Sony A7CR Complaints Debunked: An Amateur Photographer's Perspective
If you're considering the Sony A7CR, you may have heard a lot of opinions about its shortcomings. As a hobbyist photographer who uses this camera daily, I wanted to address the five most common complaints and share my perspective. Is it perfect? No. But does it deliver what I need as an enthusiast? Absolutely. Let’s dive in.
1. The EVF (Electronic Viewfinder)
The complaint: The EVF isn’t cutting-edge compared to newer cameras.
My take: While the EVF on the A7CR isn’t the most advanced, it’s all about perspective. Coming from the Sony A7II, I find the EVF to be a significant improvement. For everyday use, it’s perfectly adequate, and the rear screen is bright enough even on sunny days. Unless you’re accustomed to high-end professional EVFs, this likely won’t be a deal-breaker.
2. Lack of a Second SD Card Slot
The complaint: Only one SD card slot limits redundancy for professionals.
My take: This camera isn’t aimed at professionals shooting weddings or critical events—it’s a high-end enthusiast camera. For someone like me, one card slot is more than sufficient. I’ve used cameras like the Ricoh GR3X and the A7II, both of which also had single card slots, without any issues. If you’re a hobbyist or enthusiast, this isn’t a major concern.
3. Limited Continuous Buffering
The complaint: The buffer fills quickly during burst shooting.
My take: How often do enthusiasts truly need high-speed continuous buffering? Personally, I don’t shoot motocross, F1 races, or fast-paced wildlife. I capture moments with my family, my dog, and landscapes—and the A7CR handles these scenarios beautifully. For hobbyists, this is a non-issue.
4. Handling and Ergonomics
The complaint: The camera lacks a joystick and feels small in hand.
My take: While the lack of a joystick might bother some, I’ve found the directional wheel and touchscreen to be more than adequate for moving focus points. Adding a thumb grip or a base plate can improve ergonomics for those who need it. It’s not the most comfortable camera in the world, but for its compact size and portability, it’s a fair trade-off.
5. Video Limitations
The complaint: No 8K recording and only a micro HDMI output.
My take: This is a photographer’s camera. If you prioritize video features, there are plenty of hybrid cameras out there. While the A7CR can shoot 4K video, it’s not designed to be a video powerhouse. For me, my iPhone is sufficient for video needs. This camera excels at what it’s meant to do: photography.
Final Thoughts
Every camera has trade-offs, and the Sony A7CR is no exception. However, for hobbyists and enthusiasts looking for a compact, high-resolution camera with excellent image quality, these complaints are minor in practice. If you’re realistic about your needs and expectations, this camera delivers an exceptional experience.
What are your thoughts on the A7CR? Do these criticisms resonate with you, or do you find them overblown? Let me know in the comments below.