What To Know
- The 5D Mark IV has a traditional DSLR design with a large, comfortable grip and a top-mounted LCD panel.
- The A7IV, on the other hand, has a more compact mirrorless design with a smaller grip and a rear-mounted LCD screen.
- The Sony A7IV has a faster autofocus system and higher burst shooting speed, making it a better choice for sports photography.
The world of photography has been abuzz with anticipation for the latest iterations of two legendary camera systems: the Canon 5D Mark IV and the Sony A7IV. Both cameras promise to push the boundaries of full-frame photography, but which one reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key features, strengths, and weaknesses of both cameras to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Resolution
The Canon 5D Mark IV boasts a 30.4-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, while the Sony A7IV features a 33-megapixel full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor. Both sensors offer excellent image quality with impressive dynamic range and low-noise performance. However, the A7IV’s slightly higher resolution gives it a slight edge in capturing fine details.
Autofocus and Tracking
Autofocus is crucial for capturing sharp images, especially in fast-moving situations. The 5D Mark IV’s 61-point autofocus system with 41 cross-type points provides reliable and accurate focusing. On the other hand, the A7IV’s 759-point hybrid autofocus system with 567 phase-detection points offers even faster and more precise autofocus, making it better suited for sports and wildlife photography.
Burst Shooting and Buffer
For capturing action sequences, burst shooting speed and buffer capacity are essential. The 5D Mark IV can shoot at up to 7 frames per second (fps) for 21 RAW images or 150 JPEG images. The A7IV, however, outperforms it with a burst shooting speed of 10 fps for 82 RAW images or 1,000 JPEG images. This gives the A7IV a clear advantage for capturing fast-paced events.
Video Capabilities
Both cameras offer impressive video capabilities, but the A7IV has a significant edge. It can record 4K video at up to 60 fps internally, while the 5D Mark IV is limited to 4K at 30 fps. Additionally, the A7IV features 10-bit color depth and S-Log3 gamma for enhanced dynamic range and color grading flexibility.
Stabilization and Weather Sealing
The 5D Mark IV lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which can be a disadvantage for handheld shooting or using longer lenses. The A7IV, on the other hand, features 5-axis IBIS, providing up to 5.5 stops of stabilization. Both cameras offer weather sealing, making them suitable for use in harsh conditions.
Ergonomics and Handling
The 5D Mark IV has a traditional DSLR design with a large, comfortable grip and a top-mounted LCD panel. The A7IV, on the other hand, has a more compact mirrorless design with a smaller grip and a rear-mounted LCD screen. The choice between these ergonomic styles depends on personal preference and shooting style.
Price and Availability
The Canon 5D Mark IV is available for around $2,500, while the Sony A7IV is priced at around $2,500. Both cameras are widely available from authorized retailers and online stores.
Final Note: The Verdict
Both the Canon 5D Mark IV and Sony A7IV are excellent full-frame cameras that offer exceptional image quality and performance. However, the A7IV’s superior autofocus, burst shooting, video capabilities, and in-body image stabilization give it a slight edge over the 5D Mark IV. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific photography needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Which camera has better dynamic range?
Both cameras offer excellent dynamic range, but the Sony A7IV has a slight advantage due to its larger sensor and 10-bit color depth.
2. Can the 5D Mark IV shoot 4K video?
Yes, but it is limited to 30 fps, while the A7IV can shoot 4K video at up to 60 fps.
3. Does the A7IV have weather sealing?
Yes, both cameras offer weather sealing for use in harsh conditions.
4. Which camera is better for sports photography?
The Sony A7IV has a faster autofocus system and higher burst shooting speed, making it a better choice for sports photography.
5. Can the 5D Mark IV use Sony lenses?
No, the 5D Mark IV uses Canon EF lenses, while the A7IV uses Sony E-mount lenses.
