Sony A7R V vs Sony A7 IV Which Camera Should You Buy for Video

The Sony A7R V and Sony A7R V are both high-end full-frame mirrorless cameras targeted at professional photographers who require the best possible image quality and features.

If you are looking for the best professional mirrorless camera option for your professional needs this is Sony mirrorless camera comparison between Sony A7R V vs Sony A7 IV.

What Are the Differences Between Sony A7R V vs Sony A7 IV?

• The Sony A7R V has a higher resolution sensor with 61 megapixels, while the Sony A7 IV has a 33-megapixel sensor. This means the A7R V can capture more detail in images.

• The Sony A7R V has 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) that can compensate for camera shake up to 5.5 stops, while the A7 IV has 5-axis IBIS that can compensate up to 5 stops.

• the A7R V has 693 Focus Points and 425 contrast-detection points compared to the A7 IV 759 Focus Points points and 425 contrast-detection points.

• The A7R V can shoot up to 10 fps in burst mode, while the A7 IV can shoot up to 8 fps.

• A7R V can shoot 4K at up to 120 fps and 1080p at up to 240 fps, while the A7 IV can shoot 4K at up to 60 fps and 1080p at up to 120 fps.

What Are Similarities Between Sony A7R V vs Sony A7 IV?

• Both cameras feature a 35mm full-frame back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor.

• the A7R V has a 61MP resolution, while the A7 IV has a 30.2MP resolution.

• Both cameras feature a sophisticated autofocus system.

• The A7R V has real-time tracking and Eye AF for humans and animals, also the A7 IV has real-time tracking and Eye AF.

• Both cameras can shoot 4K video up to 60 frames per second, with support for Hybrid Log-Gamma and S-Log3 profiles.

• Both cameras have a CIPA rating of approximately 670 shots per charge.

• Both cameras have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for remote control and file transfer.

• Both cameras have robust weather sealing to protect against dust and moisture.

• Both cameras have a similar design with a tilting LCD screen and electronic viewfinder.

Image Quality

The A7R V has the highest resolution sensor currently available in a full-frame camera which provides exceptional detail and sharpness in images, making it ideal for landscape and studio photography.

It also has a dynamic range of 15 stops, which means it can capture a wide range of tones from highlights to shadows, allowing for more detail and a better tonal range in images.

Whereas the Sony A7 IV sensor may have a lower resolution compared to the A7R V, it still provides exceptional image quality with great detail and sharpness. It also has a dynamic range of 14 stops, which is still impressive and allows for a good tonal range in images.

Body

The Sony A7R V has a robust magnesium alloy body that is weather-sealed against dust and moisture, making it a great choice for outdoor photography.

It has a deep grip that provides a secure and comfortable hold on the camera, even with larger lenses attached.

The control layout is similar to previous models, with customizable buttons and dials that can be assigned to frequently used functions.

The Sony A7 IV has a similar body design to the Sony A7R V, but with some differences. The grip on the A7 IV is slightly shallower, making it a bit less comfortable to hold for extended periods of time.

Menu

Both cameras feature a customizable Quick Menu that can be accessed via the touchscreen, providing easy access to frequently used camera settings.

Thry have a similar menu system that can be accessed by pressing the “Menu” button on the back of the camera. The menu is divided into several main categories, including:

Camera Settings: This menu contains all the essential settings for adjusting image quality, exposure, focus, and other camera settings.

Custom Settings: This menu allows you to customize the camera’s controls, functions, and display settings.

Network: This menu contains settings for connecting the camera to a wireless network or other devices. Within this menu, you can set up Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth connections, as well as configure settings for FTP transfer.

Playback: This menu contains settings for reviewing and managing photos and videos. Within this menu, you can view images and videos, delete files, and protect files from deletion.

Setup: This menu contains general camera settings, including time and date, language, and power saving options.

Screen

When it comes to screen features the A7R V features a 3-inch tilting touchscreen display with a resolution of 1.44 million dots.

The display is a TFT LCD panel with WhiteMagic technology, which enhances visibility in bright outdoor conditions.

The touch sensitivity of the screen is highly responsive and allows for intuitive operation of the camera’s menu system and autofocus controls.

The screen tilts up by 107 degrees and down by 41 degrees, providing greater flexibility when framing shots at low or high angles.

The screen has a built-in anti-reflective coating to reduce glare and improve visibility in bright sunlight.

In comparison, A7 IV has a 3-inch tilting touchscreen display with a resolution of 1.44 million dots, just like the A7R V.

the A7 IV’s screen has an OLED panel, which provides deeper blacks and higher contrast compared to the A7R V’s TFT LCD panel.

The touch sensitivity of the screen is also highly responsive, and it allows for intuitive operation of the camera’s menu system and autofocus controls.

So, like the A7R V, the A7 IV’s screen tilts up by 107 degrees and down by 41 degrees, providing greater flexibility when framing shots at low or high angles.

They also offer Touch Focus and Touch Shutter functionality, which allows users to focus on a specific area of the image by touching the screen, as well as triggering the shutter by tapping the screen.

Sensor

The Sony A7R V features a full-frame 61-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor, the A7R V’s sensor uses a back-illuminated design with a copper wiring layer, which helps to improve light-gathering efficiency and reduces noise.

The Sony A7R V features a 61-megapixel sensor, while the Sony A7 IV has a 33-megapixel sensor.

This means that the A7R V can capture more detail and produce larger prints, while the A7 IV has larger individual pixels, which can result in better low-light performance.

Both cameras feature Sony’s advanced autofocus technology, with the A7R V offering slightly more autofocus points and coverage compared to the A7 IV.

Sensor Specifications

Sony A7R V

• 61.0 megapixel full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor
• Back-illuminated design for increased sensitivity and reduced noise
• ISO sensitivity range of 100-32000 (expandable to 50-102400)
• 567 phase-detection autofocus points covering 74% of the image frame
• 425 contrast-detection autofocus points
• 15-stop dynamic range
• Pixel shift multi-shooting mode for increased detail and resolution
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization system

Sony A7 IV Sensor

• 33.0 megapixel full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor
• Back-illuminated design for increased sensitivity and reduced noise
• ISO sensitivity range of 100-51200 (expandable to 50-204800)
• 693 phase-detection autofocus points covering 93% of the image frame
• 425 contrast-detection autofocus points
• 15-stop dynamic range
• 5-axis in-body image stabilization system

Rolling Shutter

So, in terms of the shutter, the A7R V has an electronic shutter with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second. It also has a mechanical shutter with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second.

The camera has a rolling shutter effect when shooting at high shutter speeds or when panning quickly, but the exact specifications for the rolling shutter are not officially listed by Sony.

Whereas the A7 IV also has an electronic shutter with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second, and a mechanical shutter with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second.

Slow Motion

Both cameras are capable of shooting high-quality slow motion footage, allowing users to create visually stunning videos.

The Sony A7R IV can shoot slow motion video at up to 120 fps in Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080), and up to 60 fps in 4K resolution (3840 x 2160). This allows for beautiful slow motion footage with smooth, fluid motion.

The Sony A7R V can shoot slow motion video at up to 240 fps in Full HD resolution and up to 120 fps in 4K resolution.

This is an impressive improvement over the A7R IV and allows for even smoother and more dramatic slow motion footage.

Both cameras also offer a range of customizable settings to help users achieve the desired slow motion effect. For example, users can adjust the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO settings to control the amount of light entering the camera and the depth of field, which can help create a more cinematic look.

Image Stabilization

Both cameras have 5-axis in-body image stabilization but the A7R V has a more advanced system that offers up to 5.5 stops of stabilization compared to the A7 IV’s 5 stops.

This can be particularly useful when shooting handheld in low light or when using longer lenses.

ISO Performance

In terms of ISO sensitivity, both cameras have a native range of ISO 100-32000, which can be expanded to ISO 50-102400. This means that both cameras are capable of shooting in very low light conditions, and can produce relatively noise-free images even at high ISO settings.

There are some differences in the way that the two cameras handle noise at high ISOs. The Sony A7R V has a new BIONZ XR processor, which is more powerful than the BIONZ X processor found in the A7R IV.

This means that the A7R V is better at processing image data and reducing noise, resulting in cleaner images at high ISOs.

the A7R V has a larger buffer than the A7R IV, which allows it to shoot more frames at high speed without slowing down.

This is especially useful for photographers who need to capture fast-moving subjects in low light conditions, as it allows them to use a higher ISO setting to maintain a faster shutter speed.

Sony A7R V ISO Specifications

• ISO range: 100-32000 (expandable to 50-102400)
• Native ISO: 100-32000
• ISO steps: 1/3 EV steps
• ISO sensitivity settings: ISO Auto (ISO 100-12800), ISO 100-32000 selectable in 1/3 or 1 EV steps, expandable to ISO 50-102400 for stills
• Noise reduction: Long Exposure NR: On/Off, available at shutter speeds longer than 1 sec., High ISO NR: Normal/Low/Off

Sony A7 IV ISO Specifications

• ISO range: 100-51200 (expandable to 50-204800)
• Native ISO: 100-51200
• ISO steps: 1/3 EV steps
• ISO sensitivity settings: ISO Auto (ISO 100-12800), ISO 100-51200 selectable in 1/3 or 1 EV steps, expandable to ISO 50-204800 for stills
• Noise reduction: Long Exposure NR: On/Off, available at shutter speeds longer than 1 sec., High ISO NR: Normal/Low/Off

Video Features

A7R V can shoot 4K video at up to 120 frames per second, which allows for smooth slow-motion footage.

It also has S-Log3 and Hybrid Log-Gamma picture profiles, which are useful for capturing a wide dynamic range and achieving a cinematic look.

the A7R V has a variety of advanced video features such as focus peaking, zebra patterns, and timecode support, which make it well-suited for professional video production.

Whereas, A7 IV has similar video capabilities to the A7R V, including the ability to shoot 4K video at up to 60 frames per second and S-Log3 and HLG picture profiles.

However, it lacks some of the more advanced video features of the A7R V, such as timecode support and high-speed recording.

Autofocus

The A7R V has a hybrid autofocus system with 567 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection AF points.

The camera uses Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking technology, which can detect and track human and animal eyes and faces with exceptional accuracy.

This camera also features a high-speed anti-distortion shutter that can minimize rolling shutter effects, which can be especially helpful for fast-moving subjects.

The autofocus system can also operate in low-light conditions, with a sensitivity range down to -6 EV.

The A7 IV has a similar hybrid autofocus system with 693 phase-detection AF points and 425 contrast-detection AF points.

This camera also uses Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking technology, with improved algorithms compared to the previous A7 III model.

This camera has a new Multi-Selector joystick for quickly selecting focus points, and a touch-screen interface for touch-to-focus capability.

The autofocus system is also designed to work well in low-light conditions, with a sensitivity range down to -4 EV.

Low Light

Both cameras offer excellent low-light performance, both have an ISO range which can be expanded up to 102400. This means that they are capable of capturing images in very low light conditions without introducing too much noise.

Both have advanced autofocus systems with improved low light performance, they use phase detection autofocus with 759 and 693 AF points respectively, which helps them lock onto subjects quickly and accurately in low light conditions.

Both cameras have 5-axis in-body image stabilization systems that can compensate for camera shake and allow you to shoot handheld in low light conditions without having to use a tripod.

Also, both cameras can be paired with fast lenses, which allow more light to enter the camera and help you capture better images in low light conditions.

Both cameras have improved noise reduction algorithms that can help reduce noise in low light images without sacrificing image detail.

