Sony a6600 vs a9 Comparison
Sony a6600
Sony a9
Price | |||
|---|---|---|---|
Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a6600 | a9 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2019 | 2017 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 28, 2019 | April 19, 2017 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a9 outshines the Sony a6600 with a score of 80/100 compared to 75/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similarities in specifications. They were released in 2017 and 2019 respectively, with the a9 being the more expensive option at $4500, while the a6600 costs $1200.
The Sony a9 excels with its superior performance and features, justifying its higher price. On the other hand, the Sony a6600 has its advantages, such as being lighter at 503g compared to the a9’s 673g, and having a smaller body size of 120 x 67 x 69mm versus the a9’s 127 x 96 x 63mm.
When considering these factors, the Sony a9 is the better camera for professionals who require top-notch performance, while the Sony a6600 is a more affordable and portable option for casual users or beginners.
Sony a6600 vs a9 Overview and Optics
The Sony a9 wins in optics with a score of 81/100, compared to the Sony a6600’s 76/100. Both cameras share several specifications, such as a 24.2-megapixel resolution, CMOS sensor type, Bionz X processor, and image stabilization. Additionally, they both have Sony lens mounts: the a6600 uses the Sony E mount, while the a9 utilizes the Sony FE mount.
The Sony a9’s higher score is due to its superior shooting speed and sensor performance. With a shooting speed of 20 frames per second, the a9 is faster than the a6600’s 11 frames per second. The a9’s DXOMARK sensor score is 92, which is significantly higher than the a6600’s score of 82. Furthermore, the a9 has a full-frame sensor size, while the a6600 has an APS-C sensor size. This difference in sensor size contributes to the a9’s better overall image quality.
On the other hand, the Sony a6600 is not without its merits. The camera’s APS-C sensor size and Sony E lens mount make it compatible with a wider range of lenses, including those designed for crop-sensor cameras. This compatibility can be advantageous for users who already own or plan to invest in these lenses.
Taking all factors into consideration, the Sony a9’s superior shooting speed, sensor performance, and full-frame sensor size make it the better choice for photographers seeking top-tier optics. However, the Sony a6600 may be a more suitable option for those who prioritize lens compatibility and affordability, without compromising on image quality.
|
Optics
|
Sony a6600
|
Sony a9
|
|
|
|
|
||
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.2 MP | 24.2 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 | 23.8 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 | 20 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. | 50 | 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. | 102,400 | 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. | 50 | 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 | 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 | 3,686,400 dots |
Sony a6600 vs a9 Video Performance
The Sony a6600 outperforms the Sony a9 in video capabilities, scoring a remarkable 91 out of 100, while the a9 falls behind with a score of 56. Both cameras boast a 4K maximum video resolution and 3840 x 2160 video dimensions, providing sharp and detailed footage. However, the a6600 demonstrates superiority in other aspects.
The a6600 excels with a higher maximum video frame rate of 100fps, double that of the a9’s 30fps. This advantage allows the a6600 to capture smoother motion, making it ideal for recording fast-paced action or for creating slow-motion effects in post-production. Furthermore, the a6600 comes with built-in time-lapse functionality, offering creative options for photographers and videographers to showcase the passage of time in their projects.
Despite its lower score, the a9 still maintains quality video output with its 4K resolution and 3840 x 2160 dimensions. However, the camera’s lower frame rate and lack of built-in time-lapse features limit its video capabilities compared to the a6600.
Considering the significant differences in video scores and features, the Sony a6600 emerges as the superior choice for those prioritizing video capabilities. Its higher frame rate and built-in time-lapse function provide greater creative flexibility, while its 4K resolution and video dimensions match those of the a9. While the a9 still offers quality video output, it falls short in comparison to the a6600’s advanced video performance.
|
Video
|
Sony a6600
|
Sony a9
|
|
|
|
|
||
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 | 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, AVCHD, XAVC S | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 |
Sony a6600 vs a9 Features and Benefits
The Sony a9 emerges as the winner in this comparison with a feature score of 83/100, slightly ahead of the Sony a6600 which scores 81/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen functionality, flip screen, absence of GPS, and the presence of WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.
The winning camera, the Sony a9, outperforms the Sony a6600 in terms of screen resolution, boasting 1,440,000 dots compared to the a6600’s 921,600 dots. This higher resolution offers a clearer and more detailed display for users, enhancing their shooting experience.
However, the Sony a6600 does not lag far behind and still presents itself as a strong contender. Although the differences in features between the two cameras are minimal, the a6600 may have other advantages in terms of price, size, or weight that could make it a more suitable choice for certain users.
Taking into account the feature scores and shared specifications, both the Sony a9 and Sony a6600 are high-quality cameras with similar capabilities. The Sony a9 holds a slight edge with its superior screen resolution, but potential buyers should also consider factors such as price, size, and weight when making their final decision. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the individual’s preferences and requirements.
|
Features
|
Sony a6600
|
Sony a9
|
|
|
|
|
||
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 | 1,440,000 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 a6600 vs a9 Storage and Battery
The Sony a9 outperforms the Sony a6600 in storage and battery with a score of 65/100 compared to the a6600’s 48/100. Both cameras share the same battery type, NP-FZ100, and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the a9 holds an advantage with two memory card slots and compatibility with UHS-II SD cards.
The a6600 excels in battery life, offering 810 shots per charge, while the a9 provides 650 shots. Additionally, the a6600 supports USB charging, giving users more flexibility in charging options.
Despite the a6600’s superior battery life and USB charging, the a9’s dual memory card slots and UHS-II compatibility give it an edge in storage capabilities. The Sony a9 is the better choice for those prioritizing storage and battery, but the a6600 remains a strong contender with its longer battery life and convenient charging options.
|
Storage and Battery
|
Sony a6600
|
Sony a9
|
|
|
|
|
||
Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
|---|---|---|---|
Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | NP-FZ100 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 810 shots | 650 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
|
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Sony a6600
|
Sony a9
|
|
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
|---|---|---|---|
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.' | 23.8 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.' | 13.4 EVs | 13.3 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' | 1497 | 3517 |
|
Scores
|
Sony a6600
|
Sony a9
|
Sony a6600 vs a9 – Our Verdict
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 a9:
|
User Scores
|
Sony a6600
|
Sony a9
|
|
B&H photo video |
|---|