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Sony a6400 vs a7 II Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Sony a6400

Sony A6400 mirrorless camera image
Winner!
70%

Sony a7 II

Sony A7 II camera
68%
Sony a6400
vs
Sony a7 II
Price
Brand
Sony
Sony
Model
a6400
a7 II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2019
2014
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
January 15, 2019
November 20, 2014
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a6400 edges out the Sony a7 II with a score of 70/100 compared to 68/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the a6400 measuring 120 x 67 x 60mm and the a7 II at 127 x 96 x 60mm. However, the a6400 is lighter at 403g, making it more portable than the a7 II, which weighs 599g.

The a6400 has the advantage of being a more recent release (2019) with a lower launch price of $900, compared to the a7 II’s 2014 release and $1600 launch price. While both cameras have their merits, the Sony a6400 offers a better value with its lower price and lighter weight. The Sony a7 II may still appeal to those who prefer a slightly larger camera body, but the a6400 emerges as the winner in this comparison.

Sony a6400 vs a7 II Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 II comes out on top in our optics comparison with a score of 78/100, while the Sony a6400 receives a score of 68/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 24.2 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, and Sony E lens mount.

The winning camera, Sony a7 II, boasts a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 90, compared to the a6400’s score of 83. This difference results in improved image quality from the a7 II. Additionally, the a7 II features a full-frame sensor, which contributes to better low-light performance and increased dynamic range. Another advantage of the Sony a7 II is its built-in image stabilization, allowing for steadier shots and reduced camera shake in various shooting conditions.

On the other hand, the Sony a6400 has a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second, compared to the a7 II’s 5 frames per second. This makes the a6400 better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography.

The Sony a7 II’s superior sensor quality and built-in image stabilization make it the better option for photographers seeking optimal image quality and low-light performance. However, the Sony a6400’s faster shooting speed may be more appealing to those who prioritize capturing fast-paced action. Both cameras offer excellent optics, but the a7 II’s advantages in sensor quality and stabilization give it the edge in this comparison.

Optics
Optics
68%
78%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP
24.3 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
23.9 x 35.8 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-C
Full Frame
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 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
50
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
51,200
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.
102400
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/ 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.
425
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
2,359,296 dots
2,359,000 dots

Sony a6400 vs a7 II Video Performance

The Sony a6400 triumphs over the Sony a7 II in video capabilities, with a video score of 91/100 compared to the Sony a7 II’s 56/100. Both cameras have some similarities in their video features, but the Sony a6400 has several advantages that contribute to its higher score.

Both cameras share max video resolutions, with the Sony a6400 offering 4K (3840 x 2160) and the Sony a7 II providing Full HD (1920 x 1080). Additionally, they both have max video frame rates, with the Sony a6400 reaching 120fps and the Sony a7 II at 60fps.

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Sony a7 II due to its higher max video resolution, allowing for more detailed and crisp footage. Its max video frame rate of 120fps also enables smoother slow-motion video capture, providing more creative possibilities for videographers. Furthermore, the Sony a6400 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which is absent in the Sony a7 II. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment.

The Sony a7 II, on the other hand, has limited advantages in its video capabilities compared to the Sony a6400. Its lower max video resolution and frame rate result in less detailed footage and fewer creative options for videographers.

Considering the significant differences in video capabilities, the Sony a6400 is the superior choice for those prioritizing video performance. Its higher max video resolution, frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality make it a more versatile and powerful tool for capturing high-quality video content. The Sony a7 II, with its lower video score, is less suitable for those who require advanced video features and may be better suited for photographers who do not prioritize video capabilities.

Video
Video
91%
56%
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
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.
3840 x 2160 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.
120 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, XAVC S
XAVC S

Sony a6400 vs a7 II Features and Benefits

The Sony a6400 emerges as the winner in the features category with a score of 81/100, while the Sony a7 II trails behind with a score of 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, flip screen, absence of GPS, and WIFI connectivity.

The Sony a6400 outperforms the a7 II in several aspects. The a6400 has a touchscreen, allowing users more intuitive control and easier navigation through the camera’s settings. Additionally, the a6400 offers Bluetooth connectivity, which facilitates seamless file transfers and remote control of the camera using a smartphone. These features contribute to the a6400’s higher score and enhance the overall user experience.

On the other hand, the Sony a7 II has a higher screen resolution of 1,230,000 dots compared to the a6400’s 921,600 dots. This results in sharper and more detailed image previews on the a7 II’s screen. However, the lack of a touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity hampers its overall feature score.

To sum up, the Sony a6400 emerges as the better camera in terms of features due to its touchscreen capability and Bluetooth connectivity. These advantages make the a6400 a more user-friendly and versatile option. Although the Sony a7 II offers a higher screen resolution, it falls short in other essential features, resulting in a lower score.

Features
Features
81%
57%
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
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.
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.

Sony a6400 vs a7 II Storage and Battery

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Sony a7 II in storage and battery. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and accept SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Duo cards. However, the a6400 is compatible with UHS-I cards, while the a7 II also supports Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards.

The a6400 has a longer battery life, providing 410 shots per charge, while the a7 II only offers 350 shots. They both use the NP-FW50 battery type.

Despite the a7 II’s lower score, it still offers compatibility with a wider range of memory cards. Nevertheless, the a6400’s longer battery life and USB charging make it the better choice for storage and battery performance.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
37%
35%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo (UHS-I compatible)
SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG 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.
410 shots
350 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
83%
90%
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 bits
24.9 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.'
13.6 EVs
13.6 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'
1431
2449
Scores
Main Features
92%
60%
Extra Features
80%
40%
Construction and Durability
93%
100%
Handling and Ergonomics
87%
80%
Value for Money
85%
75%
Total Score
87%
67%

Sony a6400 vs a7 II Alternatives

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