The Alpha A6400 is Sony’s newest APS-C mirrorless camera, and it replaces the Alpha A6300 as the model that sits directly below the Alpha A6500 in the company’s lineup.
The top-of-the-line A6500 camera is over two years old; however, Sony has equipped the Alpha A6400 with some of its most recent technology, notably the advanced AF system. As a result, this camera may prove to be a more tempting proposition than the A6500, which has been on the market for a long.
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with...
- 20.1MP stacked back illuminated 1" Exmor RS CMOS sensor w/ DRAM, large aperture 24-70mm1 F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84 percent of the sensor
- 20.1MP stacked back illuminated 1" Exmor RS CMOS sensor w/ DRAM, large aperture 24-70mm1 F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84 percent of the sensor
- Fast and accurate: Up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24.2 MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
- Multiple movie functions: Make time lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos without post processing
- Tiltable LCD screen: customizable for vlogging, still photography or recording a professional film
- In the box: rechargeable battery (NP FW50) AC adaptor (ac uud12), shoulder strap, body cap, accessory shoe cap, eyepiece cup, micro USB cable. Metering Type: 1200 zone evaluative metering
Sony a6400 Features
The Alpha A6400 possesses a 24.2 megapixel APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor, the same as the A6300 and the A6500. However, because it has a front-end LSI and the most recent version of the BIONZ X image processor, Sony claims its processing rates are 1.8 times quicker than those of the A6300.
These enhancements have also allowed Sony to stretch the new camera’s ISO ceiling to an expanded upper limit of 102,400, compared to the A6500’s 51,200 (the A6400’s native range is 100-32,000). Additionally, Sony claims that color reproduction has been dramatically improved due to these enhancements.
The absence of any in-body image stabilization, which the A6500 has thanks to its 5-axis system, is a notable omission from the A6400. Instead, users of the A6400 will need to rely on lens-based stabilization. While many of Sony’s APS-C-specific zoom lenses come equipped with the company’s Optical SteadyShot (OSS) technology, many of the company’s prime lenses do not.
The electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the Alpha A6400 is identical to the one on the Alpha A6300 and the Alpha A6500; it has 2.36 million dots and magnifies images by 0.7 times. In addition, the back of the camera features a display three inches in size with a resolution of 921 thousand dots.
The display on this screen is touch-enabled, unlike the one on the A6300, but it still has the same 16:9 aspect ratio, which can be a little annoying. This aspect ratio is excellent if you plan to shoot many videos. However, it causes the display to be significantly smaller when taking still images and adds black bars on either side of the picture.
The fact that the display can be angled upwards by 180 degrees is a feature that vloggers will find particularly useful because it makes it easier to frame oneself in the video.
Sony a6400 Build Quality.
Although Sony claims that the build quality of the Alpha A6400 has improved compared to that of the Alpha A6300, it is not apparent exactly how or where these improvements were made. In any case, the body of the Alpha A6400 is made of magnesium alloy and is sealed to prevent dust and moisture from getting inside. Additionally, Sony has improved the shutter, which now has a lifespan of 200,000 cycles, twice as long as the A6300’s shutter.
The body of the A6400 follows a form factor identical to that of other cameras in the A6000 series, including its decent-sized handgrip. In addition, the control layout of the A6400 is the same as that of the A6300. There are a good number of controls that are clearly labeled on the back of the camera, and there is also a control wheel that is free to move around, which makes it easy to navigate menus and examine images.
You cannot navigate the A6400’s comprehensive menu system, even though this has been updated compared to the A6300’s interface, with six color-coded sub-menus making it that much easier to navigate. In addition, Touchscreen functionality is limited to tap focus, tap shutter, and defining subjects for Tracking. This is the same as on all of Sony’s other cameras.
Sony a6400 Autofocus
To say that the focusing technology of the Sony Alpha A6400 is complex would be an understatement. Furthermore, Sony’s promise that the A6400 has the world’s quickest autofocus at just 0.02 seconds only tells a small portion of the tale.
The new camera’s hybrid autofocus system provides 84% frame coverage. In addition, it has 425 phase-detect points and 425 contrast-detect AF points, which increases from the Alpha A6300’s 25 contrast-detect AF points.
This is the first Sony camera to be equipped with Real-time EyeAF and Real-time Tracking technology, both of which were recently developed by Sony (both features are coming to the Alpha A9 via a significant firmware update in March the Alpha A7R III and A7 III in April).
Real-time Tracking uses Sony’s most recent predictive and recognition algorithms, such as AI-based object recognition and color, subject distance (depth), pattern (brightness), and spatial information, not to mention face and eye detection. In addition, real-time Tracking also uses spatial information.
Sony a6400 Performance
The Alpha A6400 has sophisticated autofocus technology, and it can shoot up to 11 frames per second while maintaining its AE and AF capabilities. The buffer performance of the A6400 has been enhanced compared to that of the A6300. The A6400 can now take 116 JPEG photographs, whereas the A6300 can only take 30. Additionally, the capacity for shooting raw has been raised from 21 to 46 shots (although interestingly, the A6500 has the upper hand here, capturing 200 JPEGs in a single burst at 11fps or 107 raw files). If you wish to shoot without making any noise, you may do it at eight frames per second.
When it comes to the metering, we discovered that the A6400 was, for the most part, a reliable performer, with just a slight tendency toward underexposure on occasion; however, this tendency is negligible, and it’s often by only around half or a third of a stop, so it can easily be remedied with a touch of exposure compensation, or in the raw processing that occurs after the image has been captured.
On the other hand, the auto-white balance mechanism of the A6400 does an excellent job of correctly reproducing colors in various scenarios. It even impresses in situations that are generally troublesome due to the presence of artificial sources.
