Sony A6000 vs. A7 Camera Comparison

We have a tough comparison ahead of us. Both the Sony Alpha A6000 and Sony A7 are too high-powered devices that are ideal for serious photographers. While they each have a lot in common, there are some critical differences. We will analyze what these are and let you know which model is best depending on what kind of photography you mainly undertake.

Throughout this article, we will compare each camera across different categories and award point for the winners. At the end, we will tally up the scores and show you clear results. To keep things simple we will shorten the camera names down to “A6000” and “A7”.

Megapixels

This first category is a flat-out draw. Both cameras have powerful 24.3-megapixel sensors. As far as cameras go these are powerful.

ISO

ISO is a measurement of light sensitivity (the lower the number, the lower the light sensitivity, and vice versa). If you’re going to be filming in bright conditions, then you will want to use a low ISO setting, while a higher setting will be needed for indoor or nighttime imagery.

The A7 has a higher max ISO than the A6000 (2248 vs. 1347). This means the A7 gives greater flexibility when shooting in low light conditions.

+1 for the A7

Sensor Size

The A7 has a full-frame 855.62mm sensor while the A6000 only has an APS-C 366.60mm sensor. What does this mean? Well, when it comes to sensor size, bigger is (usually) better. A bigger sensor gives photographers more control over their photo’s depth of field and allows for better performance in low-light conditions.

+1 for the A7

Auto Focusing

AF (auto focus) points determine how easy it is for users to hone their camera onto a subject (The more of them available, the better).

The A6000 has more autofocus points than the A7 (179 vs. 117). This allows it to more effectively focus on a subject, whether automatically or manually. The A6000 is also superior at tracking subjects.

+1 for the A6000

Burst Mode

Photographers who regularly undertake sports or action photography will want to make use of burst mode. This setting allows multiple photos to be taken in quick succession.

The A6000 can shoot up to 11 images per second. This is significantly more than the A7, which can only shoot five images per second.

+1 for the A6000

Lens Options

This category is another draw. Both cameras make use of the Sony E lens mount with 73 available lenses.

If you do end up purchasing either camera, it’s recommended that you try and get a lens kit included. Many bundle deals on Amazon include lenses (as well as other accessories) and are generally more cost effective than buying the camera and lenses separately. We will tell you more about these options in the price section.

Video Quality

These cameras aren’t just limited to recording still shots. They can both shoot high-definition video (1080p) at 60fps.

Unfortunately, they both miss out on ultra-high definition modes such as 2.7K and 4K. Furthermore, neither device can shoot slow-motion videos.

Microphone Jack

The A7 incorporates a microphone jack, which gives a high-quality audio recording option. For instance, if you’re filming a video, then you can narrate what’s happening directly into the microphone.

Unfortunately, the A6000 misses out on this handy feature. Of course, it will still record audio when filming. However, the quality will be less.

+1 for the A7

Headphone Jack

The A7 includes a headphone port, which is useful for monitoring audio when filming. This is another handy feature that is missed out on by the A6000.

+1 for the A7

Built-In Flash

The A6000 has a built-in flash while the A7 misses out. This feature makes it easier to shoot in low-light conditions.

+1 for the A6000

Screen

Both cameras have 3” articulating screens. Unfortunately, neither of them are touchscreens.

While this category is pretty close, it is the A7 that wins overall with a 1,230k dot screen resolution. The A6000 only has a screen resolution of 922k dots.

+1 for the A7

Portability

If you’re going to be carrying and shooting with your camera for long periods of time, then its weight should be considered. The A6000 is 160 grams lighter than the A7 (344g vs. 474g).

The A6000 is also more compact than the A7. Its dimensions are 120 x 67 x 45mm while the A7’s are 127 x 94 x 48mm.

Overall, the A6000 is the more portable device.

+1 for the A6000

Price

The A6000 currently costs $550 on Amazon. This is for a new, standalone camera. To get a bundle deal with a lens kit, SD card, tripod, and other accessories you will need to pay around $850.

A new A7 costs about $1,000 on Amazon. Bundle deals with a lens kit, SD card, tripod, and carry case start at $1,100.

The A6000 is the more affordable device.

+1 for the A6000

Further Common Strengths

Both devices have a lot more good features in common, which we will quickly touch on.

• Both cameras incorporate focus peaking. This feature highlights objects that are in focus.
• Users can take panoramic shots with each device.
• Both cameras have built-in Wi-Fi. This allows users to instantly back up and share images.
• If you want to view your photos on a TV or computer monitor, then you can do so because each camera has HDMI out.
• Each camera allows for bulb shutter. This allows users to manually hold the shutter open to capture extra-long exposures.

Further Common Weaknesses

Each camera misses out on some handy features.

• Neither camera incorporates image stabilization technology, which would have been helpful to prevent image distortion from camera motion.
• Neither camera incorporates
• Neither model has GPS for Geotagging images.
• Each camera only has a single SD card slot.

Overall Scores

Sony A6000: 5

• Auto Focusing
• Burst Mode
• Built-in Flash
• Portability
• Price

Sony A7: 5

• ISO
• Sensor Size
• Screen
• Headphone Jack
• Microphone Jack

We have also included a side-by-side comparison below.

Which Camera Should You Get?

It’s a tough decision because each device has the same score and much in common. However, if you are going to be filming a lot of video footage, then the Sony A7 is the better option. This device’s headphone jack and microphone jack will make it easier to get quality audio.

If your focus is mainly on still shots, then the decision is a bit more difficult. If you’re going to be doing a lot of action and sports photography, then the Sony A6000 is the better option. This camera has a superior burst mode and don’t forget about better autofocusing.

If you expect to do a lot of filming in low light conditions, then we recommend the Sony A7. The larger sensor size and ISO range give an advantage over the Sony A6000.

In summary:

• The Sony A7 is best for recording video with quality audio.
• The Sony A7 is best for taking photos in low light conditions.
• The Sony A6000 is best for action and sports photography.