Sony has launched the Alpha 7C II, an upgraded version of the A7C, featuring enhancements from the A7 IV while maintaining a compact design. With a 33 MP backlit sensor, improved ergonomics, and a user-friendly control system, it offers excellent image quality and performance. However, the viewfinder and autofocus system exhibit some limitations. Overall, this model is designed to cater to serious photographers looking for a portable full-frame experience.
Introducing the Sony Alpha 7C II: A Compact Powerhouse
Following the success of the Sony A7C, the renowned Japanese brand has returned with an upgraded version, the Alpha 7C II, which incorporates key features from the acclaimed A7 IV. This new model aims to provide a full-frame experience in a compact APS-C format. The question remains: can Sony address the minor shortcomings of its predecessor?
Design and Ergonomics: Subtle Enhancements
The design of the Sony Alpha 7C II closely mirrors that of its predecessor, maintaining a compact size with dimensions of 124 mm in width, 71.1 mm in height, and 63.4 mm in depth. It weighs in at 514 g, including the battery and card, making it only slightly heavier than the APS-C A6700, which weighs 493 g. This slight increase in weight is hardly noticeable during use.
The updated model features a deeper grip, enhancing comfort and control, particularly when paired with well-sized lenses. However, it may struggle with larger G or GM lenses. For those needing extra support, Sony offers an optional grip, the GP-X2, priced around 180 euros. The extensive range of full-frame E-mount lenses available from Sony caters to various budgets and photography styles.
On the back, the layout remains familiar, borrowing elements from the A6700 and the original A7C. The camera retains the comfortable analog controls, though it still lacks a joystick. The robust magnesium alloy body is resistant to water and dust, ensuring durability and a premium finish.
In terms of connectivity, the A7C II is equipped with a UHS-II SD card slot, a micro HDMI port, mic and headphone jacks, and a USB-C port for data transfer and charging. The battery compartment is conveniently located at the bottom, with charging facilitated via a USB-C cable.
Viewfinder and Screen: A Mixed Bag
The Sony Alpha 7C II features a 2.36 MP OLED viewfinder with a magnification of 0.7x. While it provides an alternative to the rear screen, its size and usability leave much to be desired. Although it can switch to a high refresh rate of 120 Hz, this comes at the cost of reduced image quality.
The rear screen is a 3-inch LCD panel with 1.04 MP, similar to the A7 IV, mounted on a 3-axis hinge. This screen is bright and effective for focusing and vlogging, but its resolution and lack of joystick navigation can detract from the overall experience. Nevertheless, the touch-sensitive display enhances shooting and menu navigation.
Control and Navigation: User-Friendly Experience
The control system of the A7C II remains intuitive, with two customizable buttons, including a new one positioned on the upper back. The S&Q/video/photo switch is conveniently placed below the PASM wheel, and the front dial is positioned under the shutter, mirroring features from the A6700.
Touch navigation simplifies the user experience, though traditional analog controls are also available. The absence of a joystick is a drawback, as this feature is often missed in compact models. However, the Fn button allows quick access to customizable shooting settings, aiding adaptability.
Image Quality: Outstanding Performance from the A7 IV
The Alpha 7C II houses a 33 MP backlit BSI CMOS sensor, identical to that of the A7 IV. This sensor is stabilized on five axes, offering impressive performance across various shooting conditions. It ranges from 100 to 51,200 ISO, expandable to 50 to 204,800 ISO, and demonstrates minimal grain up to 800 ISO.
Although some distortion issues like banding and rolling shutter can occur during high-speed shots, the overall image quality remains high, with rich colors and low chromatic drift. This makes it a strong contender in the market for serious photographers.
Performance: Fast and Reliable, with Some Limitations
The hybrid autofocus system, inherited from the A7 IV, offers 759 focus points covering around 94% of the sensor. With the dual Bionz XR processor enhanced by AI, the autofocus system excels, especially for human subjects.
Despite its strengths, the autofocus may struggle with certain subjects, particularly in wildlife photography, where tracking multiple animals can lead to missed shots. Nevertheless, the overall performance of the Sony Alpha 7C II positions it as a formidable option for both enthusiasts and professionals alike.