Sony a7ii vs a7iii – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Camera, Sony

Both cameras are part of Sony’s full-frame mirrorless lineup, and both are compact & high-performance Camera, but they do have some differences. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Sony A7III rather than Sony a7II.

Why Do I Recommend Sony A7 III?

  • Both cameras have a full-frame CMOS sensor, but the A7III features a back-illuminated (BSI) sensor, that offer better light-gathering capabilities, which improves low-light performance & overall image quality.
  • It has a broader ISO range (100-51200, expandable to 50-204800) compared to the A7II (100-25600, expandable to 50-51200), indicating superior performance in low-light conditions.
  • The Sony A7III has 693 Autofocus points & 425 contrast-detection points., which helps to focus on 693 objects at the same time, whereas the A7ii has 117 Autofocus points.
  • The A7III continuous shooting speed is 10 FPS, it can take up to 10 pictures in a second. To do that, you just need to press & hold the shutter button. This feature gives you more options to select the best shoot from 10 of them. A7ii can shoot up to 5 FPS.
  • It can record 4K video at 30fps and Full HD at 120fps, which makes sure you get higher resolution & better slow-motion than the A7II,  A7ii can record full HD 1080p at 60fps.
  • The A7III has a significantly improved battery that is capable of capturing 710 shots per charge, while the A7IIs can shoot up to 350 shots.
  • It offers more reliable eye detection, even in continuous AF mode, making it superior for portraits & moving subjects. Real-time tracking in the A7III enhances subject-tracking capabilities across various shooting scenarios. A7II Can’t do it.
  • Sony A7iii has a touchscreen display that helps to focus or zoom on any specific object by tapping on the screen. , But Sony a7ii doesn’t have touch screen feature.
  • While both cameras offer Wi-Fi & NFC, the A7III adds Bluetooth connectivity for easier image transfer and remote control capabilities.
  • The A7III features dual SD card slots, with one supporting UHS-II cards for faster read/write speeds, compared to the A7II’s single SD card slot.
  • Both cameras have a magnesium alloy frame, but the A7III offers enhanced weather sealing, making it more resistant to dust and moisture.
  • The A7III offers a higher dynamic range (14.7 stops vs. 13.6 stops in the A7II), providing more detail in shadows & highlights. Sony also improved color science in the A7III, yielding more accurate & pleasing colors straight out of the camera.
  • Sony refined the menu system in the A7III for easier navigation and quicker access to frequently used settings, addressing one of the common critiques of the A7II.

Maybe the Sony A7ii price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the A7iii. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

Feature Sony A7III Sony A7II
Sensor 24.2 MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS 24.3 MP Full-Frame CMOS
ISO Range 100-51200 (expandable to 50-204800) 100-25600 (expandable to 50-51200)
Image Stabilization 5-axis in-body stabilization 5-axis in-body stabilization
Autofocus System 693 phase-detection points + 425 contrast AF points 117 phase-detection points
Continuous Shooting Speed 10 fps 5 fps
Video Capabilities 4K UHD at 30fps, Full HD at 120fps Full HD 1080p at 60fps
Viewfinder 0.78x magnification, 2.36M-dot OLED EVF 0.71x magnification, 2.36M-dot OLED EVF
LCD Screen 3-inch tiltable touchscreen LCD, 922K dots 3-inch tiltable LCD, 1.23M dots
Battery Life (CIPA) 710 shots 350 shots
Connectivity Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth Wi-Fi, NFC
Storage Dual SD card slots (one UHS-II compatible) Single SD card slot (UHS-I)
Weight 650 g (body only) 556 g (body only)
Launch Date Early 2018 Late 2014
Metering Range EV -3 to 20 EV -1 to 20
Dynamic Range 14.7 stops 13.6 stops
Low Light Performance 3730 ISO 2449 ISO
USB Port USB Type-C Micro-USB
Headphone Port Yes No
Price Check A7iii Price Check A7ii Price


What Common Both Can do?

The Sony A7II and A7III, despite their differences, share several core capabilities and features, underscoring their belonging to Sony’s acclaimed A7 series of full-frame mirrorless cameras. Here’s a rundown of commonalities that both cameras offer, showcasing their versatility and appeal to a wide range of photographers:

