
Sony Alpha 7S III (a7S III / Alpha a7S III / α7S III)
Brand | Sony 2020 |
Model | a7S III |
Released Year | 2020 |
Type | Mirrorless Cameras |
Series | Alpha |
Color | Black |
Compatible Mountings | Sony E |
Autofocus | Yes |
Photo Sensor Resolution | 12.1 MP |
Video Resolution | 2160p |
File Format | RAW |
Status | Active |
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Overview
The Sony Alpha 7S III is a mirrorless full-frame camera designed primarily for professional videographers and photographers requiring exceptional low-light performance. It integrates a 12.1-megapixel backside-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor optimized for high sensitivity and reduced noise. The BIONZ XR image processor enables real-time processing with high speed and low latency, supporting 4K video recording up to 120 fps with 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling internally. The camera features a sophisticated Fast Hybrid autofocus system with 759 phase-detection AF points covering approximately 92% of the image area, enhancing subject tracking accuracy even in low contrast scenes. Additionally, the Alpha 7S III supports Dolby Vision HDR and S-Log3/S-Gamut3.Cine profiles, making it suitable for professional cinematic workflows. The magnesium alloy body incorporates advanced heat dissipation technology to enable prolonged 4K video capture without overheating.
Connectivity options include USB Type-C with SuperSpeed USB 5Gbps, full-size HDMI Type A for external recording, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless file transfer and remote control. The camera offers a high-resolution (9.44 million-dot) OLED electronic viewfinder and a vari-angle fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen LCD for flexible composition angles. Dual UHS-II SD card slots facilitate simultaneous or relay recording to meet demanding storage needs.
Specifications
Built-In Media | Battery |
Are Batteries Included | Yes |
External-Memory Size | 256 GB |
Remote Included | No |
Series Number | 7 |
UPC | 040962848432 |
Item Height | 9.1 inches |
Manufacturer | Sony |
Metering Methods | Spot, Center-Weighted, Evaluative [likely] |
Exposure Control | Program (P), Aperture Priority (Av or A), Shutter Priority (Tv or S), Manual (M) |
White Balance Settings | Auto |
Display Type | Color LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Fixed |
Display Resolution Maximum | 1080p |
Has Color Screen | Yes |
Flash Memory Type | SDXC |
Memory Storage Capacity | 256 GB |
Recording Capacity | 1944 Minutes |
Write Speed | 104 MB/s |
Flash Memory Speed Class | 10 |
Flash Memory UHS Speed Class | U1 or U3 |
Flash Memory Video Speed Class | V30 |
Flash Memory Bus Interface Type | UHS-I |
Flash Memory Supported Size Maximum | 256 GB |
Flash Memory Installed Size | 256 GB |
Aspect Ratio | Unknown |
File Format | RAW |
Effective Still Resolution | 12.1 MP |
JPEG Quality Level | Fine |
Maximum Image Size | 256 GB |
Bit Depth | 10 Bit |
Total Still Resolution | 12.1 MP |
Maximum Focal Length | 24 Millimeters |
Lens Type | Wide Angle |
Camera Lens | 24mm Wide Angle Lens |
Minimum Focal Length | 24 Millimeters |
Real Angle Of View | 1.46 Radians |
Number of Diaphragm Blades | 11 |
Lens Construction | 11 elements in 9 groups |
Photo Filter Size | 67 Millimeters |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Wireless Technology | Wi-Fi |
Video Output | HDMI |
Total Video Out Ports | 1 |
Shooting Modes | Aperture Priority, Manual, Shutter Priority |
Digital-Still | Yes |
Movie Mode | Yes |
Image Capture Type | Stills & Video |
Night vision | No |
Auto Focus Technology | Phase Detection |
Focus Features | Hybrid |
Autofocus Points | 759 phase-detection AF points; 425 contrast-detection points |
Focus Type | Auto Focus |
Focus Mode | Single-Servo AF (AF-S) |
Autofocus | Yes |
Compatible Mountings | Sony E |
Sensor Type | Backside-illuminated Exmor R CMOS |
Image stabilization | Digital, Hybrid |
Maximum Aperture | 1.4 f |
Expanded ISO Minimum | 80 |
Photo Sensor Resolution | 12.1 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | Full Frame (35mm) |
Minimum Shutter Speed | 0.1 seconds |
Form Factor | Mirrorless |
Special Feature | Image Stabilization |
Color | Black |
Item Weight | 1 Pounds |
Video Resolution | 2160p |
Viewfinder | 0.64-inch 9.44 million-dot OLED EVF |
Flash Modes | [POSSIBLE] Auto, On/Fill, Off, Slow Sync, Rear Curtain |
Camera Flash | Built-In |
Skill Level | Professional |
Compatible Devices | Sony E mount cameras |
