Sony has dominated the full-frame mirrorless camera market for years, but the competition has tightened. How did they fare in 2025? Let’s dive in.
Last year, Sony introduced the flagship a1 II and the ZV-E10 II, designed for vloggers. They also expanded their lens collection with five new models. Their notable lens winners at the 2024 PetaPixel Awards were the 85mm f/1.4 GM II and the 28-70mm f/2 GM. Their performance earned them a solid A- grade. However, this year, they’re doing even better.
Sony’s 2025 lineup includes three distinct cameras, each targeting different users. The Sony FX2, which focuses on video, unfortunately, misses the mark. Despite its sleek design and robust autofocus, the FX2 uses an outdated sensor from the a7 IV, impacting its video quality. The arrival of the a7 V later this year, featuring a superior 33-megapixel sensor, only adds to its challenges.
The RX1R III, long-awaited since the RX1R II’s release in 2015, has finally arrived. It features a high-resolution 61-megapixel sensor and a refined design. Though it retains the beloved Zeiss lens from its predecessor, some longtime fans may feel it lacks necessary updates, especially given its hefty price tag of around $5,100.
In contrast, the a7 V has impressed critics, narrowly missing out on the Camera of the Year title. With improvements in speed, autofocus, and video capabilities, it has generally been well-received, despite some backlash regarding missing features compared to rivals. Many view it as a fantastic offer for both photo enthusiasts and videographers alike.
Looking at lenses, 2025 was a standout year for Sony. They introduced several exciting models, including the compact FE 16mm f/1.8 G.
The FE 400-800mm f/6.3-8 G OSS is robust and excellent for wildlife photography. While it’s on the heavier side, it’s an impressive addition for those needing extended reach. The lens allows photographers to capture stunning wildlife with detail and clarity.
A notable highlight is the FE 50-150mm f/2 GM lens, an extraordinary piece of optical engineering. It’s the first mid-telephoto lens of its kind, combining speed and performance in a way that sets it apart from competitors.
Another significant release is the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM. This lens is touted by experts as one of the best macro lenses ever crafted, boasting exceptional sharpness and versatility. With the option to use teleconverters, it expands photography possibilities, even for wedding and event photography.
Overall, 2025 turned out to be a solid year for Sony, particularly in the full-frame category. They’ve faced stronger competition from Canon and Nikon, pushing them to innovate further. While there were misses like the FX2 and RX1R III’s limitations, their successes in other areas have kept them firmly in the lead.
The engineering advancements seen with the a7 V and the fantastic lens offerings signal that Sony is still a force to be reckoned with. It’s an exciting time for photographers as this competition could lead to even better products in the future.
Grade: A
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