The Best Sony Cameras in 2022
The Best Sony Cameras in 2022 September 2, 2022
Picking the best Sony cameras can be a daunting task, because there’s simply so much choice. Sony has done an incredible job of filling out its range of digital cameras, from beginner-friendly budget models, to some of the most sophisticated professional tools in the industry. This guide is designed to help you navigate the range of find the camera that’s right for you.
We’ve gone through the entire Sony range and chosen the best cameras for different users and applications. We’ve made sure to include options at different price points, and have mixed in older and newer cameras in accordance with which ones we think offer the best value for money. We have a useful guide to DSLR vs mirrorless if you’re still choosing camera type. And, once you’ve picked your camera, don’t forget to check out the best Sony E-mount lenses.
How to choose the best Sony camera
In our full list of Sony cameras, we’ve got compact cameras and mirrorless cameras, and they come with different sized sensors. How to choose the right one?
It all depends on your budget, as well as what you’re planning to use the camera for. Compact cameras, with fixed lenses, prioritise portability and simplicity over versatility. Mirrorless cameras, meanwhile, allow you to change lenses, which opens up your options, but also incurs more expense.
There’s also the question of sensor size. Sony compact cameras sport 1-inch sensors, while its mirrorless cameras will use the larger APS-C (the A6XXX series) or larger still full-frame (the flagship Alpha models). Which is best? Well, a larger sensor confers all sorts of advantages, like better low light performance and dynamic range, but it also requires a larger, more expensive camera to wield. If you need help getting your head around it, Amy Davies has written a useful APS-C vs full-frame guide.
Otherwise, it’s best to look at the cameras’ headline features and figure out which are most important to you and your shooting priorities. Want to capture wildlife images? Look for fast burst speeds and sophisticated autofocus systems. If you’re looking to add video to your repertoire as well as stills, you’ll want to look at the maximum video resolution and frame rate the camera can capture.
So, let’s get stuck in!
Here are our picks of the best Sony cameras:
Best Sony camera for photography: Sony A7 IV
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
33MP full-frame Exmor-R CMOS sensor
10 frames per second shooting
ISO 50-204,800 (extended)
4K 30p video recording
£2,400 / $2,499 body-only
The Sony A7 cameras have always been good for a bit of everything. While the A7R models focus on resolution, the A7S models on low-light video and the A9 models on speed, the A7 cameras have quietly gone about the business of being some of the best full-frame all-rounders on the market.
The Sony Alpha A7 IV is the best one yet, kicking it up a gear in response to increased competition from Canon and Nikon. This translates to a revamped 33MP sensor, with 11fps burst shooting and super-fast autofocus to play with, as well as handling improvements like a fully articulating LCD screen and a higher-resolution viewfinder.
The impressive range of full-frame E-mount lenses allows you to customise the system according to what you plan to shoot. For serious photographers, it’s one of the most fully-featured cameras you can buy right now without getting into ultra-pro territory. In our review, our verdict was that with the A7 IV, Sony ‘has produced a substantially improved camera that offers enough updates not only to tempt its existing users to upgrade, but also to turn the heads of DSLR users who might be considering making the transition to mirrorless.’
Pros
Excellent image quality
Intelligent, flexible autofocus
Articulated screen
Cons
AF system complex to configure
No in-camera Raw conversion
Best for: enthusiast photographers who want to shoot everything
Best Sony for wildlife and bird photography: Sony A1
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
50.1MP full-frame Exmor RS CMOS sensor
30 frames per second shooting
ISO 50-102,400 (extended)
8K 30p video recording
£6,500 / $6,500 body-only
So, speaking of ultra-pro territory – the Sony Alpha A1 is something truly special, and one of the most technologically advanced cameras ever made. It could have topped any of the categories on this list that don’t have the word “budget” anywhere near them, but we’ve picked it for bird and wildlife photography because of its frankly ridiculous ability to shoot at 30 frames per second, maintaining that full 50MP resolution, while adjusting focus and exposure between shots. This is basically cheat mode for wildlife photography.
Of course, the Sony A1 is designed for professionals, and costs more than almost any two other cameras on this list combined. If that’s out of your budget (fair), then we’d also recommend considering the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV. A bridge camera that pairs a 20.1MP 1-inch sensor with a 24-600mm (equivalent) f/2.4-4 lens, it has an incredibly capable autofocus system that consistently nails moving subjects. We had no choice but to give this camera the highest possible score in our review; as our Technical Editor Andy Westlake said, it’s ‘a truly remarkable technological tour de force.‘
Pros
Incredible burst speeds
Class-leading viewfinder
Excels at everything
Cons
Absurdly expensive
Best for: big-budget pros
Best Sony camera for beginners on a budget: Sony A6000
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
24.3MP APS-C HD CMOS sensor
11 frames per second shooting
ISO 100-25,600
Full HD 60p video recording
£419-499 with lens / around $650 with lens
This fantastic camera has been around since 2014, and the fact that it’s still one of the best mirrorless cameras for beginners is an indicator of how many things Sony got right with it. The Sony Alpha A6000 kicked off an entire series of APS-C mirrorless cameras for enthusiasts, and over the years its price has come down to the point where it’s one of the best budget cameras you can buy. There are also plenty of E-mount lenses designed specifically for APS-C cameras, so you won’t feel short-changed when it comes to the glass.
