The Sony Alpha a7 II, the fourth instalment in Sony’s a7 series, is a full-frame mirrorless camera equipped with image stabilization. It retains the same 24-megapixel sensor and Bionz X processor as its predecessors. Notable enhancements include 5-axis sensor-based image stabilization, improved autofocus (AF) performance, and design refinements.
The a7 II maintains a familiar control layout, but it features a redesigned grip, command dials, and shutter. It is physically larger and approximately 25% heavier than the original a7-series cameras. Unlike the original a7 and a7R, the a7 II is entirely constructed from magnesium alloy, offering durability.
The camera employs a hybrid AF system, similar to the a7, with 117 phase-detect and 25 contrast points. Sony has claimed a 30% improvement in AF over its predecessor, with 1.5x better tracking. In terms of video recording, the a7 II supports the XAVC S codec, offering a 50MBps bit rate at 1080/60p, in addition to other recording options such as AVCHD and MP4.
| Sony a7 II | Sony a7 | Sony a7R | Sony a7S | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 24MP full-frame | 24MP full-frame | 36MP full-frame | 12MP full-frame |
| Image Stabilization | In-body | In-lens only | In-lens only | In-lens only |
| ISO Range (Stills) Standard / Expanded | 100 – 25,600 50 – 25,600 | 100 – 25,600 50 – 25,600 | 100 – 25,600 50 – 25,600 | 100-102,400 50-409,600 |
| Continuous Shooting | 5 fps | 5 fps | 4 fps | 5 fps |
| AF system | Hybrid with 117 phase detect and 25 contrast detect points | Hybrid with 117 phase detect and 25 contrast detect points | Contrast AF with 25 points | Contrast AF with 25 points |
| Front panel construction | Magnesium alloy | Composite | Magnesium alloy | Magnesium alloy |
| Optical low pass filter | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Weight w/ battery | 600 g | 474 g | 465 g | 489 g |
| Launch price | $1,700 body only | $1,700 body only | $2,300 body only | $2,500 body only |
The camera’s LCD screen remains at 3 inches with increased resolution (1.23 million dots) and tilting capabilities. The electronic viewfinder is bright and detailed with 2.3 million dots, offering 100% accuracy and .71x magnification.
A significant feature of the a7 II is its 5-axis in-camera image stabilization system, compensating for movements along five axes (X, Y, pitch, yaw, and roll). When used with Sony FE lenses featuring optical stabilization (OSS), the camera combines sensor-based and lens-based IS for optimal stabilization. This feature is beneficial for adapted and third-party lens users.
Ergonomically, the a7 II has an enlarged grip to accommodate its increased weight. Control dials are now recessed to prevent accidental adjustments. The shutter button has been repositioned to the grip and increased in size, offering better usability. An extra custom function button has been added to the camera’s top plate.
The Sony Alpha a7 II is available as a body-only option for $1,700 or in a kit with the 28-70mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS lens for $2,000. Notably, it ships with a Micro USB cable and AC-UUD11 AC Battery Charging Adapter, an eyepiece cup, shoulder strap, and one NP-FW50 Lithium-Ion battery, but it does not include a dedicated battery charger.
