CameraReview

Sony a6600 vs Sony a7R III — Which Is Better?

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

Sony a6600
Sony
Sony a6600
Mirrorless · 24.2 MP · APS-C · 4K video
75
SCORE
$888
best of 6 retailers
Best Price →
✓ WINNER
Sony a7R III
Sony
Sony a7R III
Mirrorless · 42.4 MP · Full Frame · 4K video
83
SCORE
$1,749
best of 4 retailers
Best Price →
General
Brand SonySony
Model a6600a7R III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20192017
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
28/08/201925/10/2017
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 120 x 67 x 69 mm127 x 96 x 74 mm
Camera weight 503 g657 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
24.2 MP05042.4 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
6000 x 40007952 x 5304
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 23.524 x 35.9
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 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.
503020010030200
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.
1024003003280000320003003280000
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.
50302005030200
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.
10240030032800001024003003280000
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.
42503004250300
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.
30 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, XAVC SXAVC S, AVCHD 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.
921600115000150000014400001150001500000
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 Pro DuoSD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type NP-FZ100NP-FZ100
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
810 shots1505000650 shots1505000
USB charging

The Sony a7R III emerges as the winner with a score of 83/100, compared to the Sony a6600‘s 75/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were launched in 2017 and 2019, respectively. They share similarities in size, with the a7R III being slightly larger at 127 x 96 x 74mm and heavier at 657g. The a6600 measures 120 x 67 x 69mm and weighs 503g.

The a7R III’s superior score is due to its higher performance and features, despite its higher launch price of $3200 compared to the a6600’s $1200. On the other hand, the Sony a6600 is more affordable and lighter, making it a more budget-friendly and portable option.

Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7R III is the better choice for professionals and those seeking a higher-end camera, while the Sony a6600 is a great option for hobbyists and those looking for a more compact and budget-friendly camera.

Sony a6600 vs a7R III Overview and Optics

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Sony a6600 in optics with a score of 84/100 compared to 76/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as the CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, Sony lens mount, and image stabilisation. However, there are significant differences that contribute to the higher score of the Sony a7R III.

The Sony a7R III has a higher megapixel count at 42.4, compared to the a6600’s 24.2. This results in better resolution and image quality. Additionally, the a7R III boasts a full-frame sensor, which allows for improved low-light performance and increased dynamic range. This advantage is further highlighted by the a7R III’s DXOMARK sensor score of 100, compared to the a6600’s score of 82.

On the other hand, the Sony a6600 offers a slightly faster shooting speed at 11 frames per second, compared to the a7R III’s 10 frames per second. This may be beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography. However, this difference in shooting speed is relatively minor and may not be a deciding factor for many users.

In terms of optics, the Sony a7R III is the clear winner with its higher resolution, full-frame sensor, and superior DXOMARK sensor score. These features contribute to its overall better performance in image quality and low-light conditions. While the Sony a6600 does offer a marginally faster shooting speed, it does not outweigh the advantages provided by the a7R III’s superior optics. Therefore, the Sony a7R III is the recommended choice for those prioritizing optics in their camera selection.

Sony a6600 vs a7R III Video Performance

The Sony a6600 emerges as the superior camera in terms of video capabilities, with a score of 91/100 compared to the Sony a7R III’s score of 56/100. This significant difference in scores highlights the a6600’s better performance in video recording.

Both cameras share common specifications, such as a maximum video resolution of 4K and video dimensions of 3840 x 2160. However, the Sony a6600 outperforms the a7R III in several aspects. Firstly, the a6600 boasts a maximum video frame rate of 100fps, whereas the a7R III only reaches 30fps. This difference allows the a6600 to produce smoother, more detailed slow-motion footage, making it a more versatile option for videographers.

Additionally, the Sony a6600 has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the a7R III lacks. This feature enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software, further contributing to the a6600’s superiority in video capabilities.

Despite its lower video score, the Sony a7R III still offers excellent video quality with its 4K resolution and 3840 x 2160 dimensions. However, its lower frame rate and lack of built-in time-lapse functionality ultimately place it behind the a6600 in terms of video performance.

Based on these comparisons, the Sony a6600 is the clear winner in video capabilities due to its higher frame rate and built-in time-lapse feature. While the a7R III remains a solid choice for those seeking 4K video quality, those looking for a more versatile and advanced video camera should opt for the a6600.

Sony a6600 vs a7R III Features and Benefits

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Sony a6600 in features, with a score of 83/100 compared to 81/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capability, flip screen, absence of GPS, and the presence of WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Sony a7R III excels with its screen resolution of 1,440,000 dots, which is significantly higher than the a6600’s 921,600 dots. This higher resolution provides a sharper and clearer display, enhancing user experience and allowing for more precise image review and composition. This advantage contributes to the a7R III’s higher feature score.

The Sony a6600, despite its lower feature score, still offers competitive specifications. Its touchscreen, flip screen, WIFI, and Bluetooth capabilities match those of the a7R III. However, its lower screen resolution does not hinder its overall performance and usability. The a6600 remains a strong contender in the camera market, especially for those who prioritize compactness and affordability over a higher-resolution screen.

In comparing the two cameras, the Sony a7R III emerges as the winner in terms of features due to its superior screen resolution. However, the Sony a6600 remains a viable option for users who value compactness and affordability while maintaining essential features. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Sony a6600 vs a7R III Storage and Battery

The Sony a7R III outperforms the Sony a6600 in storage and battery, scoring 65/100 compared to the a6600’s 48/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as accepting SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and utilizing the NP-FZ100 battery type.

The a7R III has a clear advantage with its dual memory card slots, which are UHS-II compatible, allowing for faster data transfer and better performance. This feature makes it more suitable for professional use, where backup and storage capacity are crucial. However, the a6600’s battery life is superior, delivering 810 shots per charge compared to the a7R III’s 650 shots. Additionally, the a6600 offers USB charging, providing more flexibility for on-the-go photographers.

While the a7R III excels in storage capacity and performance, the a6600’s longer battery life and USB charging make it a more convenient option for casual users. Ultimately, the choice between these cameras depends on the individual’s priorities and intended usage.

Sony a6600 vs a7R III – Our Verdict

Sony a6600 vs a7R III Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a6600 or the Sony a7R III: