Sony mirrorless cameras: complete guide

Unlike long-established companies such as Nikon and Canon, Sony moved quickly into mirrorless cameras. The brand did not have the same large DSLR user base, and its DSLRs were already something of a hybrid because they used electronic viewfinders. It therefore made sense for Sony to remove a mirror that had become largely unnecessary. Today, manufacturers devote virtually all their research and development to mirrorless cameras. In late 2013, Sony announced the Alpha A7, a new line of full-frame mirrorless cameras that changed the market. Sony then took the lead in interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras. We have also written an article on the best Sony lenses for different types of photographers.

The line between DSLRs and mirrorless cameras has gradually faded, largely in favor of the latter. In this article, I will take you through the different ranges of Sony mirrorless cameras, including the latest models. With cameras such as the Alpha 9 III, the Alpha 1 II, and the new Alpha 7R VI, mirrorless bodies now leave very little to envy in DSLRs. If you’re interested, I wrote a full article about the differences between DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

Of course, DSLRs are not quite dead yet, but let’s take a closer look at the different Sony mirrorless cameras. We will begin with APS-C models before moving on to full-frame cameras and the types of photography they suit best. Wondering which Sony camera to choose? I’ll walk you through the options.

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Before we get started, especially if you are currently looking for a new body, take a look at our complete guide explaining everything you need to know to choose a camera.

Let’s begin with Sony’s APS-C cameras. As you probably know, their sensors are smaller than full-frame sensors. Depending on how and what you shoot, however, the crop factor can be useful, and APS-C bodies and lenses are often more compact than their full-frame equivalents. Below, I cover Sony’s main current APS-C bodies, followed by several older models that may still be worth considering.

If you are considering a Sony APS-C camera, take a look at all Sony E-mount lenses available for this system. You can also check out Canon’s RF APS-C mirrorless cameras, released in June 2022.

Introduced in July 2024, the Sony ZV-E10 II is the second generation of the ZV-E10 series, three years after the release of the original model. This new APS-C body inherits the technological advances seen in other models in the Alpha series (from the a6600 to the a6700), including an increase in resolution from 24 to 26 megapixels thanks to the Exmor R CMOS sensor, an even more powerful BIONZ XR processor, and an improved screen resolution that now offers 1.04 million dots. The ZV-E10 II is also equipped with the new NP-FZ100 battery, which delivers significantly longer battery life, up to 610 shots with the LCD screen.

The ZV-E10 II also features significantly improved autofocus (AF). The number of phase-detection points has been increased to 759 from 425 in the first version, providing wider and more precise AF coverage. Built-in artificial intelligence (AI) enables far more accurate tracking of subjects, whether human faces, animals or birds, with the ability to lock focus on the eyes in real time. The ISO range remains extended from 100 to 32,000, with a possible extension to 102,400, offering great flexibility in low-light conditions (although quality will obviously suffer).

When it comes to video, the ZV-E10 II breaks new ground with the arrival of 4K UHD at 60 fps, an essential feature for content creators looking to produce high-quality videos. Thanks to the UHS-II compatible SD card (vs. UHS-I on the Mark I), data transfer is faster, allowing for smooth management of heavy video files. S&Q (Slow & Quick) mode allows you to capture slow- or fast-motion footage directly from the camera, opening up new creative possibilities.

Designed for ambitious creators, the Sony ZV-E10 II offers a combination of high performance, technological innovation and ease of use. Its ability to produce high-quality images and video, combined with advanced ergonomics and connectivity, makes it a highly attractive tool for vloggers and content creators.

Released in July 2023, the Sony Alpha 6700 is a (long-awaited) significant evolution of its predecessor, the A6600, released four years earlier. This APS-C body retains most of the features of the previous model, while incorporating several notable improvements. With a resolution increased from 24 to 26 megapixels thanks to the Exmor R sensor, it is now equipped with the new BIONZ XR processor, which offers up to eight times faster image processing performance. The body still has a single SD card slot, but is now UHS-II compatible for faster transfer speeds. Although battery life has been reduced to 550 shots through the viewfinder, this model remains (almost) as compact and lightweight at 493 g. The maximum shutter speed (1/4000s) and 11 fps burst rate remain unchanged. The same applies to the ISO range, which has been extended from 50 to 32,000 (100 to 102,400 in extended mode). Note, however, the slightly improved buffer for RAW format.

