Sony has long been in the business of producing fantastic cameras for their customers, offering an extensive range of models that can accommodate all photographers, regardless of their skill level.
In fact, they are set to launch a new model in their lineup of entry-level full-frame mirrorless cameras – the new Sony A7 IV. Serving as the successor to Sony’s highly popular A7 III, the A7 IV comes with many of its predecessor’s features but only newer and better.
However, considering that the A7 III was already an excellent camera for all-around use, what can the new Sony A7 IV offer?
Well, as it turns out, it can offer a lot more, especially with camera technologies being more advanced than ever. So, if you’re interested to learn more about Sony’s new model, read on below.
What’s New? Sony A7 IV vs. Sony A7III
So, what’s new with the Sony A7 IV? What improvements does it have over the A7 III? Let’s find out.
Updated BSI-CMOS Sensor
Perhaps one of the most notable updates in the A7 IV is its new 33MP BSI-CMOS camera sensor, a definite upgrade from the A7 III’s 24MP sensor. This allows it to capture images with a higher resolution and possibly even image quality, even at a rate of 10 frames per second.
It’s also attached to a newer and improved built-in stabilization unit, so you can expect better photos with less distortion, even with moving subjects. However, the higher resolution only applies to images, with the camera’s maximum video resolution staying at 4K.
The A7 IV is also designed to have a bigger buffer capacity than its predecessor. In this case, Sony states that the new model can capture up to 828 RAW and JPEG images at 10fps before slowing down, a significant improvement over the A7 III’s 79 RAW+JPEG capacity.
Improved Autofocus
The A7 III’s autofocus technology was already considered incredible, so the improvements in the A7 IV were just built on that. The new model features 759 AF points, a slight increase from its predecessor’s 693 AF points.
However, one of the notable changes in its autofocus system was its shift from the “Lock-On” feature to the newer “Real-Time Tracking.” This allows you to seamlessly and easily switch your camera’s focus from one part to another, even as your subject moves or walks away.
It also comes with additional modes that enable it to better track and capture images of moving subjects, particularly of animals like birds and household pets.
Better Videos, Not Just Images
4K 60p
Another improvement on the A7 IV over its predecessor is its enhanced capacity for taking high-quality videos. Although the resolution remains steady at 4K, the newer model can now capture videos at a rate of 60p.
10-bit 4:2:2 Up to 600Mbps
Besides this, the A7 IV also offers higher quality and processing flexibility for captured videos at 10-bit/4:2:2 600Mbps compared to the A7 III’s 8-bit/4:2:0, especially when using the camera’s high-dynamic-range (HDR) mode. Recording in the XAVC HS (H265) codec.
It also features the S-Log3 and S-Cinetone profiles for more stunning videos.
You can also carry over your preferred image settings to your videos when shooting, so you can seamlessly switch from stills to videos without adjusting the settings every time.
Low noise rendering imagery
The standard sensitivity range of ISO 100-51200 is expandable to ISO 50-204800 for stills and ISO 100-102400 for movies.
Autofocus tracking for Animals
New capability of tracking animals eyes to maintain sharp imagery.
Live Stream USB Streaming
Live 4K video streaming directly through USB.
Touch operations
Featuring better touch operations to fine-tune focus and zoom in on images.
Multi-axis Movement Monitor
View better with more angles on your monitor. Using the 3.0-type 1.03-million-dot LCD touch-panel monitor has never been better. Upgrading from the old single-direction monitor on the A7III.
Sony A7 IV vs. Sony A7 III Table Comparison
Of course, aside from what was already mentioned, the Sony A7 IV has undergone other improvements from the previous model, as shown in the table below.
| Feature | Sony A7 III | Sony A7 IV |
| Sensor | Full-frame 24MP | Full-frame 33MP |
| Maximum ISO | ISO 204800 (stills and videos) | ISO 204800 (stills), ISO 102400 (videos) |
| Autofocus | 693 AF points, Human/Animal, Lock-On | 759 AF points, Human/Animal/Bird, AF Assist, Real-Time Tracking, Breathing Compensation, Focus Map |
| Video | Up to 4K at 30fps, 8-bit/4:2:0 | Up to 4K at 60fps, 10-bit/ 4:2:2 |
| Viewfinder | up to 60 fps, 2.35m dot XGA | up to 120 fps, 3.68m dot Quad-VGA |
| Display | Tilting | Multiple Angles |
| Storage Compatibility | UHS-II x2 | CFexpress Type A or UHS-II x1, UHS-II x1 |
| Monitor | Single axis rotation | Multi-axis rotation |
While some of the changes are subtle, the Sony A7 IV is undeniably an improvement from its predecessor, building on what was already good and improving on what could be improved. However, is it worth the higher price? The answer is ultimately up to you and which camera better suits your needs. After all, the A7 III remains one of the best mirrorless cameras available for all-around use, so it can still be an excellent choice.
Here’s a look at the new camera in detail:
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