Sony
Sony A7R IV
full-frame · 2019
88
/ 100
From $3,499
VS
Sony
Sony A7 III
full-frame · 2018
88
/ 100
From $1,998
Specdex verdict
Dead heat — it comes down to priorities.
In our weighted Specdex score, Sony A7R IV lands at 88 and Sony A7 III at 88. With scores tied, the decision hinges on which sub-scores matter most to you.
Pick Sony A7R IV if…
- ✓Mature system, great used market
- ✓Proven lens lineup
- ✓Often on sale
Pick Sony A7 III if…
- ✓Current-gen AF system
- ✓Proven lens ecosystem
- ✓Strong video + stills balance
Sony A7R IV 88
vs 88 Sony A7 III
Score breakdown
Sony A7R IV
88 photo 88
video 80
autofocus 84
ergonomics 86
Sony A7 III
88 photo 88
video 84
autofocus 86
ergonomics 86
Specs side-by-side
| Spec | Sony A7R IV | Sony A7 III |
|---|---|---|
| Format | full-frame | full-frame |
| Release year | 2019 | 2018 |
Sony A7R IV
Pros
- +Mature system, great used market
- +Proven lens lineup
- +Often on sale
Cons
- −Older AF system
- −Heavier than modern mirrorless
- −Firmware updates trailed off
Sony A7 III
Pros
- +Current-gen AF system
- +Proven lens ecosystem
- +Strong video + stills balance
Cons
- −Body price excludes lens
- −Heavy for travel (flagship)
- −Learning curve on menus
FAQ: Sony A7R IV vs Sony A7 III
Which is better, Sony A7R IV or Sony A7 III? +
Both score 88 on our weighted rubric — tied. Your best pick depends on the sub-scores above.
Is Sony A7R IV worth the price? +
At $3,499, Sony A7R IV delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in photo.
Is Sony A7 III worth the price? +
At $1,998, Sony A7 III delivers a Specdex score of 88 — strongest in photo.
Does Sony A7R IV or Sony A7 III last longer? +
Based on our long-term update and support ratings, both ship with multi-year support. Battery and reliability scores are visible in the breakdown above.