Continuous Shooting | 10 fps |
Aperture modes | 1.4 |
Flash Sync Speed | 1/250 |
Video Capture Format | 4k |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 102400 |
Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
Processor Description | bionz |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Supported Audio Format | [POSSIBLE] AAC, MP3, WAV |
Frame Rate | 120 FPS |
Battery Capacity | 2E+3 Milliamp Hours |
Mount Type | Sony E-mount |
Sensor Size | 35.6 x 23.8 mm (Full-frame) |
Effective Pixels | 12.1 megapixels |
Image Processor | BIONZ XR |
ISO Range | 80-102400 (expandable to 40-409600) |
Video Recording | 4K UHD up to 120 fps, 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording |
LCD Monitor | 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD, 1.44 million dots |
Storage Media | Dual SD card slots (UHS-II support) |
Connectivity | USB Type-C (SuperSpeed USB 5Gbps), HDMI Type A, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0 |
Battery | NP-FZ100 rechargeable battery |
Body Material | Magnesium alloy with advanced heat dissipation |
Weight | 649 grams (body only) |
Dimensions | Approx. 128.9 x 96.9 x 77.5 mm |
Release Date | July 2020 |
Video Formats | XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, RAW video output |
Images
Key Advantages
The Alpha 7S III excels in ultra-high sensitivity with a specially designed 12.1MP full-frame sensor delivering superb noise control up to ISO 409600. Its advanced BIONZ XR processor enables real-time, high-speed image processing for 4K 120fps video without cropping.
Exceptional autofocus performance with 759 phase-detection points ensures precise subject tracking across a wide frame area. Internal 10-bit 4:2:2 4K recording supports professional-grade color grading workflows.
Robust build quality with enhanced heat dissipation allows extended video takes without thermal shutdown. The high-resolution OLED viewfinder combined with a fully articulating touchscreen improves usability in diverse shooting scenarios.
Dual SD card slots supporting high-speed UHS-II facilitate efficient data management and backup. Comprehensive connectivity includes USB-C, full-size HDMI, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for versatile workflow integration.
Limitations
The 12.1-megapixel sensor, while excellent for video, offers lower resolution compared to many photo-centric mirrorless cameras, which might not satisfy users focused on high-resolution still photography.
High-end video features such as 4K 120fps require top-tier SD cards, increasing operational costs. The advanced autofocus system can sometimes be less effective in extremely low-light or low-contrast conditions despite improvements.
The camera is relatively expensive, targeting a professional niche, limiting accessibility for casual users. The battery life, though improved, may still require multiple spares for extended shoots.
Some users may find the interface complex due to numerous customizable controls which entail a learning curve.
The absence of a built-in flash limits quick fill-light options, necessitating external lighting accessories.
FAQ
What is the sensor size and resolution of the Sony Alpha 7S III?
The Sony Alpha 7S III features a 12.1-megapixel full-frame (35.6 x 23.8 mm) Exmor R CMOS sensor designed for high sensitivity and low noise.
Does the Alpha 7S III support 4K video recording?
Yes, it supports 4K video recording up to 120 frames per second internally with 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling.
What type of autofocus system does the a7S III use?
The camera uses a Fast Hybrid autofocus system with 759 phase-detection points covering approximately 92% of the frame for accurate and speedy focusing.
Can the Alpha 7S III output video to an external recorder?
Yes, it has a full-size HDMI Type A port that supports 16-bit RAW video output to external recorders.
What are the storage options available on the Sony a7S III?
It includes dual UHS-II SD card slots capable of simultaneous or relay recording modes.
Is the Sony Alpha 7S III suitable for photography as well as videography?
While it excels in video and low-light performance, its 12.1MP sensor offers moderate resolution that is fine for many photography applications but less ideal for users needing very high-resolution images.
Does the camera support wireless connectivity?
Yes, the Sony Alpha 7S III supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless file transfer and remote operation.
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