheating issues – Sony should have completely skipped 4K on the A7R II. That would alleviate the pain of many photographers, as they would be able to choose a camera based on their megapixel and other shooting needs. Not only does the A7R II get a faster and much more reliable AF system with a whopping 399 focus points, but it also gains a brand new 42 MP back-illuminated (BSI) sensor. SONY A7R II - SENSOR The A7R II has a 42.4-megapixel back-illuminated 35mm full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor powered by the BIONZ X image processing engine to support 14-bit uncompressed RAW images. The Sony Alpha A7C and the Sony Alpha A7R II are two enthusiast cameras that were revealed to the public, respectively, in September 2020 and June 2015. There have been a few other tweaks too. Earlier this year, I wrote a detailed review of the Sony A7R, where I expressed a number of serious concerns with the camera, some of which were serious enough to be categorized as “deal breakers”. In my opinion, it would have made more sense for Sony to include the best AF system on the A7 II instead. Sony a7R II Review. Sony A7R II review The Sony A7R II is now two generations old in the Sony Alpha line-up, but at today's prices this 42MP camera is a bargain By Rod Lawton 07 October 2020 Seals across the Sony A7R II’s body keep out dust and water, meaning you can shoot in the most dire of conditions – if you also use a weather-sealed lens. How does its high ISO performance compare to other cameras like the Nikon D810 and Canon 5DS? This full-frame camera takes both JPEG and RAW files and is … The bigg… Sony has put in some good work here, with the small improvements adding up to a camera of more coherent operation. Recording short segments works out OK, but I would never trust the A7R II for doing production video work. Without a mirrorless it can't be considered a DSLR, but it comes equipped with a Full Frame sensor. Sony a7R II Review. That said, the upper expansion settings are best avoided. Third, the sensor technology that we see on the Sony A7-series cameras is currently the best of the breed. The A7R II has a much higher native ISO range of 100 to 25,600 when compared to the A7R and A7 II, which is two stops higher than the A7R. Even more realistically for my style is ISO 100-6400. Here is a short summary of the three Sony A7-series cameras and the type of photography they are intended for: It is true that DSLRs still reign in sports and wildlife, however, the differences are quickly shrinking. The 42 Megapixel full-frame sensor may be inherited from the Mark II but Sony's improved the processing to deliver superb quality. #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; width:100%;} The Sony a7R III is a full frame mirrorless camera with 42MP, 399 focus points covering over 80 percent of the sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization – which is great for slow shutter speeds and hand held video, 4K video quality; 1080/120fps video, dual card slots, and a long lasting battery life. This means that Sony A7R II provides 4K (Ultra-HD) video. Read more about Nasim here. Introduction. By. With Sony A7R II, you can record your videos at a highest resolution of 3840 x 2160 at 30p,25p,24p fps and save in MPEG-4, AVCHD and XAVC S formats. August 2 nd, 2015. Earlier this year, I wrote a detailed review of the Sony A7R, where I expressed a number of serious concerns with the camera, some of which were serious enough to be categorized as “deal breakers”.Soon after, Sony announced the much-anticipated A7R II mirrorless camera, a second iteration of the high-resolution line of A7-series cameras. Once programed, it shoots fast, focuses and shoots in any light with ease. While the original A7R felt like an experiment to me personally, this new A7R II cannot be considered as such, since it is no longer a “beta” product by any means – it is a very capable camera that not only rivals high-end DSLR cameras for some photography needs, but also surpasses them in a number of ways. Here is a detailed comparison of specifications from the current A7-series cameras, along with the first generation A7R: As you can see, aside from the price, the first major differences we see are in sensor resolution, IBIS and ISO sensitivity. The body uses magnesium-alloy plates on its top, front and back, also consistent with the high price. Next to the Sony Alpha A7R II, the original A7R seems a bit awkward. We may earn a commission if you click a deal and buy an item. Over