Sony A6700 vs A7 IV: Which Should You Choose?

The Sony A6700 and Sony A7 IV represent two different approaches to hybrid mirrorless cameras – one featuring an APS-C sensor, the other full-frame. As a camera store that’s helped countless photographers navigate these choices, we’ll guide you through the key differences to help you make an informed decision for your photography needs.

🎯 Quick Answer: Choose the A7 IV if you need the advantages of a full-frame 33MP sensor, superior low-light performance, and dual card slots for professional work. Pick the A6700 if you want a more compact system with similar AI autofocus capabilities and 4K video features, at a more accessible price point.

Understanding The Differences Of The A6700 & A7 IV Cameras

When choosing between the A6700 and A7 IV, you’re selecting between two different sensor formats, each with distinct advantages. Both cameras feature Sony’s latest AI autofocus capabilities, strong video features, and impressive image quality in their respective classes.

💡 Pro Tip: While both cameras share similar AI autofocus technology, their different sensor sizes mean they’ll perform differently in various shooting scenarios. The A7 IV’s full-frame sensor provides better low-light capability and depth of field control, while the A6700’s APS-C sensor offers benefits in reach for wildlife and sports.

What They Share:

• Advanced AI autofocus
• 10-bit 4:2:2 video
• Vari-angle touchscreens
• Real-time tracking
• In-body stabilization
• Weather sealing
• Latest processors
• Creative Look presets

💬 Why Trust Us? At Campkins Cameras, we’ve helped countless photographers choose between these cameras and use them in real-world situations. Our insights come from hands-on experience and direct feedback from professional photographers.

Explore our full range of Sony cameras →

Core Specifications & Key Features

Let’s break down the key specifications and explore their real-world impact in detail.

Key Specifications Compared

For photographers considering these advanced features, it’s important to understand how they translate to different shooting scenarios.

Understanding the Real-World Impact

💡 Pro Tip: While the A7 IV‘s full-frame sensor provides superior low-light performance and dynamic range, the A6700‘s uncropped 4K 60p can be advantageous for video creators who need the wider field of view.

Real-World Performance Impact

High-Speed Applications:

• Sports photography
• Wildlife action
• Event coverage
• Street photography

Studio Applications:

• Portrait photography
• Commercial work
• Video production
• Content creation

For a deeper look at how these cameras perform in specific shooting scenarios, explore our detailed guides on Sony cameras for wildlife photography and best Sony cameras for video.

Key Features & Performance

Let’s dive into how these cameras perform in real-world shooting scenarios, examining their key features and capabilities in detail.

Video Features

💡 Pro Tip: While both cameras offer 10-bit recording and focus breathing compensation, the choice between them often comes down to sensor size preference and whether full-width 4K 60p is crucial for your workflow.

Shared Professional Features

Both cameras include professional-grade features that serve photographers and videographers well:

• AI-based subject recognition
• Real-time tracking AF
• Real-time Eye AF (human/animal/bird)
• Customizable function buttons
• Touch focus and tracking
• In-body image stabilization
• Weather-sealed construction
• Advanced menu system

Autofocus Capabilities

Continuous Shooting

High-Speed Performance:

• A6700: Up to 11 fps mechanical, 13 fps electronic
• A7 IV: Up to 10 fps mechanical and electronic

Buffer Performance:

• A6700: Approximately 50 RAW images (UHS-II)
• A7 IV: Approximately 828 RAW images (CFexpress Type A)

Real-World Performance

For more specific insights on how these cameras perform in different photography genres, check out our guides on Sony cameras for sports photography and Sony cameras for wedding photography.

Image Quality

Let’s explore how these cameras differ in image quality, examining their respective strengths in various shooting scenarios.

Resolution Comparison

Low Light Performance

💡 Pro Tip: The A7 IV’s full-frame sensor provides approximately 1-2 stops better noise performance than the A6700, making it particularly valuable for wedding photographers and event shooters working in challenging light.

Real-World ISO Performance:

Practical Image Quality Applications

A7 IV Excels In:

• High-end portrait work
• Wedding photography
• Event photography
• Fine art photography
• Commercial work
• Low-light scenarios
• Studio shooting

A6700 Excels In:

• Travel photography
• Street photography
• Wildlife photography
• Sports photography
• Everyday shooting
• Content creation
• Vlogging

For detailed examples of these cameras in action, visit our guides on Sony cameras for portrait photography and Sony cameras for landscape photography.

Build & Design

Let’s examine the physical differences and similarities between these two popular Sony cameras.

Control Layout

Weather Sealing

Both cameras feature professional-grade weather sealing:

• Dust and moisture resistant construction
• Sealed buttons and dials
• Protected card and battery doors
• Robust port covers
• Magnesium alloy chassis

💡 Pro Tip: While both cameras offer weather sealing, the A7 IV’s larger body allows for more substantial sealing and better heat dissipation during extended use.

Handling Characteristics:

Size & Weight Comparison:

• A7 IV: 658g (body only)
• A6700: 396g (body only)

Physical Dimensions:

• A7 IV: 131.3 x 96.4 x 79.8mm
• A6700: 122.9 x 69.7 x 75.3mm

For more information about camera accessories and handling, visit our guide on best Sony lenses for beginners.

Storage & Power

Let’s examine the memory card compatibility and power management features of these cameras.

Memory Card Systems

File Sizes & Storage Needs

A7 IV File Sizes:

• RAW: 33-40MB per file
• JPEG (Fine): 15-18MB per file
• 4K 60p video: ~600MB/minute
• 10-bit 4K: ~750MB/minute

A6700 File Sizes:

• RAW: 25-30MB per file
• JPEG (Fine): 8-12MB per file
• 4K 60p video: ~600MB/minute
• 10-bit 4K: ~750MB/minute

💡 Pro Tip: The A7 IV’s dual card slots provide essential backup capabilities for professional work, while its CFexpress Type A compatibility ensures maximum performance for high-speed shooting and video recording.

Storage Requirements for Common Scenarios:

Full-Day Event (2000 images):

• A7 IV: 66-80GB (RAW)
• A6700: 50-60GB (RAW)

1-Hour Video Session:

• A7 IV 4K 60p: ~36GB
• A6700 4K 60p: ~36GB

Battery Life

Battery Performance (NP-FZ100):

A7 IV:

• Up to 580 shots (LCD)
• Up to 520 shots (EVF)
• Approximately 170 mins video recording

A6700:

• Up to 450 shots (LCD)
• Up to 410 shots (EVF)
• Approximately 110 mins video recording

Power Management Features:

• USB-C charging capability
• External power support
• Power save modes
• Battery percentage display
• In-camera charging

For more information about Sony camera accessories and power solutions, visit our Sony cameras guide.

Who Should Choose Which Camera

Let’s break down which camera best suits different photography styles and creative needs.

The A7 IV Photographer

The A6700 Photographer

Best For:

• Travel photographers
• Content creators
• Vloggers
• Wildlife photographers
• Sports photographers
• Enthusiast photographers
• Mobile creators

Key Advantages:

• More compact system
• Lighter weight
• Uncropped 4K 60p
• More affordable price
• Better reach for telephoto
• Excellent portability
• Newer AI features

Photography Style Breakdown

💡 Pro Tip: Consider your complete workflow when choosing. While both cameras offer excellent image quality, the A7 IV’s full-frame sensor and dual card slots may be essential for professional work, while the A6700’s compact size and reach advantage could be more valuable for wildlife and travel.

For more detailed comparisons and recommendations, check out our guides for Sony cameras for wildlife photography and Sony cameras for wedding photography.

Final Verdict

Let’s summarize the key points to help you make your final decision.

Making Your Final Decision

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t just focus on specifications – consider your complete workflow, shooting style, and budget. While the A7 IV offers professional features and full-frame quality, the A6700’s compact size and versatility make it an excellent choice for many photographers.

Getting Support

Both cameras are supported by:

• Sony Professional Services
• Regular firmware updates
• Extensive E-mount lens lineup
• Third-party accessories
• Professional repair services

At Campkins Cameras, we provide ongoing support and guidance for both cameras, ensuring you get the most from your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Sony A7 IV and A6700 are excellent choices in Sony’s mirrorless lineup. Your decision should be based on your specific photography needs, workflow requirements, and budget considerations rather than purely technical specifications.

Visit our store to explore both cameras in person →