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How Does The New Sony a7C Compare

How does the new Sony a7C compare to the rest of the Sony Alpha full-frame mirrorless camera range? Read our blog post for a comprehensive specifications comparison table, image samples from the latest Alpha camera as well as a more in-depth rundown of specifications. Gareth Evans also gives us his thoughts in a video review and we talk about the lens kit, which includes the brand new FE 28-60mm f/4-5.6 OSS zoom lens.

Sony a7C Video Review | Full Frame and Compact, Best of both worlds?

Gareth Evans had a few days with the new compact model and has put together this comprehensive video review of the body. The sample images are also all provided from the model which was loaned and shows the high dynamic range which the camera is capable of at 15 EV stops.

Sony A7C in black

Sony a7C specifications comparison

In our table we compare the new Sony a7C with the rest of the full-frame camera range which currently includes the a7S III, the a7 III and the resolution king a7R IV.

  a7C a7S III a7 III a7R IV
Resolution 24.2MP 12.2MP 24.2MP 61MP
Continuous Shooting 10fps 10fps 10fps 10fps
Processor Bionz X (new) Bionz X (new) Bionz X Bionz X (new)
ISO Range 100-51,200 (expandable 50-204,800) 100-102,400 (expandable 50-409,600) 100-51,200 (expandable 50-204,800) 100-32,000 (expandable 50-102,400)
AF Points 693 759 693 567
Eye AF Yes Yes Yes Yes
Real-time Eye Tracking Yes Yes No Yes
Animal Eye AF Yes Yes Yes Yes
In-body Image Stabilisation 5 stops 5.5 stops 5 stops 5.5 stops
Maximum Video Resolution / Bitrate 4K 8-bit 4:2:0 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 internal 4K 8-bit 4:2:0 (8-bit 4:2:2 external) 4K 8-bit 4:2:0 (8-bit 4:2:2 external)
High Frame Rate Full HD 120fps 4K 120fps / Full HD 240fps Full HD 120fps Full HD 120fps
S-Log S-Log2 / S-Log3 S-Log2 / S-Log3 S-Log2 / S-Log3 S-Log2 / S-Log3
Card Slots 1 x UHS-II SD 1 x CFexpress + 1 x UHS-II SD Dual SD card slots, UHS-II + UHS-I Dual UHS-II SD card slots
Viewfinder 2.36 million dots 9.44 million dots 2.35 million dots 5.76 million dots
LCD Screen Vari-angle touchscreen Vari-angle touchscreen 0.92 million dot touchscreen 1.44 million dot touchscreen
Weight 424g 699g 650g 665g

Where does the A7C fit within Sony’s full-frame range?

Here are some of the key similarities and differences of the Sony A7C and how it fits into the existing range of full-frame mirrorless cameras. Straight away we see some updates which differentiate this from the rest of the range:

  1. The size is considerably smaller and the a7C weighs less than others in the range. At just 424g. the body is the lightest with the a7iii next in line at 125g heavier. This is around 20% lighter and the body is by no coincidence around 20% smaller too. So we can ascertain the ‘C’ stands for a new compact model. 
  2. The EVF is off-set to the left side of the camera body. This change allows Sony to pack technology into the small camera casing.
  3. There is a dedicated video record button on the top panel. Quick access to recording movies underlines the target audience of video creators, content creators and hybrid shooters who enjoy quick access to both video and stills photography
  4. Under the hood Sony has completely redeveloped the shutter unit as well as the 5-axis stabilisation system. This was required due to the diminutive size of the new body and has allowed Sony to maintain pro-level characteristics in the tiny frame.
  5. Connectivity provides full support to movie creation with a number of ports for HDMI, headphone and mic jacks, USB-C connector and wireless is supported through both WiFi and Bluetooth.
  6. The highly popular A7iii is the nearest in the range to the new a7C, however the latest body offers a number of benefits over this. These include the latest autofocus system, which is renowned as being one of the best in the industry. AF includes Eye, Face and Animal AF detect and tracking.

Sony a7C Sample Images

Sony a7C with FE 85mm f/1.4 GM lens by Gareth Evans

Outdoor Portrait
Sony a7C with FE 85mm f/1.4 GM lens
85mm
1/2000 sec
ISO 125.
f/1.4
Sony a7C with FE 28-60mm f/4-5.6 kit lens by Gareth Evans
Hiking
Sony a7C with FE 28-60mm f/4-5.6 kit lens
60mm
1/200 sec.
ISO 100
f/5.6
Sony a7C with FE 28-60mm f/4-5.6 kit lens by Gareth Evans
Landscape
Sony a7C with FE 28-60mm f/4-5.6 kit lens
60mm
1/250 sec.
ISO 100
f/11

Kits and new colours available

The new silver finish a7C with kit lens

Rather strikingly Sony has released the a7C in two colours. Standard black camera colour as well as a stylish new silver finish a7C (pictured here). The features are identical but this choice allows users to pick the most desirable model for themselves. It’s nice to have the choice.
As well as launching two new colours, Sony has also released each with a brand new ultra compact FE 28-60mm f/4-5.6 OSS zoom lens kit. The new lens is incredibly small, weighing just 167 grams which complements the a7C perfectly. Aimed at general purpose and versatile photography and video, the lens is a great all-rounder as expected from a kit lens. The wide angle is just wide enough for vlogging when holding the camera at arms length and the zoom range covers any subjects from portraits to street photography as well as travel or landscapes.
Speaking of travel there can be no dispute that this combination is the lightest full-frame camera and lens Sony has ever released, making for the ideal outdoor travel system which boasts pro-quality features. Weather sealing to both the body and lens add to the outdoor theme.

The A7C for photography

Photographers are clearly not forgotten with the inclusion of the high quality CMOS back illuminated 24.2MP sensor. High speed is a very respectable 10fps which keeps pace with all but the most demanding wildlife and action scenarios. Even at this speed the camera maintains AF/AE lock so will catch and track moving subjects beautifully. The fully articulating screen is also touch capable and lends itself perfectly to composing awkward angles or videos.

Further comparisons

Readers can garner more in-depth reviews of other recently released Sony cameras here in our blog with the following posts:

Purchase now or read more:

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By Nick Dautlich on 15/09/2020

Nick Dautlich

Nick Dautlich

Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer

Nick Dautlich is the Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer at Park Cameras, with over 15 years of photography experience. A Sony Imaging Professional and expert reviewer, Nick has worked with major brands such as Canon, Sony and Nikon. His work is also featured on Vanguard World UK’s website, Capture Landscapes, and Shutter Evolve. Nick’s photography includes National Trust projects and magazine covers and he is passionate about landscapes and storytelling. Nick also enjoys hiking and teaching his children about nature. Learn more on his profile page.

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