Sony a5100 vs Sony A6000 Comparison
Choosing the perfect camera for your photography needs can be quite challenging, especially when faced with two popular models from the same brand. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of Sony cameras and compare the Sony a5100 and the Sony A6000. By examining their key specs and the ten main differences between them, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on which camera best suits your needs.
Sony a5100 Key Specs
The Sony a5100 is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera that boasts a 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor. It’s equipped with a fast hybrid autofocus system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus points for speedy and accurate focusing. The camera also offers a maximum ISO of 25,600, providing excellent low-light performance. With its built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities, sharing your photos and videos has never been easier.
Sony A6000 Key Specs
Much like the a5100, the Sony A6000 also features a 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, fast hybrid autofocus system, and an impressive ISO range of 100-25,600. This camera, however, has a few extra features that may appeal to more advanced photographers. One of these is the built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), which allows for better framing and composition. The A6000 also has a more extensive selection of physical controls, giving users more flexibility when adjusting settings on the fly.
Sony A6000 vs A5100 – The 10 main differences
1. Viewfinder
One of the most significant differences between these two cameras is the presence of an electronic viewfinder (EVF) in the A6000. This feature can be incredibly helpful for photographers who prefer to shoot using a viewfinder rather than the camera’s LCD screen. In contrast, the a5100 relies solely on its 3-inch tilting touchscreen for composition and image review.
2. LCD Screen
Both the Sony a5100 and the A6000 are equipped with 3-inch LCD screens, but the a5100’s screen is a touchscreen and can tilt 180 degrees for selfies or vlogging. The A6000’s screen can only tilt up to 90 degrees and does not have touchscreen capabilities.
3. Hot-shoe
The A6000 features a hot-shoe mount, which allows users to attach external accessories such as flashes, microphones, or electronic viewfinders. The a5100, on the other hand, does not have a hot-shoe mount, limiting its expandability.
4. Size
When comparing the size of the two cameras, the a5100 is smaller and lighter, making it a more attractive option for those looking for a portable and travel-friendly camera. The A6000 is slightly bulkier due to its additional features, such as the EVF and hot-shoe mount.
5. Controls
The A6000 has a more extensive selection of physical controls, including two customizable buttons, a mode dial, and a control dial. This layout makes it easier for users to quickly access and adjust settings without having to navigate through menus. The a5100, on the other hand, relies more heavily on its touchscreen for adjustments, which may not be as intuitive for some users.
6. Body Color Options
For those who value aesthetics, the Sony a5100 comes in a few different color options, including black, white, and silver. The A6000 is only available in black and silver.
7. Continuous Shooting Speed
The Sony A6000 has a faster continuous shooting speed of 11 frames per second (fps), compared
to the a5100’s 6 fps. This advantage makes the A6000 better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography, such as sports or wildlife.
8. Flash Compensation
Both cameras feature a built-in flash, but the A6000 offers flash exposure compensation, allowing users to adjust the output of the flash to achieve the desired lighting effect. This feature can be useful for avoiding overexposed or underexposed images when using the flash. The a5100, however, does not have this option.
9. Battery Life
In terms of battery life, the Sony A6000 has a slight edge over the a5100. The A6000 can take approximately 360 shots per charge, while the a5100 can capture around 320 shots. Although the difference is not substantial, it may be a deciding factor for photographers who often shoot for extended periods without access to a power source.
10. Price
When considering the cost, the Sony a5100 is generally more affordable than the A6000, making it a better option for budget-conscious photographers or beginners looking to enter the world of mirrorless cameras. The A6000’s additional features come at a higher price, but may be worth the investment for more advanced or demanding photographers.
Final Thoughts
Both the Sony a5100 and A6000 are excellent mirrorless cameras, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The a5100 is a compact, lightweight, and budget-friendly option that still offers impressive image quality and performance. Its tilting touchscreen and smaller size make it ideal for casual photographers, vloggers, or those who prioritize portability.
On the other hand, the Sony A6000 is better suited for more advanced photographers or those who require additional features such as an electronic viewfinder, hot-shoe mount, and faster continuous shooting speed. Its more extensive control layout and flash compensation also provide greater flexibility and customization options.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sony a5100 and A6000 will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. By considering the main differences outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision on which camera will best serve your photography goals.