  • E-mount Lens System: Both utilize Sony’s E-mount lens system, granting access to a wide range of high-quality lenses suitable for various photography genres and video work.
  • 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization: Both the A7II and A7III feature 5-axis in-body image stabilization, reducing camera shake for sharper images and smoother video, beneficial across all shooting conditions.
  • BIONZ X Image Processor: Sony’s BIONZ X image processor powers both cameras, enabling fast processing speeds, improved image quality, and reduced noise levels, especially at higher ISO settings.
  • High-Resolution Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): Both cameras are equipped with a high-resolution OLED electronic viewfinder, providing a clear and detailed view for composition and focus adjustments.
  • Tiltable LCD Screen: The A7II and A7III have tiltable LCD screens, enhancing shooting flexibility for high and low angles, though the A7III adds touchscreen functionality.
  • Magnesium Alloy Body and Weather-Sealing: Each camera features a durable magnesium alloy body and weather-sealing, offering protection against dust and moisture for reliable performance in challenging environments.
  • Wi-Fi and NFC Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC in both cameras allow for wireless image transfer and remote camera control via smartphone or tablet, enhancing sharing and workflow efficiency.
  • Full HD Video Recording: While the A7III offers superior video capabilities with 4K recording, both cameras can shoot Full HD video, catering to videographers’ needs for high-quality content.
  • Customization and Control: Both the A7II and A7III offer extensive customization options through custom buttons and a user-friendly interface, allowing photographers to tailor the camera settings to their shooting style and preferences.
  • ISO Sensitivity: Each camera offers a wide ISO sensitivity range, facilitating shooting in various lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light scenarios.
  • RAW and JPEG Image Formats: The ability to shoot in both RAW and JPEG formats, giving photographers flexibility in post-processing and image handling.
  • Battery Charging via USB: Both cameras can be charged via USB, a convenient feature for photographers on the go, allowing for charging through various USB power sources.
  • Silent Shooting Capabilities: Silent shooting modes are available in both models, enabling discreet photography in situations where noise could be disruptive.

If you are okay with the above-explained feature, then you can get any one of these, but if you are looking for advanced features and the best one Between the Sony A7ii & A7iii, you must pick the Sony A7iii.

Common Features

Feature Sony A7II Sony A7III
Build & Weather Sealing Magnesium alloy frame, weather-sealed Magnesium alloy frame, enhanced weather-sealing
Shutter Speed Range 1/8000 to 30 sec, Bulb 1/8000 to 30 sec, Bulb
Exposure Compensation ±5 EV (in 1/3 or 1/2 EV steps) ±5 EV (in 1/3 or 1/2 EV steps)
Flash Sync Speed 1/250 sec 1/250 sec
Color Depth 24 bit 24 bit
Microphone Port Yes Yes
Additional Features Improved color reproduction, enhanced Eye AF, silent shooting mode, HLG & S-Log profiles for video
Price Range Lower, considering it’s an older model Higher, reflecting newer technology and features
Price Check A7iii Price Check A7ii Price

FAQ

 
  1. What are the major differences between the Sony A7II and A7III?
  • Answer: The A7III offers significant upgrades over the A7II, including a more advanced autofocus system with 693 phase-detection points, higher ISO sensitivity, better low-light performance, faster continuous shooting rates (10 fps), dual SD card slots, longer battery life, and 4K video recording capabilities.
  1. Is the Sony A7III worth the extra cost over the A7II?
  • Answer: For many photographers and videographers, the A7III’s enhanced features, such as its improved autofocus system, 4K video capabilities, and extended battery life, justify the higher price. However, the A7II remains a solid choice for those on a tighter budget or whose photography needs don’t demand the latest features.
  1. Can the Sony A7II and A7III use the same lenses?
  • Answer: Yes, both cameras use Sony’s E-mount lens system, which means they are compatible with the same range of lenses, including full-frame FE lenses and APS-C E lenses (with a crop factor applied).
  1. Are the A7II and A7III suitable for beginners?
  • Answer: Both cameras can be great for beginners who are serious about diving into photography, thanks to their user-friendly interfaces and the ability to grow with the photographer. However, they are typically more popular among enthusiasts and professionals due to their full-frame sensors and higher price points compared to entry-level models.
  1. How do the A7II and A7III perform in low light?
  • Answer: Both cameras perform well in low light, but the A7III has a notable advantage thanks to its back-illuminated sensor and higher ISO range. This results in less noise and better detail in low-light conditions.
  1. Which camera is better for video, the A7II or A7III?
  • Answer: The A7III is significantly better for video, offering 4K recording, higher frame rates for slow-motion footage, and advanced profiles like S-Log3 for greater dynamic range and post-production flexibility.
  1. Can I charge the A7II and A7III using USB?
  • Answer: Yes, both cameras can be charged via USB, which is convenient for on-the-go charging or when traveling without access to a traditional power outlet.
  1. Do the A7II and A7III have image stabilization?
  • Answer: Yes, both cameras feature 5-axis in-body image stabilization, helping to minimize camera shake and produce sharper images, particularly in low-light conditions or when using slow shutter speeds.
  1. Is the autofocus system in the A7III significantly better than in the A7II?
  • Answer: Yes, the autofocus system in the A7III is a major upgrade, with 693 phase-detection AF points covering 93% of the image area, compared to the A7II’s 117 phase-detection points. This makes the A7III much more capable in tracking moving subjects and achieving fast, accurate focus.
  1. What type of photographer or videographer would benefit most from upgrading to the A7III from the A7II?
  • Answer: Photographers and videographers who require fast autofocus, shoot in challenging lighting conditions, need high-quality 4K video, or benefit from longer battery life would find the A7III a worthy upgrade. It’s especially beneficial for sports, wildlife, event photography, and professional video production.

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