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Another leap at the top

The α1 II gives users everything they need to achieve a higher capture success rate and more, including 50 MP high resolution, AI-based subject recognition AF, high-speed continuous shooting, and an advanced workflow from capture to delivery that provides professionals with unrivalled efficiency and freedom.

Example image showing two men leaning out on a yacht at speed, with focus on the eye of the man in front
Fast, smart and detailed
Example image showing a close-up of a leopard’s face with focus on the eye
Stunning high resolution
Example image showing a woman posing in an indoor environment
Advanced movie functionality
Example image showing a man holding camera in low position with LCD monitor flipped and angled for better visibility in a muddy field
Comfortable operation and high reliability
Usage image showing a man using Remote Camera Tool
Fast delivery and broad expandability 
Example image showing a grassy hill with a tree
Environmental consideration and accessibility    
Fast, smart and detailed
Illustration of Exmor RS™ image sensor, Bionz XR™ image processing engine and AI processing unit
A fusion of leading technologies delivers overwhelming performance

The massive volume of data from the approximately 50.1 effective megapixel full frame Exmor RS™ image sensor is processed in real time by Sony’s BIONZ XR™ image processing engine. An advanced AI processing unit applies high-level subject recognition to reliably recognize a wide range of subjects. These state-of-the-art technologies come together to make it easy to capture even the most challenging subjects in extraordinary resolution, with blackout-free viewing and full AF/AE tracking performance at up to 30fps.

Example image showing a woman walking on sand, with human pose estimation recognizing her head and body
Advanced AI processing unit for high-level subject recognition

The α1 II features a dedicated AI processing unit that helps to recognize people more accurately based on human pose estimation, and also supports recognition of a wide range of subjects other than people, such as animals, vehicles and insects, with high accuracy. This results in a dramatic improvement in Real-time Recognition AF and Real-time Tracking capability, and higher overall AF performance.

Example image showing three women jumping over the hurdle
Human eye recognition improved by up to approximately 30%

Real-time Recognition AF has improved human eye recognition by approximately 30%, with human pose estimation improving recognition of subjects facing away from the camera, wearing sunglasses, or with the face obscured. Recognition of distant human subjects occupying only a small part of the frame has been notably improved, and subjects can be tracked better across occlusions.

Example images of a leopard, bird, airplane, car, train and butterfly
A wide variety of subjects accurately recognized

A wider variety of subjects is now recognized for stills and movies, with a new [Auto] mode letting the camera select. Recognition of animals overall is improved by approximately 30%, with eyes of some small animals added, and the eyes, heads and faces of animals like dogs and cats recognized. Recognition of birds is improved by 50%.

Illustration showing 759 AF phase detection points distributed densely across most of the image sensor
AF tracking response settable to match subject speed changes

Fast Hybrid AF provides 759 phase-detection points for tenacious tracking and pinpoint focusing, now with adjustable tracking response speed, useful for example in bird photography, and in light levels down to EV-4.0 in AF-S mode.

Example image of a small yellow bird seen though branches
Flexible focus area settings

XL and XS focus area spot sizes are now available as well as L, M, and S. XS can be useful to avoid focusing on foreground objects such as branches. It is also possible to create a custom focus area of specified size and aspect ratio.

Product image showing “Release Lag/Start Disp.” camera menu with “Auto/Off” selected
Selectable release time lag

Selectable release time lag modes are available via the [Release Lag] / [Start Display] menu. With blackout occurring on only the first image in a continuous burst, [Fastest Release/On] provides the shortest possible release time lag, while [Stable Release/On] minimizes variations in release time lag making it easier to release the shutter at the intended moment. The default [Auto/Off] setting gives no blackout when shooting is started.

