In recent years, Sony APS-C cameras became a hot favourite among photographers worldwide, offering a compelling blend of performance, versatility, and affordability. Topping our list of best Sony APS-C cameras is the 26MP Mirrorless Sony FX30, a camera that has earned its place at the top due to its superior specs and exceptional performance.
Sony FX30
However, this is far from a one-man show, as we have an array of other fantastic cameras from Sony’s stable, ranging from mirrorless models to DSLRs, bridges, and compacts, each offering unique features and capabilities.
The APS-C sensor size is a key aspect that makes these cameras a popular choice among photography enthusiasts. This sensor size strikes a perfect balance between image quality and camera size, delivering stunning images while keeping the camera compact and portable. Furthermore, Sony’s reputation for manufacturing high-quality, innovative cameras adds a layer of trust and assurance to these models.
So, buckle up as we dive into the captivating world of Sony APS-C cameras.
Before we delve into each camera, here’s an overview of the best Sony APS-C cameras on our list:
- 759-point AF system has fast and accurate face detection and tracking
- Built-in gyroscopic video stabilization for smooth handheld shooting
- Webcam functionality and remote control with a smartphone
- Ports for external audio recording
- Brilliant 4K video recording at 120 fps and Full HD at 240 fps
- Astonishing autofocus
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization reduces camera shake
- Silent shooting
- Terrific battery life
- Small, lightweight camera
- 24 MP resolution sensor delivers bright and vibrant images
- 425-point phase-detect AF system with face detection
- Super-compact and lightweight camera body
- Articulating touchscreen and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
- 4K video at 30 fps and Full HD at 120 fps
- Superb image quality for APS-C
- Good low-light performance
- Compact camera body
- No time limit for recording video
- Great value for the price
- Eye-detect autofocus for humans and animals
- Compact size
- 4K video option
- Flip-out touchscreen for selfies and vlogging
- Sensor-shift image stabilization built in
- Excellent expandable ISO range with lowest setting of 50 ISO
- Weather-sealed for outdoor use
- Built-in wireless connectivity
- Full HD frame rate of 60 fps
- Top-end autofocus system that's great with photo and video
- No time limit on video recording
- Fully articulating screen and selfie modes
- External microphones and headphones ports
- Compact and lightweight camera body
Our Favourite Sony APS-C Cameras (in Detail!)
Now we will describe each camera on our list in more detail.
1. Sony FX30
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
 Mirrorless |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
26 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
 APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.4 x 15.6 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
10 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
759 |
- 759-point AF system has fast and accurate face detection and tracking
- Built-in gyroscopic video stabilization for smooth handheld shooting
- Webcam functionality and remote control with a smartphone
- Ports for external audio recording
- Brilliant 4K video recording at 120 fps and Full HD at 240 fps
- 26 MP is a low image resolution for a full frame camera
- Limited photography features
- No built-in optical or electronic viewfinder
- 3-inch LCD screen is frustratingly small
- Not weather-sealed for shooting in all conditions
The Sony FX30 is a mirrorless camera that scores an impressive 80/100 in general specifications. Highlighted by its compact and lightweight design, it’s a versatile choice for various photography styles. Released in 2022, it offers a competitive package for photography enthusiasts.
The Sony FX30 stands out in optics with a score of 78/100. It features a 26-megapixel CMOS sensor and a Bionz XR processor. This combination enables a shooting speed of 10 frames per second, excellent image quality and low-light performance.
When it comes to video performance, the FX30 scores 77 out of 100. It delivers 4K video resolution and a high video frame rate of 120fps. This makes it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects. Despite lacking built-in time-lapse functionality, its video capabilities remain competitive.
The Sony FX30’s feature score is 85 out of 100. It comes with a 3-inch touchscreen and a flip screen, enhancing the user experience. The camera also has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Although it lacks GPS, its wireless connectivity options make it a solid choice.
Finally, the FX30 scores 76 out of 100 in storage and battery performance. It features dual memory card slots and supports USB charging. Its battery life can deliver 570 shots. This makes the Sony FX30 a reliable choice for photographers seeking versatility and convenience.
2. Sony a6600
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
15.6 x 23.5 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
- Astonishing autofocus
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization reduces camera shake
- Silent shooting
- Terrific battery life
- Small, lightweight camera
- Slow buffer speeds
- Controls feel cramped with large hands
- Limited touchscreen controls
- No pop-up flash
- Rolling shutter recording video
The Sony a6600 is a mirrorless camera that deserves spotlight in the Sony APS-C camera lineup. It’s not just about the compact and lightweight design. The camera’s affordability also makes it a strong contender in the market.
The a6600’s optics are impressive. It boasts 24.2 megapixels, an 11 frames per second shooting speed, and a CMOS sensor. It also uses a Bionz X processor. This combination ensures high-resolution images and quick, accurate image processing.
The Sony a6600 holds its own in the video department. It delivers sharp 4K video and a maximum frame rate of 100fps. It even offers built-in time-lapse functionality. This makes it a suitable choice for videographers.
The a6600’s features are also worth noting. It has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 921,600 dots. It also has touchscreen and flip screen capabilities. It includes both WIFI and Bluetooth, but lacks GPS.
The camera’s storage and battery aspects are adequate. It has one memory card slot and a battery life of 810 shots. It even supports USB charging. However, a second memory card slot would be a welcome addition.
The Sony a6600 is a solid choice for both photographers and videographers. Its blend of affordability, portability, and impressive features make it a strong contender in the Sony APS-C camera range.
3. Sony a6500
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
15.6 x 23.5 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
- 24 MP resolution sensor delivers bright and vibrant images
- 425-point phase-detect AF system with face detection
- Super-compact and lightweight camera body
- Articulating touchscreen and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
- 4K video at 30 fps and Full HD at 120 fps
- Lacks some advanced features of the newer models
- Modest 11 fps max burst rate
- Small body and controls makes it fiddly for larger hands
- No ports for headphones
- Disappointing 350-shot battery life
The Sony a6500 is a strong performer in the Sony APS-C camera lineup. It has a compact and lightweight design, making it a reliable choice for photographers needing a handy tool. The 24.2-megapixel resolution, combined with its 11 fps shooting speed, ensures high-quality images. And the image stabilization feature provides steady shots in various conditions.
The camera’s video capabilities are equally impressive. It boasts a maximum video resolution of 4K and supports a frame rate of 120fps. This makes for crisp, detailed footage and smooth slow-motion effects. However, it lacks a built-in time-lapse function, a feature some users might prefer.
The a6500 comes with a high-resolution 3-inch touchscreen. The flip screen feature adds convenience and efficiency. It also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing easy file transfer and remote control. But the lack of GPS function could be a drawback for some users.
The camera’s storage and battery aspects received a lower score. The single memory card slot and the 350-shot battery life may not meet the needs of demanding photographers. Also, the lack of USB charging limits its convenience. Despite these downsides, the Sony a6500 remains a strong contender in the realm of mirrorless cameras. It offers solid performance and versatile functionality, making it a good choice for photography enthusiasts.
4. Sony a6400
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.2 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
15.6 x 23.5 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
- Superb image quality for APS-C
- Good low-light performance
- Compact camera body
- No time limit for recording video
- No in-camera RAW image editing
- No in-body image stabilization
- Screen tilts but no further articulation
- Complicated menu system
The Sony a6400 is an impressive contender in the APS-C camera market. It’s compact, lightweight, and packed with features. Its 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and Bionz X processor contribute to a DXOMARK sensor score of 83. This ensures high-quality images. But the lack of image stabilization could be a drawback for some.
This Sony APS-C camera excels in video performance. It offers 4K resolution and a maximum video frame rate of 120fps. This ensures crisp, detailed footage and smooth motion capture. The built-in time-lapse functionality is a bonus. It’s a strong choice for those focusing on video capabilities.
The a6400 also boasts a user-friendly design. It has a 3-inch touchscreen and flip screen. This makes it easy to capture various angles and adjust settings. The lack of GPS is made up for with WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity. This enhances its practicality.
However, storage and battery life could be improved. With only a single memory card slot, it might not meet the needs of some photographers. And a battery life of 410 shots per charge may not suffice for extended shooting times. But the camera does support USB charging, which is a convenient feature.
Despite some minor drawbacks, the Sony a6400 is a solid choice. It offers good value for its price and is a reliable choice for photography and videography enthusiasts.
5. Sony a6100
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
15.6 x 23.5 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
- Great value for the price
- Eye-detect autofocus for humans and animals
- Compact size
- 4K video option
- Flip-out touchscreen for selfies and vlogging
- No in-body stabilization
- Low 1/4000 s max shutter speed
- No GPS
- Not weather-sealed
- No headphone jack
The Sony a6100 is a mirrorless camera that offers a competitive blend of functionality, portability, and affordability. It’s compact and lightweight, making it a suitable option for various photography needs. Its optics stand strong among other cameras in the market, with a 24-megapixel CMOS sensor and a shooting speed of 11 frames per second.
One drawback is the lack of image stabilization. But despite this, the Sony a6100 produces quality images. Its video performance is impressive, boasting a maximum resolution of 4K and a frame rate of 120fps. It also has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a boon for creative videographers.
The Sony a6100 comes with a 3-inch touchscreen and flip screen capabilities. It lacks GPS functionality, but it compensates with WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity options. These features add to its appeal, making it a solid Sony APS-C camera choice in today’s market.
However, the Sony a6100 falls short in terms of storage and battery life. It only has one memory card slot and a relatively low battery life of 420 shots. Yet, it does have USB charging capability, offering some convenience for users. Despite these limitations, the Sony a6100 remains a viable option for casual photographers or those who can manage with its constraints.
6. Sony SLT Alpha 77 II
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
 DSLR |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.3 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
15.6 x 23.5 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
12 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
79 |
- Sensor-shift image stabilization built in
- Excellent expandable ISO range with lowest setting of 50 ISO
- Weather-sealed for outdoor use
- Built-in wireless connectivity
- Full HD frame rate of 60 fps
- Camera body is bulky and heavy
- LCD screen isn't a touchscreen
- The electronic viewfinder is noisy in low light
- No 4K video, only Full HD
- Battery life is disappointing
The Sony SLT Alpha 77 II is a DSLR camera that still holds its own in today’s market. Released in 2014, it continues to offer competitive specifications. Its 24.3-megapixel resolution and shooting speed of 12 frames per second are impressive. The camera is equipped with a CMOS sensor and a Bionz X processor. This Sony APS-C camera has a DXOMARK score of 82 for the sensor, which is commendable.
The optics of the Alpha 77 II are worth noting. It has a Sony Alpha DT lens mount and offers image stabilization. This ensures sharp and steady images. The absence of a built-in time-lapse function in its video capabilities is a drawback. However, it compensates with a maximum resolution of Full HD and a frame rate of 60fps.
The Alpha 77 II’s features include a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 1,229,000 dots. It doesn’t have a touchscreen but offers a flip screen feature. The camera lacks GPS capabilities but offers Wi-Fi connectivity. The lack of Bluetooth may be a disadvantage for some users.
The storage and battery capabilities of the Alpha 77 II are somewhat limited. It has a single memory card slot and does not support USB charging. The battery life lasts for 480 shots. Despite these limitations, the Alpha 77 II remains a viable option for those who value quality and durability.
6. Sony SLT Alpha 77 II
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
DSLR |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24.3 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
15.6 x 23.5 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
12 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
79 |
- Sensor-shift image stabilization built in
- Excellent expandable ISO range with lowest setting of 50 ISO
- Weather-sealed for outdoor use
- Built-in wireless connectivity
- Full HD frame rate of 60 fps
- Camera body is bulky and heavy
- LCD screen isn't a touchscreen
- The electronic viewfinder is noisy in low light
- No 4K video, only Full HD
- Battery life is disappointing
The Sony SLT Alpha 77 II is a DSLR camera that still holds its own in today’s market. Released in 2014, it continues to offer competitive specifications. Its 24.3-megapixel resolution and shooting speed of 12 frames per second are impressive. The camera is equipped with a CMOS sensor and a Bionz X processor. This Sony APS-C camera has a DXOMARK score of 82 for the sensor, which is commendable.
The optics of the Alpha 77 II are worth noting. It has a Sony Alpha DT lens mount and offers image stabilization. This ensures sharp and steady images. The absence of a built-in time-lapse function in its video capabilities is a drawback. However, it compensates with a maximum resolution of Full HD and a frame rate of 60fps.
The Alpha 77 II’s features include a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 1,229,000 dots. It doesn’t have a touchscreen but offers a flip screen feature. The camera lacks GPS capabilities but offers Wi-Fi connectivity. The lack of Bluetooth may be a disadvantage for some users.
The storage and battery capabilities of the Alpha 77 II are somewhat limited. It has a single memory card slot and does not support USB charging. The battery life lasts for 480 shots. Despite these limitations, the Alpha 77 II remains a viable option for those who value quality and durability.
7. Sony ZV-E10
| Camera Type |
Camera Type
Mirrorless |
| Megapixels |
Megapixels
24 MP |
| Sensor Format |
Sensor Format
APS-C |
| Sensor Size |
Sensor Size
23.5 x 15.6 mm
|
| Frame Rate |
Frame Rate
11 fps |
| Autofocus Points |
Autofocus Points
425 |
- Top-end autofocus system that's great with photo and video
- No time limit on video recording
- Fully articulating screen and selfie modes
- External microphones and headphones ports
- Compact and lightweight camera body
- No sensor-shift stabilization, only a shake reduction system
- Visible rolling shutter effect with tracking shots
- The lack of a viewfinder is disappointing
- 4K video is cropped at 30 fps
The Sony ZV-E10 is a mirrorless camera that packs a punch. Despite its compact size, it offers a robust performance that rivals larger models. Its 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, coupled with the Bionz X processor, delivers high-quality images with impressive detail. It’s a Sony APS-C camera that has proven itself in a crowded market.
The camera’s high-speed shooting capability is a notable feature. It captures 11 frames per second, making it ideal for fast-paced scenes. But, it’s not all about still images. The ZV-E10 excels in the video department too.
With a video score of 91 out of 100, this camera is a filmmaker’s dream. It boasts a 4K max video resolution, ensuring sharp and detailed footage. Plus, the max video frame rate of 120fps allows for smooth, cinematic captures.
The ZV-E10’s features don’t stop at image quality. It comes with a 3-inch flip screen and a touchscreen, perfect for vloggers and content creators. The lack of GPS might be a drawback for some, but the WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity make up for it.
When it comes to storage and battery, the ZV-E10 is average. It has a single memory card slot and a battery life of 440 shots. The absence of USB charging is a letdown. But despite minor drawbacks, the Sony ZV-E10 still holds its ground as a reliable, versatile Sony APS-C camera.
Our Verdict: The Best Sony APS-C cameras
In conclusion, Sony’s range of APS-C cameras offer a multitude of high-performing options for photographers of all levels. The top three cameras, the 26MP Sony FX30, the 24.2MP Sony a6600, and the 24.2MP Sony a6500, each provide superior image quality and performance. However, every camera on our list boasts impressive specifications that could be the perfect fit for your photography needs.
Sony FX30
Choosing the right camera is an essential step on your photography journey. The camera you select will become your partner in capturing the world as you see it, so take your time and choose wisely. Consider your specific needs and preferences, and remember that every camera on this list is high performing and offers great specs.
Once you’ve made your choice, the adventure really begins. With time and practice, you will be able to shoot with your new Sony APS-C camera to the best of its ability. Photography is a journey, and every journey begins with a single step – choosing the right camera. So, take that step today, and open up a world of photographic possibilities.
