Sony a6500 vs a7 III Comparison
Sony a6500
Sony a7 III
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a6500 | a7 III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 06, 2016 | February 27, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
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The Sony a7 III takes the lead with a score of 80/100, while the Sony a6500 follows closely at 72/100. Both mirrorless cameras share similarities, such as their camera type and launch prices of $2000 and $1400, respectively.
The Sony a7 III, released in 2018, outshines its competitor with its larger size (127 x 96 x 74mm) and heavier weight (650g). This may provide better stability and handling for users. On the other hand, the Sony a6500, released in 2016, is more compact (120 x 67 x 53mm) and lighter (453g), making it a great option for those who prefer portability.
Considering the specifications, the Sony a7 III proves to be a better choice for users who require a more substantial and stable camera, while the Sony a6500 is ideal for those seeking a compact and lightweight option.
Sony a6500 vs a7 III Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 III emerges as the winner in the optics comparison with a score of 81/100, while the Sony a6500 trails behind with a score of 74/100. Both cameras share similarities, such as the 24.2-megapixel count, CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, Sony lens mounts, and image stabilization. However, the Sony a7 III proves to be the superior camera in certain aspects.
The Sony a7 III has a full-frame sensor, which allows for better low-light performance and increased dynamic range compared to the Sony a6500’s APS-C sensor. Additionally, the a7 III boasts a higher DXOMARK score of 96 for its sensor, indicating enhanced image quality. The a7 III also benefits from the Sony FE lens mount, providing access to a broader range of high-quality lenses designed specifically for full-frame cameras.
Although the Sony a6500 falls short in some areas, it does have a faster shooting speed of 11 frames per second (fps) compared to the a7 III’s 10 fps. This advantage makes the a6500 more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects or events.
In terms of optics, the Sony a7 III outshines the a6500 with its full-frame sensor, higher DXOMARK score, and compatibility with Sony FE lenses. However, the a6500’s faster shooting speed may be more appealing to those who prioritize capturing fast-paced action. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and priorities of the photographer.
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Optics
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 24.2 MP | |
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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 | 23.8 x 35.6 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 | 10 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 FE | |
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 | 100 | |
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. | 25,600 | 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. | 51200 | 204800 | |
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 | 693 | |
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 | 2,359,296 dots |
Sony a6500 vs a7 III Video Performance
The Sony a6500 emerges as the winner in the video capabilities comparison, scoring 77/100, while the Sony a7 III scores 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160. Additionally, neither camera has built-in time-lapse functionality.
The Sony a6500 outperforms the Sony a7 III in certain aspects of video performance, most notably the maximum video frame rate. The a6500 can reach up to 120fps, allowing for smoother slow-motion footage and more flexibility in post-production. The a7 III, on the other hand, has a maximum frame rate of 30fps, which is adequate for most situations but does not offer the same level of versatility as the a6500.
Despite the lower overall score, the Sony a7 III has its own strengths. The camera features a full-frame sensor, which can provide a shallower depth of field and improved low-light performance compared to the a6500’s APS-C sensor. This can be advantageous for filmmakers looking to achieve a more cinematic look in their videos.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a6500 proves to be the superior choice for videographers seeking high frame rates and greater flexibility in post-production. However, the Sony a7 III may still appeal to those who prioritize a full-frame sensor and the potential for improved depth of field and low-light performance. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the individual’s preferences and priorities when it comes to video production.
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Video
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  4K | 4K | |
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 | 3840 x 2160 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. | 30 p | 30 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, XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0 | XAVC S, AVCHD |
Sony a6500 vs a7 III Features and Benefits
The Sony a6500 and Sony a7 III both have a feature score of 81 out of 100, making them equal in this aspect. They share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, a screen resolution of 921600 dots, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras have WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Sony a6500 in some areas. It has a larger full-frame sensor, which allows for better image quality and low-light performance. The a7 III also features a higher resolution electronic viewfinder, providing a clearer and more detailed view when composing shots. Furthermore, the a7 III has a more robust battery life, enabling users to capture more images before needing to recharge.
On the other hand, the Sony a6500 has some advantages over the a7 III. It is a smaller and more lightweight camera, making it more portable and easier to carry around. The a6500 also has a faster continuous shooting speed, which is beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects or action scenes.
Both the Sony a6500 and Sony a7 III are excellent cameras, each with their own strengths. The a7 III excels in image quality and low-light performance, while the a6500 offers portability and speed. Users should consider their specific needs and preferences when deciding between these two models, as both cameras are capable of delivering high-quality results.
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |  | | |
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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 | 921,600 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 a6500 vs a7 III Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Sony a6500 in storage and battery with a score of 68/100, compared to the a6500’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick Pro Duo cards. However, the a7 III has two memory card slots, while the a6500 has only one. Additionally, the a7 III has a longer battery life, providing 750 shots with its NP-FZ100 battery, almost double the a6500’s 350 shots using the NP-FW50 battery. Neither camera offers USB charging.
The a7 III’s superior battery life and dual memory card slots make it the better choice for extended shooting and storage flexibility. The a6500, on the other hand, does not provide any advantages in these aspects. Choosing the a7 III ensures longer shooting sessions and more storage options, making it the clear winner in this comparison.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FW50 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 350 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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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.' | 24.5 bits | 25.1 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.' | 13.7 EVs | 14.7 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' | 1405 | 3722 |
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Alternatives to the Sony a6500 and a7 III
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a6500 or the Sony a7 III:
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User Scores
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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