Why More Megapixels Aren’t Always Better: Choose the Right Camera For you
Olympic National Park, Sony A7CR
As a hobbyist photographer, I’ve have the privilege of owning and using both the Sony A7CR, a 61-megapixel powerhouse, and the Sony A7II, a reliable 24-megapixel workhorse. While the A7CR has its perks—especially for tasks like cropping and recomposing—I’ve realized that more megapixels don’t automatically make it the better camera for most photographers. In this post, I’ll share my experiences with both cameras and explain why a higher resolution isn’t always the upgrade it’s made out to be.
Let me start by saying that the Sony A7CR is an incredible camera. Its high-resolution sensor is perfect for those times when I need to crop into an image or recompose after the fact. It’s lightweight, versatile, and has become my go-to daily-use camera. One of its standout features is its ability to shoot in APS-C mode, which effectively gives me extra reach with the same lens. It’s like having two cameras in one, which is a huge benefit when I’m out and about. But even with all that, I wouldn’t rush to recommend it to every hobbyist photographer.
Here’s the thing: the 61-megapixel files the A7CR produces are massive. They take up a ton of storage space and can really slow down your editing workflow, especially if your computer isn’t up to the task. For most people, the 24-megapixel sensor in the Sony A7II is more than enough. Unless you’re regularly printing billboard-sized images or doing extreme cropping, the difference in resolution is negligible. The A7II produces beautiful, detailed images, and its smaller file sizes make editing and storage so much easier. That simplicity can’t be overstated when you’re juggling photography with everything else life throws at you.
More megapixels might sound exciting, but they aren’t always the upgrade they’re made out to be.
Sony A7ii
Another thing I’ve noticed is how these cameras handle low-light situations. Despite being older, the A7II still holds its own. In fact, its larger pixel size can sometimes give it an edge in low light, producing cleaner images with less noise. The A7CR performs well too, but the higher resolution can make noise more noticeable in certain situations. It’s a reminder that megapixels aren’t the whole story when it comes to image quality.
Then there’s the cost. The A7CR is a premium piece of gear, and while it’s worth every penny for photographers who need its capabilities, it’s not a necessity for everyone. The A7II is significantly more affordable and delivers incredible performance for the price. That extra money could easily go toward lenses or other gear that might make a bigger difference in your photography.
For most hobbyists, a well-balanced, easy-to-use camera like the A7II is more than enough to create amazing images.
Ultimately, choosing the right camera comes down to what you actually need. While I love the versatility of my A7CR, I’ve captured some of my favorite photos on the A7II. More megapixels might sound exciting, but they aren’t always the upgrade they’re made out to be. For most hobbyists, a well-balanced, easy-to-use camera like the A7II is more than enough to create amazing images.
At the end of the day, photography is about capturing moments and enjoying the process—not getting lost in specs or gear envy. Whether you’re shooting with a high-megapixel beast like the A7CR or sticking with a reliable performer like the A7II, the most important thing is to keep shooting, learning, and having fun.
| Feature | Sony A7CR | Sony A7II |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 61 megapixels | 24 megapixels |
| Use Case | Great for cropping and recomposing | General photography, sufficient for most needs |
| File Size | Larger, requires more storage and processing power | Smaller, more manageable workflow |
| Low-Light Performance | Good, but higher noise in very low light | Excellent in low light with less noise |
| Price | Premium price | More affordable |
| Portability | Lightweight and versatile | Heavier but still portable |
| Unique Feature | APS-C mode for extended reach | Balanced performance for everyday photography |
| Daily Use | Primary camera | Occasional use |