The α6700 also integrates artificial intelligence (AI), significantly improving subject detection, including people, animals and moving objects. Its advanced AI-based autofocus enables highly accurate eye tracking, even in low light, with autofocus down to -3 EV.

Video receives particular attention, including 4K UHD at 60 fps, providing much higher quality for content creators. The addition of a USB-C port allows for fast connectivity, while the 1.04 million-dot LCD screen, which is slightly improved over its predecessor, offers greater shooting flexibility. Retaining the 2.36 million-dot viewfinder, this model remains a rugged choice for photographers and videographers seeking portability without compromising image quality. The Sony Alpha 6700 is a versatile option for demanding photographers and filmmakers, combining performance, innovation and versatility.

With the a6400 arriving a few months earlier and the a6100 being announced alongside the a6600, these three models formed Sony’s APS-C mirrorless lineup at the time.

All three cameras have the same 24 MP sensor resolution and a burst rate of 11 fps. No matter which camera, you’ll find the latest autofocus technologies with eye detection and tracking for people and animals. The a6100 is Sony’s entry-level mirrorless camera. Without sensor stabilization, like the a6400, and with a lower-resolution electronic viewfinder, it still has excellent image quality. The a6400 delivers similarly strong image quality, and it inherits, in addition, a higher ISO range and a highlight metering mode designed to help prevent overexposure. As for video, the a6400 is more capable, with stronger autofocus and additional shooting aids.

Last but not least, the absence of USB-C on both cameras is a real shame when you see that all competitors are equipped with it…

The Sony A6100 in detail

The Sony A6400 in detail

The Sony FX30, released in September 2022, is an APS-C cinema camera in Sony’s professional Cinema Line. Equipped with a 26-megapixel sensor and the BionZ XR processor, it offers a dynamic range of over 14 stops. Its strong points include a dual-base ISO system (800 and 2500) for good low-light performance. Like the FX3, it offers 5.5-stop stabilization, as well as active stabilization (ideal for handheld shooting). Its hybrid autofocus also features 495 phase-detection points.

For video, the camera can record in 4K 120 fps and 4K 60 fps. It supports XAVC S/XAVC S-I/XAVC HS formats in 10-bit 4:2:2. It also features the S-Cinetone color profile, as well as Log Cine EI, Cine EI Quick and Flexible ISO modes. Connectivity is particularly comprehensive, with an HDMI Type A port, a 3.5 mm headphone and microphone jack, a USB-C 3.2 port and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth 5.0 compatibility. Finally, its weight and compact size make it practical and easy to carry.

The FX30 is considerably more affordable than the FX3. It’s ideal for content creators and videographers looking for a high-quality camera. It competes with the Lumix GH6 or Fujifilm X-H2S, while offering advanced recording options.

The Sony a6600 is Sony’s former flagship APS-C mirrorless camera, and the successor to the a6500. At first glance, it looks a lot like the other cameras in Sony’s a6000 series with 24 MP resolution, 11 fps burst and 4K video capture. However, it has the largest battery and therefore the best battery life, rated at up to 810 shots. The a6600 also stands out by offering in-body image stabilization, which is still rare among APS-C cameras. This should help when shooting in low light conditions as well as for handheld videos.

Like the a6400 and a6100 models released at the same time as this one (and which I’ll quickly mention below), the a6600 offers the latest version of Sony’s autofocus called “Real-time Tracking AF”: it is able to track non-human subjects as well as human faces, eyes and even some animals reliably.

When it comes to video, the a6600 continues the momentum of this lineup by offering good quality, highly detailed 4K video and a fairly substantial set of capture aids. Finally, the a6600 offers weather sealing, Wi-Fi, and comes equipped with a headphone port and a microphone port.

