CameraReview

Sony a6300 vs Sony a6500 — Which Is Better?

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

Sony a6300
Sony
Sony a6300
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · 4K video
61
SCORE
$493.64
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✓ WINNER
Sony a6500
Sony
Sony a6500
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · 4K video
85
SCORE
$598
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Best Price →
General
Brand SonySony
Model a6300a6500
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162016
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
03/02/201606/10/2016
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 120 x 67 x 49 mm120 x 67 x 53 mm
Camera weight 404 g453 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05024.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40006000 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.
15.6 x 23.515.6 x 23.5
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CAPS-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.
11 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.
Sony ESony E
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Bionz XBionz 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.
256003003280000256003003280000
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.
512003003280000512003003280000
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.
42503004250300
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 235929609900000235929609900000
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.
120 fps30 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.
MPEG-4, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, H.264MPEG-4, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0
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.
92160011500015000009216001150001500000
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 / SDXCSD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FW50NP-FW50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
400 shots1505000350 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a6500 emerges as the winner with a score of 72/100, while the Sony a6300 trails behind at 61/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2016. They share similar dimensions, with the a6500 being slightly larger at 120 x 67 x 53mm and heavier at 453g, compared to the a6300’s 120 x 67 x 49mm and 404g.

The a6500 outperforms the a6300 with its higher score, which is justified by its improved features and performance. On the other hand, the a6300 has a lower launch price of $1000, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the a6500’s $1400 price tag.

Considering the specifications and scores, the Sony a6500 is the superior camera, offering better performance and features. However, the Sony a6300 may be a more attractive choice for those seeking a more affordable option without compromising too much on quality.

Sony a6300 vs a6500 Overview and Optics

The Sony a6500 is the winner in the optics comparison, scoring 74/100, while the Sony a6300 scores 68/100. Both cameras share several key specifications, such as 24.2 megapixels, 11 shooting speed, CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, 85 DXOMARK score for the sensor, APS-C sensor size, and Sony E lens mount.

The Sony a6500 outperforms the a6300 in terms of image stabilization. This feature is crucial for capturing sharp images, especially in low light conditions or when using telephoto lenses. The a6500’s image stabilization helps to reduce camera shake, resulting in clearer and more stable images.

On the other hand, the Sony a6300 does not offer any significant advantages over the a6500 in the optics department. Both cameras have the same sensor, processor, and lens mount, meaning they perform similarly in terms of image quality and lens compatibility.

In light of these comparisons, it is clear that the Sony a6500 is the superior camera in terms of optics. Its image stabilization feature makes it a more versatile option for photographers who require steadier shots in various conditions. The Sony a6300, while still a solid camera, does not provide any notable benefits over its counterpart, making the a6500 the better choice for those focused on the camera’s optics.

Sony a6300 vs a6500 Video Performance

The Sony a6300 outperforms the Sony a6500 in video capabilities, scoring 91 out of 100, while the a6500 scores 77. Both cameras share key video specifications, such as 4K max video resolution, 3840 x 2160 video dimensions, and a 120fps max video frame rate. However, the a6300 surpasses the a6500 in a few areas, making it the superior choice for video shooting.

The a6300 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a6500 lacks. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without requiring additional software or equipment. The built-in time-lapse functionality simplifies the process and provides a more user-friendly experience for those who enjoy capturing time-lapse sequences.

On the other hand, the a6500 does not have any specific advantages over the a6300 in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras share the same core video specifications, making the a6300 a better option due to its additional time-lapse feature.

Considering these points, the Sony a6300 is the clear winner in video capabilities when compared to the Sony a6500. Its built-in time-lapse functionality sets it apart from the competition, making it a more versatile and user-friendly option for video enthusiasts. The a6500, while still a solid choice for photography, falls short in the video department, making the a6300 the preferable choice for those prioritizing video performance.

Sony a6300 vs a6500 Features and Benefits

The Sony a6500 triumphs over the Sony a6300 with a feature score of 81/100, compared to the a6300’s score of 54/100. Both cameras share specific features, such as a 3-inch screen size, 921600-dot screen resolution, flip screen, lack of GPS, and Wi-Fi capability. However, the a6500 has additional features that contribute to its higher score.

The a6500 outperforms the a6300 in two significant aspects: touchscreen functionality and Bluetooth connectivity. The touchscreen allows for easier navigation and control, while the Bluetooth feature provides more accessible file transfer and remote control options. These additional features make the a6500 a more user-friendly and versatile camera.

The a6300, though scoring lower, still offers some advantages. The camera’s flip screen and Wi-Fi capability provide flexibility in shooting angles and ease of sharing images. However, it lacks the touchscreen and Bluetooth features that give the a6500 an edge in usability.

Comparing the two cameras, the Sony a6500 proves to be the superior option due to its touchscreen and Bluetooth capabilities. These added features enhance the camera’s overall user experience and adaptability. Meanwhile, the Sony a6300 remains a viable option for those seeking a camera with a flip screen and Wi-Fi connectivity, but it falls short in comparison to the a6500. The higher feature score of the a6500 reflects its improved functionality and versatility, making it the better choice between the two models.

Sony a6300 vs a6500 Storage and Battery

The Sony a6300 has a higher storage and battery score of 24/100, while the Sony a6500 scores 21/100. Both cameras share common specs: a single memory card slot, compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, and the NP-FW50 battery type. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The a6300 is superior in battery life, providing 400 shots compared to the a6500’s 350 shots. This extended battery life makes the a6300 more convenient for longer shooting sessions. However, the a6500 has an advantage in memory card compatibility, as it also accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo cards, offering more storage options to photographers.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Sony a6300 edges out the a6500 due to its longer battery life. The a6500’s additional memory card compatibility is a nice feature, but the a6300’s advantage in battery life is more significant for most users.

Alternatives to the Sony a6300 and a6500

Sony a6300 vs a6500 Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a6300 or the Sony a6500: