Sony A6700 vs A6600 – Which Should You Buy?

The latest mirrorless camera debate about the Sony A6700 vs Sony A6600 is gaining momentum. Announced on 12th July 2023, the latest Sony A6700 presents a host of advancements over the A6600, including a 26MP APS-C BSI-CMOS sensor and an upgraded image processor, the Bionz XR. Yet, the Sony A6600, equipped with a 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor, stands its ground with its robust functionality and versatile performance.

While the Sony A6700 brings forth substantial advancements like gyroscopic stabilisation and superior autofocus, the A6600 counterbalances with a longer battery life and convenient NFC connectivity. Both models share key strengths such as unlimited video recording, image stabilisation, and RAW support, making the Sony A6700 vs Sony A6600 comparison a relevant topic for photographers of various proficiency levels. As this article progresses, we’ll delve deeper into the specifics of these two impressive cameras.

Sony A6700 vs A6400 – Which Should You Choose?

The decision between Sony A6700 and Sony A6600 is largely contingent upon an exploration of their core specifications. Both cameras are equipped with a plethora of features catering to the varying needs of diverse photographers, from established professionals to enthusiastic beginners.

Quick Overview Of Key Specs:

• The Sony A6600 offers a combination of detailed image quality with a 24 MP APS-C sensor, effective subject tracking with a rapid autofocus system, a continuous shooting speed of 11fps, and a robust weather-resistant body that supports photography in challenging conditions. In addition, it offers a commendable battery life of 810 shots per charge, establishing its prowess in endurance.
• On the other hand, the Sony A6700 elevates the game with a new 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor, an improved autofocus system, efficient tracking modes, a larger buffer for continuous shooting, advanced video recording capabilities and a selection of innovative features such as gyroscopic stabilisation and lens breathing correction.

Sony A6700 Vs Sony A6600 Price:

• The Sony A6600 price = £1,250 (in the USA $1,200)
• The Sony A6700 price = £1,450 (in the USA $1,400)

With the A6700 priced higher by about £500, it necessitates a thorough comparison to determine whether the additional expense for the upgrade is justified by the enhanced features.

So, let us embark on a more detailed side-by-side examination of these two compelling camera models.

Sony A6700 Overview

Launched in July 2023, the Sony A6700 is a compelling fusion of sophisticated imaging technology and superior performance. The camera houses a 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor, delivering remarkable image quality and detail. The ISO range, which expands from 100-32000 to 50-102400, facilitates remarkable photography under varied lighting conditions.

The A6700 offers a dynamic combination of advanced features, such as an effective sensor-shift image stabilisation, 759-point autofocus system, 11fps continuous shooting, and 4K UHD video capabilities. Its compact, weather-sealed body hosts a fully articulated 3″ screen and supports high-speed UHS-II cards, promising both flexibility and swift performance. With additional features like in body stabilisation, auto framing in video, and vehicle and insect tracking AF modes, the Sony A6700 stands as a versatile and power-packed choice for both professional and hobbyist photographers.

Sony A6600 Overview

Introduced in August 2019, the Sony A6600 blends high-quality imaging capabilities with reliable performance. It possesses a 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which consistently delivers vivid and finely detailed images. Its broad ISO range, expandable from 100-32000 to 102400, ensures excellent low-light shooting capabilities.

The A6600 comes equipped with an impressive suite of features including sensor-shift image stabilisation, a 425-point autofocus system, continuous shooting at 11fps, and 4K UHD video recording. Its compact, robust, weather-sealed body accommodates a tilting 3″ screen and UHS-I card support. The A6600 also boasts a longer battery life, with up to 810 shots per charge, providing an edge for prolonged shoots. Despite its age, the Sony A6600 remains a solid choice for photographers of all levels, providing a balance between quality, performance, and affordability.

What Are The Key Differences Between Sony A6700 And A6600?

1. Sensor:

• A6600: 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.
• A6700: 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor.

• The A6700, with its higher resolution sensor, provides more detailed and enriched images.

2. Autofocus:

• A6600: Features 425 focus points.
• A6700: Possesses an advanced autofocus system with a staggering 759 focus points, ensuring a faster and more precise focus system.

3. Image Processor:

• A6600: Employs Bionz X image processor.
• A6700: Utilises the more advanced Bionz XR image processor, which significantly enhances processing speed and efficiency.

4. Body:

• Both models feature robust, weather-sealed bodies. However, the A6700 is slightly lighter, weighing in at 493g compared to the A6600’s 503g, which might be a consideration for on-the-go photographers.

5. Battery Life:

• A6600: 810 shots per charge.

• A6700: 570 shots per charge.
• The A6600 boasts a more extensive battery life compared to the A6700.

These are the main differences that delineate the A6700 as a step up from the A6600, despite the latter’s longer battery life.

Sony A6700 vs A6600 – Image Quality & Low-light Performance

When contrasting cameras from a similar product lineage, integral factors such as image quality and low-light performance invariably take centre stage. The Sony A6700 and A6600, both celebrated for their remarkable competencies, necessitate an in-depth analysis of these paramount domains.

In this section, we shall explore the intricacies of sensor resolution, ISO range, dynamic range, and other salient features that fundamentally impact the image quality and low-light performance of these two models.

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

Image quality often plays a decisive role in determining the preferred choice between two high-calibre cameras.

• The A6600 encompasses a 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.
• The A6700 is outfitted with a 26-megapixel backside-illuminated APS-C Exmor R sensor.

The updated 26-megapixel sensor on the A6700 provides a noteworthy upgrade over the A6600’s 24 MP sensor, granting about 8% more pixels. This heightened resolution offers greater leeway for photo cropping and is expected to offer a slightly superior dynamic range.

What would you choose for image processing:

In the realm of image processing, these cameras employ distinct processors.

• The A6600 is powered by a Bionz X image processor.
• The A6700, on the other hand, utilises the more sophisticated Bionz XR image processor.

While both processors are robust, the Bionz XR in the A6700 facilitates swifter image processing and potentially superior image quality. The enhanced processor also bolsters the A6700’s extensive buffer for continuous shooting.

✅ For image quality and processing, the Sony A6700 emerges as the superior contender!

What should be your choice for low-light performance:

Low-light performance is an area of paramount importance.

• The A6600 boasts a native ISO range of 100-32000, expandable to 102400.
• The A6700 offers the identical native ISO range but can be expanded further to 50-102400.

Given these specifications, it appears that both cameras should exhibit commendable performance in low-light scenarios. However, the A6700’s backside-illuminated sensor is likely to offer marginally enhanced performance due to its improved light-gathering capabilities.

What should be your choice for image stabilisation:

When considering image stabilisation, a significant disparity is evident.

The A6600 benefits from in-body image stabilisation.

However, the A6700 takes a leap forward with its sensor-shift stabilisation, providing substantial advantages when shooting handheld at slower shutter speeds or employing longer focal lengths.

✅ For image stabilisation and low light, the Sony A6700 holds the upper hand!

Sony A6700 Vs A6600 Low Light & Image Quality Summary:

Both the Sony A6700 and A6600 are formidable contenders in terms of image quality and low-light performance.

• Sony A6600 features a 24-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.

Whilst both cameras deliver exceptional image quality and low-light performance, the A6700’s upgraded sensor and enhanced image stabilisation provide a discernible advantage.

With the Sony A6700, your investment encompasses a higher resolution for more refined details and Sony’s superior sensor technology, which bestows a more robust dynamic range and low-light capabilities.

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

Sony A6700 Vs A6600 – Continuous Shooting & Autofocus Performance

The capacity to seize a critical moment with impeccable timing often depends on a camera’s autofocus performance and continuous shooting capabilities. These aspects profoundly impact the camera selection for numerous photographers. Although the Sony A6700 and A6600 both excel in these domains, there exist discernible disparities.

In this section, we shall scrutinise the continuous shooting and autofocus performance of the Sony A6700 and A6600. We will identify the variations between these two cameras and ascertain the superior contender.

Autofocus Comparison – Both cameras excel in their autofocus performance:

• The A6600 encompasses Sony’s 4D FOCUS system with 425 phase-detection points.
• The A6700 deploys the same 4D FOCUS system but incorporates real-time tracking and real-time Eye AF for humans, animals, and birds.

Both cameras impress with their high-precision detection and tracking of subjects. However, the A6700 distinguishes itself with superior performance, tracking subjects with remarkable efficacy.

Continuous Shooting Comparison – Here’s where the Sony A6700 genuinely excels:

• The A6600 can capture up to 11 frames per second.
• The A6700 also shoots at the same rate of 11 frames per second but with a larger buffer size.

While both cameras are designed to capture rapid movements, the A6700’s larger buffer size allows for more photos in a burst, thereby granting it an edge over the A6600.

Several factors, such as lens quality and shooting conditions, can affect continuous shooting performance. Intriguingly, the A6700’s larger buffer ensures it can maintain its burst shooting for a longer duration.

