Now the big question for consumers is, “Which Sony A7-series camera is best for me?” In this product review, we will attempt to clarify these issues. Be advised that the differences are not always cut and dried. There are enough overlapping attributes that make each of these cameras a smart purchase for most still- and video-capture needs. As for which camera is best for you, spend some time with the photo and video examples below, and read our recommendations on how to weigh the differences and similarities between these three camera systems.

Adding to the excitement, Sony introduced the Sony a7S a few months later, which differs from its siblings by sporting a 12.2MP CMOS sensor with on-sensor micro lenses and an anti-aliasing filter, a maximum ISO sensitivity of an astounding 409,000, versus a maximum of ISO 25,600 on the A7 and A7R, and 4K video capture―when recording to an external recorder.

The Sony a7R, which is a bit more expensive, features a higher-resolution 36.4MP imaging sensor with gapless on-sensor micro lenses, no anti-aliasing filter for sharper image detail, and a slower, yet eminently adequate autofocus system. Most importantly, both cameras take extraordinary photographs, 1080p AVCHD video, and are winning concepts in their own right.

Sony introduced its first two full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Alpha a7 and a7R, to overwhelmingly positive reviews late last year. Revolutionary in many ways, the choices between the two cameras boiled down to the a7, which features a 24.3MP CMOS sensor, quick Hybrid Phase and Contrast autofocus, an electronic front-shutter curtain with Quiet Shutter Mode, faster top flash-sync speed (1/250 versus 1/160) , and slightly faster burst rates (5 fps versus 4 fps).