Example image showing a man about to shoot the ball in a water polo game, with one of several continuously shot stills at 30fps highlighted as the best shot
High-speed continuous shooting at full 50.1 MP resolution

High-speed continuous shooting at up to 30fps with full AF/AE tracking is possible at 50.1 MP resolution, with up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second. Blackout-free shooting with no loss of viewfinder image allows seamless framing and capture of the subject as if viewed with the naked eye.

Example image showing the moment that a bird takes flight from a branch
More control over timing to capture decisive moments

Pre-capture retroactively captures moments that occurred before the shutter was released, without compromising resolution, even when shooting continuously at up to 30fps with selectable recording time options. Continuous Shooting Speed Boost can temporarily change the burst speed. Both features reduce the chance of missing that vital instant.

Stunning high resolution
Example image showing a close-up portrait of a woman’s face with makeup
Extraordinary detail with approximately 50.1 effective megapixels

Sony’s extensive high-performance G Master line work with the 50.1 megapixel Exmor RS image sensor and BIONZ XR image processing engine to create deep, lifelike, high-resolution rendering. The sensor’s high pixel count means that resolution is still a very impressive 21 megapixels when shooting in APS-C mode or cropping to APS-C size after shooting.

Product image showing “RAW file type” camera menu with “Lossless Comp (M)” selected
Selectable RAW image size and quality

Compressed RAW images can be continuously shot at up to 30fps. For easier handling, as well as L, Lossless Compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF images are also available in M and S sizes with the same numbers of pixels whether shot in full-frame or APS-C mode, enabling seamless mode switching while maintaining resolution.

Example images showing a woman in a handball game. Left: taken with α1; right: taken with α1 II, comparing noise reduction at mid-to-high ISO sensitivity
High sensitivity, low noise, and wide dynamic range

Feedback from professionals has been taken into account to create noise reduction that is highly effective without sacrificing image detail, so users can shoot clear images of indoor sports at mid-to-high sensitivity without hesitation. Dynamic range at lower sensitivities is a wide 15 stops for smooth, realistic gradations.
[1] α1, ISO 6400, 1/1600 s, F2.8
[2] α1 II, ISO 6400, 1/1600 s, F2.8

Example image showing a man standing near the sailing yacht
Consistently accurate exposure and colour

Exposure and colour reproduction are notably improved compared to the α1, with exposure optimized for detected faces in stills and movies, and exposure stability improved by approximately 20% even when the face is backlit, over-illuminated in sunlight, or not facing the camera. White balance is accurate even for subjects in shade.

Illustration of image stabilization unit in camera body with three rotation axes shown in red
Optical five-axis image stabilization achieves 8.5-step performance at the centre

A high-precision image stabilization unit, advanced gyro sensors, and optimized algorithms detect and correct camera shake, for a groundbreaking 8.5-step effect at the centre and 7.0-step at the periphery, and capture of fine details even when shooting handheld. Synchronization with compatible lenses provides further blur control even at telephoto focal lengths.
[1] Yaw [2] Roll [3] Pitch

Example images of a woman posing in a low-light environment. Left: single RAW image; right: Composite RAW mode illustrating lower noise and high resolution
Composite RAW modes for lower noise and higher resolution

Two composite RAW shooting modes are available. The NR Shooting Settings mode captures between 4 and 32 RAW images that can be composited to create a full-resolution image with very low noise even at mid-to-high sensitivities. Pixel Shift Multi Shooting captures 4 or 16 pixel-shifted images that are composited to achieve overwhelmingly high resolution in a single image. In both cases the compositing operations are performed using Sony’s Imaging Edge Desktop™ PC application.
[1] Single RAW image, ISO 12800
[2] NR composite RAW (32 images), ISO 12800

Advanced movie functionality
Example image showing a bird on a branch looking toward the camera
Real-time Recognition AF for movies

Real-time Recognition AF utilizes advanced AI-based human pose estimation technology that recognizes and tracks not just eyes, but body and head position for human subjects with high precision. The range of subjects recognized with AI assistance, for both movies and stills, has been expanded relative to the α1, and now includes birds in movies, for example. Other subjects are acquired and tracked in real time by processing colour, pattern, and spatial data.

