Sony A6700 vs A6400 – Should You Upgrade?

With the new release of the Sony A6700 now taking place as Sony’s latest camera release in the APSC line this invariably leads to captivating face-offs, between the Sony A6700 vs A6400. The latest camera, the A6700, comes bearing expectations of technological enhancements and enriched features, given its recent entry into Sony’s commendable camera line-up. However, it squares off against the A6400, a model that has steadfastly proven its worth with reliable performance and popular demand.

So whether you are pondering over an upgrade or merely intrigued by the unique distinctions between the models. Our comparison will dissect their attributes and abilities, equipping you with the essential insights to judge if the A6700 indeed outshines its forerunner, or whether the A6400 continues to hold its ground in this riveting contest.

Sony A6700 vs A6400 – Which Should You Choose?

The question of which camera to opt for hinges on an examination of the fundamental specifications. Both the Sony A6700 and A6400 are replete with features and capabilities, addressing the requirements of a diverse array of photographers, from seasoned professionals to newcomers to the field.

Quick Overview of Key Specs:

• The Sony A6400 offers a blend of detailed image quality with a 24.2 MP APS-C sensor, speedy subject tracking with a fast autofocus system, continuous shooting speed of 11fps, and a robust weather-resistant body which facilitates photography in challenging environments.
• The Sony A6700 takes things up a notch with a new 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor, a more advanced autofocus system, efficient tracking modes, a larger buffer for continuous shooting, enhanced video recording capabilities and a battery that ensures more clicks per charge.

Sony A6700 vs Sony A6400 Price:

• The Sony A6400 price = £899 (in the USA $899)
• The Sony A6700 price = £1,449 (in the USA $1,400)

The A6700 is priced higher by about £550, which calls for an in-depth comparison to ascertain if the additional expense for the upgrade justifies the enhanced features.

With that in mind, let us delve deeper into a side-by-side analysis.

Sony A6700 Overview

The Sony A6700 is a noteworthy addition to Sony’s repertoire of mirrorless cameras, featuring a myriad of high-end specifications that cater to a broad spectrum of photography enthusiasts. A New 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor underpins its ability to deliver stunningly detailed images, while its more advanced autofocus system ensures rapid and precise subject tracking. This camera stands out for its improved buffer for continuous shooting, offering an impressive performance for action photography. Moreover, its enhanced video recording capabilities make it a desirable option for those who frequently capture motion.

The A6700 also boasts a longer-lasting battery, which guarantees a greater number of shots per charge, making it an ideal choice for extended shooting sessions. With a robust, weather-sealed body, this camera is primed to handle challenging environments, ensuring that photography enthusiasts can venture out in all conditions. Overall, the Sony A6700 encapsulates a blend of high-resolution imaging, remarkable autofocus, and an efficient power system.

Sony A6400 Overview

The Sony A6400, although a preceding model, still holds its ground with its range of robust features that cater to both beginners and seasoned photographers. It is equipped with a competent 24.2 MP APS-C sensor, delivering high-resolution images with impressive clarity. Its reliable autofocus system, while not as advanced as the A6700, continues to provide quick and accurate subject detection. The A6400 also impresses with its decent continuous shooting capacity, suitable for capturing action scenes, although it falls short in comparison to its successor’s enhanced buffer.

Furthermore, the A6400 provides quality video recording options, albeit without some of the advanced features found in the A6700. The battery life, while less than the A6700, remains suitable for typical shooting scenarios. In terms of build, the A6400 offers a sturdy body, but without the comprehensive weather-sealing found in the A6700, it is slightly less adaptable to harsh weather conditions.

What Are The Key Difference Between Sony A6700 And A6400?

1. Sensor:

• A6400: 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor.
• A6700: 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor.
• The A6700 has a higher resolution offering more detailed and rich images.

2. Continuous Shooting:

• Both offer 11 fps.
• A6700 leads with a larger buffer size, allowing more photos in a burst.

3. Autofocus:

• A6700 incorporates real-time tracking and real-time Eye AF for humans, animals, and birds, offering a faster and more accurate focus system.

4. Body:

• A6700 has a comprehensive weather-sealed body, enhancing durability.

5. Battery Life:

• A6400: 410 shots per charge.
• A6700: 810 shots per charge.
• The A6700 provides a much longer battery life.

These are the key differences that make the A6700 a significant upgrade from the A6400.

Sony A6700 vs A6400 – Image Quality & Lowlight Performance

When comparing two cameras from the same product line, one of the critical factors to consider is image quality and low-light performance. The Sony A6700 and A6400, both renowned for their exceptional capabilities, warrant a detailed examination of these two pivotal areas.

In this section, we’ll delve into the specifics of sensor resolution, ISO range, dynamic range, and other key features that directly influence the image quality and low-light performance of these two models.

What should be your choice for image quality, Sensor and Resolution:

Image quality can often be a decisive factor when it comes to choosing between two high-performance cameras.

• The A6400 features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.
• The A6700 comes equipped with a 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor.

The new 26-megapixel sensor on the A6700 marks a decent upgrade over the A6400’s 24.2 MP sensor, offering about 7% more pixels. This higher-resolution sensor will provide you with more flexibility for cropping your photos and should offer a slightly better dynamic range.

What would you choose for image processing:

Looking at image processing, these cameras utilise different processors,

• The A6400 uses a Bionz X image processor.
• The A6700, however, utilises the more advanced Bionz XR image processor.

Both processors are powerful, but the Bionz XR in the A6700 allows for faster image processing and potentially superior image quality. The improved processor also supports the A6700’s larger buffer for continuous shooting.

✅ For image quality and processing, the Sony A6700 comes out on top!

What should be your choice for low-light performance:

Low-light performance is another area of significant importance.

• The A6400 has a native ISO range of 100-32000, expandable to 102400.
• The A6700 offers the same native ISO range but expands further to 50-102400.

Given these specifications, it seems that both cameras should perform similarly well in low-light situations. However, the A6700’s backside-illuminated sensor should theoretically offer slightly better performance in these conditions due to the enhanced light-gathering capabilities.

What should be your choice for image stabilisation:

When it comes to image stabilisation, there’s a distinct difference.

• The A6400 lacks in-body image stabilisation.
• On the other hand, the A6700 benefits from sensor-shift stabilisation

Which can make a significant difference when shooting handheld at slower shutter speeds or when utilising longer focal lengths.

✅ For image stabilisation and low light, the Sony A6700 takes the lead!

Sony A6700 Vs A6400 Low Light & Image Quality Summary:

Both the Sony A6700 and A6400 are accomplished performers in terms of image quality and low-light conditions.

• Sony A6400 features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with a native ISO range of 100-32000.
• Sony A6700 boasts a 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor with a native ISO range of 100-32000.

Although both cameras exhibit exceptional image quality and low-light performance, the A6700’s upgraded sensor and built-in image stabilisation provide a clear edge.

With the Sony A6700, you’re investing not only in a higher resolution for finer details but also in Sony’s advanced sensor technology, which affords superior dynamic range and low-light capabilities.

⭐ The Sony A6700 emerges as the superior choice for image quality and low-light performance.

Sony A6700 Vs A6400 – Continuous Shooting & Autofocus Performance

The ability to capture a crucial moment with perfect timing hinges on a camera’s autofocus performance and burst shooting speed. These factors significantly influence the choice of a camera for many photographers. The Sony A6700 and A6400 are both exceptional in these regards, but there are notable differences.

In this section, we’ll closely examine the continuous shooting and autofocus performance of the Sony A6700 and A6400. We’ll look at the distinctions between these two cameras and determine the victor.

Autofocus Comparison – Both cameras excel in their autofocus performance:

• The A6400 incorporates Sony’s 4D FOCUS system with 425 phase-detection points.
• The A6700 utilises the 4D FOCUS system as well but with real-time tracking and real-time Eye AF for humans, animals, and birds.

The high precision detection and tracking of subjects by both cameras are impressive. However, the A6700 shines with its improved performance, tracking subjects with even more efficiency.

Continuous Shooting Comparison – Here’s where the Sony A6700 really stands out:

• The A6400 can shoot at up to 11 frames per second.
• The A6700 also shoots at up to 11 frames per second but with a larger buffer size.

While both cameras are geared for capturing rapid movements, the A6700’s larger buffer size allows for more photos in a burst, giving it a slight edge over the A6400.

Nonetheless, several factors such as lens quality and shooting conditions affect the continuous shooting performance. Interestingly, the larger buffer in the A6700 means it can sustain its burst shooting for longer.

✅ For autofocus and continuous shooting, the Sony A6700 truly takes the crown!

Sony A6700 Vs A6400 Burst Shooting And Autofocus Performance Summary:

The Sony A6700 and A6400 are powerful cameras that offer excellent continuous shooting and autofocus capabilities.

• The Sony A6400 shoots up to 11 frames per second, equipped with Sony’s 4D FOCUS system.
• The Sony A6700 also shoots at 11 frames per second but with a larger buffer size and enhanced autofocus features.

The A6700 offers a similar shooting speed but its larger buffer size, advanced real-time tracking, and Eye AF capabilities allow for quicker and more precise focusing.

Notably, the A6700’s enhanced focus system proves significantly more effective in challenging shooting scenarios.

Whether you opt for the Sony A6700 or A6400, you are investing in a high-quality camera that will deliver impressive results in terms of continuous shooting and autofocus performance.

⭐ The Sony A6700 is the top choice for autofocus and continuous shooting.

Sony A6700 Vs A6400 – Video Comparison

The prominence of video features in cameras has soared, becoming a critical factor for many photographers and videographers. The Sony A6700 and A6400 both offer remarkable video capabilities. But how do they stack up against each other?

In this section, we’ll delve into the video capabilities of the Sony A6700 and A6400. We’ll explore video resolution, frame rate, crop factor, and other elements that influence video performance.

Whether you’re a seasoned videographer or just dipping your toes into video creation, this comparison will arm you with the knowledge to make an educated decision on the best camera for your video requirements.

Discover the ideal camera for your video needs.

Which Would You Choose For The Video:

The Sony A6700 and A6400 both deliver superb video capabilities, although there are a few notable differences:

• The Sony A6400 offers 4K UHD video recording up to 30p, with full pixel readout and no pixel binning.
• The Sony A6700 boasts the same 4K UHD up to 30p, but adds 4K HDR (HLG) video recording and 120p slow-motion video at 1080p.

Both cameras provide high-quality video recording, producing smooth, professional-grade video footage. However, the A6700 edges out the A6400 with its 4K HDR (HLG) video recording capability and 120p slow-motion video at 1080p.

Which Would You Choose For The Longest Recording Time:

Overheating during prolonged recording was a concern with the earlier models, including the A6400, restricting its continuous recording time.

The A6400 is capable of recording up to 29 minutes of 4K video in a single shot. The A6700 significantly improves this with its advanced heat management system, enabling longer recording times. Sony’s improved heat management in the A6700 enables extended recording times, making it a more reliable choice for extended recording sessions.

✅ When it comes to video capabilities and recording time, the Sony A6700 outperforms!

Sony A6700 Vs A6400 Video Spec Summary:

The Sony A6700 and A6400 both offer excellent video capabilities, but the A6700 comes with additional features that set it apart.

The A6700 offers 4K HDR (HLG) video recording and 120p slow-motion video at 1080p, not found in the A6400. The A6700 also boasts improved heat management, enabling longer recording times.

Regarding colours and profiles, both cameras offer S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG for HDR workflows, providing extensive flexibility in post-production. However, the A6700 provides added versatility with its slow-motion capabilities.

In summary, while the A6700 offers more advanced video features, the A6400 remains an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance camera for video production.

⭐ The Sony A6700 is the superior choice for video and recording time.

Sony A6700 Vs A6400 – Comparing Physical Design And Connectivity Features

When it comes to photography and videography, the physical design and appearance of a camera can play a crucial role in the user experience. In this section, we will be taking a closer look at the physical and visual differences between the Sony A6700 and A6400. We will be examining the size, weight, buttons, and other physical features that affect how the camera feels in your hands.

Let’s see how they compare.

Which Would You Choose For The LCD Display:

The Sony A6700 and A6400 both feature high-resolution LCD screens, which can provide a clear and detailed view of the scene.

• The Sony A6400 has a 3-inch LCD display with a resolution of 921,600 dots.
• The Sony A6700 has a 3-inch LCD display with a resolution of 921,600 dots.

This can be beneficial when composing shots, checking focus, and reviewing images. Additionally, high-resolution screens can make it easier to see the display in bright light conditions, which can be useful when shooting outdoors with either of the cameras.

These LCD screens are also adjustable and fully articulated, which allows for flexible shooting positions and makes it easy to capture images and videos from different angles. Additionally, these screens have a touchscreen option, which allows easy control of camera functions.

Which Would You Choose For The Viewfinder:

A great feature of mirrorless cameras is the electronic viewfinder (EVF). Both the Sony A6700 and A6400 have an EVF which can be an important feature for photographers and videographers.

An EVF allows for better framing and control, as it provides a live preview of the scene and allows you to see the final image before taking the photo.

• The Sony A6400 has an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 2.36 million dots.
• The Sony A6700 has an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 2.36 million dots.

Both cameras also feature a high-resolution viewfinder, which can provide a clear and detailed view of the scene.

✅ For the LCD display and viewfinder, there is no change.

Which Would You Choose For The Storage:

When it comes to connectivity, the Sony A6700 offers a few notable improvements over the A6400. The A6700 supports the latest memory cards, offering better read and write speeds, while the A6400 supports older, slower cards. This faster memory support means that the A6700 can clear its buffer more quickly, resulting in less waiting time between shots.

Both cameras feature a USB-C port, but the A6700’s supports a faster transfer speed (10Gbps vs 5Gbps). The A6700 can also be used as a plug-and-play webcam without the need for extra plugins. Overall, the A6700 has more advanced connectivity options and better support for peripherals.

Which Would You Choose For Size And Weight:

The size and weight of the camera are important to consider when carrying it around all day.

• The Sony A6400 dimensions are 120 x 67 x 50 mm (4.72 x 2.64 x 2.36 in) and weigh approximately 403g (0.89 lb)
• The Sony A6700 dimensions are 120 x 67 x 60 mm (4.72 x 2.64 x 2.36 in) and weigh approximately 500g (1.1 lb)

When it comes to size and weight, the Sony A6700 and A6400 are both compact and portable cameras. However, the A6700 is slightly heavier and larger than the A6400.

The size and weight of a camera can be an important consideration for photographers who plan to travel or carry their camera with them for extended periods of time.

✅ No significant change for storage but the Sony A6400 is the lighter camera.

Which Would You Choose For Battery Life:

The Sony A6700 and A6400 both use the same NP-FW50 batteries, which means that they are compatible with the same power sources.

Despite this, the A6700 has a significantly longer battery life than the A6400:

• The A6700 has a CIPA rating of 810 frames per charge
• The A6400 has a rating of 410 frames per charge

While these ratings may not reflect real-world shooting, they provide a rough indication of performance. It is remarkable how Sony has managed to increase the battery life on the A6700, making it an attractive option for photographers who spend a lot of time shooting and may not have easy access to a power source.

Which Would You Choose For Durability And Body:

Both the Sony A6700 and A6400 have been designed to be durable and weather-resistant, so they can withstand challenging shooting conditions.

Both cameras have been designed with a dust and moisture-resistant construction that can protect the camera from the elements. Additionally, both cameras have shutter mechanisms that can help protect the sensor from dust.

However, the A6700 is designed with a more robust magnesium alloy body, giving it added durability compared to the A6400’s composite body. This can be beneficial for those who frequently shoot in challenging conditions and need a camera that can withstand the rigours of regular use.

Ultimately, both cameras provide a good level of durability and weather resistance, it would depend on your specific needs and shooting conditions.

✅ For battery life and durability, the Sony A6700 comes out as the better option.

Sony A6700 Vs A6400 Physically & Visually Difference Summary:

There was a lot to cover there, and as you can see, the Sony A6700 and A6400 have many similarities in terms of physical design and connectivity features, but the A6700 offers a few notable improvements.

The A6700 is slightly heavier than the A6400 and has a more robust magnesium alloy body, an improvement in battery life and support for the latest memory cards.

All these features make A6700 a more advanced camera in terms of battery life, body controls, and connectivity options, but the dimensions and weight are similar.

⭐ The Sony A6700 comes out as the best for physical design and connectivity features.

Sony A6700 vs A6400: The Verdict

The Sony A6700 and the A6400 are both excellent cameras offering a broad spectrum of features and capabilities for photographers and videographers of all skill levels.

The A6700 offers a range of notable improvements over the A6400, such as a better sensor resolution, faster continuous shooting speed, longer battery life, and superior heat management. It also comes with better ergonomics, including a redesigned AF-joystick and dial for a more tactile user experience.

When it comes to video features, the A6700 surpasses the A6400 with extra features like pre-recording mode, improved recording time, 4K oversampling, and High-Speed mode in Full HD boosted to 120fps.

In terms of physical design and connectivity, the A6700 also offers a multi-function hot shoe, which has been designed to work with a range of Sony’s accessories. It also provides faster transfer speeds over a USB C port and more reliable Wi-Fi connectivity.

While both cameras share similar features such as an anti-dust shutter mechanism, wireless and Bluetooth connection, image stabilisation, and support for RAW images. They also boast similar weather sealing and support for UHS-II cards.

Should You Upgrade To The Sony A6700?

While the A6700 does offer several notable upgrades over the A6400 such as improved autofocus, increased shooting speed and superior video capabilities, it might not be enough to warrant an upgrade for those who already own the A6400.

However, if you’re in the market for a new camera, the A6700 provides several improvements that make it a more competitive option for both photographers and videographers. Moreover, if you are considering a switch to a Sony APS-C mirrorless camera, the A6700 is an excellent choice that offers improved performance and features compared to the A6400.

And there you have it!

We hope you found this guide useful and if you wish to purchase the Sony A6700 or A6400, you can do so using the links above.

We are available 7 days a week to talk about your camera or lens purchase by phone, email and live chat.

Why not take a look at one of our other articles like the Canon R6 vs Sony A7 IV, Sony A7 III vs A7 IV: How To Choose? or the Canon R5 vs Sony A7 IV: Which Should You Buy?

Sony A6700 vs A6400 Full Comparison Of Specifications

Sony A6700 vs A6400: FAQ