Sony a7R V vs Sony a1
- Sony a7R V vs Sony a1: Overview
- Sony a7R V vs Sony a1: Imaging Performance
- Sony a7R V vs Sony a1: Video Performance
- Recommended Sony Lenses
- Final Thoughts on the Sony a7R V vs Sony a1
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Sony debuted the first-ever full-frame mirrorless camera (the Sony a7) in 2013, and they have been pumping out incredible new models ever since. Two of their most advanced cameras yet are the Sony a7R V and the Sony a1, and if you are looking for more information on their similarities and differences, you’re in the right place!
In this Sony camera comparison guide, first, we’ll share basic overviews of the cameras. Then, we’ll examine their photo and video capabilities and recommend our favorite Sony FE lenses. Additionally, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier than it is today.
Who is MPB? They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at unbeatable prices. Better yet, all of their cameras and lenses are methodically hand-inspected by expert product specialists with years of experience and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.
We are huge fans of MPB because, over the years, we’ve saved thousands of dollars buying, selling, and trading in photography equipment using their one-of-a-kind online platform. If you want to upgrade your camera kit and save money, too, visit their website today. That said, it’s time to find out which of these amazing Sony cameras is right for you!
Check out the video above by Park Cameras to learn more about the Sony a1 vs Sony a7R V and to see example photos and videos shot with them.
Table of Contents
Sony a7R V vs Sony a1: Overview
Sony a7R V
The Sony Alpha a7R V came out in 2022, replacing the a7R IV as the company's premiere high-resolution camera. With a 61.2-megapixel Exmor R BSI CMOS image sensor, it’s the highest-resolution mirrorless camera currently available. Moreover, it boasts an updated Bionz XR image processor that is 8x more powerful than its predecessor.
On the other hand, the flagship Sony a1 launched in 2021. It features a 50.5-megapixel Exmor RS BSI sensor and the older Bionz XR image processor. At the time of its release, its photo and video package was far and away the best on the market, but the a7R V comes close (or even surpasses it!) in some areas.
Sony a1
Design-wise, the two cameras are nearly identical, with the only noticeable difference being the placement of a couple of buttons. Both feature a slew of customization options, weather-sealed bodies, sensor covers, and breathable bodies that prevent the camera from overheating. Also, their 530-shot battery life and 500,000-frame shutter life are the same.
Now, here’s a head-to-head look at the key features and specs of the Sony a7R V vs a1 to see how they stack up:
Sony a7R V vs Sony a1: Imaging Performance
Sony a7R V
For still photography, the Sony a7R V has the upper hand in terms of resolution, autofocus (AF), and pixel shift multi-shooting. While both cameras have excellent resolution, the higher pixel count of the a7R V is noticeable when enlarging images for print. For landscape and cityscape photographers, the 241MP (199MP in the a1) multi-shot mode boosts the resolution even more.
The a7R V may have fewer AF points, but its overall AF system is one step ahead because of its new AI algorithm. It adds deep machine-learning technology that improves subject recognition and tracking, making it easier to capture sharp, in-focus images of moving subjects.
Sony a1
Alternatively, the Sony a1 has faster burst shooting and a superior electronic viewfinder (EVF). The a1 can capture stills at 30 frames per second (fps) with its electronic shutter and 10 fps with the mechanical shutter. The a7R V tops out at 10 fps with the electronic and mechanical shutter.
The EVFs of both cameras have 9.44M dots and 0.90x magnification, but the 240 fps refresh rate of the a1’s is double that of the a7R V (120 fps). These two speed-related specs make the a1 a great camera for photographing fast-moving subjects.
Which is the best camera for photos? Overall, the Sony Alpha a7R V. However, thanks to its speed, the Sony a1 is best for action and sports photography.
Learn More:
Sony a7R V vs Sony a1: Video Performance
Sony a7R V
The Sony a7R V and Sony a1 are, without a doubt, two of the best mirrorless cameras for video on the planet. For starters, both have industry-leading 8K video capabilities, advanced codecs, and slow-motion video, making them ideal for everyone from professional videographers and filmmakers to YouTubers and vloggers.
Where the a1 separates itself, though, is when looking at the frame rates. The a1 boasts 8K/60p, 4K/120p, and 1080p/240p Full HD video. In contrast, the a7R V has 8K/30p, 4K/60p, and 1080p/120p Full HD video. While those numbers are still impressive, professionals will be able to notice the difference.
Sony a1
The one area where the a7R V beats the a1 is its best-in-class in-body image stabilization (IBIS). The IBIS of the a7R V adds up to 8 stops of exposure, whereas the IBIS of the a1 adds 5.5 additional stops.
The better stabilization enhances the a7R V’s low-light performance and reduces camera shake when recording handheld video. This makes it an ideal choice for run-and-gun shooters like documentary filmmakers.
Which is the best camera for video? It’s extremely close, but we give a slight edge to the Sony a1.
Recommended Sony Lenses
Sony a7R V with 24-70mm lens
Here’s a quick list of some of the best Sony Full Frame lenses for photo and video to pair with the Sony a7R V and a1.
Final Thoughts on the Sony a7R V vs Sony a1
Sony a7R V video camera setup
Regardless of which of these high-end cameras you choose, you will get a hybrid digital camera capable of capturing spectacular photos and videos. With that in mind, we recommend going with the Sony a7R V if you mostly shoot photos and the Sony a1 if you mostly record videos. Furthermore, due to the $2000 price difference, the a7R V is better for people on a budget.
After reading our Sony a7R V vs Sony a1 camera review, we hope you are one step closer to choosing your next camera. However, if you are still undecided, check out the list below of other professional mirrorless cameras on sale now at MPB:
