The Sony a7c isnât just Sonyâs most affordable full-frame body, itâs also the smallest. The rangefinder-style viewfinder offers a shooting experience unlike any others in Sonyâs a7 series. And yet, the a7c hasnât seen a whole lot of love in the form of Sony a7c firmware.
We hate banner ads too. Download our app for iOS, iPad, and Android and get no banner ads for $24.99/year.
The camera has seen only two firmware updates since its release almost two years ago, and both updates focus solely on bug fixes and adding video features. Reports last year claimed that the a7c production was halted, likely due to the camera being the more affordable and thus least profitable body as supply chain issues hit. While weâd love to see a Sony a7c II, reports suggest the camera wonât see a refresh on its second birthday this fall. Will the Sony a7c will see a Mark II this year or in 2023? Or will Sony let the first generation be the only a7c?
As we worked to ensure our Sony camera reviews are up-to-date with the latest firmware, I tried out Sonyâs Rangefinder and updated the Sony a7c review. While the firmware changes little for still photos, I updated thoughts throughout on how the camera now compares to the current lineup a year and a half later, from ergonomics to autofocus. While itâs Sonyâs most affordable full-frame option without opting for an outdated body, Iâd still love to see a refresh for the tiny yet beautiful design. Many of the camera’s negatives can’t be fixed with software updates.
Sonyâs Rangefinder design is still fairly unique among full-frame cameras, with a silver color option that makes the a7c look quite different from the rest of the E-mount lineup. Iâd love to see Sony launch a Mark II of this camera, both because of the small size and the different feel of that off-to-the-side viewfinder. But, there are a few things I think any potential Sony a7c II (if it ever launches) would need.
First things first, the missing joystick. I spend most of my time in single-point autofocus modes, and moving the focal point around without a joystick is a pain. Adding a joystick would be a game changer to the ergonomics and shouldnât take up much space. This is particularly important because it doesnât have the smartest autofocus system in Sonyâs lineup.
The other thing missing from the control scheme is the second dial at the front to have one dial for shutter speed and another for aperture or ISO if using a lens with a control wheel. I know a lot of photographers also wonât even consider a camera that doesnât have two SD card slots, but Iâm not sure if Sony could manage to fit that in without making the camera larger.
The other area Sony needs to update is the autofocus. Itâs not Sonyâs best autofocus system though, but then again I donât expect the cheapest a7-series camera to have the best. But, if Sony waits more than two years to update the a7c, an autofocus update will be even more necessary. There were several instances where the eye AF missed that I think other cameras would have done better with. Whatâs most disappointing is that the camera doesnât seem to focus as well on dark colors.
Other areas like a better stabilization system, a touchscreen, and enhanced dynamic range are on the wish list. But, realistically speaking, if the Sony a7c is going to remain Sonyâs most affordable full-frame body, there will be some compromises. As Sonyâs most unique body, I hope the a7c doesnât fall by the wayside and we see a Mark II soon.
