CameraReview

Canon EOS RP vs Sony a6400 — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

Canon EOS RP
Canon
Canon EOS RP
Mirrorless · 26 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
74
SCORE
$926.46
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✓ WINNER
Sony a6400
Sony
Sony a6400
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · 4K video
87
SCORE
$799
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General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192019
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
14/02/201915/01/2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 133 x 85 x 70 mm120 x 67 x 60 mm
Camera weight 440 g403 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
26 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6240 x 41606000 x 4000
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
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 35.915.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Full FrameAPS-C
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
5 fps04511 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Canon RFSony E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Digic 8Bionz X
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:23:2
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020010030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
400003003280000320003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
1003020010030200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
10240030032800001024003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440803044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000400080032000
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.
477903004250300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 236000009900000235929609900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
3840 x 21603840 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
25 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MP4MPEG-4, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, XAVC S
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
104000011500015000009216001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo (UHS-I compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type LP-E17NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
250 shots1505000410 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS RP with a score of 70/100 compared to 65/100. Both cameras are mirrorless, launched in 2019, and have similar dimensions. However, the a6400 is slightly smaller and lighter, measuring 120 x 67 x 60mm and weighing 403g, while the EOS RP measures 133 x 85 x 70mm and weighs 440g.

The Sony a6400 excels with a lower launch price of $900, compared to the EOS RP’s $1300. The Canon EOS RP does not have any clear advantages over the Sony a6400 in general specifications.

Considering the scores, size, weight, and price, the Sony a6400 is the better choice for those seeking a compact and more affordable mirrorless camera.

Canon EOS RP vs Sony a6400 Overview and Optics

The Sony a6400 narrowly edges out the Canon EOS RP in optics, scoring 68/100 compared to the EOS RP’s 67/100. Both cameras share several specifications: they both have a CMOS sensor, no image stabilization, and similar megapixel counts (24.2 for the Sony a6400 and 26 for the Canon EOS RP). However, there are distinct differences that contribute to the Sony a6400’s slightly higher score.

The Sony a6400 has a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second (fps) compared to the Canon EOS RP’s 5 fps. This allows the a6400 to capture fast-moving subjects more effectively. Additionally, the Sony a6400 features an APS-C sensor, which is smaller than the full-frame sensor found in the Canon EOS RP. This makes the a6400 more compact and lightweight, making it a more convenient option for photographers on the go.

On the other hand, the Canon EOS RP has some advantages over the Sony a6400. Its full-frame sensor provides better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field. The EOS RP also has a slightly higher DXOMARK score for its sensor (85) compared to the a6400’s score (83), indicating better overall image quality. Furthermore, the Canon EOS RP features the Canon RF lens mount, which offers a wider range of high-quality lenses compared to the Sony E-mount.

While the Sony a6400 is the winner in terms of optics, the Canon EOS RP still holds its own with a full-frame sensor and superior lens options. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the photographer’s preferences and specific needs.

Canon EOS RP vs Sony a6400 Video Performance

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS RP in video capabilities, with a score of 91/100 compared to the EOS RP’s 70/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 maximum video dimensions. Additionally, both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Sony a6400 excels in its video capabilities due to its higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, which is significantly better than the Canon EOS RP’s 25fps. This higher frame rate allows the a6400 to capture smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, making it a better choice for videographers who require high-quality slow-motion capabilities.

While the Canon EOS RP trails behind in terms of video frame rate, it still offers respectable video performance with its 4K resolution and time-lapse functionality. However, its lower frame rate of 25fps might not be sufficient for professional videographers who require more flexibility and smoother footage.

Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, the Sony a6400 is the clear winner, providing better slow-motion performance with its higher frame rate. The Canon EOS RP, while offering decent video quality, may not be the best choice for those who prioritize video performance due to its lower frame rate. For users who value high-quality video and slow-motion capabilities, the Sony a6400 is the superior choice.

Canon EOS RP vs Sony a6400 Features and Benefits

The Sony a6400 emerges as the winner in the features comparison, scoring 81/100, while the Canon EOS RP scores 70/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, neither camera offers GPS functionality.

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS RP in terms of screen resolution, boasting 921,600 dots compared to the EOS RP’s 1,040,000 dots. This higher resolution provides crisper and more detailed images, making it easier for photographers to review their shots and make necessary adjustments.

Although the Canon EOS RP falls short in this comparison, it still has its strengths. For instance, the screen resolution difference may not be significant enough to impact the overall user experience. Additionally, the EOS RP maintains a solid foundation of features that are essential for modern photography, such as a touchscreen, flip screen, WiFi, and Bluetooth connectivity.

To conclude, the Sony a6400 offers a better set of features compared to the Canon EOS RP, as evidenced by its higher score. The superior screen resolution is a notable advantage for the a6400, ensuring a better viewing experience. However, the Canon EOS RP remains a competent camera with a reliable set of features, providing a satisfactory user experience.

Canon EOS RP vs Sony a6400 Storage and Battery

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Canon EOS RP in storage and battery, scoring 37/100 compared to the Canon’s 29/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and support USB charging. They accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the Sony a6400 also takes Memory Stick Duo cards and is UHS-I compatible, while the Canon EOS RP is UHS-II compatible.

The Sony a6400 has a longer battery life, providing 410 shots per charge, compared to the Canon EOS RP’s 250 shots. The Sony uses the NP-FW50 battery type, while the Canon uses the LP-E17 battery type.

Although the Canon EOS RP has a lower storage and battery score, it offers UHS-II compatibility, which allows for faster data transfer rates when using compatible memory cards.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony a6400 offers better battery life and versatility in memory card compatibility. The Canon EOS RP, however, provides faster data transfer rates with UHS-II compatibility.

Canon EOS RP vs Sony a6400 – Our Verdict

Canon EOS RP vs Sony a6400 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon EOS RP or the Sony a6400: