Sony Announces Pair of Compact Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras

2023.08.29

Earlier this morning, Sony made a pair of announcements for new Full-Frame Digital Cameras and an updated professional lens that will be available shortly. The lens is second generation model that improves performance of an already excellent lens. Most exciting is the launch of two new mirrorless models with an exceptional size based on some of the most popular Sony cameras.

First is the Sony Alpha A7CR which is a compact version of the maximum resolution Sony A7R V. This camera uses the same sensor to capture 61 megapixels images and pairs it with the latest Bionz XR processor. The ISO and shutter-speed range remain the same, while video capabilities are mostly carried over except that the A7CR does not support 8K video. This allowed Sony to ommit heat-dissipation structure that makes the A7R V much heavier. Speaking of weight, the A7CR weighs 515g, making it 30% lighter.

The more compact form-factor of the A7CR did not prevent Sony from including a large number of controls. There are 4 control-dials on this camera! The smaller body restricted the 5-axis image-stabilization system to 7 stops, just one less than the A7R V, yet it remains more powerfull than the majority of cameras. Other reductions include a much smaller and lower resolution 0.39" EVF with 2.4 megapixels and 0.7X magnification and a LCD with just 1 megapixels. Some features had to be left out such as Dual Memory-Card slots and Focus-Stacking. A single SDXC slot is available on the A7CR.

Next is the Sony Alpha A7C II which mirrors the A7CR using the 33 megapixels sensor of the Sony Alpha A7 IV instead. Due to the generation difference between the A7 IV and A7R V, the A7C II inherits features from the more modern of the two. In this case, the IBIS system is effective to 7-stops which is better than the 5½-stops of the A7 IV. Every feature of the new Sony A7C II is identical to the A7CR.

The 61 megapixels sensor in the A7CR has 693 Phase-Detect Points while the 33 megapixels sensor in the A7C II has 759 AF points. Each pixel is larger on the A7C II since there are fewer in the same area and so this model is more sensitive to light. Its standard sensitivity range spans ISO 100-51200 and expands to 50-204800. The A7CR covers ISO 100-3200 normally and expands to ISO 50-102400.

Both new mirrorless cameras are expected this fall. The Sony A7C II will come at a recommended price of $2200 USD or $3000 CAD, while the A7CR will go for $3000 USD or $4100 CAD. Follow the previous links to preorder.

• Digital Camera
• Lens