the past two years, it would appear Sony’s internal motto has been to “Turn Heads,” having released one fantastic camera after another. If Sony’s original plan was to attract as many photographers as possible by offering an affordable high-resolution full-frame camera, this time Sony knows that it seriously upped the game with all the new fixes and features tossed into the A7R II. The image processor and circuitry that drives it … Sony A7R III Review– Features Sony has employed the same wonderful 42.4MP back-illuminated full-frame sensor as the A7R II, with on-chip phase detection for autofocus. Technically, getting an ISO range of 50-102,400 but realistically using ISO 100-25,600. lens stabilization vs in-body stabilization, Sony A7R II Uncompressed RAW with Adobe DNG Converter, Tips for Photographing the Great Conjunction. In fact, after testing the A7R II extensively, I must say that action photography is the only area where the camera could use some improvements, specifically when it comes to AF speed and overall lag. While it has slower handling than a DSLR and not my choice for serious work (it only has one card slot for instance), as a fun hobby camera, it's awesome. Similar to the A7 II, ergonomics have been greatly improved thanks to a much larger and more comfortable grip and the shutter release along with some buttons have been changed and moved as well (more on ergonomic changes in the next page of the review). As intimidating as its £2,399 body-only price may be, it’s justified. The Sony A7R II is the world's best camera for hobbyists, but DSLRs make better pictures faster for serious work. That may not sound like all that much next to a phone display, but when you consider the EVF display is only 0.5-inch in size it becomes more of a technical feat. I personally would welcome Nikon D810-style bodies with 12 MP, 24 MP and 36/42 MP sensors instead of feature-stripped cameras at completely different price points. The Sony A7 Mark II can record video at 5p in AVCHD, XAVC s, and MP4 formats. Both the A7C and the A7R II are mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras that are equipped with a full frame sensor. It isn’t a fully articulated screen, but that should be of no surprise when you consider the A7R II’s smaller frame. This Sony has an outstanding silent mode that actually is. I also believe that Sony did a good job with introducing the idea of using similar camera construction, but with different sensors for different photography needs. Now does it mean that Sony was able to achieve two stops better ISO performance compared to its predecessor? That’s surprising because the A7R II is primarily aimed at landscape, studio and architecture photographers who want to have more resolution and those folks rarely ever need the best of the breed AF system. And lastly, with the latest firmware upgrade, the Sony A7R II also gained the ability to shoot uncompressed RAW, giving the ability to take a full advantage of the sensor. Here are some 100% crops which show the noise levels for each ISO setting for both JPEG and RAW formats: At the highest spots, DxOMark scores mean nothing to human eyes. Sony’s new A7rII is the first in the A7 family to record video in a 4K (UHD) quality internally. Sony's Alpha A7r Mark III is a highly capable camera that's equally at home shooting high resolution stills as it is handling fast action or filming quality video. Nov 17, 2015 Keeping up with the big boys? But we’ve reached a very good standard already. Sony initially only provided lens stabilization, but IBIS was integrated into all second generation A7-series cameras, which can actually work together to deliver even better results (read more about lens stabilization vs in-body stabilization). You can follow him on Instagram and Facebook. With its $3,200 MSRP price tag, Sony is clearly aiming higher and targeting a slightly different crowd this time compared to the original A7R (which sold for $2,300 at the time it was announced). PL provides various digital photography news, reviews, articles, tips, tutorials and guides to photographers of all levels, By Nasim Mansurov 26 CommentsLast Updated On April 11, 2020. This puts the A7R II in a similar price range as such high-end DSLR cameras like the Nikon D810 and Canon 5DS. Although many of us knew what to expect from the A7R II based on what we have previously seen on the Sony A7 II, there was new technology incorporated into the A7R II to make it a very appealing camera among both enthusiasts