Sony Alpha A7S II vs Sony Alpha A7R II
- Full frame
- 12 megapixels
- Sony E (NEX)
-
53
Overall -
29
Imaging -
69
Features -
74
Size -
0
Price
- Full frame
- 42 megapixels
- Sony E
-
64
Overall -
45
Imaging -
64
Features -
74
Size -
0
Price
Sony Alpha A7S II vs Sony Alpha A7R II: a Complete Review and Comparison
Are you looking for the best camera to suit your needs? Due to a wide range of options, making a wise and weighted decision can be rather challenging. Which specs to keep in mind? What are the key pros and cons of each model? This comparison should give some helpful hints!
The goal of this overview is to provide a detailed comparison of two popular camera models from Pro Mirrorless category, introduced by Sony. We are going to take a closer look at the technical and physical characteristics, features, and performance. The models we are going to assess and compare in this review are Alpha A7S II and Alpha A7R II. The models we are going to compare in our review have different sensors. Sony Alpha A7S II features a CMOS sensor that has a resolution of 12.0 MP. Sony Alpha A7R II, on the contrary, has a different BSI-CMOS sensor with 12.0 MP resolution.
Now, before we can move on to our comparison, let's take a moment to look at the key characteristics of Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II.
Sony Alpha A7S II Key Features:
- 12.0 MP Full frame CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 102400 (Expands to 50 - 409600)
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- 3″ Tilting Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 5.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 4K (3840 x 2160 @ 30p/24p [60-100Mbps]), Full HD (1920 x 1080 @ 120p/60p/60i/30p/24p [50-100Mbps]), 720p (30p [16Mbps])
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 127 x 96 x 60 mm
- Weight: 627 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: No
- Replaced Sony A7S.
Sony Alpha A7R II Key Features:
- 42.0 MP Full frame BSI-CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 25600 (Expands to 50 - 102400)
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- 3″ Tilting Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 5.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p, 24p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 127 x 96 x 60 mm
- Weight: 625 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: No
- Replaced Sony A7R.
- Replaced by Sony A7R III.
Being a newer model, Sony Alpha A7S II substituted Sony A7S.
Why is Sony Alpha A7S II a better choice than Sony Alpha A7R II
| Battery Life | 370 shots vs 290 shots | 80 more frames with a single charge |
What are the key reasons to pick Sony Alpha A7R II over Sony Alpha A7S II
| Sensor Resolution | 42.0 MP vs 12.0 MP | 71.4% more pixels |
| Sensor Area | 861.6 mm2 vs 847.28 mm2 | 1.7% larger pixel area |
| Number Of Focus Points | 399 vs 169 | 230 more focus points |
| Weight | 625 g vs 627 g | 2 g lighter |
| Dxo Color Depth | 26 vs 23.6 | Better color depth |
| Dxo Dynamic Range | 13.9 vs 13.3 | Better dynamic range |
| Dxo Low Light Iso | 3434 vs 2993 | Better High ISO performance |
Key PROs of Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3″ | Large display |
| Screen Resolution | 1,229k dots | 1,229k dots | High resolution screen |
| Screen Type | Tilting | Tilting | Help viewing and changing settings easily |
| Viewfinder | Electronic | Electronic | Better framing and control |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | Yes | Yes | Very handy for portraits |
| Microphone Port | Yes | Yes | High quality audio recording option |
| Headphone Port | Yes | Yes | Better video control |
| Bracketing | Yes | Yes | Useful for tough lighting conditions and HDR |
| Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes | Built-in stabilization |
| Flash Sync Port | Yes | Yes | Port for Flash Sync |
| Environmental Sealing | Yes | Yes | Shoot at tough conditions |
Key CONs of Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II
| Touch Screen | No | No | No touch screen |
| Timelapse Recording | Yes | Yes | No timelapse recording |
| Continuous Shooting | 5.0 fps | 5.0 fps | Low continuous shooting |
| Built-In Flash | No | No | No built-in flash |
Sony Alpha A7S II vs Sony Alpha A7R II: Comparing Two Models By Physical Characteristics
Before heading straight to the technical characteristics of each model, let’s start with comparing their physical specs. Let’s start with looking at the physical difference of the two products. Below are images that clearly show the sizes of Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II from the front view.