Illustration of image oversampling from 8k to 4k with cropping
High-resolution 8K/4K recording for impressive realism

4K (3840 x 2160) movies can be cropped and edited from 8K source footage with overwhelming resolution from 8.6K oversampling. 8K 4:2:2 10-bit XAVC HS recording with optional Full HD proxy is available, as are 4K recording in XAVC HS, S, or S-I formats in full-frame, or Super 35 mm oversampled from 5.8K with full pixel readout and no pixel binning. XAVC S-I allows recording at up to 600 Mbps for outstanding image quality.

Example image showing woman in period costume with coastline in background
High-frame-rate recording at up to 120p

4K can be recorded at up to 120p right in the camera. 4K footage can be played back in up to 5x slow motion. The Slow & Quick Motion (S&Q) mode makes it convenient to play recorded footage back at slow or high speed in the camera. Full HD footage recorded at 240fps offers even greater range: up to 10x slow motion (24p) to create impressive sports movies, for example. The frame rate setup menu allows intuitive selection of frame rates.

Example image showing outdoor portrait of woman with low contrast in the left half of the image and higher contrast in the right half
Better S-Log matching with Cinema Line cameras

The S-Log3 gamma curve emphasizes gradation characteristics from shadows to mid-grey. Minimum ISO when shooting S-Log3 is 800, while the expanded ISO range is 200–640. Compared to the α1, detail reproduction has been improved and matching with S-Log3 output from Sony’s cinema cameras is easier. User LUTs can also be imported into the camera for preview.

Usage image showing the camera mounted on a tripod, shooting a woman
Stable, high-level video shooting

In addition to standard mode, Active Mode combines a precision image stabilization unit and gyro sensor, while Dynamic active Mode adds electronic stabilization for an additional approximately 30% effect, enabling stable recording even when the user is jogging. Auto Framing tracks and crops AI-recognized subjects and automatically adjusts shot composition, while Framing Stabilizer automatically keeps the subject in the same location within the frame when the camera operator is moving alongside.

Example image showing four athletes at the start of a women’s hurdle race with focus on the third nearest athlete
Breathing compensation

Focus breathing compensation reduces focus breathing when shooting movies. Sony’s Clear Image Zoom technology automatically maintains angle of view through focus changes. Breathing metadata can also be used with the latest Catalyst Browse/Catalyst Prepare/Catalyst Prepare Plugin software application during post production.

”Product image showing “Focus” camera menu with “AF/MF” selected”
Features for smooth focusing

AF Assist for temporary switching to manual focus, focus peaking display, and AF transition speed and sensitivity settings all help the user when shooting movies. Focus Map overlays a visual depth-of-field map on the live view display. Real-time Recognition AF, Real-time Tracking, and Focus Area are now available during digital zoom and Clear Image Zoom operation.

Comfortable operation and high reliability
Product images showing the horizontal and vertical movement range of the LCD monitor
Flexible LCD monitor positioning

The 4-axis multi-angle monitor can be positioned for optimal viewing in horizontal or vertical orientation. The extended monitor can be tilted upward by approximately 98 ° and downward by approximately 40 ° to the camera back, and sideways by a full 180 °. The hinge is unobtrusive but robust. The large 3.2 type 2.1 million dot display panel is touch sensitive, has a wide colour gamut, and is designed for clear outdoor viewing.

Product images of the camera from grip side and from rear with an attached VG-C5 vertical grip housing two batteries
Advanced grip hold and ease of use

The improved grip ergonomics ensure comfortable and stable shooting over long sessions. A C5 custom button has also been added, and the grip design is replicated for prolonged vertical shooting with the optional VG-C5 Vertical Grip, which additionally offers extended battery life over the previous model.

