Sony A7C vs A7 III: 6 key differences

Sony is popular in the field of digital cameras. It produces high-quality cameras with advanced specifications for unmatched performance. Most of its latest series are compact and lightweight for easy portability. Unlike older models, these cameras have longer battery life to ensure continuous recording or recording sessions. The Sony A7C and A7III are quality cameras from Sony’s Alpha 7 series. They offer solid performance for all types of users. If you’re not sure which is the best choice, we’ve got you covered. This guide will differentiate the two models in detail to help you make an informed choice.

Sony A7C vs A7 III: a side-by-side comparison

Sony A7C vs A7 III: what’s the difference?

Both cameras have similar build quality and batteries. However, they differ in so many other aspects. Knowing the differences will help you make an informed decision when choosing one over the other. Here are the main differences.

Automatic focus

Like other modern digital cameras, both cameras are equipped with autofocus capabilities. They have 693 focus points for phase detection and 425 points for contrast detection. However, the autofocus software varies between the A7C and A7III. The A7C has real-time tracking that allows for better subject tracking compared to the A7III. In addition, the A7C includes a reliable AI-powered object recognition system that works effectively for both stills and videos. The A7C also includes eye autofocus for photos and video.

This impressive technology offers exceptional reliability, precision and speed. In contrast, the A7III provides eye tracking only for still photography. For video it uses facial recognition, which still works adequately. Another difference between the two cameras is the autofocus speed and response settings. The A7III offers three AF ​​speed settings and two for responsiveness, while the A7C has seven AF speed settings and five responsiveness settings. The gradual nature of these settings can have a significant impact on autofocus performance.

Shutter speed

The Sony A7C has a shutter speed of 1/4000-30 sec, which is sufficient for most pictures. However, increasing the shutter speed in more light can make a difference when using a large aperture.

This is where the Sony A7 III, 1/8000-30s shutter speed makes the difference, especially when shooting sports on a sunny day.

Video recording

The main difference in video specifications between the A7C and A7III is the unlimited video recording capacity of the A7C, while the A7III is limited to 30 minutes. Both cameras can capture detailed full-sensor 4K UHD video with an acceptable amount of rolling shutter that can be eliminated during editing. Both cameras also have up to five stops of image stabilization built in, with the A7C using slightly different IBIS units but offering comparable performance. However, the A7C has the added ability to store gyro data that can be used to stabilize footage in post-production.

Display

As for the display, both cameras use the same 921,600-dot 3-inch touchscreen. Although the brightness is adequate, the resolution falls below 2021 standards. The main difference between the two is the tilting screen mechanism of the A7C compared to the rotating screen of the A7III. The tilting screen offers several advantages, including staying centered from low angles, not having to worry about a strap when shooting at low angles, requiring less space, not having to worry about HDMI stands, a microphone or L-bracket, and being generally more durable . It’s also easier to balance on a gimbal and has a smaller footprint. However, the hinges on the A7III’s rotating screen are solid, still making it a solid choice.

Viewfinder

Both cameras use a 2,359,296-dot viewfinder. Although both have a 2,359,296-dot viewfinder, there is a significant difference between the two cameras. Sony uses a 0.39-inch module, which is common in APS-C cameras. The viewfinder is integrated into the A7C’s body in the upper left corner, while on the A7III it is in the center of the top of the camera. The A7III, on the other hand, uses a 0.5-inch module.

The small viewfinder of the A7C makes it more compact. However, you will be missing out on the full experience.

Build quality

Both use E-mount, which is a huge strength of both cameras. E-mount still offers comprehensive options for lens selection, from budget third-party options to exotic grade options. Another advantage of both is that they use NP-FZ100 batteries. You can take over 2000 photos or 3 hours of 4K video on a single charge. They have the best battery life in their respective categories. Battery life on the A7C is slightly better due to the small viewfinder.

In terms of size, the A7III is small for what it does. It weighs only 650 grams and is super portable. The A7C takes it to another level. It weighs only 509 grams, which makes it almost as much as an iPhone. It’s the second-smallest full-frame camera of its kind and uses the extra size for better performance. USB-C charging on both is pretty fast. Both can have a battery of about 9W, which is average for in-camera charging.

Sony A7C vs A7 III: 7 facts you need to know

• The cameras came out two years apart, with the A7C being the oldest.
• The Sony A7C and A7III are quality cameras from Sony’s Alpha 7 series.
• Both can have a battery of about 9W, which is average for in-camera charging.
• The A7C is slightly smaller than the A7III, weighing 509 grams versus 650 grams.
• The A7III offers three AF ​​speed settings and two for responsiveness, while the A7C has seven AF speed settings and five responsiveness settings.
• The A7C has the added ability to store gyro data that can be used to stabilize footage in post-production.
• The main difference in video specifications between the A7C and A7III is the unlimited video recording capacity of the A7C, while the A7III is limited to 30 minutes.

Sony A7C vs A7 III: which is better?

Choosing the right camera for you depends on your needs, preferences and financial situation. If you’re looking for an affordable camera for occasional content creation or travel, the A7C might be the best option. Its compact form, water resistance and high resolution are ideal for capturing every moment at a lower cost. It’s also equipped with an effective AI-based object detection system that works well for photos and videos, and an eye auto-focus feature.