Interested in the A7C, but should I wait for the A7C II?

[broken_gear]

I'm very interested in the A7C and it has a lot of features that I like. But it was released Oct 2020 and now coming close to 2 years old. I don't know when a A7C II would be released, but I would imagine before end of 2023?

Some of the thoughts going through my mind are:

1) When the A7C II comes out, I suspect it will have the better touch screen interface like the A7 IV. This is something that I would really like.

2) A7C II might have better processor like A7 IV, where as A7C has older processor from A7 III that is probably at it's limit.

3) Might regret getting A7C now if the price drops when A7C II is announced or RTM. Even if the A7C II doesn't seem worth it, I could at least get A7C at a lower price once A7C II is released.

This is mostly hobby interest, so I have no urgency in getting this camera as I have others.

What are other people's thoughts?

 

[mferencz]

Well size issue is sort of subjective, but explain photocentric? Clearly it is a travel camera. Flash synch etc is not a strong suit. Viewfinder is usable, the AF is very very good and the 24mp sensor is strong up and down. What are the shortcomings outside of build and feel are you referring to? I can see some updates to video features being important.

 

[Michael Fritzen]

The "fatter" body size of the later models is caused by the IBIS if I'm not mistaken.

And I don't think Sony will remove IBIS in ANY further iteration so it's extremely unlikely that we'll see (again) a slimer FF E-Mount.

A secondary aspect is "increasing performance" by MPs, fps, AF speed: all demanding more processing power and thus demanding more/better heat dissipation - which also goes into the direction of (at least a bit) larger dimensions.

I suppose that if small camera size + ILC is high on your list then the first generation of the A7(r) or A6000 or previous NEX models would fit best - which may not tick the hihest scores though when it comes to AF or fps.

--
Cheers,
Michael Fritzen

 

[AlephNull]

I'm very interested in the A7C and it has a lot of features that I like. But it was released Oct 2020 and now coming close to 2 years old. I don't know when a A7C II would be released, but I would imagine before end of 2023?

Some of the thoughts going through my mind are:

1) When the A7C II comes out, I suspect it will have the better touch screen interface like the A7 IV. This is something that I would really like.

2) A7C II might have better processor like A7 IV, where as A7C has older processor from A7 III that is probably at it's limit.

3) Might regret getting A7C now if the price drops when A7C II is announced or RTM. Even if the A7C II doesn't seem worth it, I could at least get A7C at a lower price once A7C II is released.

This is mostly hobby interest, so I have no urgency in getting this camera as I have others.

What are other people's thoughts?

You can always wait. There is always something better coming in the future. Sometimes quite some distance in the future…

But if Sony announced an A7C II tomorrow, when would you be able to get it? In 2 months? Maybe 4? Maybe 6 with the current shortages? Later? You can get an A7C right now, and it has the benefit of being on the market for a while, so you don’t have to worry about any early bugs - the first shipment often has a few rough edges.

The rumourmongers aren’t tipping a new A7C this year. So the start time of your wait is probably next year. Then again, Sony sprang the A1 on us without warning, but I don’t think an A7C would be shrouded in as much secrecy.

If you want one, and you see a good price (Black Friday / Cyber Monday, or even just a sale), just buy it.

 

[jhunna]

I'm very interested in the A7C and it has a lot of features that I like. But it was released Oct 2020 and now coming close to 2 years old. I don't know when a A7C II would be released, but I would imagine before end of 2023?

Some of the thoughts going through my mind are:

1) When the A7C II comes out, I suspect it will have the better touch screen interface like the A7 IV. This is something that I would really like.

2) A7C II might have better processor like A7 IV, where as A7C has older processor from A7 III that is probably at it's limit.

3) Might regret getting A7C now if the price drops when A7C II is announced or RTM. Even if the A7C II doesn't seem worth it, I could at least get A7C at a lower price once A7C II is released.

This is mostly hobby interest, so I have no urgency in getting this camera as I have others.

What are other people's thoughts?

I am still waiting on the GX8 mark 2. If you want the A7C get it use it, and then sell it if the two comes out.

 

[jhunna]

Broken-gear I'm just an amateur hobbyist too and the A7C is my daily carry everywhere. That role has seen many cameras over the years. I even remember when the NEX-7 was my daily, that shows my age.

I break some rules with the A7C. As a daily it has attached the E 70-350G and in the super super small bag that also has the FE 28-60 (and a ham radio handy-talky) and a very packable rain/wind hoodie.

The A7C+crop lens would NOT be enough pixels for most aficionados that's for sure, but when you reach my age it's ok to do what the heck you want

Cosigned. that 70-350G is a special lens, and I never miss the pixels of the pictures that I didn't capture.

 

[broken_gear]

Thanks everyone for sharing your thoughts.

To respond to some of the comments:

1. my intended use case is primarily for video with the occasional stills.

2. if I did find a good deal on a used A7C in good condition, I would have pulled the trigger already. but most of the used deals I've seen are only $100-200 less than buying brand new with full warranty from authorized dealer. it's not really enough incentive for me to pull the trigger for only $100-200. if I really needed the camera professionally I would not bother trying to save $100-200 and just buy brand new in that case.

I did see some really good deals once or twice on eBay in the $1000-1200 range. However, after bidding on them, eBay removed the listing and cancelled my bid so I suspect there was a problem or possible fraud.

As I'm thinking through the comments here, I'm realizing that I think the current price is a big factor in my hesitancy to pull the trigger right now. In way, I feel like the prices (including used) is still too high for a camera that is getting a bit too old. If the A7C II were to be released really soon with enhancements I can really appreciate, I'd rather pay more for that than to put that money towards the older technology of the A7C.

3. i know there's no official information on a A7C II, but considering how old the A7C is at this point, I feel like it's not too far off. I know "not too far" can be subjective, but in my mind anything 12-18 months is not too far off. also, some of the developments in the A7 IV are encouraging in terms of what might be possible with A7C II. I know, it's all speculation really...

Anyway, thanks again for sharing your thoughts.

 

[Despiser]

The 7C seemed to have a lukewarm reception as you give up a lot just to get the bump removed essentially.

 

[kolyy]

The 7C seemed to have a lukewarm reception as you give up a lot just to get the bump removed essentially.

Not that removing the bump is a plus. One of the major complaints with the C is with the viewfinder.

It's might not be a plus for some people, but it's a huge plus for the target audience.

 

[Lichtspiel]

The 7C seemed to have a lukewarm reception as you give up a lot just to get the bump removed essentially.

Not that removing the bump is a plus. One of the major complaints with the C is with the viewfinder.

If that was true, wouldn't the prices for a camera like this (with "old" technology) have dropped more and quicker? Obviously many were and still are looking for a compact FF camera, and those prices even for used C's say it all...

 

[jhunna]

The 7C seemed to have a lukewarm reception as you give up a lot just to get the bump removed essentially.

Not that removing the bump is a plus. One of the major complaints with the C is with the viewfinder.

It's might not be a plus for some people, but it's a huge plus for the target audience.

huge! Literally the only reason I finally considered a Sony camera.

 

[jhunna]

The 7C seemed to have a lukewarm reception as you give up a lot just to get the bump removed essentially.

Not that removing the bump is a plus. One of the major complaints with the C is with the viewfinder.

If that was true, wouldn't the prices for a camera like this (with "old" technology) have dropped more and quicker? Obviously many were and still are looking for a compact FF camera, and those prices even for used C's say it all...

Pretty much. Really glad the A7C and FX3 are successful form factors for Sony.

 

[mferencz]

I just got one and the 'just the hump being removed' knock on it is the reason I got it. It is a significant difference even with all those that think it is not. I really like the camera and the old tech on on it, is really top notch if you ask me. They packed a lot into the small form factor. Viewfinder is fine. Exactly what you would expect.

 

[Despiser]

The 7C seemed to have a lukewarm reception as you give up a lot just to get the bump removed essentially.

Not that removing the bump is a plus. One of the major complaints with the C is with the viewfinder.

If that was true, wouldn't the prices for a camera like this (with "old" technology) have dropped more and quicker? Obviously many were and still are looking for a compact FF camera, and those prices even for used C's say it all...

Prices for every camera has risen. People are asking for the price they paid for it, which is absurd. Even A7ii, an almost 10 year old model.

 

[Despiser]

The 7C seemed to have a lukewarm reception as you give up a lot just to get the bump removed essentially.

Not that removing the bump is a plus. One of the major complaints with the C is with the viewfinder.

It's might not be a plus for some people, but it's a huge plus for the target audience.

True, but I was referring to reviews in general.

 

[Mike Fewster]

I just got one and the 'just the hump being removed' knock on it is the reason I got it. It is a significant difference even with all those that think it is not. I really like the camera and the old tech on on it, is really top notch if you ask me. They packed a lot into the small form factor. Viewfinder is fine. Exactly what you would expect.

The point of this camera is getting an ILC with outstanding tracking in a small/lightish body. It delivers on this. If the viewfinder is more important to you, get the A71i1 or iv. It's a simple choice and Sony have covered your bases. Further, Sony now has a range of lenses where small size is the priority. The 28-60 zoom is pretty good. Then we have the trio of small primes with aperture barrel control. I'm adding the 18mm 1.8 Samyang to that for a small, lightweight travel system , still with FF IQ.

Yes, the viewfinder is smallish but it works OK. I added a rubber shade hood and it is comfortable for me. The flip out screen is good too and being able to fold it inwards to protect the screen is a bonus I hadn't fully appreciated for travel previously.

Now I just want a small/lightish tele prime. I don't need it to be fast with heavy glass. Happy to shoot at high iso and use Topaz or similar to deal with the iso noise.

 

[dkeller]

There is ALWAYS something newer and better just around the corner. The A7C technology isn't all that old and you miss a heck of a lot of photo ops waiting for a newer camera.

 

[kolyy]

The 7C seemed to have a lukewarm reception as you give up a lot just to get the bump removed essentially.

Not that removing the bump is a plus. One of the major complaints with the C is with the viewfinder.

It's might not be a plus for some people, but it's a huge plus for the target audience.

True, but I was referring to reviews in general.

Competent reviews, like the one from dpreview, didn't complain about it, they merely pointed out that the viewfinder is smaller and that it is a noticeable trade-off compared to full-sized bodies. In spite of that, the compact rangefinder-styled formfactor is a huge plus for the target audience, like me. I don't use my camera instead of a cinema screen, so I find the trade-off very acceptable.

 

[Vintehin]

I've been traveling with A7C for the last 2 months and it's the best camera I've ever had.

Small size and EVF bump removal is a very big deal. The difference is not in my 12kg backpack, or on my shoulder after a long day hiking. Difference is how people around look at me.

And that the point, no body care about me and my little camera.

I tried with A7III, and it's not the same, people in the street look at your gears, some even ask you if you are a profressionnal photographer.

People get nervous, or just more rigid.

Hold your A7III in front of you, and every body run to hide. They don't want to disturb or to be on the shot.

Hold your A7C in front of you and no body care, no body move or look at you. You are just a tourist doing some familly photos like any other tourist.

So the size and bump question is really important, and the "size in your bag" argument is in my opinion very wrong and not even close of the real life utility of the A7C.

 

[phgordon]

I agree. Was walking down the street today and some one said to me "nice old camera". The 7C is just about the same size as a Leica M. My grandkids do not react to this camera as they do a standard full frame with zoom. Much more discreet and less threatening. The only downside of the camera is that when using in M mode the indicators are a bit difficult to see and the lack of two controls al a Nikon to adjust shutter and aperture is a pain. I think I will use program and exposure comp instead. Wait for a new version? Perhaps they will use a 33MP sensor and the excellent tracking will be even better. Doubt any substantial change.

 

[jhunna]

I agree. Was walking down the street today and some one said to me "nice old camera". The 7C is just about the same size as a Leica M. My grandkids do not react to this camera as they do a standard full frame with zoom. Much more discreet and less threatening. The only downside of the camera is that when using in M mode the indicators are a bit difficult to see and the lack of two controls al a Nikon to adjust shutter and aperture is a pain. I think I will use program and exposure comp instead. Wait for a new version? Perhaps they will use a 33MP sensor and the excellent tracking will be even better. Doubt any substantial change.

I try to buy lenses with Aperture control built in, if I do that I don't miss the front dial, and I can use the rear dial and wheel to adjust things like shutter and wb/iso. But I don't miss the extra switches/dials of some of my other cameras. I shoot in aperture mode and then learn how the camera reacts to those automatic settings.

But every time I think I want more from the A7C I just shoot it, and then forget about the other things I thought I wanted.