All in all, it’s a solid, high-performance camera with still-excellent autofocus, image stabilization and unbeatable battery life. But for Sony’s flagship model, and when you look at the competition (like Panasonic’s G9 and Fujifilm’s X-T4), it lacks a little something extra, other than good photos or videos, to stand out…

A video-focused model that sits apart from Sony’s more photography-oriented Alpha lineup, the Sony ZV-E10 is a 24 MP APS-C mirrorless camera clearly designed for vloggers. It builds on the concept introduced by the ZV-1, a very successful expert compact, for those looking for better image quality and more creative options.

The ZV-E10’s specs are identical to the Sony A6100, from its 24 MP sensor to its autofocus system, including its 24p 4K video capabilities without cropping. But more than just an A6100 without a viewfinder, the ZV-E10 aims to make high-quality video capture straightforward.

Let’s now take a closer look at the vlogging features this ZV-E10 offers: good quality over-sampled 24p and uncropped 4K capture, as well as high-speed shooting capabilities up to 1080/120p, headphone and microphone ports, an articulating selfie touchscreen, a high-quality built-in vlogging microphone, industry-leading video autofocus performance, straightforward livestreaming, and very good battery life.

But this ZV-E10 has two drawbacks: poor rolling shutter performance in 4K and poor-quality Full HD footage.

So, you’re looking here at a small, versatile video camera with features that will appeal to content creators on YouTube, TikTok and Instagram. It comes close to being an ideal vlogging camera, both in terms of price and features. But for those who want to shoot something other than static images, none of its video modes is completely free of compromises… The lack of in-body stabilization is also disappointing.

Let’s continue with Sony’s full-frame mirrorless range. In late 2013, Sony launched the Alpha A7, a new family of cameras built around 24×36 mm sensors, commonly known as full-frame. Since those first models, the series has evolved considerably, and the latest bodies bring together some of Sony’s most advanced technology.

If you are considering a Sony full-frame camera, you can also browse all the Sony FE lenses available for your future body.

As the successor to the Sony A7 IV, the Sony A7 V retains a much of the proven technical foundation of its predecessor. The full-frame mirrorless body remains relatively compact and weather-sealed. It still features the Sony FE mount with its extensive range of lenses, a 3.68-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, and the NP-FZ100 battery. Ergonomics are nearly unchanged, offering a comfortable grip, intuitive controls, dual card slots (CFexpress Type A / SD UHS-II + SD UHS-II), and a full set of connections including HDMI Type A and microphone/headphone jacks. Overall, the A7 V clearly follows the same design philosophy as the Sony A7 IV, with no major changes in this regard.

Where the A7 V truly stands out is in speed and responsiveness. The sensor maintains a 33-megapixel resolution but now features a far more efficient and faster partially stacked architecture, paired with the new Bionz XR2 processor. This combination enables burst shooting up to 30 fps with electronic shutter and AF tracking, improved rolling shutter control, and enhanced image stabilization rated up to 7.5 stops. Autofocus has also become more comprehensive, with advanced subject recognition for humans, animals, birds, insects, and vehicles, delivering excellent tracking performance in action scenarios.

Both versatile and high-performing, the Sony A7 V is likely to be very successful. It also introduces features typically found in higher-end models, such as a 4-axis fully articulating screen, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, and in-camera composite processing for files of up to approximately 132 megapixels. On the video side, it supports 4K at 120p, albeit with a significant Super 35 crop of approximately 1.5×.

In conclusion, even though the A7 V does not bring radical changes, it remains a reliable and compelling option with a strong price-to-performance ratio. It does deliver meaningful improvements and solid performance gains. In my view, it is a strong long-term choice.

The Sony Alpha 1 II succeeds the original Sony A1, which was released four years earlier. This new camera shares most of the features of its predecessor, including a 50.1 MP full-frame stacked Exmor RS sensor, an extended ISO range from 50 to 102,400 and fast burst speeds of up to 30 fps. Video capabilities remain, with maximum resolutions of 8K at 30p and 4K at 120p, as does the NP-FZ100’s battery, although battery life is slightly lower. In terms of ergonomics, the 9.44 million-dot OLED viewfinder has been retained, but the body has gained a few grams and millimeters and is now easier to hold (improved grip).

The A1 II’s key innovation is its dual BIONZ XR processor, coupled with an AI processing unit. This technological breakthrough enables significantly improved subject recognition, with up to 30% more accurate eye tracking (claimed) and automatic detection of a wide range of targets, from animals to vehicles and even insects. A new auto-detection function simplifies parameter selection, allowing the camera to identify and track a wide range of subjects without manual intervention. Stabilization is also more effective, with up to 8.5 stops of compensation in the center of the image, making it easier to shoot handheld even in difficult conditions.

The screen has been improved and is now fully articulated on four axes, with an improved resolution of 2.1 million dots. Whether shooting at high resolution or capturing more creative angles, this flexibility offers greater comfort. Borrowed from the Sony A9 III, Pre-Capture mode helps preserve the decisive moment by recording images as soon as the shutter button is pressed halfway. This is particularly useful for action scenes or sporting events.

These new features contribute to an improved workflow, particularly through compatibility with platforms such as Creator’s Cloud. This service makes it easy to store, edit and share content directly from the camera, making the post-production process even smoother. In terms of connectivity, the A1 II offers significant improvements: a USB-C 3.2 port, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet and 5 GHz Wi-Fi compatibility guarantee faster data transfers and optimal integration in professional environments.

In conclusion, the Sony A1 II is a versatile, high-performance camera designed for demanding professionals and affluent enthusiasts. Its ultra-reactive autofocus, AI-optimized tracking and advanced customization options make it an ideal tool for sports, wildlife and reportage photography. These enhancements, combined with improved connectivity and simplified workflows, confirm its place at the top of the brand’s professional range.

The Sony Alpha 9 III introduced a major milestone in professional mirrorless photography. Four years after the success of the A9 II, Sony presents its new 24.2 MP full-frame mirrorless camera, stabilized and powered by the new BIONZ XR processor. The latter offers increased processing power for improved responsiveness and optimized image quality. The body maintains the same compactness (more or less) as its predecessors and features a dual card slot (two slots, each compatible with CFexpress Type A and SD UHS-II cards), a notable evolution from the previous model.

One of the strengths of the Alpha 9 III is its ability to capture burst shots at 120 fps, thanks to its global electronic shutter, which eliminates the need for a mechanical shutter. This innovation makes it possible to achieve a maximum shutter speed of 1/80,000s, offering great possibilities for capturing the fastest movements with extreme precision. This level of performance makes the A9 III a top-of-the-line camera for sports and wildlife photographers, where every fraction of a second counts.

Borrowed from the A7R V, the A9 III’s 9.44-million-dot OLED viewfinder offers a superbly clear and fluid viewing experience, even in burst mode. The 2.1-million-dot LCD screen adds to this visual quality, making it easy to frame and review high-resolution images. When it comes to video, the camera excels with its ability to record in 4K UHD at 120 fps without cropping, ensuring the highest image quality and creative flexibility for professional videographers.

In short, the Sony Alpha 9 III is a highly advanced camera designed to meet the needs of the most demanding professionals. It combines speed, precision and image quality in a rugged, ergonomic body, while introducing exciting innovations such as a global shutter. Whether for sports photography, wildlife or video production, the A9 III is a formidable tool for photographers who need this level of performance.

In September 2023, Sony introduced the A7C II, three years after the release of the first model (A7C). This new full-frame mirrorless body upgrades to a 33 MP sensor, offering improved image quality while retaining the compact size for which the series is renowned. Equipped with the latest Bionz XR processor, it promises improved performance, particularly in image processing and color management, while reducing noise and processing lag.

Despite a slightly shorter battery life than its predecessor, the A7C II maintains a burst rate of 10 fps, which remains sufficient for many types of photography. The electronic viewfinder, while similar to the previous model, benefits from a slightly improved resolution, providing a more comfortable shooting experience. Another important new feature is the introduction of 4K video recording at 60 fps, which expands the possibilities for videographers.

