Sony a9 vs a9 II Comparison
Sony a9
Sony a9 II
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Brand | Sony | Sony | |
Model | a9 | a9 II | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 | 2019 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | April 19, 2017 | October 03, 2019 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
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Camera Weight |
The Sony a9 II outperforms the Sony a9 by a slight margin, scoring 82/100 compared to the a9’s 80/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as being mirrorless, having the same launch price of $4500, and similar dimensions. The a9 II’s advantages include a more recent release year (2019) and improved features, which contribute to its higher score.
However, the Sony a9 still has its merits. With a slightly lighter weight of 673g compared to the a9 II’s 678g, it offers a minor advantage in portability. Despite these differences, both cameras deliver impressive performance, making them strong contenders in the mirrorless camera market. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Sony a9 vs a9 II Overview and Optics
The Sony a9 II narrowly outperforms the Sony a9 in optics with a score of 82/100 compared to the a9’s 81/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 24.2 megapixels, a 20 fps shooting speed, a CMOS sensor, a Bionz X processor, full-frame sensor size, a Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization.
The Sony a9 II’s slight advantage comes from its higher DXOMARK sensor score of 93 compared to the Sony a9’s score of 92. This difference means that the a9 II has slightly better image quality and improved low-light performance. The a9 II’s higher score also reflects its advancements in autofocus performance, which allows for better tracking of subjects and faster focus acquisition.
On the other hand, the Sony a9 does not have any significant advantages over the a9 II in terms of optics. Both cameras share the same core specifications, and the a9 II’s improvements are incremental rather than groundbreaking.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Sony a9 II is the better option for those seeking superior image quality and autofocus performance. However, the difference between the two cameras is minimal, and the Sony a9 remains a strong contender in the full-frame mirrorless camera market. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to individual priorities and budget constraints, as both cameras offer exceptional performance in their respective categories.
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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. | 23.8 x 35.6 mm | 23.8 x 35.6 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame | 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. | 20 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 FE | 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. | 51,200 | 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. | 204800 | 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/ 8000 s | 1/ 32000 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. | 693 | 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 | 3,686,400 dots | 3,686,400 dots |
Sony a9 vs a9 II Video Performance
The Sony a9 II outperforms the Sony a9 in video capabilities, with a video score of 70/100 compared to the a9’s 56/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as 4K max video resolution and 3840 x 2160 max video dimensions. They also have the same max video frame rate of 30fps.
However, the Sony a9 II has an advantage over the Sony a9 with its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software, making it a more versatile tool for videographers. The higher video score of the a9 II is a result of this additional feature, which enhances its overall video performance.
On the other hand, the Sony a9 does not offer any significant advantages in video capabilities over the a9 II. Both cameras have the same max video resolution, dimensions, and frame rate, which means that the a9 cannot outperform the a9 II in these areas. The lower video score of the Sony a9 is due to its lack of built-in time-lapse functionality, which limits its versatility for video projects.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a9 II is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities. Its built-in time-lapse functionality gives it an edge over the Sony a9, making it a more versatile and powerful tool for videographers. Meanwhile, the Sony a9 falls short in comparison, offering no significant advantages in video performance. Therefore, for those looking to prioritize video capabilities, the Sony a9 II is the better choice among the two cameras.
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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. | XAVC S, AVCHD Ver. 2.0, MP4 | XAVC S, AVCHD |
Sony a9 vs a9 II Features and Benefits
The Sony a9 and Sony a9 II both have a feature score of 83 out of 100, making them equally matched in this aspect. Both cameras share several identical specifications, which include a 3-inch screen size, 1,440,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen functionality, flip screen, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras come with WIFI and Bluetooth capabilities.
Despite the same feature score, the Sony a9 II has a few advantages over the Sony a9. One such advantage is its improved ergonomics, making it more comfortable to hold and operate for extended periods. The a9 II also features a better weather sealing, providing more protection against dust and moisture, which is essential for outdoor photography. Furthermore, the a9 II has an upgraded autofocus system, ensuring faster and more accurate focusing in various shooting conditions.
On the other hand, the Sony a9 also has its merits. It is a lighter camera compared to the a9 II, which can be a significant factor for photographers who prioritize portability and reduced weight. Additionally, the Sony a9 is more affordable than the a9 II, making it a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features.
Taking these points into consideration, it is clear that the Sony a9 II provides some advantages over the a9, particularly in terms of ergonomics, weather sealing, and autofocus capabilities. However, the Sony a9 remains a viable option for those who value a lighter camera and a more affordable price point. Both cameras offer a solid set of features, making them suitable choices depending on individual preferences and priorities.
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Features
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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. | 1,440,000 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 a9 vs a9 II Storage and Battery
The Sony a9 II outperforms the Sony a9 in storage and battery with a score of 79/100, compared to the a9’s 65/100. Both cameras share the same specifications in terms of memory card slots and compatibility, each having two slots and accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards (UHS-II compatible).
The a9 II’s advantage lies in its battery life and USB charging capability. With a battery life of 690 shots, it surpasses the a9 by 40 shots. Additionally, the a9 II offers USB charging, making it more convenient for users to charge the camera on-the-go. Both cameras use the same battery type, the NP-FZ100.
The Sony a9, however, does not have any significant advantages over the a9 II in terms of storage and battery. The only difference is its slightly shorter battery life of 650 shots.
Considering these factors, the Sony a9 II proves to be the superior choice in terms of storage and battery performance. The extended battery life and USB charging option provide users with a more convenient and reliable experience.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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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. | 650 shots | 690 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.' | 24.9 bits | 25 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.' | 13.3 EVs | 14 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' | 3517 | 3434 |
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Scores
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Alternatives to the Sony a9 and a9 II
Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Sony a9 or the Sony a9 II:
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User Scores
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Sony a9 II
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B&H photo video |
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