✅ For autofocus and continuous shooting, the Sony A6700 indisputably triumphs!

Sony A6700 Vs A6600 Burst Shooting And Autofocus Performance Summary:

The Sony A6700 and A6600 are formidable cameras that provide excellent continuous shooting and autofocus functionalities.

• The Sony A6600 captures 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, superior real-time tracking, and Eye AF capabilities allow for faster and more precise focusing.

Significantly, the A6700’s enhanced focus system proves extraordinarily effective in challenging shooting scenarios.

Whether you select the Sony A6700 or A6600, you are investing in a high-calibre camera that will deliver outstanding results in terms of continuous shooting and autofocus performance.

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

Sony A6700 Vs A6600 – Video Comparison

The significance of video capabilities in cameras has considerably escalated, emerging as a pivotal factor for numerous photographers and videographers. Both Sony A6700 and A6600 offer impressive video capabilities. But how do they compare with each other?

In this section, we shall delve into the video capabilities of the Sony A6700 and A6600. We will explore video resolution, frame rate, crop factor, and other components that influence video performance.

Whether you are an experienced videographer or just venturing into video creation, this comparison will equip you with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision on the best camera to satisfy your video needs.

Which Would You Choose For The Video:

Both Sony A6700 and A6600 deliver outstanding video capabilities, although there are a few distinct differences:

• The Sony A6600 offers 4K UHD video recording up to 30p, with full pixel readout and no pixel binning.
• The Sony A6700 matches this with 4K UHD up to 30p but introduces 4K HDR (HLG) video recording and 120p slow-motion video at 1080p.

Both cameras provide high-quality video recording, yielding smooth, professional-grade video footage. Nevertheless, the A6700 surpasses the A6600 with its 4K HDR (HLG) video recording capability and 120p slow-motion video at 1080p.

Which Would You Choose For The Longest Recording Time:

Earlier models, including the A6600, faced concerns over overheating during extended recording, restricting its continuous recording time.

The A6600 can record up to 29 minutes of 4K video in a single session. The A6700 significantly enhances this with its advanced heat management system, facilitating longer recording times. Sony’s improved heat management in the A6700 enables extended recording times, making it a more reliable choice for prolonged recording sessions.

✅ When considering video capabilities and recording time, the Sony A6700 clearly excels!

Sony A6700 Vs A6600 Video Spec Summary:

Both the Sony A6700 and A6600 offer exceptional video capabilities, but the A6700 introduces additional features that distinguish it.

The A6700 provides 4K HDR (HLG) video recording and 120p slow-motion video at 1080p, features absent in the A6600. Furthermore, the A6700 showcases improved heat management, facilitating extended recording times.

In terms of colours and profiles, both cameras deliver S-Log2, S-Log3, and HLG for HDR workflows, offering expansive flexibility in post-production. However, the A6700 offers added versatility with its slow-motion capabilities.

While the A6700 presents more advanced video features, the A6600 remains an excellent selection 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 A6600 – Comparing Physical Design And Connectivity Features

The physical design and appearance of a camera can significantly influence the user experience in photography and videography. In this section, we shall scrutinise the physical and visual differences between the Sony A6700 and A6600, examining the size, weight, buttons, and other physical elements that affect how the camera feels in your hands.

Let’s compare the two models.

Which Would You Choose For The LCD Display:

Both Sony A6700 and A6600 feature high-resolution LCD screens, providing a lucid and detailed view of the scene.

• The Sony A6600 sports a 3-inch LCD display with a resolution of 921,600 dots.
• Likewise, the Sony A6700 has a 3-inch LCD display with a resolution of 921,600 dots.

These characteristics are advantageous when composing shots, confirming focus, and reviewing images. Furthermore, high-resolution screens enable easier visibility of the display under bright light conditions, which is beneficial when capturing images outdoors.

Both models’ LCD screens are adjustable and fully articulated, offering flexibility for various shooting positions and ease of capturing images and videos from diverse angles. Additionally, the screens are equipped with a touchscreen feature, facilitating effortless control of camera functions.

Which Would You Choose For The Viewfinder:

One exceptional feature of mirrorless cameras is the electronic viewfinder (EVF). The Sony A6700 and A6600 both boast an EVF, a significant aspect for photographers and videographers.

An EVF facilitates superior framing and control, providing a live preview of the scene and previewing the final image before shooting.

• The Sony A6600 has an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 2.36 million dots.
• Similarly, the Sony A6700 has an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 2.36 million dots.

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

✅ Regarding the LCD display and viewfinder, there is no significant difference.

Which Would You Choose For The Storage:

When examining connectivity, the Sony A6700 offers several improvements over the A6600. The A6700 supports the latest memory cards, providing superior read and write speeds, while the A6600 supports older, slower cards. This faster memory support enables the A6700 to clear its buffer more quickly, reducing the 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 function as a plug-and-play webcam without the necessity for extra plugins. Overall, the A6700 possesses more advanced connectivity options and better support for peripherals.

Which Would You Choose For Size And Weight:

The dimensions and weight of the camera are essential factors to consider for portability.

• The Sony A6600 dimensions are 120 x 67 x 50 mm (4.72 x 2.64 x 2.36 in) and it weighs 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 it weighs approximately 500g (1.1 lb)

In terms of size and weight, both Sony A6700 and A6600 are compact and portable cameras. However, the A6700 is slightly heavier and larger than the A6600.

The size and weight of a camera are crucial considerations for photographers who plan to travel or carry their camera for extended periods.

✅ The storage capabilities show no significant difference, but the Sony A6600 is the lighter camera.

Which Would You Choose For Battery Life:

Both the Sony A6700 and A6600 utilise the same NP-FW50 batteries, indicating compatibility with the same power sources.

Despite this similarity, the A6700 boasts a significantly longer battery life than the A6600:

• The A6700 has a CIPA rating of 810 frames per charge
• The A6600 has a rating of 410 frames per charge

While these ratings may not precisely reflect real-world shooting scenarios, they offer a rough estimate of performance. It is indeed impressive how Sony has increased the battery life on the A6700, making it a favourable option for photographers who frequently shoot and may not have easy access to a power source.

Which Would You Choose For Durability And Body:

Both the Sony A6700 and A6600 are designed to be durable and weather-resistant, making them reliable under challenging shooting conditions.

Both cameras feature a dust and moisture-resistant construction that can protect the camera from the elements. Additionally, both cameras incorporate shutter mechanisms that protect the sensor from dust.

However, the A6700 is equipped with a more robust magnesium alloy body, providing it with added durability compared to the A6600’s composite body. This is beneficial for those who frequently shoot in challenging conditions and require a camera that can endure the rigours of regular use.

Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras would depend on your specific needs and shooting conditions.

✅ For battery life and durability, the Sony A6700 emerges as the superior choice.

Sony A6700 Vs A6600 Physically & Visually Difference Summary:

There are many features to consider, and as observed, the Sony A6700 and A6600 possess many similarities in terms of physical design and connectivity features. Still, the A6700 introduces several notable enhancements.

The A6700, although slightly heavier, boasts a more robust magnesium alloy body, improved battery life, and supports the latest memory cards.

All these features render the A6700 a more advanced camera regarding battery life, body controls, and connectivity options, despite the dimensions and weight being similar.

⭐ The Sony A6700 emerges as the superior option for physical design and connectivity features.

Sony A6700 Vs A6400 – The Verdict

The Sony A6700 and the A6400 are indeed superb cameras, extending a wide range of features and capabilities to photographers and videographers of all expertise levels.

The A6700 proffers a series of remarkable improvements over the A6400, including an enhanced sensor resolution, faster continuous shooting speed, extended battery life, and advanced heat management. Furthermore, it features improved ergonomics, incorporating a revamped AF-joystick and dial for a more tactile user experience.

In the realm of video features, the A6700 outperforms the A6400 with supplementary elements like pre-recording mode, augmented recording time, 4K oversampling, and Full HD High-Speed mode escalated to 120fps.

Speaking of physical design and connectivity, the A6700 also offers a multi-function hot shoe, meticulously designed to accommodate a variety of Sony’s accessories. Additionally, it delivers faster transfer speeds through a USB C port and ensures more reliable Wi-Fi connectivity.

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

Should You Upgrade To The Sony A6700?

Although the A6700 does present several significant upgrades over the A6400 – improved autofocus, increased shooting speed, and superior video capabilities, these might not be sufficient to warrant an upgrade for those who currently own the A6400.

However, if you’re seeking a new camera, the A6700 proposes several enhancements, making it a more competitive choice for both photographers and videographers. Moreover, if you are contemplating a switch to a Sony APS-C mirrorless camera, the A6700 emerges as an excellent choice that offers improved performance and features compared to the A6400.

And there you have it!

We trust you found this guide beneficial and if you wish to purchase the Sony A6700 or A6400, you may do so using the provided links.

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Why not peruse one of our other articles like the Canon R6 vs Sony A7 IV, Sony A7 III vs A7 IV or the Sony A6700 Vs A6400.

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