CameraReview

Sony a6400 vs Sony a7 IV — Which Is Better?

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

✓ WINNER
Sony a6400
Sony
Sony a6400
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · 4K video
87
SCORE
$799
best of 11 retailers
Best Price →
Sony a7 IV
Sony
Sony a7 IV
Mirrorless · 33 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
84
SCORE
$1,998
best of 6 retailers
Best Price →
General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192021
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
15/01/201921/10/2021
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 120 x 67 x 60 mm131 x 96 x 80 mm
Camera weight 403 g659 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05033 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40007008 x 4672
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 23.523.8 x 35.6
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 fps04510 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 XR
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.
320003003280000512003003280000
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.
100302005030200
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.
10240030032800002044003003280000
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.
42503007590300
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 235929609900000368640009900000
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 fps120 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, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, XAVC SMPEG-4, XAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265
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.
921600115000150000010400001150001500000
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 / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo (UHS-I compatible)CFexpress Type A, SD (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FW50NP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
410 shots1505000580 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7 IV comes out on top with a score of 84/100, while the Sony a6400 trails behind at 70/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless systems, but there are notable differences to consider.

In terms of commonalities, both cameras were announced in their respective years, with the a6400 in 2019 and the a7 IV in 2021. They also share a similar launch price, with the a6400 at $900 and the a7 IV at $2499.

The a7 IV outshines the a6400 with a higher score and more recent release, providing users with updated technology and features. Additionally, its larger size (131 x 96 x 80mm) and weight (659g) may offer a more substantial feel to users who prefer a heftier camera.

On the other hand, the a6400 shines in its compact size (120 x 67 x 60mm) and lighter weight (403g), making it a more portable option for on-the-go photography. However, its lower score and older release date may make it less appealing to users seeking the latest technology.

Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, but the Sony a7 IV ultimately takes the lead in terms of overall performance and features. The a6400 still holds value as a compact and more affordable option for those prioritizing portability.

Sony a6400 vs a7 IV Overview and Optics

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Sony a6400 in optics, scoring 85/100 compared to the a6400’s 68/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a CMOS sensor, and compatibility with Sony’s E and FE lens mounts. They also have similar shooting speeds, with the a6400 at 11 frames per second and the a7 IV at 10 frames per second.

The a7 IV is superior in several aspects. It features a higher megapixel count of 33, allowing for more detailed images compared to the a6400’s 24.2 megapixels. The a7 IV also has a more advanced Bionz XR processor, which contributes to improved image processing and overall performance. Additionally, the a7 IV boasts a full-frame sensor, which provides better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range than the a6400’s APS-C sensor. The full-frame sensor also contributes to the a7 IV’s higher DXOMARK score of 97, compared to the a6400’s score of 83. Lastly, the a7 IV includes image stabilization, a feature absent in the a6400, making it more suitable for handheld shooting and low-light situations.

The a6400 does have a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second compared to the a7 IV’s 10 frames per second, which may give it a slight advantage in capturing fast-moving subjects. However, this advantage is minimal in the context of the a7 IV’s overall better optical performance.

Considering the differences in optics, the Sony a7 IV is the superior camera. Its higher megapixel count, advanced processor, full-frame sensor, and image stabilization make it a better choice for photographers seeking top-notch image quality and performance. The a6400’s faster shooting speed does not outweigh the benefits offered by the a7 IV’s superior optics.

Sony a6400 vs a7 IV Video Performance

The Sony a6400 and the Sony a7 IV share an identical video score of 91/100, indicating that both cameras offer excellent video capabilities. They have several common specifications, including a max video resolution of 4K, max video dimensions of 3840 x 2160, max video frame rate of 120fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.

Despite the similar scores, the Sony a7 IV has some advantages over the Sony a6400 in terms of video performance. These advantages, however, are not reflected in the provided specifications, as both cameras share identical video specifications. To determine which camera is better, one would need to examine other factors such as image stabilization, autofocus performance, and low-light capabilities, which are not provided in this comparison.

On the other hand, the Sony a6400 may have some advantages over the Sony a7 IV. For instance, it could be more affordable, lightweight, and compact, making it a more suitable option for those who prioritize portability and budget over advanced video features. However, these potential advantages are not related to the video capabilities of the cameras.

Based on the provided specifications, both the Sony a6400 and the Sony a7 IV offer outstanding video performance, with no clear winner between the two. This makes them excellent choices for videographers and content creators who require high-quality video capabilities in their cameras. To make an informed decision, one should consider additional factors such as price, size, and additional features to determine the best camera for their specific needs.

Sony a6400 vs a7 IV Features and Benefits

The Sony a7 IV wins the features comparison with a score of 83/100, while the Sony a6400 scores 81/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen functionality, flip screen, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, they both have WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities.

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the a6400 in screen resolution, offering 1,040,000 dots compared to the a6400’s 921,600 dots. This higher resolution provides sharper and clearer image previews and better menu navigation experience on the a7 IV.

On the other hand, the Sony a6400 does not surpass the a7 IV in any features according to the provided specifications. The two-point difference in the feature score primarily results from the a7 IV’s superior screen resolution.

Given the information, the Sony a7 IV is the better choice for those who prioritize higher screen resolution in their camera features. The a6400, while not excelling beyond the a7 IV, still offers a solid set of features, making it a viable option for those who are satisfied with its specifications. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on individual preferences and priorities regarding camera features.

Sony a6400 vs a7 IV Storage and Battery

The Sony a7 IV outperforms the Sony a6400 in storage and battery, scoring 76 points compared to the a6400’s 37 points. Both cameras accept SD cards and support USB charging. However, the a7 IV proves superior with its dual memory card slots and compatibility with CFexpress Type A and UHS-II SD cards, offering more flexibility and storage options.

Additionally, the Sony a7 IV boasts a longer battery life, providing 580 shots with its NP-FZ100 battery, while the a6400 only offers 410 shots using an NP-FW50 battery. This extended battery life allows for longer shooting sessions without interruption.

The a6400 does not have any advantages in storage and battery over the a7 IV. The a7 IV’s higher score reflects its better performance in these areas, making it a more reliable choice for photographers who require ample storage and longer battery life.

Sony a6400 vs a7 IV – Our Verdict

Sony a6400 vs a7 IV Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a6400 or the Sony a7 IV: