As a professional photographer who’s spent countless hours shooting with various Sony mirrorless cameras, I can tell you that choosing between the Sony A6400 and A6000 is a common dilemma. Both cameras represent Sony’s commitment to excellence in the APS-C mirrorless market, but they serve different needs and budgets. After testing both extensively in real-world scenarios—from portrait photography to sports events, street shooting to travel—I’ve discovered that the choice between these two popular cameras isn’t just about price. It’s about understanding their unique characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses to determine which one will best serve your photography style and needs.
The Sony A6000, released in 2014, was a groundbreaking camera that brought professional features to a consumer price point. The A6400, released in 2019, represents the evolution of this line with significant improvements in autofocus, video capabilities, and overall performance. In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll break down every aspect of these cameras to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current setup or invest in your first serious mirrorless camera, this guide will give you all the insights you need.
Quick Comparison: Sony A6400 vs A6000 at a Glance
Before diving into the details, here’s a quick overview of how these two cameras stack up:
| Feature | Sony A6400 | Sony A6000 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.2MP APS-C CMOS | 24.3MP APS-C CMOS |
| Image Processor | BIONZ X | BIONZ X |
| Autofocus | 425 phase-detection AF points | 179 phase-detection AF points |
| Eye AF | Real-time Eye AF | No Eye AF |
| Burst Shooting | 11 fps (8 fps with live view) | 11 fps (2.5 fps with live view) |
| Video | 4K/30p, Full HD/120p | Full HD/60p (no 4K) |
| Viewfinder | 2.36M-dot OLED EVF | 1.44M-dot OLED EVF |
| LCD Screen | 3.0″ 921k-dot tilting | 3.0″ 921k-dot tilting |
| Battery Life | 360 shots | 360 shots |
| Weather Sealing | No | No |
| Weight | 403g (with battery) | 344g (with battery) |
| Dimensions | 120 x 67 x 50mm | 120 x 67 x 45mm |
| Release Date | January 2019 | February 2014 |
| Price (approx.) | $898 (body only) | $448 (body only) |
Sony A6400: The Advanced Contender
When Sony introduced the A6400, it was clear they had listened to user feedback and made significant improvements over its predecessors. After shooting with it for countless hours across various genres, I can confidently say it’s one of the most capable APS-C mirrorless cameras I’ve ever used.
Design and Ergonomics
The first thing you’ll notice about the Sony A6400 is its refined design. While it maintains the same basic form factor as the A6000, there are subtle improvements that make it more comfortable to use. The build quality is excellent, with a magnesium alloy body that feels premium and durable.
I’ve shot with this camera in everything from studio environments to city streets, and while it lacks weather sealing, it has held up well in various conditions. The grip is slightly deeper than the A6000, providing a more secure hold during extended shooting sessions.
The control layout is well-thought-out, with a dedicated exposure compensation dial, customizable buttons, and a mode dial that includes memory recall options. The physical controls are well-placed and provide tactile feedback that makes shooting intuitive, even when looking through the viewfinder.
One design aspect I particularly appreciate is the improved viewfinder. With 2.36 million dots, it’s significantly sharper and brighter than the A6000’s viewfinder, making it easier to judge focus and composition.
Sensor and Image Quality
Where the Sony A6400 truly shines is in its image quality. While the 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor has only a slight resolution advantage over the A6000’s 24.3MP sensor, the image processing has been significantly improved.
During a recent landscape photography trip, I was impressed by the level of detail the camera could capture, especially in shadow and highlight areas. The dynamic range is impressive, with approximately 13 stops of latitude. I’ve been able to recover significant shadow and highlight detail in post-processing that would have been lost with the A6000.
The color science is excellent, with the Creative Look profiles producing beautiful JPEGs straight out of camera. One area where the A6400 really shines is in high-ISO performance. I’ve tested it in dimly lit environments where the A6000 would struggle, and the A6400 consistently delivers cleaner files with less noise, even at ISO 6400 and above.
Autofocus Performance
The Sony A6400’s autofocus system is one of its standout features. With 425 phase-detection AF points covering approximately 84% of the frame, it’s a significant improvement over the A6000’s 179 points.
What impressed me most during testing was the Real-time Eye AF. During a recent portrait session, I found the camera could reliably detect and track the subject’s eye, even when they were moving or turning away from the camera. This resulted in a higher percentage of sharp images with precise focus on the eyes, which is crucial for portrait photography.
The low-light autofocus performance is also noteworthy. I’ve tested it in near-darkness where the A6000 would give up completely, and the A6400 consistently locked onto subjects with minimal hunting. This reliability makes it an excellent choice for event photographers who work in variable lighting conditions.
Video Capabilities
This is where the Sony A6400 truly separates itself from the A6000. It’s a hybrid powerhouse with professional-level video capabilities that make it a viable option for serious videographers and content creators.
The A6400 can record 4K video at up to 30p with minimal crop, with options for S-Log2 and S-Log3 gamma profiles for increased dynamic range in post-production. The quality is excellent, with good detail retention and excellent color rendition.
One of the standout video features of the A6400 is its advanced autofocus during video recording. The Real-time Eye AF and subject tracking work exceptionally well, providing smooth and accurate focus transitions that make it ideal for run-and-gun video work.
The A6400 also offers a range of video-focused features, including:
- microphone jack for external audio
- HDMI output for external recording
- Zebra patterns for exposure control
- Focus peaking for precise manual focus
- Slow and Quick motion for creative effects
For photographers who split their time between stills and video, the A6400’s video capabilities make it the more versatile choice.
Battery Life
The Sony A6400 uses the NP-FW50 battery, the same as the A6000. Sony rates it at approximately 360 shots per charge, which I found to be accurate in real-world use. During a full day of event photography, I typically need to carry a spare battery to get through the day.
For extended shooting sessions, the option to use a battery grip (VG-C3EM) is available, which not only extends battery life but also improves handling for those with larger hands.
Special Features and Technology
The Sony A6400 incorporates several advanced technologies that enhance its capabilities:
- Real-time Eye AF for humans and animals
- Real-time Tracking for moving subjects
- 4K video recording with S-Log profiles
- Improved high-ISO performance
- Silent shooting mode
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- USB-C charging and power delivery
- Touchscreen functionality with touch focus and touch shutter
The Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking features are particularly noteworthy, allowing the camera to maintain focus on moving subjects with remarkable accuracy. These features make the A6400 an excellent choice for sports and wildlife photography.
Pros and Cons of the Sony A6400
Pros:
- Advanced autofocus with Real-time Eye AF and tracking
- 4K video recording with S-Log profiles
- Improved high-ISO performance
- Higher resolution viewfinder
- Touchscreen functionality
- More compact and lightweight than many competitors
- Excellent image quality with good dynamic range
Cons:
- No weather sealing
- Limited battery life
- Single SD card slot
- No in-body image stabilization
- More expensive than the A6000
- Menu system can be complex for beginners
Sony A6000: The Revolutionary Classic
When Sony released the A6000 in 2014, it revolutionized the mirrorless camera market. After extensive use across various photography projects, I can confirm that even years after its release, it remains a capable camera that delivers excellent results.
Design and Ergonomics
The Sony A6000 features a compact and lightweight design that was groundbreaking at the time of its release. The build quality is good, with a combination of metal and high-quality plastics that feel solid despite the camera’s light weight.
I’ve shot with this camera in various environments, and while it lacks weather sealing, it has held up well over time. The grip is shallower than the A6400’s, which can make it less comfortable during extended shooting sessions, especially for those with larger hands.
The control layout is straightforward, with a dedicated exposure compensation dial, customizable buttons, and a mode dial. The physical controls are well-placed, though the menu system is less intuitive than the A6400’s.
One design aspect that was impressive at the time of release is the electronic viewfinder. With 1.44 million dots, it was one of the better EVFs in its class, though it now feels dated compared to the A6400’s viewfinder.
Sensor and Image Quality
While the Sony A6000’s 24.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor is slightly higher resolution than the A6400’s 24.2MP sensor, the image processing is less advanced. Despite this, the camera still delivers excellent image quality that holds up well even by today’s standards.
During my testing, I found the A6000’s images to have good detail and dynamic range, though not quite matching the A6400’s performance in challenging lighting conditions. The color science is excellent, with the Creative Style profiles producing pleasing JPEGs straight out of camera.
The high-ISO performance is respectable for its time, with clean files at ISO values up to 3200, and usable results at higher settings. However, it doesn’t quite match the A6400’s performance at higher ISO settings, showing more noise and less detail in low-light situations.
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Autofocus Performance
The Sony A6000’s autofocus system was groundbreaking at the time of its release, with 179 phase-detection AF points covering approximately 92% of the frame. While not as extensive as the A6400’s system, it’s still highly effective in most situations.
During portrait sessions, I found the autofocus to be reliable and accurate in good lighting conditions. The tracking performance is good for moderately moving subjects, though it may struggle with very fast action compared to the A6400.
One limitation of the A6000’s autofocus system is the lack of Eye AF. While it can detect faces, it doesn’t have the sophisticated eye-tracking capabilities of the A6400, which can result in less precise focus on the eyes in portrait photography.
The low-light autofocus performance is decent for its time, but it can struggle in very dim conditions where the A6400 would still perform well.
Video Capabilities
The Sony A6000’s video capabilities were respectable at the time of its release, but they now feel dated compared to the A6400. It can record Full HD video at up to 60p, but it lacks 4K recording capability.
The quality is good for 1080p video, with decent detail retention and excellent color rendition. However, the autofocus during video recording is less sophisticated than the A6400’s, with more hunting and less smooth transitions.
The A6000 offers basic video features, including:
- microphone jack for external audio
- HDMI output for external recording
- Focus peaking for precise manual focus
For photographers who occasionally need video capabilities, the A6000 is sufficient. However, for those who split their time between stills and video or need higher quality video, the A6400 is the better choice.
Battery Life
The Sony A6000 uses the same NP-FW50 battery as the A6400. Sony rates it at approximately 360 shots per charge, which I found to be accurate in real-world use. During a full day of photography, I typically need to carry a spare battery to get through the day.
For extended shooting sessions, the option to use a battery grip (VG-C3EM) is available, which not only extends battery life but also improves handling for those with larger hands.
Special Features and Technology
The Sony A6000 incorporates several technologies that were advanced at the time of its release:
- 179 phase-detection AF points
- 11 fps continuous shooting
- Wi-Fi connectivity with NFC
- Object Tracking AF
- Clear Image Zoom
- Smile Shutter
- Face Detection
While these features were impressive in 2014, many have been improved upon in the A6400. The Object Tracking AF, for example, is less sophisticated than the A6400’s Real-time Tracking, and the camera lacks the advanced Eye AF capabilities of the newer model.
Pros and Cons of the Sony A6000
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good image quality for its price
- Fast continuous shooting (11 fps)
- Compatible with wide range of E-mount lenses
- Good battery life for its size
- Intuitive controls for beginners
Cons:
- Dated autofocus system compared to A6400
- No 4K video recording
- Lower resolution viewfinder
- No Eye AF
- Less effective high-ISO performance
- No touchscreen functionality
- Single SD card slot
Head-to-Head Comparison: Real-World Performance
Numbers and specifications only tell part of the story. To truly understand the differences between these two cameras, I put them through their paces in real-world shooting scenarios. Here’s what I discovered:
Portrait Photography
For portrait photography, the Sony A6400 has a clear advantage due to its advanced autofocus system. During a recent portrait session, I found the A6400’s Real-time Eye AF remarkably effective, maintaining focus on the subject’s eye even when they were moving or turning away from the camera.
The A6000, while capable of good portraits, lacks the sophisticated eye-tracking capabilities of the A6400. I found myself missing more shots with the A6000, especially when subjects were moving or when shooting with wide apertures where precise focus is critical.
The A6400’s improved high-ISO performance also makes it better for indoor portrait photography where lighting may be limited. The cleaner images at higher ISO settings provide more flexibility in post-processing.
Sports and Action Photography
For sports and action photography, both cameras have their strengths, but with different considerations. The Sony A6400’s advanced autofocus system with Real-time Tracking gives it a significant advantage for tracking fast-moving subjects.
During a recent soccer match, I found the A6400’s Real-time Tracking remarkably effective at following players as they moved across the field. The camera maintained focus even when subjects were moving erratically or when other players temporarily obstructed the view.
The A6000, while capable of good action photography, lacks the sophisticated tracking capabilities of the A6400. I found myself missing more shots with the A6000, especially when subjects were moving quickly or unpredictably.
However, both cameras offer the same 11 fps continuous shooting speed, so for capturing sequences of action, they perform similarly in that regard.
Landscape Photography
For landscape photography, both cameras perform well, but with different considerations. The Sony A6400’s improved dynamic range and high-ISO performance give it a slight advantage in challenging lighting conditions.
During a recent landscape photography trip, I found the A6400’s dynamic range particularly useful for scenes with high contrast between bright skies and dark foregrounds. The ability to recover shadow and highlight detail in post-processing gave me more flexibility when processing these challenging scenes.
The A6000 still produces excellent landscape images, with good detail and color rendition. However, it doesn’t quite match the A6400’s performance in challenging lighting conditions, showing slightly less dynamic range and more noise at higher ISO settings.
Street Photography
For street photography, both cameras have their strengths, but with different considerations. The Sony A6000’s more compact size and lighter weight make it slightly more discreet and comfortable to carry for long periods.
During a recent street photography session in a busy city, I appreciated the A6000’s smaller profile, which made it less conspicuous when shooting candid images. The lighter weight also made it more comfortable to carry all day without fatigue.
However, the Sony A6400’s advanced autofocus system with Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking makes it more effective for capturing spontaneous moments with precise focus. I found myself getting more keepers with the A6400, especially when shooting quickly changing scenes.
Video Production
For video production, the Sony A6400 is the clear winner. Its 4K recording capability, advanced autofocus during video, and S-Log profiles make it a much more capable tool for serious video work.
During a recent documentary project, I relied heavily on the A6400’s video capabilities. The 4K resolution provided excellent detail, while the Real-time Eye AF and subject tracking provided smooth and accurate focus transitions that would have been difficult to achieve with the A6000.
The A6000, while capable of good quality 1080p video, lacks the resolution and advanced features of the A6400. The autofocus during video recording is also less sophisticated, with more hunting and less smooth transitions.
Image Quality Deep Dive
Let’s take a closer look at the specific image quality characteristics that set these cameras apart.
Resolution and Detail
While both cameras have similar resolution (24.2MP for the A6400 vs 24.3MP for the A6000), there are differences in how they capture detail:
- The A6400’s newer processor provides slightly better detail retention, especially at higher ISO settings.
- The A6000’s sensor produces good detail, but with slightly less sharpness at the pixel level.
- The A6400’s improved noise reduction algorithms preserve more detail while reducing noise.
- In practical terms, both cameras produce excellent image quality suitable for most applications, with the differences being most noticeable in large prints or when viewing files at 100%.
Dynamic Range
Both cameras offer good dynamic range, but with some differences:
- The A6400 provides slightly better dynamic range, especially in shadow recovery.
- The A6000 still offers impressive dynamic range for its age, with approximately 12 stops of latitude.
- Both cameras handle highlight recovery well, with the A6400 having a slight edge.
- The A6400’s newer processor provides better noise reduction in recovered shadows.
In real-world shooting, both cameras perform well in most lighting conditions. During a recent sunset shoot, I was able to recover significant shadow detail in both cameras’ files, with the A6400 showing a slight advantage in the deepest shadows.
Low-Light Performance
Low-light performance is a crucial consideration for many photographers, and both cameras excel in this area, but with different strengths:
- The A6400 provides better high-ISO performance, with cleaner files at ISO 3200 and above.
- The A6000 shows more noise at higher ISO settings, but still performs well up to ISO 3200.
- The A6400’s newer sensor and processor provide better signal-to-noise ratio.
- The A6000’s higher resolution can reveal more noise at the pixel level, but this is less apparent at normal viewing sizes.
During my testing in low-light conditions, I found the A6400 produced cleaner files at ISO 3200 and above, while both cameras performed similarly at lower ISO settings.
Color Science
Both cameras benefit from Sony’s excellent color science, but with some subtle differences:
- The A6400’s newer processor provides slightly better color accuracy and differentiation.
- The A6000’s color science is still excellent, with the same Creative Style profiles that have made Sony famous.
- Both cameras offer excellent skin tone reproduction, with the A6400 showing slightly more accurate rendering in challenging lighting.
- The A6400’s newer processor provides better color differentiation in subtle tones.
In real-world shooting, both cameras produce beautiful colors straight out of camera, with the A6400 showing a slight advantage in color accuracy and the ability to retain more color information at higher ISO settings.
Price and Value Analysis
The price difference between these two cameras is significant, with the A6000 retailing for approximately $448 and the A6400 at around $898. That’s a difference of $450, which may influence your decision depending on your budget and needs.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
When considering the value proposition, it’s important to think about your specific needs:
- If you need advanced autofocus, 4K video, and better low-light performance, the A6400 is worth the additional investment.
- If you’re on a tight budget and primarily shoot in good lighting conditions, the A6000 offers exceptional value.
- For portrait and action photographers, the A6400’s advanced autofocus and Eye AF justify its higher price.
- For casual photographers who don’t need advanced features, the A6000 delivers excellent performance for less than half the price.
Resale Value Considerations
Both cameras hold their value reasonably well, but the A6400, being a newer model, will likely maintain a higher percentage of its original value for longer. However, the A6000’s position as an affordable entry-level camera also supports good resale value.
If you’re the type of photographer who upgrades gear frequently, this resale value could help offset some of the initial price difference over time.
Long-Term Investment
When viewed as a long-term investment, both cameras are solid choices. The A6400’s newer technology suggests it may have a longer useful life, especially as software updates continue to enhance its capabilities. The A6000, while older, is built to the same high standards and should provide years of reliable service with proper care.
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Who Should Choose the Sony A6400?
Based on my extensive testing and real-world use, the Sony A6400 is the ideal choice for:
Portrait Photographers
If portrait photography is your focus, the Sony A6400’s Real-time Eye AF makes it the better choice. The ability to accurately focus on the subject’s eye, even when they’re moving or turning away from the camera, results in stunning portraits with precise focus.
During a recent portrait session, I relied on the A6400’s Eye AF to capture critical moments, and it never missed a beat. The improved high-ISO performance also allowed me to shoot in challenging lighting conditions without sacrificing image quality.
Sports and Action Photographers
If sports or action photography is your passion, the Sony A6400’s Real-time Tracking and fast continuous shooting make it the better choice. The ability to track fast-moving subjects accurately can make the difference between getting the shot or missing it.
During a recent sports event, I found the A6400’s Real-time Tracking remarkably effective at following players as they moved across the field. The camera maintained focus even when subjects were moving erratically or when other players temporarily obstructed the view.
Video Enthusiasts
If video is an important part of your photography, the Sony A6400 is the clear winner. Its 4K recording capability, advanced autofocus during video, and S-Log profiles make it a much more capable tool for serious video work.
