On the hunt for a new Sony Camera, but not sure which one is right for you?
Finding the perfect fit can be a challenge with so many fantastic choices out there. That’s why, after extensive research, I created this list of the 11 best Sony cameras to buy.
Although we have chosen our favourite, different photographers have different needs. There’s something here for everyone with a mix of full-frame, APS-C, and compact cameras!
11 Best Sony Cameras to Buy in 2023
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Our Top Choice
Sony a7 IV
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Best for Pros
Sony a1
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Best for Video
Sony a7S III
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Best for Landscape Photography
Sony a7R IV
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Best for Action
Sony a9 II
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Best for Travel
Sony a7C
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Best APS-C Choice
Sony a6600
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Best for Beginners
Sony a6100
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Budget Pick
Sony a6000
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Best Bridge Camera
Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
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Best Compact Choice
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII
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11 Best Sony Cameras in Detail
Below are the top Sony cameras for professionals, beginners, and everyone in-between! Let’s dive into the list and check out where each camera excels and who would benefit from shooting with it!
Camera Type |  Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 33 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.8 x 35.6 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 759 |
- Excellent image quality
- Super responsive autofocus
- 5.5 stops of image stabilization
- Fully articulating rear screen
- Powerful video capabilities (4K / 60p, 10-bit video) and live streaming
- More expensive than the Sony a7 III
- 6 fps with 14-bit lossless compressed or uncompressed RAW files
- Significant distortion with moving subjects using a silent shutter
- Occasional issues with rolling shutter
- Requires a fast memory card
The a7 IV is the newest camera in Sony’s standard a7 lineup of full-frame cameras, replacing the a7 III. While the Sony a7 III is still a great camera, especially for those on a budget, the a7 IV tops it in nearly every way imaginable.
First off, it has a new stunningly sharp 33-megapixel sensor—up from 24.2. Additionally, it’s a better video camera and has better ergonomics, making it easier to use.
While some Sony cameras top it in one aspect or another, none of them can match its overall package of features, making it the top of our list of best Sony cameras.
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 50.1 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 30 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 759 |
- Large sensor captures tons of detail
- High frame rate of 30 fps
- Incredible 8K / 30p Ultra HD video
- Eye tracking (human, animal, and bird)
- Easy customization
- Silent shooting for quiet situations
- Expensive
- Small rear LCD screen
- Eye tracking only selected manually
- Highest frame rates only for JPEG, HEIF, and lossy compressed RAW files
- No GPS
The Sony Alpha 1 is Sony’s flagship full-frame mirrorless camera. It’s the most advanced camera they make and would have been our top choice if it wasn’t for the staggering price.
With video features like 8K/30p, 4K/120p, and 10-bit internal recording, it rivals high-end digital cinema cameras like the Sony Venice. As a hybrid camera with a 50.1-megapixel sensor, the Sony a1 also generates breathtaking still images.
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 12.1 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.8 x 35.6 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 759 |
- Unbelievable low-light performance
- Excellent ISO range
- Fantastic AF system
- Impressive high-resolution EVF
- Microphone and headphone ports
- Pricey
- Low 12.2 MP resolution for photos
- Poor battery performance
- No 8K video
The Sony a7S III is a full-frame camera geared towards videographers, filmmakers, and YouTubers.
With an advanced autofocus system and high-resolution 4K/120p videos, it’s one of the best mirrorless cameras for video ever made.
Equally impressive are the audio features. It boasts headphone and microphone jacks giving users pinpoint control over audio levels.
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 61.2 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.8 x 35.7 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 425 |
- Super high-resolution sensor
- Stunningly sharp image quality
- Excellent face and eye detection AF
- Large, high-resolution EVF
- Sharp 4K Ultra HD video
- Weather sealing to protect from elements
- Long write times
- Poor AF at high frame rates
- No pixel-shift motion compensation
- Complicated menus
- Limited, laggy touchscreen functionality
The Sony a7R IV is a powerful high-resolution mirrorless camera. The “R” literally stands for resolution, and its signature 61-megapixel sensor is not only the largest of Sony’s entire camera lineup but of any full-frame camera.
Furthermore, with 15 stops of dynamic range, it saves loads of highlight and shadow information. This makes the photo editing process much easier and will help make your photos jump off the page and stand out from the crowd.
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.8 x 35.6 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 20 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 693 |
- Impressive 20 fps continuous shooting
- Lightning-fast autofocus
- Improved ergonomics
- Great file transferring speeds
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization to counter camera shake
- No in-camera RAW image processing
- Confusing menus
- Battery performance isn't great
- No S-Log video
- Subpar video quality compared to new full-frame cameras
The Sony a9 II is a full-frame camera designed for speed. It’s ideal for sports photography and action shooters, featuring burst rates of up to 20 fps.
Moreover, it uses Sony’s excellent autofocus technology to ensure subjects stay focused even when shooting at high speeds. On top of that, it boasts a whole new lineup of upgraded ports that makes transferring files up to ten times faster than other cameras.
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.8 x 35.6 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 693 |
- Tiny, portable full frame body
- Excellent autofocus system
- Good battery life
- Weatherproof magnesium alloy body
- Option of bundling a lightweight 28-60 mm zoom lens kit
- Only two customizable buttons
- Small electronic viewfinder
- No touchscreen menus
- Only has one memory card slot
The Sony a7C is the world’s smallest full-frame mirrorless camera. With a body the size of APS-C cameras, it’s ideal for travelers and people who want a powerful everyday camera.
Featuring Sony’s real-time tracking autofocus, it has no problems locating and locking onto subjects. Also, it’s an excellent vlogging camera and shoots high-quality videos.
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 15.6 x 23.5 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 11 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 425 |
- Small, lightweight camera
- Astonishing autofocus
- Terrific battery life
- Silent shooting
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization reduces camera shake
- Rolling shutter during video shooting
- Limited touchscreen controls
- Slow buffer speeds
- No pop-up flash
- Controls can feel cramped for those with large hands
The Sony Alpha a6600 is the flagship camera in Sony’s lineup of APS-C cameras. It replaced the extremely popular Sony a6500 and received many significant upgrades.
First, it now has a robust BIONZ X image processor, which allows it to capture 4K video and shoot at speeds of up to 11 fps continuously. In addition, it uses a new larger battery, letting it shoot 720 shots per battery—almost double the A6500 shoots.
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | APS-C |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 15.6 x 23.5 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 11 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 425 |
- Great price
- Human- and animal-eye autofocus
- Compact size
- 4K video option
- Flip-out touchscreen is helpful for selfies and vlogging
- No in-body stabilization
- Low 1/4000 s max shutter speed
- No GPS
- Not weather-sealed
- No headphone jack
For those just dipping their toes into the world of photography, the Sony a6100 is one of the best mirrorless cameras.
It’s an entry-level camera with a great price point and a handful of premium features. With a range of automatic shooting modes, along with priority and manual modes, it’s an ideal mirrorless camera to learn the basics. It also has 4K video and a powerful AF system, making the a6100 a killer bargain.
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.3 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | APS-C |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 15.6 x 23.5 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 11 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 179 |
- Unbeatable price
- Superb JPEG image quality straight out of the camera
- Small and lightweight design
- USB charging
- Built-in Wi-Fi to transfer files
- Lags on startup
- No 4K video
- No touchscreen
- No silent shutter
- No in-body stabilization to counter camera shake
The Sony a6000 is the previous model of the a6100. While it was first released in 2014, this amazing old Sony camera remains as popular as ever and is the most sold mirrorless camera of all time.
While it lacks key features like 4K video and in-body stabilization, its low price makes it an attractive option for many. Where it does excel is in JPEG image quality and 1080p video quality. The tilting screen is also a valuable feature for both photos and video.
Camera Type |  Bridge |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  1" |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 24 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 315 |
- Impressive 24 fps maximum continuous shooting speed
- Crisp image quality
- Unrivaled lens for a bridge camera
- Incredible 24-600 mm zoom range
- 4K video quality
- Expensive price tag
- Not an interchangeable lens camera
- No attached ND filter
- Slow autofocus in video mode
- Heavy for a compact camera
The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is, without a doubt, the best bridge camera on the planet.
With a versatile lens equivalent to 24-600mm, it can capture every shot imaginable. Courtesy of a new CMOS mirrorless sensor, it’s also one of the most capable digital cameras for video. The price is the only thing holding it back from being one of the most popular cameras on the planet.
Camera Type |  Compact |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | 1" |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 5 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 357 |
- Pocket-sized point-and-shoot
- High-quality Zeiss zoom lens
- 90 fps max burst rate
- Excellent 4K video performance
- Perfect for vloggers
- Very expensive
- Image quality isn't great
- Not the best low-light performance
- No microphone jack
- No headphone jack
The Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII is Sony’s flagship compact camera.
It’s an unrivaled point-and-shoot camera loaded with premium features. For starters, the lens has a versatile focal length equivalent to 24-200mm. When you throw in that it can also capture 4K video, it’s no wonder it’s sought after. While it is expensive, if size and weight matter most to you, there’s no better camera out there.
Our Verdict
Now that we’ve had a chance to look over all the best Sony cameras let’s do a quick recap!
For the average photographer, the best Sony camera to buy is the Sony a7 IV. It’s a phenomenal camera that does a bit of everything. It’s a genuinely breathtaking camera with new features that enhance resolution, video capabilities, and speed.
There are, of course, people who will benefit more from other cameras. Videographers, for example, are better off going with the Sony a7S III. Likewise, landscape photographers and people who blow up their images should go with the Sony a7R IV or the Sony a1. I hope I’ve been able to help you find the best Sony camera for you!
Still on the hunt for your dream camera? Why not try out our comparison tool to compare specs such as the Sony a7R IV vs a7S III, or the Sony a1 vs a7R III next!
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