and professionals. This is how we make money. The A7R II comes with the ability to shoot UHD 4K video in XAVC S format, while the A7R is limited to recording HD content only. Liked: High-resolution full-frame sensor In-body image stabilization Disliked: Menu needs streamlining It isn’t only resolution that matters – but size too. Add all the extra bells and whistles like focus peaking, live histograms and exposure warnings and you will realize why OVF is quickly losing its desirability among many photographers. Sony a7R II with Sony 28mm lens + fisheye converter. The Sony A7R II is extremely well made, and the grip is well sculpted too. Although Sony recently spun off its sensor division into a separate company (the largest in the world), it is still owned by Sony, which means that it can supply the latest sensor technology on its own cameras first, before making the same technology available to other manufacturers. It has 2.46 million dots to its name, equating to 1,024 x 768 pixels. He is recognized as one of the leading educators in the photography industry, conducting workshops, producing educational videos and frequently writing content for Photography Life. As we have seen so far, Sony sensors provide remarkable dynamic range and high ISO performance and the Sony A7-series cameras get this benefit with every iteration. You get a very well-placed pair of manual control dials, and the shutter button has been moved so that it now sits more naturally under where your finger intuitively lands. It tilts out to enable you to take shots at an awkward angle, and is comparable with the stronger camera displays out there. In addition, Sony addressed the serious shutter-shock issue by not only reducing the overall noise and vibration caused by the shutter mechanism, but also by introducing an electronic front-curtain shutter release option, which completely gets rid of shutter-related blur in images. 98. by Johnnie Behiri August 2 nd, 2015. It looks and feels great, fitting the high price perfectly. TrustedReviews Awards 2015: Winners announced. The Sony A7R II is the second generation of a series that set out to prove how serious a compact system camera can be. Except some rare 6K and 8K video recording cameras, … With magnification of 0.78x the Sony A7R II’s EVF appears as large as a good DSLR OVF, making it a great way to preview your image. For example, the eyepiece for the EVF is a lot softer, making it that bit more comfortable to use. Interested in buying the Sony A7R II? All the feels. Sony A7C vs A7R II. Interestingly, the A7 II and A7R II have the same standard sensitivity range, ISO 100-25,600, but only the A7R II has expansion settings (ISO 50-102,400). Sony Alpha A7 II review Firmware update adds better quality raw files and phase detection AF for Alpha-mount lenses ... the Sony Alpha A7S II and A7R II both supported uncompressed raw shooting. #mc-embedded-subscribe-form .mc_fieldset{border:none;min-height: 0px;padding-bottom:0px;}. Sony a7R II - Review, Specifications, with Manual / Guide Dayen. Below the EVF sits a regular screen, 3-inches across and 1.23m-dot resolution. As you will see further down in the review, for everything else, the AF system on the A7R II is more than capable, delivering very impressive results. This is also one of the very highest-resolution EVFs currently available, only topped by the Leica Q (Typ 116). The company is looking to offer 20 lenses in this range by 2016, and there are already mounts available that enable the use of Canon lenses, among others. For the A7R II, Sony uses dual-control dials similar to the company’s NEX-7 CSC. Is the Sony A7R II worth buying in 2019? With 42.4 million effective pixels the Sony A7R II is capable of resolving a lot of detail. Sony Alpha A7R II reviews, pros and cons, Amazon price history. We have written quite a bit about the advantages of EVF vs OVF, but the ability to instantly zoom in to 100% view before shooting, in addition to being able to review images within the viewfinder in broad daylight are huge advantages that cannot be ignored. There are 10 ISO settings available on the Sony A7R II. In comparison, neither Nikon, nor Canon offer IBIS on any of their DSLR cameras (even the newly announced Leica SL camera does not have IBIS). Electronic Front-Curtain Shutter is obviously a big deal and the A7R in this chart stands out like a sore thumb. The Sony A7R II is a high-resolution full-frame mirrorless camera that exceeds the performance of the LEICA M240 in every way, for half