It’s amazing how many of the A6000’s specs are still competitive today. The autofocus system can acquire a subject in as little as 0.06 seconds, and the burst mode can manage 11fps – all of which is more than enough for speedy action photography. The only area where the A6000 has started to fall behind is video, as it pre-dates the 4K boom, and doesn’t have a mic jack.
In our review when the A6000 came out, we said, ‘Top-spec technology and a host of cutting-edge features may just see the Alpha 6000 mirror the longevity and success of its predecessor and keep it competitive in years to come.‘ Not to toot our own horns, but we called that one pretty well.
Pros
Fantastic value for money
Good burst speeds
Sleek, attractive design
Cons
Showing age in video
Best for: cash-conscious beginners and enthusiasts
Best Sony camera for vlogging: Sony A7C
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
24.2MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor
10 frames per second shooting
ISO 50-204,800 (extended)
4K 30p video recording
£1,900 body-only / $1,799 body-only
Sony loves small cameras, even when they’ve got big sensors. The Sony Alpha A7C is a relatively recent entry to the full-frame A7 line, and feels like an attempt to get back to basics, with a diminutive design and simple layout, and a lot of the choices make it ideal for vloggers.
It’s got a fully articulating screen, as well as mic and headphone sockets that are smartly positioned not to block the screen when it’s facing forwards. Its 4K 30p footage looks gorgeous, with good dynamic range thanks to the full-frame sensor.
In our review, we were impressed by the image quality the A7C offers, even if its tiny body sometimes made for an awkward handling experience. We recommended using it with small, compact FE-mount prime lenses to get the best out of it.
Pros
Full-frame in a portable body
Superb AF tracking
Consistent Raw quality
Cons
Small, awkward viewfinder
Diminutive size can make for awkward control
Best for: serious vloggers and aspiring YouTubers
Best Sony camera for travel vlogging: Sony ZV-E10
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
11 frames per second shooting
ISO 64-51,200 (extended)
4K 30p video recording
£680 / $700 body-only
Sony’s ZV series of cameras are expressly designed for vlogging, delivering a highly portable video setup. The Sony ZV-E10 is the first mirrorless camera in the series; like the A6000, it sports a 24MP APS-C sensor. It takes a lot of design cues from the first camera in the series, the Sony ZV-1 compact, but having the option to swap out E-mount lenses gives you a great deal more flexibility.
The ZV-E10 packs in a lot of vlogger-specific features. Its built-in 3-way capsule microphone gives it on-board audio recording chops that are head and shoulders above most consumer cameras. You can also attach an external mic if you prefer. While its video capabilities won’t match those of flagship cameras like the Sony A7S III, the ZV-E10 works brilliantly as an agile setup for run-and-gun vloggers. As we said in our review, ‘For content creators there are few creative things that the ZV-E10 won’t allow you to do.’
Pros
Fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen
Lightweight build
Good high-ISO performance
Cons
No viewfinder
No mode dial
Best for: vloggers who want an agile, portable rig
Best Sony for travel photography: Sony RX100 VI
At a glance:
Compact camera with 24-200mm equiv. f/2.8-4.5 lens
20.1MP 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor
24 frames per second shooting
ISO 125-12,800
4K 25p video recording
Around £849 / $1100
Though this isn’t the most recent Sony RX100 compact camera (that title belongs to the Mark VII), the price of this sixth iteration has come down enough since release that we think it’s the smarter buy for travel photographers. It’s got a much longer built-in lens than previous RX100 cameras, making it more versatile, and also packs in plenty of high-end features for a camera in this class. Having 24fps burst shooting with focus and exposure adjustment, up to a 233-shot JPEG buffer, is no small thing.
