Sony a1 Review

The Sony A1 might be seen as the ‘flex’ of cameras regarding the language used in social media. It aims to be the most excellent mirrorless camera and Sony’s indisputable flagship by offering a unique combination of speed, high-resolution stills, and 8K video; even if it results in a price tag the size of a vehicle, it is still Sony’s flagship product.

If you’re in a position to make a purchase, the fact that it’s possibly the most versatile professional camera ever created should be your primary selling point.

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Sony Alpha 1 Full-Frame Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera (Renewed)

Last update was on: January 19, 2024 8:58 am
$5,339.95

The A1 (or Alpha 1, as it is also known) is not content to specialize in just one area of photography; instead, it is equally capable in the studio, on the touchline at a professional sporting event, papping celebrities, in the jungle shooting wildlife, and even on the set of a Hollywood film shooting video. This is because the A1 was designed to be versatile.

Sony A1 Features

The sensor and processor are the central components of any camera, around which all of the other features and functions revolve. Therefore, the Sony A1 may be considered a hybrid device that combines the capabilities of the Sony A9 II and the Sony A7R IV but with increased power.

The device’s full-frame 50.1-megapixel Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor provides incredible image quality and processing speed, which twins Bionz XR image processors’ power.

This combination produces photographs rich in detail and makes it possible for the A1 to take pictures at a rate of up to 30 frames per second with a buffer that can store up to 155 raw files in compressed form or 165 JPEGs when using the electronic shutter.

We took about 67 shots in each burst while shooting uncompressed raw files with the mechanical shutter during our tests.

Another feature that can be accommodated with the assistance of this combination is the capability to shoot video at resolutions of up to 8K at 30 frames per second in 10-bit 4:2:0 and 4K at 120/60 frames per second in 10-bit 4:2:2, recording in a variety of raw formats such as S-Cinetone and S-Log3.

It is stated that the latter has a dynamic range greater than 15 stops—the utilization of S-Gamut3 in addition to S-Gamut3. Cine also makes it feasible to match footage with sure of Sony’s professional camcorders and movie cameras. In addition, there is a raw output of 16 bits that HDMI may send to an external recorder.

Sony a1 Build Quality

Autofocus and driving mode controls are located on the left side of the top plate of the A1, much like they are on the A9 II. These options are hidden away in menus on A7 models, but the direct access knobs on the A1 are designed to make it as simple and fast as possible to adjust the relevant settings.

The camera has a grip that is very similar to that of other full-frame Sony mirrorless bodies, and it uses the same NP-FZ100 battery found in more recent Sony Alpha models that have been released in the last couple of years. This means the camera will fit very well with existing Sony kits because it has the same battery.

When using bigger telephoto lenses, a battery grip provides a superior balance between the camera and lens, eventually resulting in increased comfort when holding the camera. The A1 weighs 737 grams with the memory card and battery installed, so it is pleasant to carry with standard lenses.

Sony a1 Performance

The A1 is not a slouch and can hold its own in any of these shooting conditions, whether you are photographing animals, sports, portraits, landscapes, or anything else. The camera is quick and effective in several areas, but the focusing technology, in particular, is potent and impressive.

You can position the active focus point (or points) in the viewfinder in virtually any location with the A1’s 759-Point hybrid AF system, which covers 92% of the sensor, not to mention that the phase-detection points in a high-density, focal-plane phase-detection autofocus system are engineered to give reliable autofocus even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Sony a1 Image Quality

  • A stacked sensor is capable of capturing an extraordinary level of detail.
  • Exceptional performance at high ISO settings, with useable images, produced even at 12,800.
  • 8K and 4K/120p video formats provide filmmakers with significant flexibility

When it comes to visual quality, the A1 does not in any way fall short of expectations. On the contrary, the stacked 50.1-megapixel CMOS sensor can capture extraordinary information, enough so that even professional studio photographers would be pleased with the results.

Not to mention the 15 stops of dynamic range and exceptional high ISO noise sensitivity that add to the good image quality. Both of these factors are responsible for the excellent image quality.

