Sony has just launched the new a7C II full-frame mirrorless hybrid, and content creators will find that it’s truly something to behold.
As a follow-up to the Sony a7C launched back in 2020, the new a7C II retains many of the features that made the original great but adds several welcome new ones, all packed into a highly portable form factor. In fact, the a7C II inherits much of its new feature set from the larger and more expensive a7 IV and could even be positioned as a more affordable alternative to that higher-end model.
Here are some of the standout features that set this camera apart.
Full-frame 33MP CMOS image sensor
Designed to deliver outstanding performance with highly accurate colour reproduction for both stills and video, the a7C II’s image sensor also offers high-speed readout and ISO sensitivity up to 51200 (expandable to ISO 50–204800 for still images; 100–102400 for video).
Advanced BIONZ XR processing engine
With up to eight times more processing power than its predecessor, this new engine ensures more natural gradations, with low noise and superior image quality and fast menu response.
Faster, more precise AF
Among other things, the advanced new processing engine translates into faster autofocus. In the a7C II, there are 759 phase detection points covering roughly 94% of the image area when shooting stills. It’s also equipped with the latest AF algorithms to achieve higher AF precision right down to light levels as low as EV –4.0.
Hybrid versatility
The 33MP sensor offers ample resolution for clear, sharp and rich stills, and the a7C II can shoot up to 10 fps with full AF/AE tracking. Using the handy mode switch, you can transition seamlessly from shooting photos to recording video.
The a7C II can record 4K video with 7K oversampling. It also offers 10-bit 4:2:2 video capture at 4K 60 fps in APS-C mode and 4K 30 fps in full-frame mode, as well as 120p in Full HD. With the a7C II, you also get S-Log3 and S-Cinetone, plus the ability to apply LUTs in the camera.
The built-in Creative Look feature can be used for both photos and movies, offering 10 customizable presets that can each be applied as is or adjusted in terms of contrast, saturation and shadows to obtain a desired look – ready-made in-camera without the need for post-production editing.
Compact but rugged portability
Weighing just 514g and measuring only 240mm across, the a7C II feels incredibly comfortable in the hand, making it an essential tool and go-to choice for hybrid shooters and content creators who value effortless agility and unencumbered mobility. The lightweight magnesium-alloy chassis is built for the rigors of professional working environments, with a dust- and moisture-resistant design that’s also well suited to challenging outdoor conditions. For added convenience, the a7C II also doubles as a webcam to livestream high-quality video content via USB when connected to a computer or smartphone.
Key features