The little Sony RX100 VI is still pocketable, meaning it’s ideal for city breaks and hikes as it won’t add much weight to your bag. The pop-up viewfinder is a nice touch as well, and 4K video at 25p with full pixel readout is a useful thing to have in your back pocket. In our review we were consistently impressed by how much technology was packed into the RX100 VI’s tiny body, saying, ‘There’s no doubt that the Sony RX100 VI is an astounding technological feat.‘
Pros
Lens sharp throughout zoom range
Snappy autofocus
Pop-up viewfinder
Cons
Small body makes for tricky handling
Pricier than competitors
Best for: world-explorer photographers who travel light
Best Sony camera for streaming: Sony A6400
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
11 frames per second shooting
ISO 100-102,400 (extended)
4K 30p video recording
Around £899 /$899 body-only
If you want to set up a Sony camera for streaming, an APS-C mirrorless camera is a good bet, as they offer a solid suite of video features without the high price tag of the full-frame models. We recommend trying the Sony Alpha A6400 – it has plenty of features that are hugely useful for streaming, like its flip-up monitor, which has a video-friendly 16:9 aspect ratio.
You can stream via HDMI, or via USB with Sony’s Imaging Edge webcam software. The A6400 can record 4K at 30p, though the Full HD looks excellent, and is potentially the better choice for streaming. In our review, we also had a lot of praise for the A6400’s autofocus, which really is exceptional. ‘This really is a glimpse of the future,’ we said at the time. ‘Its ability to lock onto and track subjects is truly extraordinary.’
Pros
Flexible streaming options
16:9 rear screen
Well priced
Cons
No in-body stabilisation
Best for: at-home vloggers, streamers and YouTubers
Best Sony camera for sports photography: Sony A9 II
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
24MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor
20 frames per second shooting
ISO 50-204,800 (extended)
4K 30p video recording
£4,299 / £4,499 body-only
Sony shook up sports and action photography with its blisteringly fast A9, and the Sony Alpha A9 II is an even more impressive mirrorless camera. The A9 II is designed to be able to capture basically any subject, no matter how fast-moving – its ground-breaking autofocus system is capable of making up to 60 AF calculations per second, and it can shoot at up to 20fps with the electronic shutter, or 10fps with the mechanical. This means you’ve still got a competitive burst rate in play in situations where you might run the risk of encountering a banding effect due to the quality of the light.
The A9 II burst-shoots with no viewfinder blackout, meaning you can keep laser-focused on your subject. With this and the generous ISO range, it’s difficult to think of many other cameras that can match the A9 II for its ability to nail the shot in basically any situation.
Pros
Fast burst with no blackout
Good high-ISO performance
Incredible auofocus
Cons
Relatively expensive
Eclipsed at pro level by A1
Best for: sports pros
Best Sony for landscape photography: Sony A7R IV
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
61MP full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor
10 frames per second shooting
ISO 50-204,800 (extended)
4K 30p video recording
Around £3,199 / $3,000 body-only
With the A7R series, Sony has continually broken the boundaries of resolution for full-frame cameras. The Sony Alpha A7R IV is the latest and greatest; with a whopping 61 million pixels of resolution to play with, photographers can capture an astonishing level of detail. A slower shooting experience than other Sony cameras, it’s a perfect choice for landscape photographers.
The A7R IV captures images with fine gradation, and a 15-stop dynamic range if you use it at the low end of its ISO scale. Pair it with a high-quality, large-aperture prime lens from E-mount, and the results are nothing short of astonishing.
In our review, we said that ‘Sony has successfully created one of the finest high resolution full-frame mirrorless offerings on the market.’ And what’s more, if it’s too expensive for you, its release has seen the older A7R III’s street price take a tumble.
Pros
Class-leading image quality
Real-time Eye/Animal AF works in video
New weather seals
Cons
Very pricey
Creates big files
Best for: making large prints
Best Sony camera for video: Sony A1
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
51MP full-frame Exmor RS CMOS sensor
30 frames per second shooting
ISO 50-102,400 (extended)
8K 30p video recording
£6,500 / $6,500 body-only
Yep, it’s back. As we said earlier, the Sony Alpha A1 really could have topped practically any of these categories, but we elected to restrict it to just two – and it really is the best video camera Sony has made in the Alpha series.
It’s capable of capturing 8K 30p video – indeed, was the first mirrorless camera to be able to do so – and it will do that internally, with a bit rate of up to 400Mbps. Drop the resolution, and you’ve got 4K at a maximum frame rate of 120p.
A clever heat-management system keeps the camera cool and enables recording times of more than 30 minutes – none of those harsh recording limits that dogged the Canon EOS R5 on launch. You get 10-bit 4:2:2 colour, while S-Cinetone and S-log3 modes help retain maximum detail and dynamic range for the colour grade.
Pros
Generous video recording limits
Loads of video options
Near-faultless build quality
Cons
Again, price
Best for: uncompromising video shooters
Best Sony camera for low-light video: Sony A7S III
At a glance:
Mirrorless camera
12.1MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor
10 frames per second shooting
ISO 40-409,600 extended
4K 120p video recording
£3,799 / $3,499 body-only
It’s hard to overstate just how much the original Sony A7S changed the game with regard to low-light video. Its ability to effectively shoot in the dark at ISO levels as high as 409,600 redefined what was thought possible on a full-frame mirrorless camera. The A7S II further upped the ante by adding internal 4K recording, solidifying the series’ position as a tool for serious filmmakers.
The Sony Alpha A7S III does all the same things, and adds handling upgrades like a side-hinged fully articulated LCD, and a completely overhauled touch-sensitive interface. As awkward menu-fiddling has always been a bit of a bugbear with Sony cameras, this was a truly welcome addition. As we said in our review, ‘It doesn’t take long with the A7S III to be seriously impressed.’
With twin card slots that can both accept the super-fast CFExpress Type A format, as well as a back-illuminated sensor structure that enables lightning-fast readout speeds, this is a camera that’s more than capable of keeping up with even the most demanding video shoots.
Pros
Unbeaten low-light performance
Can record for ages
Superior autofocus in video
Cons
12MP too low for photographers
Best for: filmmakers and pro content creators
Found your perfect Sony camera? Why not have a look at some of our choices for the best Sony E mount lenses, or have a look at our other buying guides, and our latest reviews, for more ideas.
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Best Sony Camera 2021: Full-frame, APS-C and Compact
Over the last few years Sony have mounted a strong challenge to the dominant duo of Canon and Nikon, overtaking Nikon to become the number two player.
They've largely achieved this success by concentrating on the more premium, higher end of each market - whether that be full-frame, APS-C or compact - and delivering the most high-tech product that they possibly can at that time.
This is a common trait that applies to all of the Sony cameras in this list, from the breath-taking new Alpha 1 full-frame mirrorless, to the excellent A6100 APS-C model, to the niche Cyber-shot RX0 II action camera.
While Sony have largely focused their recent efforts on full-frame mirrorless, they certainly haven't forgotten their APS-C range or their compact line-up, offering a number of excellent options in all three categories.
All of that choice can be confusing, though, so we've compiled our definitive list of the very best Sony cameras that money can buy.
We've chosen six different models from Sony's full-frame range, three from their APS-C sensor line-up, and four of their Cyber-shot compacts - there really should be something here for everyone.
We've independently and expertly reviewed virtually every camera that Sony has released in the past 15 years, so rest assured that you can trust our recommendations.
What is the Best Sony Camera in 2021?
Here's our list of the best Sony cameras that you can buy in 2021:
Sony A1
Sony A9 II
Sony A7S III
Sony A7R IV
Sony A7 III
Sony A7C
Sony A6600
Sony A6400
Sony A6100
Sony ZV-1
Sony RX10 IV
Sony RX100 VII
Sony RX0 II
Best Sony Mirrorless Camera 2021
Sony don't make DSLR cameras, unlike their main rivals, Nikon and Canon, instead choosing to concentrate on developing an extensive range of Alpha-branded full-frame mirrorless cameras.
This has resulted in them being the number one full-frame mirrorless camera manufacturer for a long time now, although they've recently faced some stiff competition from the likes of Canon's EOS R system and Nikon's Z-series.
Sony make a full-frame camera for seemingly every market niche - the A7R for landscapes, A9 for sports, A7S for video, A7 for all-round, and the A7C as a super-compact option.
And in January 2021 they launched the flagship Alpha 1, a stunning camera that takes all the best features from the other Alpha series models and combines them into one 8K, 50 megapixel monster.
It's not all about full-frame however - Sony also make a popular APS-C sensor range of mirrorless models, three of which we've included in this guide.
Sony A1
The One could be the only camera that you'll ever need
Price
$$$$$
Key Specs
50 megapixel full-frame sensor
8K video
5-axis IBIS
30fps burst shooting
Bird-eye AF
Likes
8K video with no overheating
Amazingly fast burst shooting with no blackout
High resolution sensor
Dislikes
That price-tag!
Sony have put all of their camera eggs into one basket and released the cutting-edge, flagship Alpha 1.
They've gone all-out to produce one camera that really can do it all - landscapes, sports, video, studio - you name it.
It has a 50 megapixel stacked, back-side illuminated Exmor R sensor which delivers an impressive 15 stops of dynamic range.
With 8K video on-board, the Sony A1 is future-proofed for all your movie-making needs, especially as there are no gotchas with it overheating.
The super-fast 30fps burst shooting mode should be more than fast enough to capture that decisive moment.
Bird Eye-AF is brand new to the A1 and the entire Sony Alpha range, a feature that should please wildlife photographers.
All of this latest technology does come at a high price though - the Sony Alpha 1 is by far the most expensive model in this list.
Our verdict: Alpha 1 can shoot at a mind-boggling 30fps with full AF and AE tracking using its electronic shutter thanks to its pair of new Bionz XR processors - yes, you read that right, 50 megapixel JPEG and Raw images at 30fps!"
Read our expert Sony A1 Review
Sony A9 II
A great camera for sports photography and photojournalism
Price
$$$$
Key Specs
24 megapixel full-frame sensor
4K/30p video
5-axis IBIS
20fps burst shooting
Weather-sealed
Likes
20fps continuous shooting with no blackout
Lots of connectivity options
Dislikes
Maybe not enough resolution for some
High price for a specialist camera
Until the Alpha 1 arrived, the A9 II was the fastest shooting camera in the Sony range.
Capable of 20fps burst shooting with no viewfinder blackout between each image and a large buffer, this is a great camera for sports, action and wildlife photographers.
The A9 Mark II offers 43 improvements when compared to the original A9 model, turning an already great camera into an essential one.
It is faster, more refined, more durable and more versatile than the two-year-old A9 camera that it succeeds.
Despite the recent introduction of the A1, the A9 II is still a compelling option if your subject never stays still.
Our verdict: new Sony A9 II is a compelling option for pro users, with Sony introducing a wide range of relatively minor, but collectively major, improvements to a flagship camera that was already a real speed demon."
Read our expert Sony A9 II Review
Sony A7S III
Sony's dedicated 4K camera is a must-have for videographers
Price
$$$$
Key Specs
12 megapixel full-frame sensor
4K/120p video recording
9.44 million dot EVF
Articulated LCD screen
10fps burst shooting
Likes
Class-leading 4K video
Excellent low-light performance
Dislikes
Not enough resolution for some
More suited to video than stills
If video is your main focus and you don't need the Alpha 1's 8K option, the A7S III is the best Sony camera to choose.
With a modest 12 megapixel back-illuminated sensor that's been developed specifically for shooting 4K video, the A7S III is a low-light beast.
It's also a highly capable low-light and action shooter for still photography if you don't mind the physical limitations of the low-resolution sensor.
The A7S III has a class-leading electronic viewfinder and a vari-angle LCD screen that help make it a joy to use.
Our verdict: "Sony has been refreshingly single-minded on delivering a product that truly delivers in real world experience instead of flouting hollow headline grabbing numbers. Yes it's 'only' 4K. Yes, it 'only' has 12.1MP. But within those parameters, you'll be hard pressed to find a better camera than the Sony Alpha 7S III."
Read our expert Sony A7S III Review
Sony A7R IV
The highest resolution Alpha camera is a landscape loving stunner
Price
$$$$
Key Specs
61 megapixel full-frame sensor
4K/30p video recording
Pixel Shift Multi Shooting mode
5.76 million dot EVF
10fps burst shooting
Likes
Incredible amounts of detail on offer
Fast burst shooting for so many megapixels
Dislikes
Lack of touch-screen controls
No 60p video recording
This is the best Sony Alpha camera for landscape and studio photographers who want the most resolution that money can buy.
With a huge 61 megapixel sensor, it's also one of the highest resolution 35mm cameras currently available.
The A7R IV is a surprisingly versatile camera, with 10fps burst shooting and a great AF system broadening its appeal to encompass sports and wildlife photographers.
It can even record 4K video too, although it's limited to 30 frames per second and 8-bit quality.
Overall, though, the ability to shoot 61 megapixel images at 10fps with real-time AF tracking and the option of 4K video shouldn't be underestimated!
Our verdict: new Sony Alpha A7R IV offers a compelling blend of out-and-out resolution, surprising speed and enhanced handling that widens its appeal beyond just portrait, landscape and architecture photographers."
Read our expert Sony A7R IV Review
Sony A7 III
The oldest Alpha full-frame camera here, but still a great one
Price
$$$
Key Specs
24 megapixel full-frame sensor
4K/30p video recording
Tilting LCD monitor
10fps burst shooting
Weather-proof
Likes
Far from being a "basic" model
Aggressively priced
Dislikes
Due for replacement soon
No 60p or 10-bit video recording
If you're tempted by the one of the other high-end Alpha models but can't afford them, the A7 III might be the camera that you actually end up buying.
Most people don't need the sheer speed of the A9, the resolution of the A7R, or the low-light capabilities of the A7S, which is where the A7 III enters the picture.
Modestly billed by Sony as being the "basic" model in the range, the A7 III is far from being basic- this is the best-priced, best all-round Alpha camera that will more than satisfy most users.
It offers a winning combination of an amazing AF system, 10fps continuous shooting speed, sensible 24-megapixel resolution, 4K video and excellent low-light performance.
