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1. Sony A7 Mark III vs Canon 5D Mark IV - Which is superior?
1.1. 20 fundamental specifications between the two cameras
1.1.1. Resolution
When comparing Sony A7 Mark III vs Canon 5D Mark IV in terms of resolution, we observe that the professional-grade mirrorless camera boasts an impressive 42MP for sharp and vivid images like never before. Meanwhile, the newer-generation Canon DSLR, introduced in 2005, falls slightly behind with only 30MP.
1.1.2. Maximum Image Resolution
Similar to before, the Sony Alpha A7 Mark III camera boasts an extensive 8000 x 5320-megapixel resolution, delivering impressively sharp and captivating frames. On the other hand, the Canon 5D Mark IV camera is more modest with a resolution of 6880 x 4544 megapixels.
1.1.3. Sensor Type
Both the Sony A7 Mark III and Canon 5D Mark IV series are highly praised for their entirely new sensor types, offering wide resolution for high-quality images, minimal overexposure, and enhanced focusing accuracy. While the Canon 5D Mark IV features a modern CMOS sensor, the Sony A7 III stands out with a 42.4 MP Exmor sensor combined with the latest BIONZ X chip, providing exceptional image processing and an excellent autofocus system.
1.1.4. Size
In terms of size, there's little difference between these two product lines. Both the Sony A7 Mark III and Canon 5D Mark IV feature a standard 24 x 36mm (35.9mm) Full Frame sensor.
1.1.5. Image Processing Chip
One of the most crucial considerations when buying a camera is the image processing chip - what is it, is it optimized, and does it have any special features. While the Canon 5D Mark IV is equipped with the DIGIC 6+ processing chip enabling users to capture sharp and vibrant 4K 30P videos, the Sony Alpha A7 Mark III has an enhanced BIONZ X + LSI chip, providing fast image processing capabilities and excellent data writing performance.
1.1.6. ISO
Both Sony A7 Mark III and Canon 5D Mark IV offer a useful ISO range of up to 32000, expandable to 1024000, with an increased dynamic range of 15 stops. In terms of this aspect, both cameras are on par with each other.
1.1.7. In-Body Image Stabilization
Between these two flagship models, the Sony Alpha A7 Mark III excels in in-body image stabilization. While the Canon 5D Mark IV lacks this feature, Sony has upgraded its sensor-based stabilization system, achieving an impressive effectiveness of up to 5.5 stops.
1.1.8. Phase Detection Autofocus Points
The balance between Sony A7 Mark III and Canon 5D Mark IV still leans heavily towards Sony A7 Mark III, with a staggering 6.5 times more autofocus points. Specifically, the Canon 5D Mark IV has 61 autofocus points, while the Sony A7 Mark III boasts an impressive 399 points.
1.1.9. Continuous Shooting Speed
The 5D Mark IV has a high continuous shooting speed, with only a few minor variations when raised to 7 frames per second. The Canon 5D Mark IV even outshines with an excellent 10 frames per second. This outstanding advantage allows you to capture every beautiful moment, immortalizing them without worrying about bulkiness, complex button presses, or shake from rapid shooting.
1.1.10. Video Resolution
Both are high-quality cameras, capturing sharp images. Their impressive video recording capabilities are thanks to advanced image processing chips, sensor technology, and useful resolution. Canon 5D Mark IV has a video resolution of DCI 4K at 30fps and Full HD at 60fps, slightly narrower than Sony A7 Mark III's UHD 4K at 30fps and Full HD at 120fps.
1.1.11. Buffer Memory
Canon 5D Mark IV has unlimited/19 buffer memory, while Sony A7 Mark III boasts 76/28 (RAW + JPEG) buffer capacity.
1.1.12. 4K Photo Mode
A rare shortcoming of Sony A7 Mark III is the absence of 4K Photo Mode, whereas Canon 5D Mark IV includes this feature.
1.1.13. LCD Resolution
In this criterion, Canon 5D Mark IV's 1,620,000 resolution slightly edges out Sony A7's 1,440,000.
1.1.14. LCD Screen
The Canon 5D Mark IV digital camera features a higher 3.2'' LCD TFT touch screen compared to the Sony A7 Mark III's 3.2'' LCD TFT, though it lacks the ability to flip up and down like the Sony series.
1.1.15. Viewfinder
Canon 5D Mark IV comes with an optical viewfinder, whereas the Sony A7 Mark III is equipped with an electronic viewfinder.
1.1.16. EVF Resolution
Canon 5D Mark IV lacks an EVF resolution index, while the Sony A7 Mark III boasts an impressive 3,686,400MP.
1.1.17. Battery Life
Comparing the endurance of the batteries between the two, Canon's product line proves to be more robust. The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV uses an LP-E6N, 7.2V, 1865mAh battery, capable of capturing around 900 photos, while the Sony A7 Mark III employs an NP-FZ100, 7.2V, 2280mAh battery, capable of capturing 650 photos.
1.1.18. GPS
Canon 5D Mark IV has GPS, whereas Sony A7 Mark III does not.
1.1.19. USB Connectivity
The connection ports of these high-end electronic devices are quite compatible. In addition to USB, Wifi, and NFC, Sony A7 Mark III also supports Bluetooth.
1.1.20. Memory Card Slot
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has 1 CF memory card slot and 1 SD memory card slot (compatible with SDHC, SDXC), while Sony A7 Mark III features 1 UHS-II SD memory card slot and 1 SD/MS Duo memory card slot.
1.2. Real-world Shooting Comparison under Different Lighting, Focal Lengths, and ISOs
1.2.1. Image Quality and Resolution Discrepancy of 30MP and 42MP
Due to the significant difference in resolution between Sony A7 Mark III and Canon 5D Mark IV, with 30MP and 42MP respectively, when cropping images, Canon's camera will have noticeably smaller dimensions. In terms of color, Canon 5D Mark IV produces slightly subdued colors compared to Sony A7 III, especially in vibrant areas such as green, yellow, and red. However, 5D Mark IV images exhibit a gentle, realistic color palette.
When evaluating overall brightness, Sony A7 Mark III appears darker compared to the 5D Mark IV in the same camera segment. In terms of detail and sharpness, Sony A7 Mark III excels significantly due to the absence of an AA filter, capturing much higher detail, allowing for extensive zooming into details across the entire image.
1.2.2. Testing White Balance and Color Depth of Both Cameras
The A7 Mark III exhibits richer color depth, finer details, and better white balance in low-light conditions compared to the 5D Mark IV. However, A7 Mark III images tend to have a more pronounced yellow tint than high-speed DSLR cameras like the 5D Mark IV.
1.2.3. Dynamic Range Test
Thanks to the contribution of new image processing technology in both camera lines, they boast much wider dynamic ranges compared to previous generations. This is a notable feature for capturing excellent color rendition, especially in landscape photography.
1.2.4. ISO Testing
At high ISO levels, images captured by the A7 Mark III demonstrate superior overall color reproduction, detail retention, noise reduction capability, and noise control compared to the 5D Mark IV.
1.2.5. Testing Performance in Complex and Backlit Lighting Conditions
In backlit conditions, both camera lines face challenges in focusing and capturing swiftly. The Canon 5D Mark IV has an advantage in backlit shooting over the Sony A7 Mark III, as it can focus using the optical viewfinder, resulting in a more accurate focus ratio.
1.2.6. Capturing Distant Subjects in Low Light with Abundant Small Details
Comparing Sony A7 and Canon 5D Mark III overall, the 5D Mark IV produces more realistic colors, while the Sony A7 III looks more captivating due to enhanced contrast and color. In terms of detail, there is not much difference between the two camera files.
1.2.7. Exposure Testing
Setting the ISO low, A7 Mark III images exhibit a higher dynamic range, providing clearer overall details. When considering the overall image, the 5D Mark IV has an advantage in slow shutter speed and low-light exposure.
1.3. Choosing Between Sony A7 Mark III and Canon 5D Mark IV
Considering all aspects analyzed in detail above, each product line has its unique advantages and disadvantages. However, it is evident that the Sony A7 Mark III outperforms the Canon 5D Mark IV in many criteria. If feasible, it is recommended to invest in a Sony camera to satisfy your passion for photography or simply capture beautiful moments with loved ones.
2. Sony A7 Mark III vs Canon 5D Mark IV Price Comparison
Another reason to consider immediately purchasing the Sony A7 Mark III genuine set, including the 28-70 lens, 32GB memory card, and camera bag, is its reasonable price, only 44,490,000 VND for a professional camera. In contrast, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body alone is priced at a staggering 72,990,000 VND.
The above are detailed and objective comparisons between Sony A7 Mark III and Canon 5D Mark IV. Hopefully, you have gained additional knowledge about cameras and experience in choosing a product that suits your usage needs.
