While Sony’s R series cameras are primarily for high-resolution still images, the video specs here are solid enough for the casual video user, with support for 4K/60 fps video or oversampled 4K/30 fps video in full-frame mode (1.2X crop). Both support 10-bit 4:2 color depth, various log formats, and even 16-bit RAW output to external recorders.
My main complaint about the A7C R is the same as in my initial review. The viewfinder is cramped and low-resolution (2.36 million dots). This isn’t a deal breaker for me, but it’s something to keep in mind and a good reason to rent a camera before making the investment.
The big question with this camera is what lenses do you pair it with for travel? There’s a strong argument to be made for the Sony FE 24-105-mm f/4 G ($1,398), which gives you everything from wide to portrait with a little extra reach as well. Another great option if you like primes is the Sony 40-mm f2.5 G ($798), which makes a compact kit, and in my experience the 40-mm is a surprisingly great focal length for travel.
★ Optional: At $2,198, Sony’s A7C II (Note, not R) is slightly cheaper. It uses Sony’s smaller 33-MP sensor, but is otherwise very close in size and capabilities, with significantly more video chops than the A7C R. If you want to create video as well as stills, the A7C II is a better choice.
<a href