Sony a1 Specs

Body typeSLR-style mirrorless
Body materialMagnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution8640 x 5760
Image ratio w h1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels50 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors51 megapixels
Sensor sizeFull frame (35.9 x 24 mm)
Sensor typeStacked CMOS
ProcessorDual Bionz XR
Color spacesRGB, Adobe RGB, Rec. 2020
Color filter arrayPrimary color filter
Image
ISOAuto, 100-32000 (expands to 50-102400)
Boosted ISO (minimum)50
Boosted ISO (maximum)102400
White balance presets7
Custom white balanceYes
Image stabilizationSensor-shift
CIPA image stabilization rating5.5 stop(s)
Uncompressed formatRAW
JPEG quality levelsExtra fine, fine, standard, light
File formatJPEG (Exif v2.32)HEIFRaw (Sony ARW v4.0)
Optics & Focus
AutofocusContrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousTouchFace DetectionLive View.
Autofocus assist lampYes
Number of focus points759
Lens mountSony E
Focal length multiplier
Screen/viewfinder
Articulated LCDTilting
Screen size3″
Screen dots1,440,000
Touch screenYes
Screen typeTFT LCD
Live ViewYes
Viewfinder typeElectronic
Viewfinder coverage100%
Viewfinder magnification0.9×
Viewfinder resolution9,437,184
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed30 sec
Maximum shutter speed1/8000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic)1/32000 sec
Exposure modesProgramAperture priorityShutter priorityManual
Built-in flashNo
External flashYes
Flash X sync speed1/400 sec
Continuous drive30.0 fps
Self-timerYes
Metering modesMultiCenter-weightedHighlight-weightedAverageSpot
Exposure compensation±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
AE Bracketing±5 (3, 5 frames at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV steps)
WB BracketingYes
Videography features
FormatXAVC S, XAVC HS, XAVC S-I, H.264, H.265
Modes7680 x 4320 @ 30p / 400 Mbps, XAVC HS, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM7680 x 4320 @ 25p / 400 Mbps, XAVC HS, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM7680 x 4320 @ 24p / 400 Mbps, XAVC HS, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 120p / 280 Mbps, XAVC HS, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 100p / 280 Mbps, XAVC HS, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 60p / 200 Mbps, XAVC HS, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 50p / 200 Mbps, XAVC HS, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 140 Mbps, XAVC HS, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.265, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
MicrophoneStereo
SpeakerMono
Storage
Storage typesDual SD/CFexpress Type A slots (UHS-II supported)
Connectivity
USBUSB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 GBit/sec)
USB chargingYes
HDMIYes (Standard)
Microphone portYes
Headphone portYes
WirelessBuilt-In
Wireless notes802.11ac (Dual Band)
Remote controlYes (via Bluetooth or tethered PC)
Physical
Environmentally sealedYes
BatteryBattery Pack
Battery descriptionNP-FZ100 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA)530
Weight (inc. batteries)737 g (1.62 lb / 26.00 oz)
Dimensions129 x 97 x 81 mm (5.08 x 3.82 x 3.19″)
Other features
Orientation sensorYes
GPSNone

Sony a1 Verdict

  • Product
  • Features
  • Photos

Sony Alpha 1 Full-Frame Interchangeable Lens Mirrorless Camera (Renewed)

Last update was on: January 19, 2024 8:58 am
$5,339.95

Because of its high-resolution sensor, lightning-fast autofocus, super-fast burst shooting, professional connection, and 8K raw video recording, the Sony A1 is a great camera that fills practically every conceivable need in the realm of photography. But, unfortunately, the price tag puts it out of reach for most photographers, even though it is an incredible camera, and the image quality is unparalleled.

Sony a1 FAQs

Is Sony A1 worth buying?

Your specific requirements and financial constraints will determine whether or not the Sony A1 is a worthwhile investment for you. It is a high-end camera with many sophisticated features, but it has a high price tag because of that.

What is Sony A1 used for?

The Sony A1 is a very flexible camera that can be used for various kinds of photography, such as landscapes, wildlife, and sports.

Why is the Sony A1 so good?

The Sony A1 has garnered widespread praise for its lightning-quick autofocus, lightning-fast recording speeds, and outstanding picture quality, among its many other cutting-edge capabilities.

Is Sony A1 the best mirrorless?

Many people believe the Sony A1 is one of the best mirrorless cameras presently accessible.

Is the Sony A1 good in low light?

Because of its high sensitivity and sophisticated noise reduction, the Sony A1 performs admirably even in dim lighting conditions.

Is Sony Alpha 1 good for photography?

The Sony Alpha 1 is, without a doubt, a capable camera for photography, as it features quick autofocus, a high-speed recording mode, and outstanding picture quality.

Is Sony a1 good for portrait photography?

Because of its sophisticated autofocus system and high-resolution sensor, the Sony A1 is, in fact, an excellent camera for headshot photography.

Does the A1 overheat?

There have been a few accounts of the Sony A1 overheating after prolonged use; however, this issue is typically solvable by ensuring adequate ventilation and adjusting the camera settings appropriately.

How much is Sony A1?

The price of the Sony A1 differs from one location to another and from one retailer to another; however, it is universally acknowledged to be a high-end and pricey camera.

Does Sony a1 have Super 35 mode?

When recording video, the Sony A1 does come equipped with a Super 35 set.

Is Sony a1 weather sealed?

The Sony A1 does have a weather-sealing feature that protects it from dirt and dampness.

Is Sony a1 suitable for wedding photography?

With its sophisticated autofocus and the ability to capture at a high rate of speed, the Sony A1 has the potential to be an excellent camera for wedding photographs.

Is Sony a1 good for astrophotography?

With its high sensitivity and sophisticated noise reduction, the Sony A1 has the potential to be an excellent camera for astronomical photographs.

Does Sony a1 have a mechanical shutter?

Yes, the Sony A1 offers photographers the choice between a conventional and an electrical shutter when taking photos.

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