Frame Rate

When it comes to frame rate, both cameras are capable of shooting at up to 10 frames per second with full autofocus and auto exposure tracking. This makes them well-suited for capturing fast action and sports events.

both capable of capturing fast-moving action and delivering high-quality images thanks to their advanced autofocus systems and fast frame rates.

Both cameras also offer a high-speed continuous shooting mode that can capture up to 60 frames per second with autofocus and auto exposure tracking locked to the first frame.

Dynamic Range

The Sony A7R V has a dynamic range of up to 15 stops. This means that the camera can capture an incredibly wide range of brightness levels, from the darkest shadows to the brightest highlights, while retaining details and tonal information.

The A7R V uses a back-illuminated sensor design that allows for increased light sensitivity and reduced noise, which can further enhance the camera’s dynamic range capabilities.

On the other hand, the A7 IV has a dynamic range of up to 15 stops as well. The A7 IV also has a backside illuminated sensor that improves light sensitivity and noise performance, which can contribute to its dynamic range capabilities.

EVF

When it comes to EVF both cameras are equipped with electronic viewfinders that allow you to preview your shot before you take it.

A7R V features a 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder with a 0.78x magnification. This EVF offers a bright and clear view of your subject, with a refresh rate of up to 120 frames per second.

It also has a built-in eye sensor that automatically switches between the EVF and the rear LCD screen when you bring the camera to your eye.

The EVF on the A7R V also boasts a fast refresh rate of up to 120 frames per second, which minimizes lag and makes it easier to track fast-moving subjects.

the EVF has a high dynamic range mode, which allows you to preview the full range of tones and colors in your scene, even in high-contrast lighting conditions.

A7 IV features an electronic viewfinder which provides a high-quality, real-time preview of the image being captured.

The EVF in the Sony A7 IV is a high-resolution OLED display with a resolution of 3.69 million dots. This allows for a clear and detailed view of the scene, with a high level of brightness and contrast. The EVF also has a refresh rate of up to 120 frames per second, which makes it suitable for capturing fast-moving action.

The A7 IV EVF provides a preview of the image with the selected creative mode applied. For example, if you have set the camera to black and white mode, the image in the EVF will be displayed in black and white.

The refresh rate of the A7 IV’s EVF is slightly lower than that of the A7R V, at 60 frames per second, but it still provides a smooth and responsive viewing experience.

The EVF also features a customizable display, allowing you to choose what information is displayed on the screen while shooting.

What is EVF?

EVF is a small screen inside the camera that you look through to compose your shot, instead of using an optical viewfinder.

Viewfinder

The Sony A7R V has the highest magnification ever offered in a Sony Alpha series camera. This means that the image you see through the viewfinder is larger and more detailed than ever before, making it easier to compose and focus your shots.

While not quite as high-resolution as the EVF on the A7R V, the EVF on the A7 IV is still very impressive and provides a bright, clear view of your scene.

The A7R V has a slightly larger and more detailed electronic viewfinder compared to the A7 IV. It also has a faster maximum shutter speed of 1/8000s compared to the A7 IV’s 1/8000s.

the A7R V has a higher buffer capacity, which means it can shoot more continuous frames before the buffer fills up and slows down.

Storage

In terms of SD card features, the Sony A7R V has dual SD card slots, while the Sony A7 IV has only one. This means that the A7R V can accommodate two SD cards simultaneously, providing more storage space and the ability to write to both cards simultaneously for redundancy or extra backup.

The A7 IV can only accommodate one card at a time, meaning that you’ll need to swap out cards more frequently if you’re shooting for an extended period.

Both cameras support UHS-II SD cards, which are faster and more reliable than standard SD cards. UHS-II cards have a maximum transfer speed of up to 312 MB/s, making them ideal for high-speed continuous shooting and video recording.

the A7R V supports the newer CFexpress Type A memory cards, which offer even faster transfer speeds than UHS-II SD cards.