Now, let’s go on and see how the reviewed models are different or similar by the top view.
After looking at these images, you should get a clear idea of each model’s dimensions and how they are different from each other. However, we are not going to stop there. The next characteristic worth looking at is the weight. Of course, not every photographer is concerned about the weight, for example, it wouldn't be a decisive point for those who shoot in a studio. However, it is still an important factor because if you happen to go on a long photo session or just love having the camera with you wherever you go, you want to be sure that the chosen model isn't too heavy.
Speaking of weight, Sony Alpha A7R II is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 2g less than the Sony Alpha A7S II. This difference, in fact, can become a significant disadvantage for the photographers, who prefer to have their cameras with them wherever they go.
Comparing Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II by the type of Sensor and Resolution
Sensor is, without a doubt, the most significant element of every digital camera. Its type, size, and resolution are the factors that define the quality of future shots. Thus, it is barely possible to pick a suitable camera without looking at these specs.
Are Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II any different in terms of sensor type?
In fact, that's exactly what makes these two models really different. Thus, it is a good point to consider if your are choosing between these two cameras. Sony Alpha A7S II features a 12.0 MP Full frame sized CMOS sensor and boasts of a Bionz X processor . Sony Alpha A7R II, in its turn, comes with a 42.0 MP Full frame sized BSI-CMOS sensor and Bionz X processor , which makes it significantly different from the first model.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II by the size of their sensors.
Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II are identical by this indicator, as each feature a sensor of the same size. Thus, both cameras will provide the same level of control in terms of the depth of field if you use them with the same focal length and aperture.
For Which Fields Of Photography Are Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II Suitable?
If you are interested in photography or has made a career in this field, you should know that different types of shooting actually require different camera characteristics. While one model can produce outstanding portraits, at the same time, it can be terrible for shooting landscapes, and so on. Thus, before you purchase a specific camera, it is vital to decide, which type of shooting you do most often and consider an option that suits it the most.
This section of our comparison is devoted to the performance of Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II in different fields of photography. Here we are going to look at the five main areas and evaluate how well each of the reviewed models performs in them. This will help you choose an option that suits your needs the most depending on your interest in one or several of these fields.
| Photography Type | Sony Alpha A7S II | Sony Alpha A7R II |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
|
| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
Sony Alpha A7S II for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.6 x 23.8 mm) sensor
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Image Stabilization
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesSony Alpha A7R II for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (42 MP)
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Image Stabilization
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesSony Alpha A7S II for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Image Stabilization
- Large Full frame(35.6 x 23.8 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (127 x 96 x 60 mm)
Sony Alpha A7R II for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Image Stabilization
- Large Full frame(35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (127 x 96 x 60 mm)
Sony Alpha A7S II for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Environmental Sealing
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (169)
- Nice Low Light ISO (2993)
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (5.0 fps)
- Small battery life (370 shots)
Sony Alpha A7R II for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Environmental Sealing
- Fast Max Shutter Speed (1/8000s)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (399)
- Nice Low Light ISO (3434)
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (5.0 fps)
- Small battery life (290 shots)
Sony Alpha A7S II for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.6 x 23.8 mm) sensor
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (627 g)
- Big size (127 x 96 x 60 mm)
- No Built-in Flash
Sony Alpha A7R II for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Big weight (625 g)
- Big size (127 x 96 x 60 mm)
- No Built-in Flash
Sony Alpha A7S II for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.6 x 23.8 mm) sensor
- Good Dynamic Range (13.3)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
- Nice Low Light ISO (2993)
Disadvantages:
- Low resolution sensor (12 MP)
Sony Alpha A7R II for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large Full frame (35.9 x 24 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (42 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (13.9)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
- Nice Low Light ISO (3434)
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesComparison of Sony Alpha A7S II vs Sony Alpha A7R II: Final Verdict
Hopefully, our detailed overview of these models has helped you consider all the main specs, pros and cons of each cameras. Maybe, after reading this comparison, some of you have already decided which option to opt for depending on your needs and preferences. However, if you are still wondering which option is a better choice, Sony Alpha A7S II or Sony Alpha A7R II, below you can see what scores each of them received in five different aspects. To wrap up, we have used our unique Decision Algorithm that assesses different camera models upon 63 different factors including their price, and, if possible, DxO Mark scores. This algorithm allows us to make our verdict more consistent and objective.