The ergonomics of the A7C II remain virtually unchanged, with a compact, lightweight body that makes it an ideal companion for photographers and videographers on the go. 5-axis image stabilization and AI-assisted autofocus ensure sharp, accurate shots even in the most challenging conditions. What’s more, compatibility with Sony’s wide range of FE-mount lenses gives you creative flexibility.

In conclusion, the Sony A7C II represents a significant evolution in the series, combining excellent image quality, new video features and a design that’s as compact as ever. It’s a smart choice for content creators looking for a versatile, high-quality, powerful, and compact mirrorless camera.

Released at the same time as the Alpha 7C II in September 2023, the Sony Alpha 7C R pairs a very high 61 MP resolution with a full-frame sensor. Like its sibling, it features the BIONZ XR processor, a single UHS-II SD card slot, and (almost) identical ISO sensitivity. However, the increase in resolution means slightly shorter battery life and a mechanical burst rate limited to 8 fps with a smaller buffer. Despite these concessions, the A7C R remains a very interesting choice.

The body is as compact and lightweight as ever, while offering exceptional image quality inherited from the famous A7R V. With its 61 MP back-illuminated sensor, it can capture images rich in detail even in low-light conditions, thanks to extended dynamic range and optimized noise management. Its 5-axis image stabilization means you can shoot handheld with confidence.

When it comes to video, the A7C R offers excellent performance with 4K recording at 60 fps. It also incorporates advanced features such as S-Log3 profile and S-Cinetone mode, enabling content creators to achieve cinematic-looking footage without the need for complex color grading. Artificial intelligence-based scene detection, including human and animal eyes, ensures fast and accurate autofocus, even when moving.

In short, the A7C R is a versatile camera that combines high-end image quality with compactness. It remains an excellent choice for photographers and videographers looking for a lightweight body without compromising on resolution and creative possibilities.

Announced in May 2026, the Sony Alpha 7R VI succeeds the A7R V as the brand’s high-resolution full-frame mirrorless camera. It introduces a new 66.8 MP stacked Exmor RS sensor paired with the BIONZ XR2 processor and an integrated AI processing unit. This combination brings a substantial increase in speed, with blackout-free continuous shooting at up to 30 fps while maintaining autofocus and autoexposure tracking. The camera also offers up to 8.5 stops of in-body image stabilization and Sony’s latest subject-recognition autofocus system.

The body retains a 9.44-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder and a four-axis articulating rear screen, while adding a deeper grip, illuminated rear controls, and two USB-C ports. Sony has also introduced the new NP-SA100 battery, which offers greater capacity than the long-standing NP-FZ100 but is not backward compatible.

For video, the A7R VI records 8K at up to 30p and 4K at up to 120p. Its faster stacked sensor improves readout speed and rolling-shutter control, making the camera more versatile than earlier high-resolution models for action and hybrid photo-video use.

The Sony A7R VI therefore combines the detail expected from the R series with speed that was previously associated with Sony’s sports-oriented bodies. Its launch price places it firmly in the professional category, but it is one of the most complete choices in the range for photographers who need both very high resolution and fast performance.

Released in February 2021, the Sony FX3 is a professional camera from Sony’s Cinema Line. It features a 10.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, supported by a BionZ XR processor. It offers a wide dynamic range, with a claimed dynamic range of more than 15 stops and ISO sensitivity from 800 to 12,800, as well as a 7.5 cm orientable touch screen.

On the video front, it can record in 4K at up to 120 fps and in Full HD at up to 240 fps. It is equipped with the S-Cinetone color profile and 5.5-stop stabilization. In addition to these features, it boasts hybrid autofocus with 627 AF points.

As you can see, the FX3 is aimed above all at videographers and content creators in search of a high-performance, flexible camera. Its magnesium-alloy body makes for a sturdy, durable construction. If you’re a video enthusiast, the FX3 remains an interesting alternative to the A7S III.

The Sony alpha 7S Mark III is the third generation of Sony’s video-oriented full-frame a7S series.

