Sony Alpha A7R IV Summary

Sony A7R IV

The Sony A7R IV is the latest high-resolution flagship mirrorless camera from its manufacturer. Based on the same Full-Frame E-mount platform as the A7R III, this new model offers a huge jump in resolution to 61 MP from 42, while maintaining the same 10 FPS maximum continuous drive and most features.

With a state-of-the-art 5-axis image-stabilization system, the A7R IV can capture very detailed images using low shutter-speeds that are needed to extract the best image quality from its 61 MP sensor. At low-to-medium ISO, image-quality is stunning with low image-noise and a very large dynamic-range. High ISO levels remain usable for reduced print sizes which are still quite large.

Speed of the A7R IV is somewhat mixed. Both the shutter-lag and blackout are very quick, while the AF system which combines 567-Point Phase-Detection and 425-Area Contrast-Detection can focus extremely quickly but also slows down at small apertures. Many controls act immediately but numerous features react slower than usual. This is not a camera designed for speed, mostly due to the high throughput required by its ultra-high resolution.

The A7R IV has probably the best EVF experience on the market. Its ultra-sharp 5.8 MP 0.5" EVF with large 0.78X magnification and 100% coverage shows an Exposure-Priority preview that is a pleasure to use. It can show critical focus with a number of assist options and is equipped with an essential Eye-Start Sensor.

There are triple control-dials, plenty of customizable buttons and a tilting EVF on the sturdy weatherproof body of this mirrorless. The camera is relatively compact, close in size to an APS-C DSLR which means it packs a lot of resolution and image-quality for its size. Where there is room for improvement is in the user-interface which is both slow and overly complicated. Battery-life is also rather limited yet this is easy to overcome.

Overall, the Sony Alpha A7R is a digital camera that pushes the boundaries of what was previously possible. Its resolution above all else approach is certain to appeal photographers that are looking to make huge prints.