Sony a6000 vs a7 Comparison
Sony a6000
Sony a7
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a6000 | a7 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2013 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | February 12, 2014 | October 16, 2013 | |
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Camera Size | |||
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The Sony a7 emerges as the winner with a score of 63/100, while the Sony a6000 follows closely with a score of 57/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were launched in 2013 and 2014, respectively. They share similarities in size, with the a6000 measuring 120 x 67 x 45mm and the a7 at 127 x 94 x 48mm.
The Sony a7 outperforms the a6000 with its higher score, indicating it is a better camera. However, the a6000 has its advantages, such as a lower launch price of $799 compared to the a7’s $1700 and a lighter weight of 344g, making it more portable than the a7’s 474g.
Taking everything into account, the Sony a7 is the superior camera due to its higher score, but the Sony a6000 offers affordability and portability for those who prioritize these factors.
Sony a6000 vs a7 Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 outperforms the Sony a6000 in optics, with a score of 70/100 compared to the a6000’s 67/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor, Bionz X processor, Sony E lens mount, and lack of image stabilisation.
The Sony a7 excels with its full-frame sensor size, providing superior image quality and better low-light performance. Its DXOMARK sensor score is also higher at 90, compared to the a6000’s 82, indicating the a7’s enhanced ability to capture detail and dynamic range. Although the a7 has slightly fewer megapixels (24) than the a6000 (24.3), the difference is negligible and does not affect overall image quality.
On the other hand, the Sony a6000 offers a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second, compared to the a7’s 5 frames per second. This makes the a6000 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife photography. However, this advantage does not outweigh the benefits of the a7’s superior sensor and image quality.
Considering these factors, the Sony a7 is the better choice for photographers seeking top-notch image quality and low-light performance, while the Sony a6000 may be more appealing to those prioritising speed. Despite the a6000’s higher shooting speed, the a7’s overall optical performance makes it the winner in this comparison.
Optics
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.3 MP | 24 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. | 6000 x 4000 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 23.5 mm | 23.9 x 35.8 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |||
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 | 5 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. | Sony E | Sony FE | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | Bionz X | 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. | |||
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. | 25,600 | 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. | 50 | 100 | |
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/ 4000 s | 1/ 8000 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. | 179 | 117 | |
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. | Electronic | Electronic | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 1,440,000 dots | 2,359,000 dots |
Sony a6000 vs a7 Video Performance
The Sony a6000 and Sony a7 both score 56/100 in video capabilities, making them equal in this aspect. They share common video specifications, such as Full HD maximum video resolution, 1920 x 1080 maximum video dimensions, and 60fps maximum video frame rate. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
Considering their equal scores and shared specifications, it is challenging to determine which camera is better in terms of video performance. However, it is essential to examine each camera’s unique features to understand their strengths and weaknesses.
The Sony a6000, despite having the same video score as the a7, may have some advantages for certain users. For instance, the a6000 is known for its compact size and lightweight design, making it an excellent choice for videographers who require a portable and easy-to-carry camera. Moreover, the a6000 is generally more affordable, making it a suitable option for those on a tighter budget.
On the other hand, the Sony a7, while sharing the same video score and specifications with the a6000, stands out with its full-frame sensor. This feature allows for better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field, which can enhance the overall quality of video footage. Furthermore, the a7 is compatible with a broader range of lenses, providing more options for videographers to achieve their desired shots.
Given the equal video scores and shared specifications, the choice between the Sony a6000 and Sony a7 depends on individual preferences and priorities. The a6000 is ideal for those seeking a compact and budget-friendly option, while the a7 caters to those who value full-frame sensor capabilities and a wider lens compatibility.
Video
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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. | |||
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. | 60 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. | MPEG-4 | AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Sony a6000 vs a7 Features and Benefits
The Sony a7 emerges as the winner in the feature comparison with a score of 57/100, while the Sony a6000 trails behind at 41/100. Both cameras share several features, including a 3-inch screen size, the absence of a touchscreen, the presence of a flip screen, and a lack of GPS. Additionally, both cameras possess Wi-Fi capabilities but do not have Bluetooth.
The Sony a7 outperforms the a6000 in screen resolution, boasting 1,230,000 dots compared to the a6000’s 921,600 dots. This significant difference in resolution results in a sharper and clearer display on the a7, providing a better user experience when reviewing images and navigating menus.
On the other hand, the Sony a6000 does not have any distinct advantages over the a7 in terms of features. Both cameras share their strengths and weaknesses, with the a7 simply offering a better screen resolution.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 is the superior choice for those who prioritize features, particularly in the area of screen resolution. The a7’s higher-resolution screen will provide a more enjoyable and efficient experience for photographers who frequently review their images or navigate the camera’s settings. Meanwhile, the Sony a6000 does not present any unique advantages in this comparison, making it a less appealing option for those focused on camera features.
Features
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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. | |||
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Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 921,600 dots | 1,230,000 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. | |||
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Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices. | |||
Sony a6000 vs a7 Storage and Battery
The Sony a6000 and Sony a7 both have a storage and battery score of 21/100. They share identical specifications in terms of memory card slots, memory cards accepted, and battery type. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards. Their batteries are NP-FW50 type.
The Sony a6000 has a slight advantage in battery life, offering 360 shots compared to the Sony a7’s 340 shots. This means the a6000 allows for slightly longer shooting sessions before needing a battery replacement or recharge. However, neither camera offers USB charging capabilities, which could be a drawback for some users.
In terms of storage and battery, the Sony a6000 and Sony a7 are quite similar, with the a6000 having a marginally better battery life. Both cameras could benefit from USB charging functionality.
Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Battery Type | NP-FW50 | NP-FW50 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 360 shots | 340 shots | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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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.' | 24.1 bits | 24.8 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.' | 13.1 EVs | 14.2 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' | 1347 | 2248 |
Scores
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Alternatives to the Sony a6000 and a7
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a6000 or the Sony a7:
User Scores
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B&H photo video |
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