While the 12MP resolution hasn’t changed, the a7S III features a different sensor than the one used by its two predecessors, supposedly improving its low-light performance. Burst shooting reaches 10 fps, and the default sensitivity ranges from ISO 80 to 102,400, expandable from ISO 40 to 409,600. Unlike previous “S” cameras, you can enjoy Sony’s face detection and AF eye tracking technology here. Detection that also includes animals, as on the rest of the top-end lineup.

When the a7S III was introduced, Sony wanted to position this full-frame hybrid as one of the best cameras for producing 4K. So, it’s essentially a native 4K camera with impressive video specs and a revised user interface. The a7S III can shoot 4K UHD at up to 60p from full width or 120p with 1.1x cropping. But what is most useful for videographers is that this a7S III offers a variety of 10-bit formats, allowing considerable flexibility for color grading and workflow.

The Sony a7S III is a powerful video tool with reliable autofocus, in-camera stabilization and good battery life. With its 12MP resolution, it’s less impressive as a camera, but it’s a great choice for videographers. Here too, Sony has changed the menu layout often criticized on previous cameras.

Released in October 2022, the Sony Alpha 7R V replaces its predecessor (released in July 2019) and brings several meaningful improvements. While it shares some features with the Alpha 7C R, including a 61 MP full-frame sensor, the same battery, and the same BIONZ XR processor, the Alpha 7R V is distinguished by additional features that make it a more versatile and powerful camera. These include a dual memory card slot (CFexpress Type A and SD UHS-II), a mechanical shutter speed of up to 1/8000s and a burst rate of 10 fps.

The Alpha 7R V excels in still and video capture. Equipped with an high-resolution 9.44-million-dot electronic viewfinder, it guarantees excellent precision in framing and focusing. What’s more, its 2.1-million-dot touchscreen with four-axis tilt offers great flexibility, making it easy to shoot from any angle. For video, the Alpha 7R V is capable of shooting 8K at 24fps, delivering crisp, high-quality images perfect for demanding content creators.

The camera is also designed for wildlife and landscape photography, with an artificial intelligence-assisted autofocus system. It can detect and track not only the eyes and bodies of humans and animals, but also subjects as diverse as insects, vehicles and birds in flight. Thanks to its in-body image stabilization rated at up to 8 stops, even handheld shots are incredibly sharp, ensuring excellent results in a wide range of conditions.

In short, the Sony Alpha 7R V is an advanced high-resolution camera designed for those who demand exceptional image quality and extreme versatility. Whether for studio, landscape or video photography, this camera is an excellent choice in the world of high-resolution full-frame cameras.

We’re now on the company’s high-resolution-focused “R” line. Compared to previous generations, the a7R IV promises a more robust build quality, refined controls, the latest implementation of the company’s autofocus, and more…

It uses a 24×36 mm sensor with a resolution of 61 MP. The powerful processor is inherited from the A9. Despite its very high resolution, the a7R IV can take up to 10 frames per second. The a7R IV has a more powerful autofocus tracking system available in both stills and video, and for both humans and animals. Like its predecessor the a7R III, the a7R IV extends its sensitivity from ISO 50 to 102,400 with good and progressive electronic noise management up to ISO 12,800. The user interface and ergonomics have also been improved with SD card ports both UHS-II compatible. Sony also improved the camera’s weather sealing.

As for video, there are few changes. The camera shoots 4K video up to 30p across the sensor. The rolling shutter remains fairly pronounced in 4K/UHD.

The autofocus system is simpler and more powerful, and the improvements in the user interface matter just as much as the increase from 42 to 60 megapixels. The result is a mirrorless camera that lets you completely focus on photography and make the most of all those megapixels. Despite still having some flaws and lagging the competition in video, this a7R IV is a powerful and well-rounded camera that will let you print any photo at very large sizes if you want to.

The Sony a7 IV is the fourth generation of the company’s a7 full-frame mirrorless mainstream model. At launch, it was the most advanced model in the series, bringing many improvements since the a7 III launched in February 2018.

At the heart of the a7 IV is a new 33 MP sensor, a 10 fps burst rate (in compressed RAW), an ISO range of 100-51200 (expandable to 102400), sensor stabilization, and battery life rated at up to 670 shots.

