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Sony Alpha 7 III Video Recording Limits

Sony Alpha 7 III (α7 III, a7 III, ILCE-7M3)
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The Sony Alpha 7 III has a maximum video recording time of 29 minutes, but only for some formats. That limit is also dependent upon multiple factors like camera settings, media storage size, camera power, and internal camera temperature. See details and notes below for more information.

Details

Maximum continuous video recording times for the Sony Alpha 7 III
Format Limit

1Duration is approximate and is a product specification limit.

2Duration is for final playback time only. For example, recording will automatically stop when the recorded file reaches approximately 15 minutes if the S&Q Record Setting is set set to 60p and S&Q Frame Rate is set to 30p.
Normal Frame Rates (60 fps or less) 29 minutes1
High Frame Rates (S&Q Mode) 29 minutes of playback1, 2

Notes

  • [Auto Power OFF Temp.] must be set to [High] to achieve maximum recording time in most formats.
  • The duration of time available for movie recording varies depending on the file format/recording settings for movies, memory card, ambient temperature, Wi-Fi network environment, condition of the camera before you start recording, and condition of the charging of the battery.
  • High-quality movie recording and high-speed continuous shooting require large amounts of power. Therefore, if you continue to shoot, the temperature inside the camera will rise, especially that of the image sensor. In such cases, the camera will turn off automatically because the surface of the camera is heated to a high temperature or the high temperature affects the quality of the images or the internal mechanism of the camera.
  • Using SDHC cards: The card will be formatted in FAT32. If the file size exceeds 4GB, recording will continue and a new file will be created automatically.
  • Using SDXC cards: The card will be formatted in exFAT. Even if the file size exceeds 4GB during recording, the movie will be saved as a single file.
  • If the file size exceeds 2 GB while recording in AVCHD mode, recording will continue and a new file will be created automatically.
  • Movies cannot be recorded simultaneously in both memory card slots when using a combination of the exFAT file system and FAT32 file system.
  • Video is recorded in a variable bitrate, which automatically adjusts image quality depending on the shooting scene. Therefore, recording times will vary depending on the content you are shooting and the shooting conditions.
  • Alternate Model Names: α7 III, a7 III, ILCE-7M3

References

  1. Sony Alpha 7 III (ILCE-7M3) Online Help Guide (Precautions/This product > Recordable movie times)
  2. Sony Alpha 7 III Product Page (Sony.com)