Sony Unveils Fifth-Generation a7 V
Sony has introduced the a7 V, the fifth generation of its midrange full-frame line, arriving more than four years after the a7 IV. During these years, the company’s system has advanced through models featuring dedicated AI processors and stacked or global-shutter sensors, and the a7 V now brings many of these developments into a body still aimed at advanced enthusiasts.
At the core of the camera is a new 33-megapixel full-frame sensor with a partially stacked architecture, created to accelerate readout while avoiding the expense of a fully stacked design. Working in tandem with the Bionz XR2 processor—which also manages AI-driven tasks—the sensor reduces rolling shutter to just over 12 ms, a dramatic improvement over its predecessor. This faster pipeline supports 14-bit RAW capture at all burst rates and enables blackout-free 30 fps shooting with the electronic shutter, tripling the performance of the a7 IV. Although the mechanical shutter remains capped at 10 fps, the a7 V adds a one-second pre-capture buffer and a Speed Boost mode to fine-tune timing and burst behavior.
Autofocus performance builds on this foundation. The system uses 759 phase-detection points that cover roughly 94 percent of the frame, while an updated AI unit recognizes a wide array of subjects—including humans, animals, birds, insects, cars, trains, and aircraft—with improved tracking even during occlusions or unconventional poses. AF, AE, and AWB calculations run at 60 cycles per second, contributing to more stable and predictable handling.
In-body stabilization is rated up to 7.5 stops of compensation, and video features are notably expanded. The sensor oversamples from 7K to produce full-frame 4K60p footage, while 4K120p is available in a Super35 crop. The a7 V supports S-Log3, S-Gamut3, S-Cinetone, user-loaded LUTs, focus-breathing compensation, and multiple noise-reduction options, with 10-bit 4:2:2 output via HDMI up to 4K60p. However, the camera does not offer open-gate recording or internal RAW capture.
Audio capabilities complement the video toolset. An onboard reference microphone assists with noise analysis and wind reduction, the Multi Interface Shoe is compatible with Sony’s latest digital audio accessories, and both microphone and headphone ports are included.
Battery life also sees a slight improvement. Using the NP-FZ100, the a7 V achieves roughly 630 shots via the viewfinder and 750 via the rear display under CIPA testing.
The body itself adopts the ergonomics of the a7R V, combining a magnesium-alloy chassis with weather sealing for greater durability. Heat management is managed thanks to a graphite component integrated into the stabilization unit that helps dissipate warmth, allowing extended video capture such as roughly 90 minutes of 4K60p at room temperature.
The camera’s handling is further refined through its upgraded displays and connectivity. A 3.2-inch, 2.1-million-dot four-axis rear screen provides improved flexibility for both stills and video work, while the 3.69-million-dot EVF benefits from the faster processing pipeline to maintain responsiveness during high-speed shooting. Dual card slots support CFexpress Type A and UHS-II SD media, and two USB-C ports allow 10 Gbps data transfer, external power, and streaming simultaneously. Wireless performance is enhanced through Wi-Fi 6E with 2×2 MIMO, and new menu options introduce AI-assisted high-resolution generation from single frames and lighter RAW formats for more efficient storage.
Measuring about 130 × 96 × 72 mm and weighing 695 g with battery and card, the a7 V launches at approximately $2,899 USD or $3,699 CAD, with availability expected at the end of December 2025. A kit paired with the updated 28–70 mm lens is planned for early 2026.