I found the A6400’s video capabilities particularly valuable during a recent documentary project. The 4K resolution provided excellent detail, while the Real-time Eye AF and subject tracking provided smooth and accurate focus transitions that would have been difficult to achieve with the A6000.
Photographers Who Value Advanced Autofocus
If you prioritize autofocus performance, especially for moving subjects, the Sony A6400’s advanced autofocus system with Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking makes it the better choice. The ability to accurately track and focus on moving subjects can make the difference between getting the shot or missing it.
Who Should Choose the Sony A6000?
The Sony A6000 is the ideal choice for:
Budget-Conscious Photographers
If you’re working with a limited budget but still want a high-quality mirrorless camera, the Sony A6000 offers exceptional value. It delivers most of the essential features of the A6400 at less than half the price, making it one of the best values in the mirrorless camera market.
Beginner Photographers
If you’re new to photography and want a camera that’s easy to learn and use, the Sony A6000 is the better choice. Its straightforward controls and simpler menu system make it more accessible for beginners who might be overwhelmed by the A6400’s more advanced features.
Travel Photographers
If travel photography is your passion, the Sony A6000’s more compact size and lighter weight make it the better choice. During a recent trip to Europe, I appreciated the A6000’s smaller size, which made it easier to carry all day without fatigue.
Casual Photographers
If you’re a casual photographer who primarily shoots in good lighting conditions and doesn’t need advanced features like 4K video or sophisticated autofocus, the Sony A6000 is more than sufficient. It delivers excellent image quality for everyday photography at a fraction of the cost of the A6400.
User Experiences and Case Studies
To provide a well-rounded perspective, I reached out to several photographers who have extensive experience with both cameras. Here’s what they shared:
Case Study: Alex Morgan, Portrait Photographer
Alex specializes in portrait photography and upgraded from the A6000 to the A6400. “As a portrait photographer, the A6400’s Real-time Eye AF is a game-changer. I can confidently shoot wide open at f/1.8, knowing that the camera will nail focus on the subject’s eye every time. The improved high-ISO performance also allows me to shoot in more challenging lighting conditions without sacrificing image quality. While the A6000 served me well, the A6400’s autofocus capabilities have significantly improved my hit rate and overall image quality.”
Case Study: Sarah Chen, Travel Photographer
Sarah specializes in travel photography and chose the A6000 after careful consideration. “As a travel photographer, portability and value are my top priorities. The A6000 delivers excellent image quality in a package that’s barely noticeable in my bag. I’ve shot with it everywhere from bustling cities to remote mountain villages, and it’s never let me down. While I sometimes envy the A6400’s advanced features, the A6000’s combination of performance, portability, and value makes it the perfect choice for my needs.”
Case Study: Michael Torres, Sports Photographer
Michael runs a successful sports photography business and uses both cameras. “I use the A6400 for professional sports assignments where I need the best possible autofocus performance. The Real-time Tracking is invaluable for tracking fast-moving athletes across the field. For personal projects and when I’m traveling light, I still use the A6000, which delivers excellent results for its size and price. Having both cameras gives me the best of both worlds—professional performance when I need it, and portability and value when that’s more important.”
Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Camera
Whether you choose the Sony A6400 or A6000, these tips will help you get the most out of your investment:
Autofocus Techniques
Both cameras benefit from proper autofocus setup:
- For the A6400, customize the autofocus settings to take advantage of the Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking features.
- For the A6000, use the Lock-on AF feature for tracking moving subjects.
- Take advantage of the customizable buttons to quickly access autofocus settings.
- For both cameras, use back-button focus for more control over autofocus activation.
Battery Life Optimization
For both cameras, battery life is a common concern:
- Carry at least one spare battery for extended shooting sessions.
- Use the electronic viewfinder sparingly when battery life is a concern.
- Turn off image stabilization when using a tripod to conserve power.
- Use airplane mode when you don’t need connectivity features.
Video Best Practices
For videographers using these cameras:
- For the A6400, take advantage of the 4K recording and S-Log profiles for maximum dynamic range.
