Sony A7IV
The Sony A7IV is a high-performance full-frame mirrorless camera ideal for both photography enthusiasts and professionals. It features a 33-megapixel sensor, impressive autofocus with AI-driven eye and body tracking, and enhanced video capabilities, including 4K recording at 10-bit color depth with 13 stops of dynamic range. With a durable body design, a fully articulating touch screen, and improved low-light performance, the A7IV is a versatile tool that excels in both photo and video quality. Its powerful combination of advanced features comes at a premium price, but it delivers excellent results across various shooting conditions.
The Sony A7 IV is a long-awaited upgrade to the popular A7 III, bringing impressive advancements to Sony’s mid-range full-frame mirrorless camera lineup. Priced at $2,500, it’s $500 more than its predecessor but justifies the increase with a range of professional-level features suitable for both photography and video enthusiasts.
Key Specifications
- Sensor: 33-megapixel backside-illuminated sensor (BSI)
- ISO Range: Clean performance up to ISO 12800, usable up to ISO 25600
- Autofocus: Real-time tracking for humans, animals, and birds in both photos and video
- Burst Shooting: 10 frames per second (fps) in mechanical/electronic shutter with compressed RAW, dropping to 6 fps for lossless and uncompressed RAW
- Image Stabilization: 5.5 stops with compatible lenses
- Video Specs: 4K at 30p from full sensor readout with 10-bit 4:2:2 and 13 stops of dynamic range; also includes a lens breathing compensation feature
- Body: Based on the A1 and A7S III, with an improved grip and fully articulating rear touchscreen
- Battery Life: Up to 580 shots or two hours of 4K video
- Card Slots: Dual card slots (one CFexpress Type A and one SD UHS-II)
- Ports: USB-C for power, full-size HDMI
Pros
- Improved Ergonomics: The A7 IV’s design takes cues from Sony’s high-end models, with a larger, more comfortable grip and a top-mounted record button, ideal for video.
- Versatile Autofocus: Eye, face, and body tracking now work across all focus modes, making it highly reliable, even in complex lighting. The tracking in video is equally effective, a boon for those shooting dynamic scenes or interviews.
- Image Quality: With 33MP, the A7 IV provides sharp detail and enhanced color accuracy. The high ISO performance is especially notable, offering clean images even in low-light conditions.
- Advanced Video Features: Capable of shooting 4K at 10-bit 4:2:2 with S-Log3, the A7 IV is well-suited for color grading and post-production. The addition of lens breathing compensation, albeit limited to specific lenses, helps improve focus transition quality in video.
- Usable as a Vlogging Camera: The fully articulating rear screen makes it ideal for vloggers and anyone needing flexibility in framing.
Cons
- Rolling Shutter Issues: The A7 IV’s sensor readout speed is relatively slow, which leads to noticeable rolling shutter in electronic shutter mode and when using the full-width 4K 30p video.
- Limited Stabilization Compared to Rivals: The in-body stabilization offers 5.5 stops, but competitors like Canon’s EOS R6 promise up to 8 stops.
- Price: The $2,500 price tag might be high for some, especially since it’s positioned as an enthusiast-level model.
Final Verdict
The Sony A7 IV sets a new standard for hybrid mirrorless cameras in its price range, with substantial improvements in resolution, autofocus, and video capabilities over the A7 III. Though the rolling shutter and stabilization limitations may concern some professionals, the A7 IV offers a compelling combination of quality, ease of use, and advanced features that make it a strong choice for both photography and video.
If you’re looking for a versatile, high-performance mirrorless camera that handles various shooting conditions with ease, the Sony A7 IV is certainly worth considering.