CFexpress Type A cards have a maximum transfer speed of up to 800 MB/s, which can be advantageous if you need to transfer large files quickly.

Ports

When it comes to their ports both cameras have an HDMI port that supports 4K video output, but the A7R V has a Type-D port while the A7 IV has a Type-C port.

The Type-C port on the A7 IV is more versatile and allows for USB-C connectivity, while the Type-D port on the A7R V is more common among cameras and is still widely used.

Both cameras have a USB Type-C port that can be used for data transfer and charging, but the A7 IV has an additional USB Type-A port that can be used for tethering or connecting external accessories.

The A7R V doesn’t have a Type-A port which means the A7 IV wins in this point.

Both cameras have a 3.5mm headphone jack and a 3.5mm microphone jack, but the A7 IV has an additional digital audio interface Multi Interface Shoe that can be used with compatible accessories for higher-quality audio recording. The A7R V doesn’t have this feature and the A7 IV is the winner here.

Both cameras have a multi/micro USB port that can be used with a remote cable, but the A7 IV has an additional 2.5mm remote port that can be used with a wired remote control. The A7R V doesn’t have this feature so the A7 IV wins in this case.

The A7R V has a built-in Ethernet port for wired LAN connectivity, while the A7 IV does not have this feature.

Battery

When it comes to battery performance, the A7R V features a 2280mAh NP-FZ100 battery that is rated for up to 670 shots per charge using the viewfinder or up to 740 shots per charge when using the rear LCD screen.

It also has a USB Type-C port that allows for charging while the camera is in use.

The A7 IV, on the other hand, features a slightly larger 2400mAh NP-FZ100 battery that is rated for up to 680 shots per charge using the viewfinder or up to 740 shots per charge when using the rear LCD screen. It also has a USB Type-C port for charging while the camera is in use.

the A7 IV may have a slight edge in battery life due to its improved efficiency and power management.

Price

In terms of price, the A7R V is significantly more expensive than the A7 IV, reflecting its higher-end features and capabilities.

Why Should you Buy Sony A7R V Over A7 IV?

The A7R V has improved Real-time Eye AF, which can track and focus on a subject’s eyes with more accuracy.

A7R V has a Higher Resolution Sensor suited more for photographers who need extremely high-resolution images, it has a Faster Burst Shooting to capture fast-moving subjects.

It has Improved Autofocus allowing for more accurate and reliable autofocus, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Why Should you Buy A7 IV Over A7R V?

A7 IV is a more budget-friendly option if you don’t need the higher resolution or faster burst shooting.

It has longer battery life thanks to its more power-efficient sensor and processing engine. It has two card slots, which allow you to store more photos.

It has improved video features for better dynamic range and improved autofocus and image stabilization during video recording.

Which camera has better image quality?

Both cameras produce excellent image quality, but the A7R V has a higher resolution sensor which allows for more detail to be captured. However, the A7 IV has larger pixels which can result in better low-light performance.

Which camera is better for video?

The A7R V has the ability to shoot 8K video, which is higher resolution than the A7 IV’s 4K video. However, the A7 IV has a flip-out screen which makes it easier to monitor video while filming.

Which camera is better suited for professional photographers?

Both cameras are well-suited for professional photographers, but the A7R V’s high resolution sensor and faster burst rate may make it more attractive to photographers who need to capture a lot of detail and fast-moving subjects.

Which camera is better for sports and action photography?

The A7R V has a faster burst rate of 10 fps compared to the A7 IV’s 7 fps, which can make it better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Which Camera is better for Photography?

The A7R V is geared toward photographers who require the highest resolution and video capabilities, while the A7 IV offers a more affordable option with a focus on speed and versatility.

So, both cameras are excellent choices for photographers and videographers looking for a high-quality full-frame mirrorless camera.

The A7R V is the better choice for those who need the highest resolution, more advanced autofocus and image stabilization, and faster video capabilities.

The A7 IV is a more affordable option with a solid set of features that will appeal to a wide range of users.