Even though the Sony Alpha a6000 is a five-year-old model, we've decided to review it to see its relevancy in 2021. Yes, many newer models have come out in the market since the release of the Sony Alpha a6000, but what sets it apart?
This review will focus on the Sony a6000 performance and value for money. Since it's an entry-level camera, is it clever to invest in it in 2021? Let’s see.
Features:
- 24.3 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
- Built-in flash + Multi-Interface Shoe
- Bionz X image processor
- ISO 100-25600
- Hybrid AF system with 25 contrast-detect and 179 phase-detect points
- 11 fps continuous shooting with subject-tracking
- Full HD video recording at 1080/60p and 24p; clean HDMI output
- OLED electronic viewfinder with 1.44M dots
- Wi-Fi with NFC capability and PlayMemories App
- Diffraction correction
- Area-specific noise reduction
- Detail reproduction technology
- 3-inch tilting LCD with 921,600 dots
Sony a6000 Camera Handling
The metal body of the camera offers durability and a comfortable hold. You can feel the solid structure fit right into your hands.
The stiffness of dials allows the settings to remain intact. This means you won't have to worry about changing the settings by mistake due to bumping while carrying the camera. The LCD screen can tilt upwards at 90 degrees and downwards at 45 degrees. This enables you to experiment with various innovative angles.
The buttons dedicated to operating single functions promote ease of use. All in all, the ergonomics are reasonable, while the camera handling is also pretty simple.
Sony a6000 Auto-Focus
The Sony a6000 incorporates a hybrid autofocus tech. This tech captures the subject of the image automatically and chooses the best focus point for shooting.
You'll notice that a6000 offers the fastest and incredible face detection feature. So, you won't have to switch from one focus point to another through manual intervention. So, you can depend on the camera's autofocus intelligence to choose the best focus point for you.
With a record of 0.06 seconds, a6000 can lock on any subject faster than other mirrorless cameras. It's almost a surprise that even years later its release, its AF feature beats newer models.
Sony a6000 Image Quality
The image quality of the Sony a6000 is excellent. Given the price point, you'll get pretty good photos and feel satisfied by the quality. Using a prime lens like Sony 85mm f/1.8 FE allows even a pro to get desired results. The wifi and NFC transfer help you to transfer photos to your phone or laptop directly.
You'll get exceptional JPEGs from this camera. Also, the dynamic range optimization tech provides a well-balanced image. All in all, you'll love the image results, thanks to the impressive abilities of this camera.
Just one thing to remember with the Jpeg settings. Some picture resolution settings are good for shooting video, while some are best suited for still images. You can clearly separate these with the Jpeg settings available on the dial at the top of the camera.
Video Capabilities of Sony a6000
While shooting a video, you'll find the tracking quite as fast and precise as composing for a still image. Another highlight of this camera is that you can shoot a video in manual mode while using auto-ISO.
So, your camera can choose the correct ISO while you use your creativity to control the aperture and shutter speed. The Sony Alpha a6000 offers amazing picture quality. The camera captures great amounts of detail, which makes the videos look sharp and crisp. Compared to other cameras in its price range, it's capable of producing more cinematic results.
Another advantage is the ability to shoot at high ISO speeds without losing details in the images. Though the 5 fps continuous shooting on this model isn't that fast, it focuses pretty quickly on moving objects. You can expect superior video performance with this camera’s AF system.
It also tops other mirrorless models in terms of AF speed and accuracy under low-light conditions. However, you have both options - Full HD or 4K shooting capability depending on your preferences.
Sony a6000 Price
Price is the hottest point of the Sony a6000. If you are a beginner on a tight budget, this is your go-to camera. You can get this camera for under 500$, which is a great value given its high-tech specs and impressive quality.
Ergonomics of Sony a6000
When it comes to ergonomics, this is not the best camera on the market. Compared to its rivals like Panasonic G7 or Canon 70D its grip is quite small and uncomfortable for some people. Also, there are fewer buttons on the body of the camera besides a few buttons that have dual functionality which can be confusing sometimes.
However, overall handling isn’t so bad given you don't have to work with heavy lenses on a daily basis. Actually, having several compatible lens options makes this aspect easier.
The Sony Alpha a6000 offers stunning still images and impressive video performance. The feature list is thorough too - fast AF with accurate tracking under low-light conditions, excellent video specs including 4K, and full manual controls. It's good for beginners, who just want to experience the mirrorless world without burning a hole in their pocket.
As far as image quality is concerned, it should be top-notch given the price point. The Sony Alpha a6000 has very noticeable high ISO noise at low light conditions but that's mostly expected from any mirrorless camera. Plus, it outperforms most of its rivals by a considerable margin when recording videos with AF tracking.
The interface of the camera
Sony a6000 is easy to navigate. It has a good number of physical controls that are customizable. For beginners, it won’t be an issue if they read the manual properly before using the camera for the first time. However, you can't expect too much from its screen given it's not touch-sensitive and tilts only up.
The fast hybrid AF system will keep your subjects in focus even while shooting burst shots at 5fps, while the wide ISO range lets you shoot handheld in low light conditions and get sharp images with little noise.
It takes flawless high definition videos and features 4K video recording capabilities that can be used to shoot professional-looking movies. Plus, the tilting LCD screen helps you take creative shots from unique angles and 5fps continuous shooting speed ensures that one of your pictures will capture a good sequence of your subject.
The only deal breaker is its somewhat small body which doesn't provide great grip for bigger hands or people with average to little fingers. This shouldn't be too much of a problem though as it's still ergonomic enough for most users.
Overall, if you are a blogger or a beginner who wants a mirrorless camera without spending a fortune on it, then the Sony Alpha a6000 should definitely be on top of your list given its excellent specs at the low price point.
Advantages of Sony alfa a6000:
- Compact and lightweight size;
- Affordable price;
- High image quality of still images and videos;
- Versatile autofocus modes;
- Fast hyperfocal speed.
Disadvantages of Sony alfa a6000:
- Lifetime is short given the built-in battery;
- No headphone jack for external microphones.
Final Thoughts
All in all, the Sony a6000 is an exceptional mirrorless camera from a performance and price point of view. It's pretty capable of delivering superb results. Also, it works perfectly well as an affordable option for beginners and pros.
Sony has done an amazing job with the Sony Alpha a6000. Even though it's not that old, it still proves to be better than many current models. You can save hundreds of dollars by buying this camera instead of newer ones. If you are looking forward to superior image quality and creative features, this is your go-to choice.
The Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Camera Review will give you all basic information about why this camera stands out among others in its price range. It’s easy to use with a versatile AF system and impressive video performance make the camera stand out from other cameras in its class. Also, given its prices these days, I think it's one of the best values for your money!