CameraReview

Sony a6400 vs Sony a7S II — 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
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Sony a7S II
Sony
Sony a7S II
Mirrorless · 12.2 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
60
SCORE
$1,032.80
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General
Brand SonySony
Model a6400a7S II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
15/01/201911/09/2015
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 120 x 67 x 60 mm127 x 96 x 60 mm
Camera weight 403 g627 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05012.2 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40004240 x 2832
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 35.8
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.
3200030032800001024003003280000
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.
10240030032800004096003003280000
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.
42503001690300
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, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, XAVC SMPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S
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.
921600115000150000012288001150001500000
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)SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / 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.
410 shots1505000370 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Sony a7S II with a score of 70/100 compared to 60/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the a6400 being slightly smaller at 120 x 67 x 60mm and lighter at 403g. The a6400 was released in 2019 and costs $900, while the a7S II was released in 2015 and has a launch price of $3,000.

The a6400’s higher score reflects its more recent technology and better value for money. On the other hand, the a7S II has a larger size (127 x 96 x 60mm) and is heavier at 627g, which may provide a more substantial feel for some users.

Taking into account the specifications and scores, the Sony a6400 is the better choice for those seeking an up-to-date, affordable mirrorless camera. The Sony a7S II may still appeal to those who prefer a heftier camera, despite its lower score and higher price.

Sony a6400 vs a7S II Overview and Optics

The Sony a6400 wins in the optics comparison with a score of 68/100, while the Sony a7S II follows closely behind with 66/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, and compatibility with Sony lenses. However, there are key differences that set them apart.

The Sony a6400 outperforms the a7S II in terms of megapixels and shooting speed. With 24.2 megapixels, it produces higher resolution images compared to the a7S II’s 12.2 megapixels. The a6400 also boasts an impressive shooting speed of 11 frames per second, more than double the a7S II’s 5 frames per second. These factors contribute to the a6400’s superior performance in capturing detailed and fast-paced subjects.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S II has the edge in sensor size and image stabilization. The full-frame sensor provides a larger surface area for light collection, resulting in better low-light performance and increased dynamic range. Its DXOMARK score of 85 supports this advantage. Additionally, the a7S II offers built-in image stabilization, which compensates for camera shake and allows for sharper images in various shooting conditions. The a6400 lacks this feature, which may limit its performance in certain situations.

Despite the close scores, each camera excels in different areas. The Sony a6400 is the better choice for capturing high-resolution images and fast-paced action, while the Sony a7S II is more suitable for low-light photography and situations where image stabilization is crucial. Ultimately, the right choice depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Sony a6400 vs a7S II Video Performance

The Sony a6400 clearly outshines the Sony a7S II in terms of video capabilities, with a significant difference in scores, 91/100 for the a6400 and 56/100 for the a7S II. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 4K and video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, the a6400 surpasses the a7S II in other aspects, making it the superior choice for video recording.

The Sony a6400 boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, compared to the a7S II’s 30fps. This allows for smoother and more detailed slow-motion footage, providing greater creative freedom for videographers. Additionally, the a6400 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a7S II lacks. This feature enables users to easily create stunning time-lapse videos without needing additional equipment or software.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S II does not offer any significant advantages in video capabilities over the a6400. Its lower score reflects its inferior performance in comparison to the a6400. The lack of time-lapse functionality and a lower frame rate make the a7S II a less appealing option for those prioritizing video recording.

In comparing the video capabilities of the Sony a6400 and the Sony a7S II, the a6400 stands out as the superior choice, offering a higher video score, a greater maximum video frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality. The a7S II fails to provide any substantial advantages over the a6400 in this regard. Therefore, the Sony a6400 is the recommended option for those seeking a camera with exceptional video recording capabilities.

Sony a6400 vs a7S II Features and Benefits

The Sony a6400 emerges as the winner in the features category, scoring 81 out of 100 points, compared to the Sony a7S II, which scores 57 points. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, flip screen functionality, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras offer WIFI connectivity, allowing users to transfer images wirelessly.

The Sony a6400 outshines the a7S II in certain aspects. Firstly, it has a touchscreen feature, which makes it easier to navigate through menus and settings. This feature is absent in the a7S II. Secondly, the a6400 includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless pairing with compatible devices. The a7S II lacks this feature, limiting its connectivity options.

On the other hand, the Sony a7S II has a higher screen resolution of 1,228,800 dots, compared to the a6400’s 921,600 dots. This means that the a7S II provides a clearer and more detailed display, which can be helpful for photographers when reviewing images.

Taking all these factors into consideration, the Sony a6400 has a clear advantage in terms of features, with a touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity. However, the a7S II offers a higher screen resolution, which can be beneficial for those who prioritize image clarity on the camera’s display. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the individual’s preferences and priorities in terms of features and functionality.

Sony a6400 vs a7S II Storage and Battery

The Sony a6400 outperforms the Sony a7S II in storage and battery with a score of 37/100 compared to 21/100. 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 a7S II also supports Pro Duo and Pro-HG Duo cards.

The a6400 has a battery life of 410 shots, which is superior to the a7S II’s 370 shots. Both cameras use the NP-FW50 battery type. The a6400 has the advantage of USB charging, which the a7S II lacks.

Although the a7S II has less battery life and no USB charging, it offers more memory card compatibility. Still, the a6400’s longer battery life and USB charging capability make it the better choice for storage and battery performance. The a6400’s higher score reflects its superior performance in these aspects.

Sony a6400 vs a7S II – Our Verdict

Sony a6400 vs a7S II 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 a7S II: