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Sony A7 V Review

With the release of the next-generation Sony A7 V camera, Sony has addressed the buzz that has been growing throughout the photographic community. Many have been speculating about when one of the world’s most popular full-frame hybrid cameras would be updated, and we’re excited to report that the wait is finally over.

It’s been over four years since the A7 IV launched, and our Sony A7 V review comes at a time when creators are fizzing with anticipation, as Sony launches what turns out to be one of the biggest upgrades to the A7 series ever.

Quick Summary

• The Sony A7 V introduces a new partially stacked 33MP sensor and BIONZ XR2 processor, giving a major jump in speed, autofocus intelligence and image quality.
• You get blackout-free 30fps shooting, Pre-Capture mode and Speed Boost, all inherited from the flagship Alpha models.
• Video performance has come on leaps with 4K 120p (Super35), 4K 60p full-frame, LUT import, Flexible ISO and improved colour accuracy.
• Handling is more refined thanks to a 4-axis multi-angle LCD, dual USB-C ports, better heat control and longer battery life.
• A true all-round hybrid camera for creators upgrading from the A7 III or IV, or anyone needing one body that handles stills, video and fast action equally well.

Our very own video-guru Gareth Evans has spent some hands-on time with the camera while making his video review, putting it through real-world paces and capturing the sample images included in this review, shared alongside Sony's samples.

Hands-On Video Review With The NEW Sony a7 V

So whether you’re considering upgrading, interested in how it compares to the A7 IV, or simply here because you’re curious to see what tech Sony has got, join us as we explore one of the most important releases in the camera world for 2025.

Let’s begin with release date, price and lens kit options for the UK market.

Sony A7 V Release Date, UK Price and Lens Kits

When was the Sony A7 V released?

The Sony A7 V release date was December 2nd 2025, just days after Black Friday and four years after the previous generation arrived. The fifth iteration launches as a body-only option alongside several G and G Master lens kits, giving creators a choice of starting points depending on how they shoot.

Sony A7 V Price and Lens Kit Options

A new Sony A7 V camera body costs £2799.00, with four kits available at launch, including:

1. A7 V with 24-105mm G Lens Kit £3699.00
2. A7 V with 24-70mm GM II Lens Kit £4199.00
3. A7 V with 70-200mm GM II Lens Kit £4649.00
4. A7 V with 50-150mm GM Lens Kit £6199.00

These provide a variety of choices with some of Sony’s best and popular E mount lenses, all of which complement the flexible nature of this hybrid camera with equally versatile zoom ranges. 

It’s worth noting that these are largely second-generation professional GM lenses, which says a lot about how advanced the body is, pairing confidently with premium G Master optics.

Sample 01 with 24-70mm GM II at 24mm. Camera settings: 1.0 second (handheld). f/8. ISO 160

Where Does it Fit Into Sony’s Camera Line-Up?

The Sony A7 V sits in the middle of Sony’s full-frame camera ecosystem, and is a true all-round hybrid, a jack of all trades if you will. The A7 model combines speed, AF intelligence and video in a way that makes it the perfect choice for many creators, from beginners right through to working professionals.

The A7 line is distinct from Sony’s other models, which offer something unique, albeit with some crossover:

• The A7R series provides high resolution
• The A7S range caters to video-first creators
• The A7C line features a more compact body

The A7 series is often colloquially known as the baby A1, which continues with the A7 V, as it inherits several features from the flagship A1 II and A9 III. These include entirely blackout-free shooting, Sony’s latest subject recognition and faster burst shooting, all at a significantly lower price than both the A1 and A9 ranges.

For photographers and hybrid creators who don’t need the extreme speed of the A9 III’s global shutter or the high-resolution capabilities of the A7R or A1 models, the A7 V fills the role of Sony’s versatile, do-everything camera.

As we’ll find out next, this new generation provides more enough speed for action, resolution for professional portraits and events, and advanced video for solo content creators, making it one of the most well-rounded options to date in the entire Alpha range.

Sample 02 with 24-70mm GM II at 24mm. Camera settings: 1.0 second (handheld). f/6.3. ISO 100

What are the main upgrades in the Sony A7 V?

The headline upgrades are the introduction of a new partially stacked 33MP sensor, paired with a brand new AI-driven BIONZ XR2 processor. This combination delivers faster sensor readout, improves dynamic range to a maximum of 16 stops, and provides better power and heat management, quicker burst speeds and a huge jump in autofocus intelligence compared to the A7 IV.

Although it is still a 33MP camera on paper, which many consider the sweet spot, it is actually far quicker at processing than the A7 IV, resulting in noticeably upgraded results for both stills and video.

Sony has now developed the world’s first global shutter, a fully stacked sensor, this partially stacked sensor, and conventional sensors including one with the highest resolution in a full-frame camera, which is very impressive for one company.

Sample from Sony with FE 400mm F/2.8 GM. Camera settings: 1/2000 seconds. f/4.5. ISO 320

Is the Sony A7 V really a 'baby A1'?

In a broad sense, yes. This generation in particular inherits several characteristics from the flagship A1 II, including blackout-free shooting, advanced subject recognition and faster processing thanks to its new sensor and XR2 processor. It is not a replacement for the A1, but it is the closest the A7 series has come to offering flagship-style performance at a far more accessible price.

If you’re wondering how much has really changed, the next section compares the A7 IV and A7 V specs side by side.

Sony A7 IV vs A7 V Specs comparison

Our Sony A7 IV vs A7 V comparison shows just how much has been upgraded between generations. The new model has a completely new sensor design, and a faster processor that integrates AI rather than using a separate chip, which paves the way to improved autofocus, better video and faster shooting.

Sample from Sony with FE 400mm F/2.8 GM. Camera settings: 1/3200 seconds. f/4.5. ISO 800

Has autofocus improved on the Sony A7 V?

Autofocus is noticeably better thanks to the new partially stacked sensor and AI-driven BIONZ XR2 processor. You get expanded subject recognition, more reliable tracking and faster AF calculations, all of which support blackout-free 30fps shooting, Pre-Capture and Speed Boost modes inherited from the A1.

Sample 03 with 24-70mm GM II at 24mm. Camera settings: 1/200 seconds. f/4. ISO 2000

What is AI pose estimation?

Although we’ve seen it roll out elsewhere, the A7 V now includes pose estimation, which essentially uses an educated guess to recognise human subjects. It helps the camera maintain subject tracking even if someone becomes obscured, briefly leaves the frame or is wearing glasses.

What are the video upgrades in the A7 V?

Video sees equally significant improvements, with 4K 120p in Super35 (crop), 4K 60p full-frame, and helpful additions like LUT import, Flexible ISO and improved colour accuracy. For hybrid creators, the upgrade is immediately noticeable.

Is the A7 V good for vlogging and solo creators?

Yes, with features like Auto Framing vlogging and solo productions are easier as the system automatically reframes the shot to keep you centred, without needing to move the camera. This is one of the quality-of-life upgrades for vloggers and content creators.

Sample 04 with 24-70mm GM II at 67mm. Camera settings: 1/200 seconds. f/4. ISO 3200

Has stabilisation improved on the A7 V?

Stabilisation is improved with up to 7.5 stops in the centre of the frame, and 6.5 stops around the periphery. A couple of Gareth’s sample images here were taken indoors in low light, handheld at a 1-second exposure. If that doesn’t address any concerns about IBIS, nothing will.

Sample from Sony with FE 50mm F/1.2 GM. Camera settings: 1/6400 seconds. f/1.6. ISO 100

Is the A7 V a good video camera?

Yes, this is a really advanced hybrid video body, which offers:

• 4K 120p in Super 35, which is ideal for smooth slow-motion footage with excellent detail
• 4K 60p full-frame, giving you higher frame rates without a crop for wider compositions
• 10-bit recording, providing stronger colour depth for grading and cleaner transitions
• LUT import, letting you preview a near-final look while you shoot
• Flexible ISO, giving more control when recording in Log and adjusting exposure on the fly
• S-Cinetone, producing a cinematic, ready-to-use image with natural skin tones straight out of the camera

Sample 05 with 24-70mm GM II at 24mm. Camera settings: 1/200 seconds. f/4. ISO 3200

Is the A7 V good for photography?

Yes, just as with video, this is an excellent stills camera, with several features that make it suitable for any type of photography that you like to shoot. These include:

1. 33MP partially stacked sensor, with faster readout than a standard CMOS design
2. 16-stop dynamic range, so you can retain more highlight and shadow information
3. 14-bit RAW capture, even during high-speed bursts
4. Composite RAW modes, offering lower noise or HDR-style output
5. High-Resolution RAW processing, giving you sharper final files
6. Lightweight RAW, producing smaller, more manageable file sizes
7. 60fps AF calculations, improving focus reliability during fast or unpredictable movement
8. 30fps blackout-free bursts for action, wildlife and events
9. Pre-Capture mode between 0.3 and 1 second, recording frames before you fully press the shutter
10. Speed Boost, allowing temporary increases in burst rate without filling the buffer too quickly
11. Adjustable electronic shutter sound, from silent to louder feedback, depending on the environment

These stack up to make a really advanced photo and video camera for all levels of creator.

Sample 06 with 24-70mm GM II at 26mm. Camera settings: 1/250 seconds. f/4. ISO 2500

Is the A7 V easy to use?

A7 V handling has been improved, which makes day-to-day shooting easier and more reliable. Updated ergonomics and usability include:

• A 4-axis multi-angle LCD, with easier positioning for high, low, selfie and vertical shooting
• Dual USB-C ports, allowing you to transfer files, power the camera or stream while plugged in
• Improved heat management, for longer video recording
• Better battery life, thanks to more efficient processing and updated power management
• Faster 6GHz Wi-Fi, with stronger wireless transfers and a more stable connection

Sample from Sony with FE 70-200mm F/2.8 GM II @176mm. Camera settings: 1/250 seconds. f/9. ISO 200

Who is it best for?

The A7 V is aimed at creators who need a very capable all-round hybrid camera, and it’s particularly well suited to:

• Intermediate and enthusiast hybrid creators who want impressive stills and video performance
• Professional photographers or videographers who capture events, weddings and documentary, where the combination of resolution, advanced autofocus, burst rates and video tools is beneficial
• Content creators who shoot a mixture of stills and video, including solo creators and YouTubers
• Anyone looking to upgrade from a phone, the A7 III, A7 IV or other models
• Creators who want a single full-frame body that handles a wide range of subjects without needing to specialise with something like an A9 or A7S series body

Sample 07 with 24-70mm GM II at 70mm. Camera settings: 1/2000 seconds. f/2.8. ISO 1600

Is the Sony A7 V likely to receive firmware updates in 2026?

Sony does support A7 models with firmware updates during the early lifecycle, so it’s reasonable to expect firmware improvements in 2026. These often include AF refinements, lens compatibility updates or workflow updates, though Sony hasn’t confirmed any specific features yet.

Will the Sony A7 V affect the pricing of the A9 III or A1 II?

We do not expect it to directly, no. The A9 III and A1 II remain in their own performance categories, but the A7 V does narrow the gap for everyday usability, autofocus and video features. This may influence upgrade decisions, but it is unlikely to affect flagship pricing.

This is a very well-rounded hybrid camera, which has been redeveloped from the ground up, while catering to a broad variety photo and video creators. The fifth generation takes the “baby A1” notion seriously, with features that have never appeared in this line before.

These include blackout-free continuous bursts up to 30fps in 14-bit RAW, 4K 120p internal video recording and AI-driven autofocus that easily ranks among the best in the industry.

Whether you shoot fast action, low light or solo content, the camera is better equipped than ever to handle challenging situations. Ergonomic improvements such as the 4-axis multi-angle LCD, dual USB-C ports and better heat control give it a raft of quality-of-life improvements, while the longer battery life simply makes it easier to live with every day.

This is one of the best all-round cameras Sony has ever released, you just have to choose between the Sony A7 V body-only, or a lens kit from the Alpha mirrorless range to take your content to the next level.

If you’re planning on selling unwanted gear to upgrade, you can get a fast and free trade-in quote and put the money towards the A7 V or one of these lens kits.

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By Nick Dautlich on 02/12/2025

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.