CameraReview

Sony a6300 vs Sony a7 — 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 a7
Sony
Sony a7
Mirrorless · 24 MP · Full Frame · Full HD video
63
SCORE
$748
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General
Brand SonySony
Model a6300a7
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20162013
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
03/02/201616/10/2013
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 120 x 67 x 49 mm127 x 94 x 48 mm
Camera weight 404 g474 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05024 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 23.523.9 x 35.8
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CFull Frame
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 fps0455 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 FE
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.
512003003280000256003003280000
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.
400080032000800080032000
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.
42503001170300
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 235929609900000235900009900000
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.
4KFull HD
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 21601920 x 1080
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 fps60 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.264AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4
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.
921600115000150000012300001150001500000
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 / Pro-HG 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 shots1505000340 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7 narrowly takes the lead with a score of 63/100, compared to the Sony a6300‘s 61/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similarities in their specifications. They were both released within a few years of each other, with the a6300 in 2016 and the a7 in 2013.

The Sony a7 is superior in terms of score and is slightly larger with dimensions of 127 x 94 x 48mm, weighing 474g. However, the Sony a6300 has its own advantages, such as its lower launch price of $1000 and lighter weight of 404g. Its smaller size (120 x 67 x 49mm) makes it more portable as well.

Taking into account the specifications, it’s clear that the Sony a7 is a better camera with a higher score. However, the Sony a6300 is a more affordable and portable option for those who prioritize these factors.

Sony a6300 vs a7 Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 edges out the Sony a6300 in optics, scoring 70/100 compared to the a6300’s 68/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, Sony E lens mount, and lack of image stabilization. However, there are key differences that contribute to their individual scores.

The Sony a7 has a full-frame sensor, which contributes to its higher DXOMARK score of 90, compared to the a6300’s APS-C sensor and DXOMARK score of 85. A full-frame sensor allows for better low-light performance, increased dynamic range, and shallower depth of field. Additionally, the a7 has a slightly lower megapixel count at 24, compared to the a6300’s 24.2, but this difference is negligible in terms of image quality.

On the other hand, the Sony a6300 has a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second, compared to the a7’s 5 frames per second. This makes the a6300 better suited for action photography and capturing fast-moving subjects. Although the a6300’s sensor size is smaller, it still delivers high-quality images with a respectable DXOMARK score.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 has superior optics due to its full-frame sensor and higher DXOMARK score, making it the better choice for photographers who prioritize low-light performance and dynamic range. However, the Sony a6300 remains a strong contender for those who require faster shooting speeds and is still capable of producing excellent images.

Sony a6300 vs a7 Video Performance

When comparing the video capabilities of the Sony a6300 and the Sony a7, the Sony a6300 emerges as the clear winner with a video score of 91 out of 100, while the Sony a7 scores 56 out of 100. Both cameras have some common specifications, but the a6300 outperforms the a7 in several key areas.

The Sony a6300 and a7 both offer maximum video resolutions, but the a6300 boasts a 4K resolution with dimensions of 3840 x 2160, whereas the a7 only provides Full HD resolution with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This difference means that the a6300 delivers significantly higher video quality, resulting in sharper and more detailed footage. Additionally, the a6300 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the a7’s 60fps, allowing for smoother and more versatile video recording, including slow-motion capture.

Furthermore, the a6300 has a built-in time-lapse functionality, an essential feature for capturing stunning time-lapse videos. In contrast, the Sony a7 lacks this capability, limiting its versatility in video recording.

While the Sony a7 does not surpass the a6300 in video features, it still offers solid video performance with its Full HD resolution and 60fps frame rate, making it suitable for casual video recording and users with less demanding video requirements.

Taking all these factors into consideration, the Sony a6300 stands out as the superior camera in terms of video capabilities. With its 4K resolution, higher frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality, it caters to a wider range of video applications and offers a more versatile video recording experience. The Sony a7, while not as advanced, remains a viable option for those with less demanding video needs.

Sony a6300 vs a7 Features and Benefits

The Sony a7 emerges as the winner in the features comparison with a score of 57/100, while the Sony a6300 trails with a score of 54/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, the absence of a touchscreen, the presence of a flip screen, and a lack of GPS. Additionally, both models are equipped with WIFI but do not possess Bluetooth capabilities.

The Sony a7 outshines the a6300 in screen resolution, boasting 1,230,000 dots compared to the a6300’s 921,600 dots. This higher resolution allows for clearer and sharper image previews and menu navigation, enhancing the overall user experience.

In contrast, the Sony a6300 does not possess any evident advantages over the Sony a7 in terms of features. Both cameras display similar specifications, with the a7 slightly surpassing the a6300 in screen resolution.

Taking into account the features of both cameras, the Sony a7 proves to be the superior choice due to its higher screen resolution. While the difference in scores is not substantial, the a7’s edge in resolution ensures a better user experience for photographers. The Sony a6300, while not excelling in any particular aspect, remains a competent option for those seeking a camera with similar specifications.

Sony a6300 vs a7 Storage and Battery

The Sony a6300 wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 24/100, while the Sony a7 scores 21/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Additionally, both use the NP-FW50 battery type and lack USB charging capabilities.

The a6300 edges out the a7 due to its longer battery life, offering 400 shots compared to the a7’s 340 shots. This extended battery life makes the a6300 more efficient and convenient for longer shooting sessions.

The Sony a7, however, has an advantage in memory card compatibility, as it also accepts Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards. This added versatility may appeal to photographers who prefer using these specific memory card types.

Considering these factors, the Sony a6300 is a better choice for users prioritizing battery life, while the Sony a7 caters to those who value memory card compatibility.

Sony a6300 vs a7 – Our Verdict

Sony a6300 vs a7 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 a7: