Nikon Coolpix A vs Sony a6000 Comparison
Nikon Coolpix A
Sony a6000
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Brand | Nikon | Sony | |
Model | Coolpix A | a6000 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | March 04, 2013 | February 12, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  Compact |  Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix A with a score of 57/100 compared to 45/100. Both cameras share similarities such as their announcement in the early 2010s and compact sizes. The Sony a6000’s edge comes from its mirrorless design, providing a more advanced shooting experience. Additionally, it was launched at a lower price of $799 compared to the Nikon Coolpix A’s $1100. However, the Nikon Coolpix A has a slightly lighter weight at 299g, whereas the Sony a6000 weighs 344g. Despite this advantage, the Sony a6000 remains the better option due to its higher score and more advanced features.
Nikon Coolpix A vs Sony a6000 Overview and Optics
The Sony a6000 wins the optics comparison with a score of 67/100, while the Nikon Coolpix A scores 50/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, APS-C sensor size, and no image stabilisation. However, there are aspects where each camera excels.
The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix A in several areas. With 24.3 megapixels, it offers higher resolution compared to the Coolpix A’s 16.2 megapixels. This allows for more detailed images and better cropping flexibility. Additionally, the a6000 has a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second, making it more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. Its Bionz X processor is more advanced than the Coolpix A’s Expeed 2, contributing to improved image processing. The a6000 also has a slightly higher DXOMARK sensor score of 82, compared to 80 for the Coolpix A. Lastly, the Sony a6000 features a Sony E lens mount, allowing users to swap lenses for different photography needs.
On the other hand, the Nikon Coolpix A has a fixed lens mount, which can be both a limitation and an advantage. While it doesn’t offer the flexibility of interchangeable lenses, it also simplifies the camera’s design and eliminates the need to purchase additional lenses.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a6000 is the better camera in terms of optics, offering higher resolution, faster shooting speed, a more advanced processor, and the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. However, the Nikon Coolpix A may appeal to those who prefer a simpler, more compact camera with a fixed lens.
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Optics
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Nikon Coolpix A
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Sony a6000
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.2 MP | 24.3 MP | |
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Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. | 4928 x 3264 px | 6000 x 4000 px | |
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality. | CMOS | CMOS | |
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 23.6 mm | 15.6 x 23.5 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  APS-C | APS-C | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 4 fps | 11 fps | |
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. | Fixed | Sony E | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Expeed 2 | Bionz 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. |  3:2 | 3:2 | |
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. | 100 | 100 | |
Maximum ISO (Native) 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. | 6,400 | 25,600 | |
Minimum 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. | 100 | 50 | |
Maximum 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. | 25600 | 25600 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 s | 30 s | |
Maximum 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. | 1/ 2000 s | 1/ 4000 s | |
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. | 0 | 179 | |
In-body Stabilization 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. | Optical (optional) | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | N/A | 1,440,000 dots |
Nikon Coolpix A vs Sony a6000 Video Performance
The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix A in video capabilities, scoring 56 out of 100 compared to the Coolpix A’s score of 43. Both cameras share common video specifications, such as Full HD video resolution (1920 x 1080) and the lack of built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Sony a6000 surpasses the Nikon Coolpix A in video frame rate, offering a maximum of 60fps while the Coolpix A only reaches 30fps. This higher frame rate allows the a6000 to capture smoother and more fluid motion in videos, making it a better choice for recording fast-moving subjects or action scenes.
Although the Nikon Coolpix A has a lower video score, it may still be suitable for casual video recording or for those who prioritize photography over videography. However, its lower frame rate of 30fps could be limiting for users requiring more advanced video features or better motion capture.
Considering the video capabilities of both cameras, the Sony a6000 is the clear winner due to its higher frame rate of 60fps, which results in smoother video capture. The Nikon Coolpix A, while still offering Full HD resolution, falls short in this aspect with its 30fps frame rate. Therefore, for those prioritizing video performance, the Sony a6000 is the superior choice.
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Video
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Nikon Coolpix A
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Sony a6000
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |   | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  Full HD | Full HD | |
Max Video Dimensions 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. | 1920 x 1080 px | 1920 x 1080 px | |
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. | 30 p | 60 p | |
Time-Lapse 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. | MOV | MPEG-4 |
Nikon Coolpix A vs Sony a6000 Features and Benefits
The Nikon Coolpix A and Sony a6000 both achieve a feature score of 41 out of 100. This equality in scores reveals that these cameras share many specifications, yet also have unique advantages.
Both cameras have a 3-inch screen size and nearly identical screen resolutions, with the Coolpix A at 921,000 dots and the a6000 at 921,600 dots. Neither camera has a touchscreen, but both have flip screens, allowing for versatile shooting angles. GPS is absent in both models, but both cameras have WiFi capabilities, enabling easy image transfer and remote control. Neither camera has Bluetooth.
While the overall feature scores are the same, each camera has its own strengths. The Nikon Coolpix A excels in its compact size, making it highly portable and convenient for travel photography. Its sleek design and user-friendly interface appeal to both beginners and experienced photographers. Additionally, the Coolpix A has a wide range of creative modes and filters, allowing users to experiment with their photography.
On the other hand, the Sony a6000 stands out with its fast autofocus system and excellent low-light performance. This camera is well-suited for capturing action shots and producing high-quality images in challenging lighting conditions. Furthermore, the a6000 has a more extensive lens selection, providing greater flexibility in composing shots and achieving desired effects.
Both the Nikon Coolpix A and Sony a6000 offer valuable features and cater to different photography needs. The Coolpix A is a compact and creative option, while the a6000 excels in capturing fast-moving subjects and performing well in low light. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on the individual photographer’s preferences and requirements.
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Features
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Nikon Coolpix A
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Sony a6000
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | LCD | LCD | |
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 Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,000 dots | 921,600 dots | |
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 |  | | |
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. |  | | |
Nikon Coolpix A vs Sony a6000 Storage and Battery
The Sony a6000 outperforms the Nikon Coolpix A in storage and battery with a score of 21/100, while the Nikon Coolpix A scores 13/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the Sony a6000 also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards, giving it an advantage in storage options.
Moreover, the Sony a6000 has a longer battery life, providing 360 shots compared to the Nikon Coolpix A’s 230 shots. Both cameras use different battery types: the Sony a6000 uses the NP-FW50, while the Nikon Coolpix A uses the EN-EL20. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The Nikon Coolpix A does not have any advantages in storage and battery over the Sony a6000. The Sony a6000’s longer battery life and additional memory card compatibility make it the superior choice in this category.
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Storage and Battery
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Nikon Coolpix A
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Sony a6000
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | EN-EL20 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 230 shots | 360 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Nikon Coolpix A
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Sony a6000
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 23.4 bits | 24.1 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 13.8 EVs | 13.1 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 1164 | 1347 |
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Scores
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Nikon Coolpix A
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Sony a6000
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Nikon Coolpix A vs Sony a6000 – Our Verdict
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Coolpix A or the Sony a6000:
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User Scores
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Nikon Coolpix A
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Sony a6000
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B&H photo video |
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