Buzz
After much anticipation, the more compact member of the Alpha 7 series has arrived with the name A7C. This camera boasts a full-frame image sensor with the ability to change lenses in a very compact size, catering to both high-quality photo shooting and video recording. The flip screen is convenient for self-portraits and vlogging, providing versatility with a variety of lens options.When the compact Cyber-shot RX1 camera was introduced in 2012, followed by the interchangeable lens Alpha 7 series a year later, many believed that Sony could produce a compact camera like the RX1 but with interchangeable lenses. However, it is only now that Sony has realized the desires of users, while Canon and Nikon have already released similar products at competitive prices with the EOS RP and Z 5.
When holding the A7C, you immediately sense its compactness. Placed next to a camera like the A6600, it appears only a few millimeters smaller. Clearly, when the NEX-3/NEX-5 were introduced, Sony carefully planned the E-mount, allowing the use of 35mm (full-frame) lenses.
The A7C features a 24.2 MP Exmor R (BSI-CMOS) image sensor, a technology first applied by Sony in the A7R II and later in the A7 III, with the A7S series introducing it in the third generation. This sensor technology enables the camera to capture images with ample light, simultaneously improving image noise when shooting at high ISO. The BIONZ X image processor provides an ISO range of 100-51,200, expandable up to 204,800. The Sony A7C also integrates a 5-stop in-body image stabilization system.
The top edge brings similarities to the A7 series with beveled edges and the same body material. Sony has removed the detachable flash commonly seen in the A6000 series, added an EV-/+ dial, and relocated the video recording button to the top edge. The upper design provides a squared-off feel while remaining easily distinguishable from the A6000 series.
The familiar 2.4 million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) is compact, including a sensor for automatic display switching between the screen and EVF. There's no visible eye-cup mount, unlike the A6000 series. In practice, the viewfinder remains useful when shooting in well-lit environments or when needing additional stability while holding the camera.
The rear control system resembles the A6100 series: the camera retains the rotary dial with a multifunction button at its center. The AF-On adjustment button is not a dual-function toggle, unlike the A6600 series. In comparison to the Nikon Z 5, the A7C lacks a joystick and has fewer control buttons.
Sony continues to use the flip-out screen design on the side, facilitating a forward-facing angle for easy selfie and vlogging capabilities. This design enhancement proves more user-friendly than previous Alpha models.
The A7C still comes equipped with the FZ100 battery, with the new version offering higher capacity than the FW50, providing extended shooting and recording capabilities.
Looking at the bottom edge, Sony users can easily distinguish it from the A6000 series. However, for those unfamiliar with this camera line, it still appears remarkably compact, defying expectations of a full-frame camera.
Sony maintains the placement of connectivity ports on the side, including microphone, headphone, HDMI, USB-C, and SD card slot supporting UHS-II. This design may result in screen obstruction when rotated, but it's a trade-off worth considering. Sony offers an accessory ecosystem with a hot-shoe-mounted microphone without the need for a 3.5mm cable. Additionally, the USB-C port is strategically placed near the screen edge to minimize screen coverage when flipped forward.In terms of features, Sony incorporates the new autofocus algorithm from the A7S III, ensuring smooth and customizable autofocus transitions. Additionally, the camera is upgraded with 802.11ac Wi-Fi on the 5 GHz band, enhancing data transfer speed with smartphones and facilitating image transfer via FTP Server. Despite these advancements, the camera interface retains the older version, not adopting the new layout with a left-side menu like the A7S III. Moreover, the A7C still supports 4K@30fps video recording, similar to the capabilities of the A7 III.