What is our final verdict? Based on our comparison and the final scores of Sony Alpha A7S II and Sony Alpha A7R II here is what we can say in conclusion:
According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Sony Alpha A7R II deserves a higher Total Score than the Sony Alpha A7S II. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Sony Alpha A7S II vs Sony Alpha A7R II Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Sony Alpha A7S II | Sony Alpha A7R II | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Sony | Sony |
| Model | Alpha A7S II | Alpha A7R II |
| Announced | Oct 12, 2015 | Jun 10, 2015 |
| Body Type | SLR-style mirrorless | SLR-style mirrorless |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | BSI-CMOS |
| Sensor Size | Full frame | Full frame |
| Sensor Dimensions | 35.6 x 23.8 mm | 35.9 x 24 mm |
| Sensor Area | 847.28 mm2 | 861.60 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 12.0 MP | 42.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 4240 x 2832 | 7974 x 5316 |
| Max Native ISO | 102,400 | 25,600 |
| Max Boosted ISO | 409,600 | 102,400 |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Sony E (NEX) | Sony E |
| Number of Lenses | 83 | 83 |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1x | 1x |
| Macro Focus Range | ||
| AutoFocus | ||
| AF Touch |  |
|
| AF Continuous | |
|
| AF Single | |
|
| AF Tracking | |
|
| AF Selective | |
|
| AF Center | |
|
| AF Multi Area | |
|
| AF Live View | |
|
| AF Face Detection | |
|
| AF Contrast Detection | |
|
| AF Phase Detection | |
|
| Number of Focus Points | 169 | 399 |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | n/a | n/a |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Tilting | Tilting |
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3″ |
| Screen Resolution | 1,229k dots | 1,229k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Electronic | Electronic |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 2,359k dots | 2,359k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | 0.78 | 0.78 |
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/8000 s | 1/8000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 5.0 fps | 5.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 0 | 0 |
| Flash Modes | no built-in flash | no built-in flash |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
|
| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| DxO Sensor Scores | ||
| DxO Sensor Score | 85 | 98 |
| DxO Color Depth | 23.6 | 26.0 |
| DxO Dynamic Range | 13.3 | 13.9 |
| DxO Low Light ISO | 2993 | 3434 |
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 4K (3840 x 2160 @ 30p/24p [60-100Mbps]), Full HD (1920 x 1080 @ 120p/60p/60i/30p/24p [50-100Mbps]), 720p (30p [16Mbps]) | 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p, 24p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p) |
| Max Video Resolution | 3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 |
| Video Formats | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
| Microphone Port | |
|
| Headphone Port | |
|
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless Connectivity | |
|
| HDMI | |
|
| USB | USB 2.0 | USB 2.0 |
| Physical | ||
| Environmental Sealing | |
|
| Water Proof | |
|
| Dust Proof | |
|
| Shock Proof | |
|
| Crush Proof | |
|
| Freeze Proof | |
|
| Weight | 627 g | 625 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 127 x 96 x 60 mm | 127 x 96 x 60 mm |
| Battery Life | 370 shots | 290 shots |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | Battery Pack |
| Battery Model | NP-FW50 | NP-FW50 |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | ||
| Storage Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo |
| Storage Slots | 1 | 1 |
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