Every time a new camera options drops, photographers everywhere question if they really need the upgrade or not. Well, if you’re thinking about dropping almost $2,500 on a new camera, here’s why you might want to think about purchasing Sony’s new A7S II () 12MP full-frame CSC and how it compares to the previous model (A7S) and the A7R III.
Overview
Just like Sony’s A7S and A7R III, the A7S II is a great option for those looking for a full-frame 35mm digital camera that has the ability to do it all. From impressive video and images, the AS7 II is the only camera from Sony that’s the most sensitive low light camera, resulting in optimal low light shooting, if that’s your preference. It’s actually being touted around the industry as the best video shooting still camera, producing video that’s practically at a professional’s level with its internal 4K video recording, while its resolution is just 12 million pixels (sort of making it a niche camera), which allows it to have better light gathering ability.
Body and Handling
Sony’s been in the camera game for so long now that they know what photographers want when it comes to something comfortable to hold while shooting. Similar to the other two models, the A7S II is comfy when holding and many of its controls are easy to get to without much trouble. But you’ll notice that it’s a lot tougher than its predecessor given that its made using more magnesium alloy and features a reinforced lens mount, which adds to its durability. But the body is actually the same as the newest Mark II versions.
Its grip is now deeper, resulting in a better feel when held, while the shutter button region is different, with the button having been shifted forward so that it’s closer to where your finger would naturally be placed, making it all more comfortable to handle. And the new model now features a handy locking mode dial that helps you from accidentally flicking over to another mode (which is very frustrating for many). The best feature has to be the fact that you get a full-frame sensor in a pretty compact body! But one downfall is that its battery life is not as powerful as some comparably-priced DSLRs.
The Screen and EVF
You’ll notice that this model has the same EVF as the A7S model, but it is an actual improvement from the last one since magnification went from 0.71x to 0.78x, which translates to a larger image overall. The rear screen has been improved, too, with a 3″ 1.23-million dot screen, which is better than the 921k on the A7S. The screen is now movable, allowing you to tilt up and town to make shooting below and above head height much easier than before. And similar to the A7R II, the A7S II also features NFC and Wi-Fi to wirelessly link the camera to your tablet or phone to transfer your photos easily.
Performance and Auto-focus
So it might seem like the A7S II has a lower resolution, but the camera and an entirely different setup when it comes to auto-focus. It doesn’t use Sony’s hybrid focus system, but instead uses its own contrast detection auto-focus that has 169 focus points. This also means that the camera’s nine central points are divided up into 16 different segments, which provide a higher concentration auto-focus right in the center. So even though shooting is not as fast as the A7R II’s hybrid auto focus, it’s still quite good — even in dark conditions.
For action photographers, it might not be the ideal match. Even though it shoots at 5fps via its Bionz X camera processor, it really drops down to just 2.5fps when you use continuous focusing. You’ll also notice that the A7S II features an optional electronic shutter for silent shooting.
However, one of biggest new changes for the A7S II is its new 5-axis stabilization that actually compensates for any movements you make when the shutter is open, so you might not need a tripod.
Video and Image Quality
Given that the A7S II uses the same 12-megapixel sensor as the one in the A7S, it uses low resolution to allow each sensor pixel to be larger, resulting in a good base ISO dynamic range for better image quality as you work up the spectrum of sensitivity.
The video features for the A7S II allow you to capture up to 4K resolution, which equals great results. But in order to get those great results, you’ll have to get a super fast UHS III-compliant memory card. But honestly, it’s one of the best for those looking to shoot video.
So should you buy the new A7S II? You’d have to ask yourself if it’s an overall better camera for your photography needs.