the price.. Its 2.36 million dot OLED EVF has a 0.78x magnification, which is better than the 0.71x magnification both high-end Nikon and Canon DSLRs are limited to. Sony a7R II Review – First Impressions & Footage. The Sony A7R II is the second generation of a series that set out to prove how serious a compact system camera can be. Friday, February 5, 2021 Mirrorless, Sony, User Manual Edit. Just like the A7 II, the A7R II gained five-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and a different ergonomic design with a much more comfortable to hand-hold protruded grip. Z6 II vs Z7 II – which one is better for enthusiast, 35mm: 399 points, APS-C: 357 points (PDAF) / 25 points (CDAF), 35mm: 117 points, APS-C: 99 points (PDAF) / 25 points (CDAF), Sensor: 42.4 MP Sony Exmor R BSI CMOS image sensor, Autofocus System: Fast Hybrid AF woth 399 Phase-Detect Points, Electronic Viewfinder: XGA OLED with 2.36 million dots, 100% field coverage, Battery Life: Up to 290 images (Viewfinder) and 340 images (LCD), Image Stabilization: SteadyShot INSIDE Image Stabilization with 5-axis compensation, Shutter: Electronically controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane type. I have been shooting with the Sony A7R II since it was announced, so let’s take a closer look at the Sony A7R II and see how it performed both in real world and lab environments. It’s worth considering as an alternative to the very top DSLRs if you’ll appreciate its smaller stature, and its 4K video capture. You will find the answers to these questions on page 6 of this review. Although that’s not as impressive as Sony A7S II with its native ISO range of 100 to 102,400, it is still raising the bar quite a bit. We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. Y-JS-A7RII-DSC01304-12-24MM.JPG 10,981,538 bytes 7952x5304 1/800 sec f14.0 0.0 EV 24.0 mm focal length ISO 1000 by Mike Tomkins and William Brawley Preview posted: 06/10/2015 Last edited: 01/25/2017 Updates: 08/04/2015: Real-world gallery photos added 08/27/2015: Performance test results posted 09/23/2015: Field Test Part I added 11/11/2015: Field Test Part II added 12/11/2015: Print quality analysis added 12/14/2015: Image quality comparison added 12/15/2015: Conclusionposted! So what are the key differences between the Sony A7R II and the original A7R and what has changed? One of the issues with the Sony A7R at release was that there weren’t many lenses to choose from. #mergeRow-gdpr {margin-top: 20px;} It’s an OLED EVF too, ensuring great contrast and a fast response should you pan around quickly. Thank you for those who subbed and followed from the start! If Nikon was able to put a 36 MP sensor on its D800 long before Sony did on the A7R, this time the situation has been reversed. Shooting pro sports with the Sony a7R II. Second, the high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the A7R II is truly impressive. by Johnnie Behiri. Top Sample Images Intro Lenses & Adapters Specifications USA Version Performance Compared Usage Recommendations More Overall The Sony A7 II is a great camera. The A7R II has a totally revamped hybrid AF system with 399 on-sensor phase-detect AF points, which Sony claims to be up to 40% faster compared to its predecessor. As Sony releases more E-mount lenses, this is becoming less of an issue. Detailed technical specifications for the Sony A7R II are available at Sony.com. It feels comfortable in the hand. The Sony a7R III ($3,199.99, body only) uses the same sensor as the a7R II that came before it, but just about everything else has changed. ISO 100, f/8, 1/125. In fact, that’s exactly what happened with the Sony A7R II – it is presently the only camera on the market that sports a 42 MP full-frame BSI sensor (the same thing can be said about the impressive 12 MP Sony A7S II sensor, which has no equivalents in terms of low-light performance). But what the Sony A7R II does it to fix all the niggles of the original Sony A7R, by improving low-light performance and handling, and adding Sony’s excellent 5-axis optical image stabilisation. The original Sony A7 had a combination of magnesium alloy and polycarbonate in terms of construction, while the new A7 II has a full magnesium alloy construction like the A7S and A7R cameras. Nasim Mansurov is the author and founder of Photography Life, based out of Denver, Colorado. Sony Alpha 7R II Review - The Sony Alpha 7R II is Sony's flagship mirrorless replaceable lens camera, featuring a 42.4MP ikon stabilized full-frame BSI CMOS sensor.