Sony A7R vs Sony A57

Here, we are reviewing the Sony A7R vs Sony A57, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR and they are both designed by Sony. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the A7R (36MP) and A57 (16MP) and the A7R (Full frame) and A57 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor sizing.

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The A7R was brought out 18 months later than the A57 making them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras feature different body design with the Sony A7R being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A57 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going straight to a detailed comparison, here is a simple view of how the A7R grades versus the A57 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Alpha A7R & Sony SLT-A57. The entire galleries are viewable at Sony A7R Gallery & Sony A57 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Sony A7R features physical dimensions of 127mm x 94mm x 48mm (5.0" x 3.7" x 1.9") with a weight of 465 grams (1.03 lbs) and the Sony A57 has proportions of 132mm x 98mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 618 grams (1.36 lbs).

Contrast the Sony A7R vs Sony A57 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the A7R against the A57.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the A7R and A57 is 78 and 64 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizing purely by checking specs. The graphic below might offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the A7R and A57.

All in all, both of the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The A7R because of its larger sensor will make getting shallower DOF easier and the Sony A7R will give greater detail having its extra 20 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The fresher A7R will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.