Sony a7S a7S III Black 2020
OM System OM-1 OM-1 Black
What Buyers Say
Sony a7S a7S III Black 2020
The Sony A7S III earns high marks from most users for its exceptional low-light performance, reliable autofocus, and excellent 4K video quality at up to 120fps. Many videographers and hybrid shooters praise its ergonomics, improved menu system, and heat management for typical use. However, a minority report serious overheating during extended recording, especially in warm environments, and some criticize the steep price, the lack of RAW video recording, and the need for costly high-speed memory cards. The 12MP sensor is loved for low-light stills but limits cropping ability for photography-centric users.
Pros
- Exceptional low-light video and photo quality
- Reliable and fast autofocus with eye tracking
- Smooth 4K video up to 120fps
- Improved menu system and customizability
- Excellent build quality and ergonomics
Cons
- Serious overheating during extended recordings
- High price, especially with memory card costs
- No internal RAW video recording
- 12MP sensor limits cropping for photos
- Expensive high-speed memory cards required
OM System OM-1 OM-1 Black
The OM-1 is overwhelmingly praised for its excellent build quality, ergonomics, and lightweight design, making it a joy to use for both hobbyists and professionals. Users highlight the improved menu system, powerful computational features, and impressive image quality, especially in high-resolution modes. While there is a slight learning curve for those switching from other brands, the camera's performance and portability are seen as major advantages over full-frame competitors.
Pros
- Excellent build quality and ergonomics
- Lightweight and portable system
- Improved menu system
- Powerful computational features
- Impressive image quality
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Incompatible with older BLH-1 battery
- No external battery charger included
- WiFi cannot connect to home network
- Limited video recording time information
Scores
Specifications
| Sony a7S a7S III | OM System OM-1 OM-1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | ||
| Type | CMOS | BSI MOS |
| Size | full-frame | micro-four-thirds |
| Megapixels | 12.100000381469727 MP | 20.399999618530273 MP★ |
| ISO Range | 80★ | 200 |
| Processor | BIONZ XR | — |
| Autofocus | ||
| AF Points | ||
| AF Type | Phase Detection: 759Contrast Detection: 425 | Photo, VideoPhase Detection: 1053 |
| Eye AF | ✓ | ✓ |
| Animal AF | ✓★ | — |
| Subject Detection | ✓★ | — |
| Shooting | ||
| Burst (Mechanical) | 10 fps | 10 fps |
| Burst (Electronic) | 10 fps | 120 fps★ |
| Max Shutter | 1/8000 | 1/32000 |
| Electronic Shutter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Video | ||
| Max Resolution | 4K | 4K |
| 4K FPS | 120 fps★ | 60 fps |
| 1080p FPS | 240 fps | 240 fps |
| 10-bit | ✓ | ✓ |
| Log Profile | ✓ | ✓ |
| RAW Video | ✓ | ✓ |
| Codec | XAVC S (AVC), XAVC HS (HEVC), XAVC S-I (All-I) | H.264, H.265 |
| Display & EVF | ||
| Screen Size | 3" | 3" |
| Touchscreen | ✓ | ✓ |
| Articulating | ✓ | ✓ |
| EVF Resolution | 9.4M dots★ | 5.8M dots |
| Build | ||
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 0.61 kg | 0.51 kg★ |
| Battery Life | 510 shots | 520 shots★ |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth | ✓★ | ✗ |
| USB | USB-C 3.0 / 3.1/3.2 Gen 1 | USB-C |
| HDMI | HDMI Output | Micro-HDMI |
| Hot Shoe | ✓ | ✓ |
Pros & Cons
Sony a7S a7S III Black 2020
- Strong evf (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong social proof (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong af (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong connectivity (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Below average sensor (7th percentile)7th %ile
- Below average user sentiment (31st percentile)
OM System OM-1 OM-1 Black
- Strong evf (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong battery (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong af (95th percentile)95th %ile
- Strong burst (95th percentile)95th %ile
Pricing
Verdict
Scores 89 overall, wins 5 of 10 usage categories and 5 of 33 specs.
