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Sony a6100 vs a6500 Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Sony a6100

Sony a6100
66%

Sony a6500

Sony A6500
Winner!
72%
Sony a6100
vs
Sony a6500
Price
Brand
Sony
Sony
Model
a6100
a6500
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2019
2016
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 28, 2019
October 06, 2016
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a6500 emerges as the winner with a score of 72/100, while the Sony a6100 trails behind at 66/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the a6100 measuring 120 x 67 x 59mm and the a6500 at 120 x 67 x 53mm. They also have comparable weights, with the a6100 being slightly lighter at 396g compared to the a6500’s 453g.

The a6500’s higher score indicates its superior performance and features, despite being an older model released in 2016 with a launch price of $1400. On the other hand, the a6100, released in 2019, is more budget-friendly with a launch price of $750.

While the a6500 outperforms the a6100 in certain aspects, the a6100 holds its own with a lower price point and slightly lighter weight, making it a good choice for those on a budget or who prioritize portability. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras depends on individual preferences and needs.

Sony a6100 vs a6500 Overview and Optics

The Sony a6500 comes out on top in our optics comparison with a score of 74/100, while the Sony a6100 trails behind with a score of 68/100. Both cameras share similarities in their specifications, including 24 and 24.2-megapixel resolutions, respectively, an 11 frames per second shooting speed, APS-C sensor sizes, CMOS sensor types, and Bionz X processors. Additionally, both cameras utilize the Sony E lens mount system.

The a6500 surpasses the a6100 in a few key areas, contributing to its higher score. The slightly higher 24.2-megapixel resolution allows for marginally better image quality. Furthermore, the a6500 has a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 85, compared to the a6100’s score of 82. This difference indicates better overall image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance. Most notably, the a6500 includes built-in image stabilization, a feature absent in the a6100. This advantage allows for sharper images and improved video quality, especially when using non-stabilized lenses.

On the other hand, the a6100 does not have any significant advantages over the a6500 in terms of optics. Its lower score reflects this fact. Nonetheless, the a6100 remains a capable camera, sharing many of the same features as the a6500.

In the realm of optics, the Sony a6500 proves to be the superior choice due to its higher resolution, better DXOMARK sensor score, and built-in image stabilization. While the a6100 is still a competent camera, those seeking the best optical performance should opt for the a6500.

Optics
Optics
68%
74%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24 MP
24.2 MP
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
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.
11 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.
Sony E
Sony E
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.
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.
32,000
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
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.
51000
51200
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/ 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.
425
425
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
2,359,296 dots

Sony a6100 vs a6500 Video Performance

The Sony a6100 outperforms the Sony a6500 in video capabilities with a score of 91/100, while the a6500 scores 77/100. Both cameras share similar specifications, including a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. They also offer a maximum video frame rate of 120fps, allowing for smooth and detailed footage.

The a6100 has an advantage over the a6500, with its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature enables the user to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software. This added convenience makes the a6100 a more versatile option for videographers who often utilize time-lapse in their projects.

On the other hand, the a6500 does not offer any significant advantages in video capabilities compared to the a6100. Both cameras have the same resolution, dimensions, and frame rate, which means the a6500 does not provide any additional video features that would make it a better choice for video recording.

However, it is essential to consider other factors, such as price, ergonomics, and additional features, when deciding between these two cameras. The a6100’s superior video score and built-in time-lapse functionality make it a better choice for users who primarily focus on video recording. The a6500, while lacking in unique video features, may still be a suitable option for photographers who do not require time-lapse capabilities.

Video
Video
91%
77%
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.
4K
4K
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.
3840 x 2160 px
3840 x 2160 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.
120 p
30 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, XAVC S, H.264
MPEG-4, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0

Sony a6100 vs a6500 Features and Benefits

The Sony a6500 emerges as the winner with a feature score of 81/100, while the Sony a6100 scores 68/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, 921,600-dot screen resolution, touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity. However, neither camera offers GPS functionality.

The Sony a6500 outperforms the a6100 with a higher feature score, which indicates that it has additional features or improved specifications that make it a better camera. The a6500’s superiority could be due to factors such as better image stabilization, a more durable build, or an enhanced autofocus system. The higher score reflects the a6500’s overall advantage in performance and functionality compared to the a6100.

On the other hand, the Sony a6100 may have some advantages over the a6500, despite its lower feature score. These advantages could include a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option for photographers, or a lighter and more compact design, which can be beneficial for travel photography or casual use.

Taking these factors into account, it is clear that the Sony a6500 is the superior camera in terms of features and performance. However, the Sony a6100 may still be a suitable choice for photographers with specific needs or budget constraints. Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras should be based on individual preferences and requirements, as both offer impressive specifications and functionality.

Features
Features
68%
81%
Built-in 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
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.
921,600 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.

Sony a6100 vs a6500 Storage and Battery

The Sony a6100 triumphs in the storage and battery category with a score of 37/100, outperforming the Sony a6500’s score of 21/100. Both cameras share similarities in their storage specifications, featuring a single memory card slot and accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo cards.

The a6100’s superior performance stems from its longer battery life, providing 420 shots compared to the a6500’s 350 shots. Additionally, the a6100 benefits from USB charging capabilities, which the a6500 lacks. This advantage allows for convenient charging options and ensures the a6100 remains readily available for use.

Despite its lower score, the a6500 utilizes the same NP-FW50 battery type as the a6100, offering compatibility between the two models. However, the a6500 falls short in battery life and charging flexibility.

The Sony a6100 emerges as the better choice for storage and battery needs, offering extended battery life and versatile charging options. While the a6500 shares similar storage specifications, its battery performance pales in comparison, making the a6100 a more reliable option for photographers.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
37%
21%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo
Dual Memory Card Slots
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.
420 shots
350 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
N/A
85%
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.'
N/A
24.5 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.'
N/A
13.7 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'
N/A
1405
Scores
Main Features
N/A
88%
Extra Features
N/A
84%
Construction and Durability
N/A
87%
Handling and Ergonomics
N/A
80%
Value for Money
N/A
85%
Total Score
N/A
85%

Sony a6100 vs a6500 – Our Verdict

Sony a6100 vs a6500 Comparison image.

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