Sony A7 II Review: The A7 matured, with top-notch I.S., better ergonomics and speedier AF in the field

posted Wednesday, April 8, 2015 at 4:33 PM EDT

Sony is going all out with their full-frame mirrorless camera series, which now stands at four models. After releasing an initial pair of models and then a high-ISO, 4K-shooting one some time later, they've now circled back around to update the original, base-model A7. With the new Sony A7II Sony has kept the same imaging pipeline with the very good, high resolution 24.3-megapixel sensor and BIONZ X image processor, so the basic image quality performance remains practically identical to its predecessor, which is to say, very good.

The big change, however, is that Sony took this large full-frame sensor and added sensor-shift image stabilization. Working in conjunciton with Sony's optically-stabilized lenses where available, we found the A7 II's "SteadyShot INSIDE," as Sony calls it, to work very well, for both stills and stationary, handheld video. The new A7 II also underwent a much-welcomed cosmetic upgrade, with improved ergonomics for more comfortable handling. And video specs also get a professional nod, with XAVC S format videos, S-Log2 gamma and simulaneous HDMI-output + internal video recording, among other amenities shared with the earlier A7S that advanced and professional videographers will enjoy.

Sony FE 55mm F1.8: 55mm, f/1.8, 1/1000s, ISO 2000

Overall, Sony has yet another winner on their hands with the A7 II. By addressing some of the design quirks of the original model, as well as providing a notable technological achievement with their 5-axis image stabilization -- and some subtle, yet worthwhile, performance enhancements -- the Sony A7 II is a more matured, more well-rounded camera. Head over to our full, in-depth Sony A7 II Review for all the details, test results, sample images, real-world Shooter's Report and, of course, our final Imaging Resource conclusion on Sony's latest full-frame mirrorless camera.