Sony A7III Review: Is It Still Worth It in 2024?
Sony has not disappointed us with their new models of cameras, from the FX3 to the FX30, and even the newer models rumored to be released in 2025. The main question for today’s article is: Is the Sony A7 III Still Worth It in 2024? As you cruise through this post, you can make that decision for yourself with the help of this review.
OVERVIEW
The images I have taken with this camera are amazing and beautiful; the details have been highly complimented by many of my clients, friends, and family. The picture profiles are such a great way to express your creativity, especially for someone who wants to dive deeper into their color grading process.
The Sony A7 III is compact and lightweight—weighing in at 1.4 pounds (without the lens)—which is great for traveling photographers, event photographers, wedding videographers, and anybody who wants to invest in this camera.
All in all, the Sony A7 III is a great camera that offers a wide range of options for both video and photos.
PROS:
Outstanding autofocus
Excellent low-light performance
Dual memory card slots have been a lifesaver
Lightweight and compact
Affordable mirrorless camera
Amazing battery life
CONS:
Not a touchscreen
Screen only tilts up and down
Cannot record 4K video at a frame rate higher than 30 FPS
No built-in flash for photography
Cannot shoot in 10-bit
Menu system can be overwhelming
PHOTOS TAKEN WITH THE
SONY A7 III
THE MUST-KNOWS OF THE SONY A7 III
COST
Let’s be honest: as cool and cinematically professional as these videos and photos are, our bank accounts aren’t always set up for it. I know how stressful it can be when deciding which camera is best and which one you’ll have to wait to buy until you’ve saved up enough money.
The Sony A7 III ranges from $1,299 to $1,500. I know these are big numbers, but the bigger the investment, the greater the impact (though this ultimately depends on YOU). This is an excellent price range for mirrorless cameras, as they tend to be on the pricier side of the market.
You might find one that’s cheaper if it’s used, but I know many people are skeptical about buying used gear in a world where scams are more normalized than ever. So, shop carefully!
FOCUS PRECISION AND IMAGE STABILIZATION
The autofocus on this camera is incredible. It tracks your subjects, detects them, and locks onto them seamlessly. The Sony A7 III offers an eye autofocus mode that follows your subject wherever they move. While many cameras offer this feature, few execute it as well as the A7 III does.
This feature is essential for those doing large gigs or weddings, where subjects can easily get lost in the crowd.
Another standout feature of this camera is its stabilization. Even when attempting dreamy shots with intentional camera jerks, the results remained impressively smooth. This camera's stabilization is fantastic, even with slow shutter speeds or in low-light conditions.
DUAL MEMORY CARD SLOTS
If you’re seeking a camera for professional work like wedding photography or videography, you need a dual memory card slot. This is something I initially thought I wouldn’t need, but I was wrong.
When I did my first wedding with my previous camera (a Panasonic), I had to switch out memory cards twice during the event—which raised my anxiety about missing crucial footage. Trust me, this is a game-changer. Don’t underestimate how much data you’ll capture in a single day. Every click matters.
BATTERY LIFE
Battery life is another factor you should NOT take for granted. It’s shocking—and surprisingly amazing—how long this camera lasts. I’ve worked with cameras that didn’t last past the 5-hour mark, which was overwhelming since every minute counts during paid gigs.
This camera’s battery life is like gas for your car: it’s crucial. Keep this in mind when investing in a good camera.
SILENT MODE
Did you know the A7 III offers an option to shoot in silent mode? This is a HUGE plus for photographers. Personally, I find the sound of the shutter clicks annoying—but that’s probably because I’m a mom who loves silence.
The disadvantage of using this option is you will NOT be able to use your picture profiles — for those who love to shoot in log. While this is an amazing option for some, not all photographers may benefit from it. For instance, in noisy settings, those clicks might serve as confirmation the moment has been captured, so it might be best to leave it on.
LIMITATIONS
VIDEO
For those investing heavily in video, the A7 III’s capabilities might not be enough. While the video quality isn’t bad, the camera records only 8-bit video. This is fine for most users but can be limiting for professionals who need more control in post-production, especially for color grading.
Additionally, while the camera records 4K video, it’s capped at 30fps. This might be a drawback for users who want smoother footage or slow-motion effects that require higher frame rates like 60fps.
SCREEN
The screen isn’t a deal-breaker for most, but it’s worth mentioning. The A7 III’s screen only tilts up and down, which can be limiting when trying to capture low-angle or creative shots. Additionally, the screen isn’t a touchscreen, which feels outdated in today’s world of touch-responsive devices.
OVERHEATING
Although I haven’t experienced overheating yet, it’s a common complaint. Extended use of the camera, especially when filming in 4K under hot conditions, can cause it to overheat. This is something to be mindful of if you plan on shooting for long hours in warm environments.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON THE SONY A7 III
The Sony A7 III is a powerhouse for anyone serious about photography or videography. With its fast autofocus, sharp 24MP sensor, and smooth 4K video, it handles a wide range of situations, from street snaps to professional shoots.
While it lacks features like 60fps 4K and a fully articulating screen, these trade-offs don’t diminish its overall performance. Even though the camera has been phased out internationally, it’s still worth grabbing if you find it in stock in the US. For anyone looking for a versatile, reliable, and affordable all-around camera, the A7 III remains a top choice.
FAQs
Is the Sony A7 III a professional camera?
Yes! The Sony A7 III is a perfect choice for professionals, street photographers, and wedding videographers, offering exceptional performance and versatility.
Is the A7 III still good in 2024?
Yes! It features impressive autofocus and remains an excellent choice in 2024, especially if you're looking for a camera with timeless performance.
Is the Sony A7 III being discontinued?
The Sony A7 III has been discontinued internationally, but limited stock is still available in the US. While B&H Photo is out of stock, you can find some units on Amazon and Adorama.
Does the Sony A7 III overheat?
As mentioned earlier, the camera does have overheating issues. Many users have complained about this, particularly when filming in 4K for long hours under direct sunlight or in hot conditions.