Autofocus is one of the big improvements over the a7 III. The a7 IV incorporates Sony’s latest AF tracking system, which means it uses pattern, color, brightness, eyes and face detection, as well as animal detection. For the first time, these animal detection capabilities also extend to the camera’s video mode. And in practice, this system is very reliable.

The other major improvement concerns video. The a7 IV takes things considerably further, adding 10-bit capture and action capture, or slow-motion work with 4K at 60p, still requiring cropping to APS-C/Super 35 dimensions (but no cropping to 4K 30p). You’ll also be able to stream live video via its USB connection.

Highly anticipated by photographers looking for a versatile (stills/video) 24×36 body, the a7 IV is a very capable camera, with much improved video and a more sophisticated autofocus than the a7 III. But this one still does most of the things the a7 IV can do very well in photos, despite a autofocus system from an earlier generation and for a lower cost. On the other hand, the ergonomics of the body and the layout of the menus have been reworked for greater ease of use, in particular with a switch to put the camera either in photo or in video mode, allowing the assignment of shortcuts according to the mode.

However, the A7III remains, in my opinion, a very good and less expensive alternative. I personally chose to “start” with the A7III when I switched to mirrorless.

The Sony a7C is the company’s smallest full-frame mirrorless camera. As far as looks are concerned, this camera looks more like the a6600 with APS-C sensor than like its counterparts of the a7 series. In terms of specifications, the a7C has a lot in common with the existing a7 III (which I chose when I switched to mirrorless). It features a 24 MP full-frame sensor, a burst rate of up to 10 fps, an ISO range of 100 to 51200, Wi-Fi, and a large battery rated for up to 740 shots. All this in a much more compact and lighter body than the a7 III, with an image stabilization system.

One of the most important additions is the latest implementation of Sony’s AF called “Real-time tracking AF”. This system tracks the subject, both in photos and videos, and automatically uses its eye, face, or head recognition function. The camera can also use subject recognition to track animals. And that’s a big step up from the a7 III.

When it comes to video, the a7C takes a cue from the a7S III by offering a fully articulated screen, 4K video with 24p footage taken across the entire sensor width, and 30p taken from a slight 1.2× crop. The camera has headphone and microphone jacks to make it easier to record clean audio.

Performance-wise, the a7C is essentially an a7 III with better autofocus. But its major advantage is its small size, without too many compromises! The big compromise, which is a shame, will be the tiny, compact camera-like viewfinder.

The Alpha 9 II is the former high-end sports camera from Sony. This new version brings some improvements that make it a very good compact option for professional sports and action photographers.

Like its predecessor the a9, the Alpha 9 II carries over a 24.2MP sensor. Its default sensitivity ranges from ISO 100 to 51,200 and can go up to ISO 204,800. The electronic noise management is very good. It has continuous shooting at 20 fps with electronic shutter and full autofocus. But the big difference with its predecessor is the new mechanical shutter allowing 10 fps bursts with full autofocus, which is very important for indoor sports photographers. Connectivity has also been revised with a USB-C 3.2 socket and, for easier image transfer, a Gigabit Ethernet port as well as 5GHz Wi-Fi.

Among the improvements, the a9 II gets the same ergonomic updates as the a7R IV with a better grip and two UHS-II SD card slots. It has better weather sealing too. The a9 II also features a new, faster processor which, along with updated AF algorithms, improves autofocus speed (which was already very good on the a9). Finally, the stabilization system of the body has been improved.

As for video, Sony has a motto: 4K UHD for everyone, but Sony’s most advanced video features is reserved for the a7S series. Here, the camera that can record footage up to 4K UHD at 24 fps without cropping, and 30 fps with a crop of 1.24×.

This is definitely a sports and action camera. With highly reliable autofocus, good grip, excellent RAW and JPEG files, good battery life, and solid video capture, it’s a strong option for anyone looking to capture fast-moving subjects. But of course, all this performance and speed comes at a cost! Admittedly, still less than a Canon 1DX III or Nikon D6…

Sony presents the Alpha 1 as the camera that can do just about anything you need, whether it’s fast action, landscapes, or high-end video. It’s the full-frame camera designed to handle almost any task!