The only downside for the A7 III is that it's due for replacement soon! (good news for you though)
Our verdict: "The Sony A7 III is quite simply the best camera available at its price-point. It's good enough to tempt some people to stretch their budget further, and even good enough for some to save money by not having to look higher up the range."
Read our expert Sony A7 III Review
Sony A7C
This is the smallest and lightest full-frame Sony camera
Price
$$$
Key Specs
24 megapixel full-frame sensor
4K/30p video recording
180-degree tilting LCD monitor
10fps burst shooting
Weather-proof
Likes
Amazingly small for full-frame
Great vlogging potential
Dislikes
Out-dated handling and specification
No 60p or 10-bit video recording
Although the A7C has a few flaws, we've included it primarily because it's so small, light and compact.
It essentially combines the specs of the full-frame A7 III with the size of the APS-C A6600 to create an impossibly tiny full-frame camera.
Sony have somehow squeezed a full-frame sensor, an IBIS unit and a new flip-out screen into a body that's only slightly bigger and heavier than the A6600.
That does also lead to some handling issues, though, with too many missing dials and buttons to make for a great user experience.
Sony are also being a little over-ambitious with the A7C's price-tag and positioning, placing it above the A7 III.
Our verdict: "Sony is attempting to reach out to a new, younger audience of vloggers and content creators with the launch of the A7C, many of whom are simply put-off by the sheer size and weight of current full-frame cameras."
Read our expert Sony A7C Review
Sony A6600
The flagship APS-C camera incorporates full-frame features
Price
$$$
Key Specs
24 megapixel APS-C sensor
4K/30p video recording
180-degree tilting LCD monitor
11fps burst shooting
Weather-proof
Likes
Built-in image stabilisation
Excellent battery life
Dislikes
Expensive for an APS-C sensor camera
No UHS-II card support
The A6600 is the most well-appointed model in Sony's extensive range of APS-C sensor cameras, sitting at the top of the range.
It incorporates quite a lot of features from the more expensive full-frame Alphas, including mic and headphone ports, built-in image stabilisation, eye-detection in movies, and unlimited video recording.
The Alpha 6600 continues to use the very familiar handling and control layout of all previous A6000-series cameras - there are very few surprises here.
It is quite a bit more expensive than the A6400, though, without offering quite enough to justify the hike in price, so unless you really need A6600's IBIS system, longer battery life and headphone jack, the A6400 is a more sensible choice.
Our verdict: "The new flagship A6600 begs, borrows and steals features from further down Sony's extensive range of APS-C models and also further up from the A7 full-frame cameras..."
Read our expert Sony A6600 Review
Sony A6400
24 megapixels and 4K video for under £$1000
Price
$$
Key Specs
24 megapixel APS-C sensor
4K/30p video recording
180-degree tilting LCD monitor
11fps burst shooting
Weather-proof
Likes
Great AF system
180-degree LCD screen for vlogging
Dislikes
No built-in image stabilisation
No UHS-II card support
The A6400 is Sony's sub-£$1000 interchangeable camera, and is well-specced enough to be a more sensible choice than the flagship A6600.
At the time of launch in 2019, it had the best auto-focusing that Sony offered on any of their cameras, including the much more expensive full-frame models. That's no longer true today, but it's still a great system.
It has a 180-degree LCD screen that's perfect for vlogging, as is the 4K/30p video with no limit on the actual recording length.
It does have a few weaknesses - the design is rather outdated and there's no built-in image stabilisation system or headphone socket - but overall the A6400 is the APS-C sensor camera that we'd choose in the Sony range.
Our verdict: continuous AF system on the A6400 is simply the best that we've ever used, on any camera, regardless of whether you're a professional user shooting sports or a more casual user trying to get better pictures of your erratically moving kids."
Read our expert Sony A6400 Review
Sony A6100
The cheapest A6000-series camera is a veritable steal
Price
$$
Key Specs
24 megapixel APS-C sensor
4K/30p video recording
180-degree tilting LCD monitor
11fps burst shooting
OLED viewfinder
Likes
Great AF system
180-degree LCD screen for vlogging
Dislikes
No built-in image stabilisation
No UHS-II card support
It might currently be the cheapest A6000-series camera (with the exception of the ancient A6000 model itself), but the A6100 is also one of the best.
It gains a lot of cutting-edge functionality from the more expensive, sophisticated models, including the amazing autofocus system from the range-topping A6600.
With exactly the same 24.2 megapixel sensor and processor onboard as the A660o, you'd be hard-pressed to tell any difference between them in terms of image quality.
The A6100 is also great for vlogging thanks to its flippable screen, 4K/30p quality, no limit on the actual recording length, built-in MIC port and that fantastic AF system.
Our verdict: "The new Sony A6100 is a much more significant upgrade from the incredibly popular A6000 than the A6400 and A6600 were from the A6300 and A6500 respectively, gaining a lot of cutting-edge functionality from the more expensive, sophisticated models."
Read our expert Sony A6100 Review
Best Sony Compact Camera 2021
As cheaper compact cameras have declined in popularity over the last few years, Sony have switched tack to making the best possible compacts instead, whether they be for recording video, stills, action, or wildlife.
The cream of the Cyber-shot crop are are undoubtedly expensive compared to their main rivals, but they are also invariably the best in their particular class.
Whether it be the ZV-1 for vloggers, RX10 IV for wildlife, RX100 IV for all-round use , or the RX0 II for action, they all share one thing in common - to try to be the absolute best that they can.
Sony ZV-1
One of the best Sony cameras for vlogging
Price
$$
Key Specs
20 megapixel 1-inch BSI sensor
24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 zoom lens
Vari-angle LCD touchscreen
4K/30p video recording
24fps burst shooting
Likes
Same core technology as RX100 series
All the ports that you need for vlogging
Dislikes
No EVF or flash
Wider lens would be perfect
This is the best Sony compact camera to buy if you're a keen vlogger, as it's been expressly designed for that purpose.
Sporting many of the core features the same as found in recent A7 series cameras, there's a lot of tech packed into the ZV-1's compact body.
Sony have taken the popular RX100 and added a microphone socket, a hot-shoe on the top, and a screen which flips out to the side, making it better suited to video recording.
It's only really missing a slightly wider lens, USB-C socket to allow for faster charging and headphone use, and possibly a larger battery.
Our verdict: price of the Sony ZV-1 should be affordable to people who want it, and given many of the features of the camera are the same as found in recent A7 series cameras, there is a lot of technology crammed in to a very portable body."
Read our expert Sony ZV-1 Review
Sony RX10 IV
A fantastic super-zoom bridge camera with a large 1-inch sensor
Price
$$$$
Key Specs
20 megapixels
1-inch stacked sensor
24-600mm f/2.4-4 lens
24fps burst shooting
4K/30p video recording
Likes
The best super-zoom camera on the market
Ideally suited to wildlife photography
Dislikes
Very expensive for a compact camera
Did we mention the price already?!
If money is no object, the RX10 IV is the ultimate super-zoom camera.
Wildlife photographers will be very happy with the results from the RX10, all from what is a comparatively small package.
The versatile lens impressed us greatly, as did image quality from the 1-inch sensor, which is very large for a bridge camera.
You also get a class leading 24fps high-speed shooting mode with full time AF for up to 10 seconds, which should be more than enough frames to get that perfect shot.
The RX10 IV is no slouch when it comes to video, either, providing slow motion videos at up to 1000fps, 4K/30p videos with no pixel binning, plus microphone and headphone ports.
Our verdict: "The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is in a league of its own. No other bridge camera handles and performs so well."
Read our expert Sony RX10 IV Review
Sony RX100 VII
Sony's best all-round compact camera for stills photographers and keen vloggers alike
Price
$$$
Key Specs
20 megapixels
1-inch stacked sensor
24-200mm f/2.8-4.5 lens
20fps blackout-free burst shooting
4K/30p video recording
Likes
4K video with no crop
20fps burst mode thanks to the stacked image sensor
Dislikes
Poor battery life
No built-in ND filter
The RX100 is one of the most popular compact camera series ever, and it's easy to see why with the excellent Mark VII version.
With faster, more usable burst shooting, improved auto-focusing and the long overdue addition of a Mic port, this is the best ever RX100 camera..
20fps black-out free shooting with real-time AF tracking makes it more than fast enough to shoot fast-moving subjects - wildlife, sports, or just your kids - yet still be small enough to fit in your coat pocket.
There are still a few caveats - no camera is perfect - including poor battery life, no built-in ND filter, and a rather limited touchscreen interface, but overall this is probably the best compact camera that you can currently buy.
Our verdict: "If you want a camera that's fast enough to shoot fast-moving subjects - wildlife, sports, or just your kids - and small enough to fit inside a coat pocket, then there's simply no better option currently on the market than the Sony RX100 VII."
Read our expert Sony RX100 VII Review
Sony RX0 II
A high-end action camera - what else did you expect from Sony?!
Price
$$$
Key Specs
15 megapixel 1-inch sensor
4K video
24mm f/4 lens
Tilting 1.5-inch LCD screen
In-body electronic stabilisation
Likes
Versatile tiltable screen
Great image quality for an action camera
Dislikes
Electronic stabilisation is disappointing
Expensive for an action camera
The last entry in our guide to the best Sony cameras is an unusual one - a high-end action model that costs as much as some interchangeable lens cameras.
The RX0 II is certainly something of a niche product, and an expensive one at that, but it is so much more than just an action camera, being equally well suited to vlogging and life as a rugged B-roll camera.
Its large 1-inch sensor and sharp 24mm f/4 lens ensure that the RX0 II delivers some of the best image quality of any action camera, although the new electronic-based stabilisation system is less successful.
If you need one of the best action cameras on the market and you're prepared to pay for it, then this camera certainly fits the bill.
Our verdict: "...if the Sony RX0 II does happen to suit your specific needs, you’d struggle to find a better pocket camera with this level of image quality."
Read our expert Sony RX0 II Review
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Sony cameras made?
Most Sony cameras and lenses are designed in Japan and made in Chunburi, Thailand, about a 90-minute drive from central Bangkok. Some of its cheaper cameras and lenses are manufactured in China to save costs.
Are Sony cameras good for photography?
Lot of professional photographers now rely on Sony,something that wasn't true 10 years ago, so they've made massive strides in recent years,really focusing on the needs of the professional user. The good news is that has filtered down to their cheaper cameras too.
Is Sony good for video?
Are you kidding?! Sony leads the way in video, from the 4K-specialist A7S III and the new FX-3 to the headline-grabbing 8K Alpha 1. Videographers have long used Alpha cameras, and it's easy to see why.
Which Sony camera is the best?
If you're a professional who takes photos for a living, the new Alpha 1 camera really does do it all - landscapes, action, studio, video and travel.
If you're more of a specialist, then go for the A7R IV for landscapes, the A9 for sports, the A7S III for video or the A7C for travel.
If you're an amateur for whom photography is a hobby and you don't want to spend too much money, then the APS-C range is hard to beat, especially the Sony A6400, which hits the right note between features and cost.
The RX100 is a great travel camera series that's easy to carry all day and which doesn't attract unwanted attention.
Can I use a Sony camera as a webcam?
Yes, seven of the latest Sony cameras can now be used as webcams via the Imaging Edge Webcam software program. They are the Alpha 1, A7C, A7R IV, A9 II, A7S III, FX-3 and the ZV-1.
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Which Sony mirrorless camer to choose in 2022 ? APS-C & Full Frame
Sony’s mirrorless range is divided into two. On one side, there are the cameras equipped with an APS-C sensor, quite compact and affordable. The ZV-E10 is clearly intended for a young audience of videographers, and more particularly for vloggers and other social networks enthusiasts. The functions facilitating shooting are very practical and the autofocus modes are formidable, all for a very competitive price/quality ratio.
The a6600 is the best APS-C camera that Sony has ever released. It’s a very capable camera with always state-of-the-art autofocus, better battery life and body stabilization, which makes a real difference. It will be a good option for all photos and videos enthusiasts.
On the other side, you have the larger and more expensive full-frame 24×36 mirrorless with its Alpha 7 range. If you want a full frame camera that is practical to carry around with you on travel, daily life or vlogging, and will be very good in almost any situation, then the a7C is perfect for you.
For photographers looking for a versatile full-frame photo/video camera, the a7 IV is finally here! It’s a very powerful camera with state-of-the-art autofocus. But the high bar set by the a7 III and the existence of a series of credible rivals may complicate the choice…’We’re waiting to see the beast in the field, in real conditions. In the meantime, you can do as I did to reduce the budget and turn to an A7 III.
For all videographers, the latest in the a7S series is a powerful video tool and certainly the best for producing 4K. On the a7S III, the options are numerous, and the improvements allow impressive speeds. Ideal to make slow motion.
For high definition, I call the a7R IV! For professional wedding, landscape and studio photographers, the Sony a7R IV is frankly the unbeatable camera. Gone are the days where you had to choose between speed-based and resolution-based cameras. While not our first choice for sports and action purists, for users who regularly need very high resolution and want to be able to shoot fast moving subjects when needed, the Sony a7R IV is the best option on the market today.
We are now entering the very top end of Sony’s full-frame range, reserved for the elite. The a9 II is for sports, action and event photographers, or videographers who need solid off-camera footage, as well as general photographers who want the best possible autofocus performance. The a1, on the other hand, aims for excellence and is specifically targeted at sports photographers, usually equipped with an SLR such as the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III or the Nikon D6. You have here the combination of high resolution and high speed in one body, without any compromise!
Here we are, at the end of this article detailing the latest hybrid cameras from Sony. This one will obviously evolve with every new release. You have just seen that the range of hybrids is getting bigger and bigger, and there is really something for every user and every budget. If you are curious to see what other brands can propose, you can look at our Canon APS-C mirrorless or the Canon full frame mirrorless posts.
See you soon,
Sylvain
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