Sony Sony Alpha a7R V 61.0MP Full Frame Mirrorless Review

The Sony a7R V is a camera that knows exactly what it wants to be: a detail monster for photographers who need every single pixel. That 61MP sensor is the star of the show, and it delivers absolutely insane resolution for landscapes, studio work, or any situation where you can take your time. But here's the one thing you need to know: this isn't a do-it-all hybrid powerhouse. It's a specialized tool, and it makes some clear trade-offs to be the king of resolution.

The biggest surprise is how good the video is for a camera built around a massive stills sensor. It lands in the 97th percentile for video, and that 8K, 10-bit capability is no joke. It's a legit video camera when you need it. The other surprise, unfortunately, is the autofocus. Sitting in the 45th percentile means it's just okay. For a flagship camera at this price, you'd expect class-leading AF, but it can get confused compared to Sony's own sports-focused bodies.

At nearly $3,500, the value proposition is narrow. If your primary need is ultimate resolution for printed work or cropping, and you're okay with middling autofocus, it's worth it. For anyone else, it's a tough sell. You're paying a huge premium for those megapixels.

You have to look at the Canon EOS R6 Mark II and the Sony a7R IV. The Canon R6 Mark II is cheaper, has vastly better autofocus and stabilization, and shoots faster. You give up a ton of resolution, but for most people, it's the better all-around camera. The older Sony a7R IV is the real question. It has the same 61MP sensor for hundreds less. You lose the improved 8K video and the better processor, but if video isn't critical, the a7R IV is a smarter buy.

This is an easy camera to recommend to a very specific person: the photographer who prints large, crops heavily, and works mostly in controlled environments. For that person, it's the best tool available. For everyone else—travel shooters, hybrid creators, sports photographers—you're better off with a Canon R6 Mark II or even Sony's own a7 IV. The a7R V is a brilliant specialist, but a compromised generalist.