It has a 50 MP full-frame CMOS sensor, 30 fps continuous shooting with the electronic shutter, state-of-the-art autofocus, a tilting touchscreen… All this in a weather-sealed body, of reasonable size and with the most complete connectivity. Sony has taken two major developments from the video-focused mirrorless camera, the a7S III: the clearer and more readable menus, and the electronic viewfinder considered the best on the market.

When it comes to video, the a1 has most of the features of the a7S III, but its higher resolution sensor allows it to capture 8K footage using the full width of the sensor. It can also shoot 4K at 120p with 1.13× cropping.

It really seems like Sony has put everything possible into the a1, resulting in an extremely impressive camera for all types of use. There is so much more to say as this a1 dominates the mirrorless market in all categories. Sony has just introduced a unique camera that could meet the needs of almost any professional photographer. But this technological powerhouse is out of reach for many of us!

Also note that its 30-fps burst is not available with every lens, those of third-party brands such as Sigma and Tamron for example will be limited to around 15 fps.

The table below lists the main features of the Sony APS-C cameras mentioned in this article.

And here are the general specifications of Sony’s full-frame mirrorless cameras.

Sony’s mirrorless range is divided into two main sensor formats. First are the APS-C cameras, which are generally compact and relatively affordable. The ZV-E10 II is clearly intended for video creators, and more particularly for vloggers and other social media creators. The shooting-assistance features are very practical and the autofocus modes are highly effective, all for a very competitive price-to-performance ratio.

The a6700 is the best APS-C camera that Sony has ever released. It’s a very capable camera with still-excellent autofocus, better battery life and body stabilization, which makes a real difference. It will be a good option for both photography and video enthusiasts.

The other side of the range consists of the larger and more expensive full-frame 24×36 mirrorless with its Alpha 7 range. If you want a full-frame camera that is easy to carry for travel, everyday photography, or vlogging, and will be very good in almost any situation, then the a7C is perfect for you.

For photographers looking for a versatile full-frame photo/video camera, the a7 IV remains a strong option. It’s a very powerful camera with state-of-the-art autofocus. But the high bar set by the a7 III and the existence of a series of credible rivals can make the choice less straightforward. In the meantime, you can follow the same approach I did and reduce the budget by choosing an A7 III.

For all videographers, the latest in the a7S series is a powerful video tool and certainly the best for producing 4K. On the a7S III, the options are numerous, and the improvements allow impressive speeds. It is particularly well suited to slow-motion footage.

For high resolution, the new Sony A7R VI now sits at the top of the range, while the a7R V remains a highly capable and more affordable alternative. For professional wedding, landscape, and studio photographers, the Sony a7R IV is still a strong option. Gone are the days when you had to choose between speed-based and resolution-based cameras. While not our first choice for sports and action purists, for users who regularly need very high resolution and want to be able to shoot fast-moving subjects when needed, the Sony a7R IV is the one of the strongest options in its class.

We are now entering the very top end of Sony’s full-frame range, aimed primarily at professionals and well-funded enthusiasts. The a9 III is for sports, action and event photographers, or videographers who need strong video performance, as well as general photographers who want the best possible autofocus performance. The a1, on the other hand, is designed as an all-around flagship and is specifically targeted at sports photographers, usually equipped with an SLR such as the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III or the Nikon D6. You have here the combination of high resolution and high speed in one body, with very few compromises!

Here we are, at the end of this article detailing the latest mirrorless cameras from Sony. This one will obviously evolve with every new release. You have just seen that the mirrorless range is getting bigger and bigger, and there is really something for every user and every budget. If you are curious to see what other brands offer, you can look at our Canon APS-C mirrorless or the Canon full-frame mirrorless posts.

See you soon,

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Written by Sylvain PONS

I've been passionate about photography since 2010, learning as I went along. Today, I dedicate myself to guiding others in their choice of camera gear and sharing a variety of tips to improve their photography skills.

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