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Sony a9 II Specs and Scores

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery
Sony a9 II
82%
General
82%
Price
Brand
Sony
Model
a9 II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2019
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
October 03, 2019
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Sony a9 II receives a score of 82/100 in our evaluation. Released on October 3, 2019, this mirrorless camera comes with a launch price of $4500. Measuring 129 x 96 x 76mm and weighing 678g (1.49lbs), the a9 II’s specifications remain competitive in today’s market.

Considering its release year and specifications, the Sony a9 II continues to be a strong contender among other mirrorless cameras available. Its high score is a testament to its quality and performance.

Sony a9 II Overview and Optics

The optics of the Sony a9 II receive a score of 82/100. With 24.2 megapixels, a shooting speed of 20 fps, and a CMOS sensor, this camera boasts impressive capabilities. The Bionz X processor contributes to its efficient performance, while the DXOMARK score of 93 for the sensor highlights the camera’s quality.

The Sony a9 II has a full-frame sensor size, a Sony FE lens mount, and image stabilization. Its aspect ratio is 3:2, which is a standard format for photography. In today’s market, the Sony a9 II holds its own against competitors due to its high-quality optics and features.

The Sony a9 II stands out as a reliable and powerful camera, offering top-notch optics suitable for various photography needs. Its specifications and performance make it a strong contender in the competitive world of photography.

Optics
Optics
82%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
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
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
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
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
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
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
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
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
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
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
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
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
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
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/ 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
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
Viewfinder Resolution
3,686,400 dots

Sony a9 II Video Performance

The Sony a9 II scores a 70/100 in video capabilities. This camera offers a maximum video resolution of 4K, with dimensions of 3840 x 2160 pixels. The maximum video frame rate is 30fps, which is satisfactory for most users. Additionally, the camera has built-in time-lapse functionality, making it convenient for capturing dynamic scenes.

In the competitive market of today, the Sony a9 II holds its ground with its 4K video resolution and 30fps frame rate. These specifications are suitable for various video applications, from casual filming to professional projects. However, it may not be the top choice for those seeking higher frame rates or resolutions.

The Sony a9 II is a capable camera for video recording, with a decent score and specifications that meet the demands of many users. Its built-in time-lapse feature adds to its appeal, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable camera for video capture.

Video
Video
70%
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
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
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
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

Sony a9 II Features and Benefits

The Sony a9 II’s features receive a score of 83 out of 100, which is quite impressive. This camera boasts a 3-inch touchscreen with a high resolution of 1,440,000 dots, ensuring sharp and clear image previews. The flip screen adds flexibility and convenience when capturing images from various angles.

In today’s competitive market, the Sony a9 II stands strong with its wireless connectivity options. While it lacks GPS, it compensates with built-in WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, making transferring images and remote control seamless.

The combination of advanced features and connectivity options make the Sony a9 II a powerful contender in the photography world. Its high feature score is well-deserved, making it a reliable choice for both professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Features
Features
83%
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
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"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
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 II Storage and Battery

The Sony a9 II scores a solid 79/100 in the storage and battery category. This camera offers dual memory card slots, both accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, with UHS-II compatibility for faster data transfer. In today’s market, this feature is highly appreciated, as it allows photographers to store a large number of high-quality images and videos.

Equipped with an NP-FZ100 battery, the a9 II provides a battery life of 690 shots, which is considered decent for a professional camera. Additionally, the camera supports USB charging, giving users the flexibility to charge their device on the go.

The storage and battery capabilities of the Sony a9 II make it a reliable choice for photographers who require ample storage and a dependable power source during their shoots.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
79%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
NP-FZ100
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
690 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
93%
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.'
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.'
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'
3434
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video

Sony a9 II Alternatives

Do you want to know how the Sony a9 II compares to its competitors? Have a look at the most popular comparisons for this camera below:

Sony a9 II photographed on a colored background

Sony a9 II FAQ

Does the Sony a9 II Have Built-in Image Stabilization?

Yes, the Sony a9 II features a 5-axis built-in image stabilization system, providing steady shots and reducing blur caused by camera shake during handheld shooting.

Does the Sony a9 II Support 4K Video Recording?

Yes, the Sony a9 II supports 4K video recording at 30fps, allowing for high-resolution, detailed footage and impressive video quality for professional use.

What Size Sensor Does The Sony a9 II Have?

The Sony a9 II has a full-frame 24.2-megapixel Exmor RS CMOS sensor, providing exceptional image quality, high resolution, and excellent low-light performance.

Does the Sony a9 II Have a Dual Memory Card Slot?

Yes, the Sony a9 II features a dual memory card slot, allowing for more storage capacity and the ability to separate file types or create backup copies.

Does the Sony a9 II Have a Touch Screen?

Yes, the Sony a9 II has a 3-inch tilting touch screen LCD, allowing for easy navigation, focus point selection, and image review.

Does the Sony a9 II Have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?

Yes, the Sony a9 II is equipped with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless transfer of images and remote camera control using compatible devices.

Does the Sony a9 II Have GPS?

No, the Sony a9 II does not have built-in GPS. However, it can acquire location data via a connected smartphone using the Imaging Edge Mobile app.

Is the Sony a9 II Weather Sealed?

Yes, the Sony a9 II features a weather-sealed body, providing dust and moisture resistance for reliable performance in challenging environments.

Does the Sony a9 II Have a Built-in Flash?

No, the Sony a9 II does not have a built-in flash. It has a hot shoe mount for attaching external flashes or other accessories as needed.

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