The Sony Alpha 7 II, an updated version of its Alpha 7 mirrorless full-frame camera, was announced in Japan last week, and the company is making it official here in the U.S. today.
The Alpha 7 II enhances the features of the original camera, adding an in-body stabilization system, faster autofocus, and support for high-bitrate XAVC S video.
The stabilization system is the big news here. Mirrorless cameras with smaller sensors, like the Olympus OM-D E-M1 ($1,099.00 at Amazon) , have enjoyed the benefits of in-body stabilization for some time. But this is the first time it's been paired with a full-frame sensor in a mirrorless form factor. The stabilization system corrects for motion on 5 axes, and can work in conjunction with lenses that feature integrated stabilization.
It can also work with lenses that aren't made by Sony, as well as Sony A-mount lenses attached via an adapter. If you attached a native third-party lens like those in the Zeiss Loxia series, or an old manual focus SLR or rangefinder lens via a mechanical adapter, the stabilization system continues to work. You'll just need to tell the camera the focal length of the lens you're using.
The A7 II's autofocus system is said to be about 30 percent faster, with improved tracking that allows the camera to lock exposure and focus for every shot at a 5fps rate. The XAVC S video codec has been added as well, which allows for a 50Mbps bitrate at 1080p, and pro options like S-Log2 gamma, time code, a flat picture profile, and markers. The image sensor is still a 24-megapixel full-frame CMOS chip with onboard phase detection.
The body is a bit deeper to accomodate the stabilization system, and the chassis now features a front plate that's magnesium alloy, in addition to the top and rear components of the body. The lens mount is stronger than the Alpha 7, matching that of the Alpha 7S ($2,498.00 at Amazon) in durability, and the handgrip is deeper with a repositioned shutter release.
The Alpha 7 II debuts at the same price as the Alpha 7: $1,699 as a body only and $1,999 with a 28-70mm lens. The original Alpha 7 remains in the lineup at a reduced price—$1,299 as a body only or $1,599 with the standard 28-70mm lens .
If you're in the market for a digital camera, take some time to peruse our product guide, or our list of the 10 Best Digital Cameras
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