- For the A6000, use the Focus Magnifier feature for precise manual focus.
- Use an external microphone for better audio quality, especially when recording dialogue.
- Use a tripod or stabilizer for smoother video footage, especially when walking or panning.
Maximizing Image Quality
Both cameras can produce exceptional images with proper technique:
- Shoot in RAW format for maximum flexibility in post-processing.
- Use the Creative Style/Creative Look settings creatively, and don’t be afraid to customize them to your taste.
- For the A6400, take advantage of the improved dynamic range by exposing to the right (ETTR) in high-contrast scenes.
- For both cameras, use quality lenses to get the most out of the sensors.
FAQ: Sony A6400 vs A6000
Is the Sony A6400 worth the extra money over the A6000?
It depends on your needs. If you need advanced autofocus, 4K video, and better low-light performance, the A6400 is worth the additional investment. For casual photographers on a budget, the A6000 offers exceptional value at less than half the price.
Which camera has better autofocus?
The Sony A6400 has a significantly better autofocus system with 425 phase-detection AF points (compared to the A6000’s 179 points), Real-time Eye AF, and Real-time Tracking. These features make it much more effective for portrait, sports, and action photography.
Does the Sony A6400’s full-frame sensor make a significant difference?
Neither camera has a full-frame sensor; both use APS-C sensors. The A6400 has a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, while the A6000 has a 24.3MP APS-C sensor. The difference in image quality comes from the A6400’s newer processor and improved image processing, not sensor size.
Which camera is better for video?
The Sony A6400 is significantly better for video work, with 4K recording capability, S-Log profiles for increased dynamic range, and advanced autofocus during video recording. The A6000 is limited to 1080p video and lacks the advanced video features of the A6400.
How significant is the difference in battery life?
Both cameras use the same NP-FW50 battery and have similar battery life ratings (approximately 360 shots per charge). In real-world use, there’s no significant difference in battery life between the two cameras.
Can I use my existing E-mount lenses with both cameras?
Yes, both cameras use Sony’s E-mount, so all existing E-mount lenses are compatible with both bodies. This makes it easy to upgrade from the A6000 to the A6400 without needing to invest in new lenses.
Which camera is better for beginners?
The Sony A6000 is generally better for beginners due to its more affordable price point, simpler controls, and more straightforward menu system. The A6400’s advanced features can be overwhelming for beginners who are still learning the basics of photography.
How do the viewfinders compare?
The Sony A6400 has a significantly better viewfinder with 2.36 million dots compared to the A6000’s 1.44 million dots. The A6400’s viewfinder is sharper, brighter, and provides a better viewing experience, especially when judging focus and composition.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
After extensively testing both the Sony A6400 and A6000 in a variety of real-world scenarios, I can confidently say that both are excellent cameras that will serve photographers well. The right choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, shooting style, and budget.
The Sony A6400 is the ideal choice for photographers who need advanced autofocus, 4K video, and better low-light performance. It’s particularly well-suited for portrait, sports, and action photography where speed and accuracy are crucial. While it comes with a higher price tag, its advanced features and capabilities justify the investment for serious photographers.
The Sony A6000 remains an excellent choice for budget-conscious photographers, beginners, and those who prioritize portability and value. It delivers excellent image quality and performance for its price, making it one of the best values in the mirrorless camera market.
Whichever you choose, you’re getting a high-quality camera that will elevate your photography and serve you well for years to come. Both cameras represent Sony’s commitment to excellence and are worthy investments for serious photographers.
If you found this comparison helpful, be sure to bookmark this page for future reference as I’ll be updating it regularly with new information and insights. For more in-depth reviews of photography equipment and techniques, check out my other articles on camera selection and creative photography.
Ready to upgrade your photography kit with a premium Sony camera? Both the Sony A6400 and A6000 are available through authorized dealers, who can provide hands-on demonstrations to help you make your final decision.