Product image showing the two different eyepiece caps
Standard and deep viewfinder eyepiece cups provided

The α1 II is supplied with two viewfinder eyepiece cups: the standard FDA-EP19 and the deeper FDA-EP21 which enhances viewing clarity by effectively blocking extraneous light. The soft, close-fitting material and design enhance viewing comfort.

Product images of the BC-ZD1 near the camera
Supplied charger charges two NP-FZ100 batteries in 155 minutes

The supplied BC-ZD1 quick charger can simultaneously charge two NP-FZ100 batteries in approximately 155 minutes when used with an AC adapter providing USB PD (Power Delivery). This charger is ideal for charging two batteries for use at events or in other applications that require continuous operation over extended periods of time.

Product image of “Subject Recognition” camera menu with “Add to My Menu” selected on pop-out menu
Fast registration of frequently used functions

The My Menu feature allows menu items to be added to a custom favourites menu with a simple long-press or by pressing the Delete button. New options have also been added to the Function (Fn) menu, including recording folder selection and new folder creation.

Fast delivery and broad expandability
Product image showing “Auto Switch Media Card” camera menu with “Off” selected
Seamless search and playback with two memory cards

It is now possible to display the contents of two memory cards when both media slots are selected for playback, allowing seamless playback of all images without having to switch cards. Playback parameter filtering can significantly improve on-site workflow efficiency.

Product image showing “Display as Group” camera menu with “On” selected
Improved group display

Images shot in continuous bursts or using the interval timer function can be defined as “groups,” with the first image displayed to identify the group for quick switching between groups, boosting workflow efficiency. [Image Jump Setting] displays just the lead images during playback, allowing quick, efficient location.

Product image showing “Top Image” camera menu with “Rating” selected
Automated marking makes finding images easy

If set in advance, a rating can automatically be applied to the first image in continuous burst or Pre-Capture groups, or a divider image inserted before the first image in groups, enabling quick scrolling through and location of groups using the custom dial during playback.

Example image of a man shooting ball in water polo game with “Recording Voice Memo” status bar displayed
Dedicated microphone for clear voice memos

A dedicated voice memo microphone is built into the camera’s rear panel, making it easy to record clear voice memos even in noisy environments. Voice memos can be transferred to an FTP server along with the corresponding images.

Illustration of IPTC metadata workflow
IPTC metadata embedding and presets

IPTC (International Press Telecommunications Council) metadata can be added to still images. IPTC information can be written to IPTC metadata presets and loaded into the camera via a memory card. The α1 II can internally store up to 20 presets that can then be quickly selected when needed, for example at multi-sports events.

Usage image of the camera mounted on a tripod and connected to LAN cable, shooting water polo game with live view image displayed on LCD monitor
2.5GBASE-T support for efficient data transfer

Wired LAN connectivity allows stable, high-speed transfer of huge amounts of still and movie data at up to 2.5 Gbps to an FTP server. FTPS (File Transfer Protocol over SSL/TLS) is supported for secure transfer. Up to 10 sets of FTP transfer settings can be saved to and loaded from a memory card.

Usage image of a man shooting with a camera connected to PDT-FP1
Transfer & Tagging

Transfer &; Tagging is a smartphone application that can speed up still-image workflows for professional sports and news photographers, allowing background FTP transfers via a smartphone as well as fast tag/caption attachment.

Usage image showing a man monitoring “Remote Camera Tool” on a PC display
Remote Camera Tool

Remote Camera Tool is a software application that allows PC Remote (tethered) shooting via wired LAN, and can be used to change camera settings and shoot images. It is now possible to connect multiple cameras with autofocus and shutter operation synchronized to the main camera.

Creators’ Cloud logo
Creators’ Cloud platform

Creators’ Cloud is a platform that supports creative work from shooting to production by combining Sony’s advanced camera technology and the cloud. It’s also a place for discovery and collaboration with other creators around the world. Explore web, mobile, and PC-based apps providing efficient solutions that integrate cameras with shooting and production apps and services.

Creators’ App logo
Creators’ App

Creators’ App is a smartphone application that lets Sony’s cameras connect to the cloud, enhancing functionality and convenience for shooting and sharing.

Environmental consideration and accessibility
Road to Zero logo
Recycled materials in cameras and digital camera products

Sony’s Road to Zero environmental plan aims at achieving a zero environmental footprint by 2050 through creativity and advanced technology. Our recyclable, durable, high-quality SORPLAS™ material used in camera bodies and other components requires no non-recyclable resources and does not compromise performance or functionality, replacing approximately 426 tonnes of virgin plastic in our digital cameras and digital video cameras over approximately the past 12 years. Our facility in Thailand where this and other imaging products are manufactured runs on 100% renewable energy.

Recyclable non-plastic packaging materials

Sony is working toward the use of non-plastic packaging materials that provide ample protection against shock and impact. The α1 II is the first high-end α-series product to be shipped in a plastic-free package made of an “Original Blended Material” that can be recycled as paper. Plant-based non-woven fabrics are used for product bags, further reducing the use of plastics and minimizing environmental stress.

Product images of non-plastic packaging made from Original Blended Material
Product image showing “Setup” camera menu with “Accessibility” selected
Greater accessibility for all users

Accessibility features such as Screen Reader that reads menu screen text aloud, Enlarged Menu Display, and others make it easier for everyone to enjoy shooting and playback using the α1 II. Furthermore, advanced features like AI-based Real-time Recognition AF for a wide range of subjects, intuitive touch operation for subject tracking, and many more make the joys of photography and moviemaking available to the widest possible range of users.

Specifications and Features

The α1 II is the second generation of Sony’s flagship α1 mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera. With enhanced AI-based subject recognition, and the high resolution and speed of the original α1, even higher capture success rates are now yours, realizing unrivalled efficiency and freedom for professional workflows.
  • 50.1 megapixel 35-mm full-frame stacked Exmor RS™ CMOS image sensor

  • BIONZ XR image processing engine with blackout-free viewing and full AF/AE tracking at up to 30fps

  • Real-time Recognition AF recognizes a wide variety of subject types for both stills and movies

  • Optical five-axis image stabilization achieves 8.5-step central / 7.0-step peripheral effect

  • Movie recording capability at up to 8K 30p and 4K 120p

NUMBER OF PIXELS (Total)
Approx. 50.5 megapixels
SENSOR TYPE
35-mm full frame (35.9 x 24.0 mm), Exmor RS CMOS sensor
VIDEO DATA FORMAT
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, MPEG-H HEVC/H.265
VIDEO RESOLUTION
3840 x 2160 (30p), 3840 x 2160 (25p), 2560 x 1440 (30p), 2560 x 1440 (25p), 1920 x 1080 (30p/60p), 1920 x 1080 (25p/50p), 1280 x 720 (30p/60p), 1280 x 720 (25p/50p)
PROTOCOL
RTMP, RTMPS, SRT
ISO SENSITIVITY
Still images: ISO 100–32000 (expandable to ISO 50–102400), AUTO (ISO 100–12800, selectable lower limit and upper limit), Movies: ISO 100–32000 equivalent, AUTO (ISO 100–12800, selectable lower limit and upper limit)
AUDIO DATA FORMAT
AAC-LC 2ch (16bit 48 kHz)
Battery Life (Still Images)
Approx. 420 shots (Viewfinder) / Approx. 520 shots (LCD monitor) (CIPA standard)
NUMBER OF PIXELS (EFFECTIVE)
Still images: Approx. 50.1 megapixels max., Movies: Approx. 42.0 megapixels max.
Monitor Type
8.0 cm (3.2-type) type TFT
Sony is committed not only to offering products, services and content that deliver exciting experiences, but also to working towards our goal of a zero environmental footprint throughout our business activities. Learn more about Sony and the environment