Sony a6400 Image Quality
The APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor with 24.2 megapixels is utilized by the Alpha A6400, as the Alpha A6300 and Alpha A6500 also use it. However, the A6400 features the most recent iteration of Sony’s BIONZ X image engine, which the company thinks produces even higher image quality.
We put the A6400 through its paces with several lenses, including the Sony E 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS, the FE 24-70mm f/4 ZA OSS, and the FE 55mm f/1.8 ZA, and the results showed that the photos produced by each combination were evident and detailed.
The JPEGs taken immediately after being taken by the camera have a remarkable appearance; the contrast and clarity are both of a high caliber.
Sony a6400 Specs
Body type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless |
---|---|
Body material | Magnesium alloy |
Sensor | |
Max resolution | 6000 x 4000 |
Image ratio w h | 1:1, 3:2, 16:9 |
Effective pixels | 24 megapixels |
Sensor photo detectors | 25 megapixels |
Sensor size | APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) |
Sensor type | CMOS |
Processor | Bionz X |
Color space | sRGB, Adobe RGB |
Color filter array | Primary color filter |
Image | |
ISO | Auto, 100-32000 (expands to 102800) |
Boosted ISO (maximum) | 102800 |
White balance presets | 10 |
Custom white balance | Yes |
Image stabilization | No |
Uncompressed format | RAW |
JPEG quality levels | Extra fine, fine, standard |
File format | JPEG (Exif v2.31)Raw (Sony ARW) |
Optics & Focus | |
Autofocus | Contrast Detect (sensor)Phase DetectMulti-areaCenterSelective single-pointTrackingSingleContinuousTouchFace DetectionLive View. |
Autofocus assist lamp | Yes |
Manual focus | Yes |
Number of focus points | 425 |
Lens mount | Sony E |
Focal length multiplier | 1.5× |
Screen/viewfinder | |
Articulated LCD | Tilting |
Screen size | 3″ |
Screen dots | 921,600 |
Touch screen | Yes |
Screen type | TFT LCD |
Live View | Yes |
Viewfinder type | Electronic |
Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
Viewfinder magnification | 1.07× (0.71× 35mm equiv.) |
Viewfinder resolution | 2,359,296 |
Photography features | |
Minimum shutter speed | 30 sec |
Maximum shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
Exposure modes | ProgramAperture priorityShutter priorityManual |
Scene modes | Portrait, Sports Action, Macro, Landscape, Sunset, Night Scene, handheld Twilight, Night Portrait, Anti-Motion Blur |
Built-in flash | Yes |
Flash Range | 6.00 m (at ISO 100) |
External flash | Yes (via hot shoe) |
Flash modes | Off, auto, on, slow sync, rear sync, redeye reduction, wireless, hi-speed sync |
Flash X sync speed | 1/160 sec |
Drive modes | Single shootingContinuousSelf-timerBracketing (AE, WB, DRO) |
Continuous drive | 11.0 fps |
Self-timer | Yes |
Metering modes | MultiCenter-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, 2/3 EV, 1 EV, 2 EV steps) |
WB Bracketing | Yes |
Videography features | |
Format | MPEG-4, H.264 |
Modes | 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 60 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 50 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 25 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, AAC1920 x 1080 @ 50i / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, AAC1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 25 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 16 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM |
Microphone | Stereo |
Speaker | Mono |
Storage | |
Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick DUO (UHS-I compliant) |
Connectivity | |
USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
USB charging | Yes |
HDMI | Yes (micro-HDMI) |
Microphone port | Yes |
Headphone port | No |
Wireless | Built-In |
Wireless notes | 802.11b/g/n + NFC + Bluetooth 4.1 |
Remote control | Yes (via smartphone) |
Physical | |
Environmentally sealed | Yes |
Battery | Battery Pack |
Battery description | NP-FW50 |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 410 |
Weight (inc. batteries) | 403 g (0.89 lb / 14.22 oz) |
Dimensions | 120 x 67 x 60 mm (4.72 x 2.64 x 2.36″) |
Other features | |
Orientation sensor | Yes |
Timelapse recording | Yes |
GPS | None |
Sony a6400 Verdict
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with...
- 20.1MP stacked back illuminated 1" Exmor RS CMOS sensor w/ DRAM, large aperture 24-70mm1 F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84 percent of the sensor
- 20.1MP stacked back illuminated 1" Exmor RS CMOS sensor w/ DRAM, large aperture 24-70mm1 F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84 percent of the sensor
- Fast and accurate: Up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24.2 MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
- Multiple movie functions: Make time lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos without post processing
- Tiltable LCD screen: customizable for vlogging, still photography or recording a professional film
- In the box: rechargeable battery (NP FW50) AC adaptor (ac uud12), shoulder strap, body cap, accessory shoe cap, eyepiece cup, micro USB cable. Metering Type: 1200 zone evaluative metering
One might be forgiven for believing the Sony Alpha A6400 is a minor update over the A6300. The most noteworthy enhancements are the flip-out screen and a few other tweaks to the camera’s design. However, it also retains several deficiencies in the A6300, the most notable of which is the lack of in-body image stabilization.
The number of phase-detect points may be the same, but the intelligent work that goes on behind the scenes moves things along. In addition, the A6400 has a compelling focusing technology, making this truly fascinating.
It is, without a doubt, one of the most advanced systems we have seen on any camera, and the fact that it is on a camera that costs less than one thousand dollars or one thousand pounds is even more astounding.
The focus has been significantly refined, making this camera far more user-friendly than its predecessors.
If this camera can help you increase your hit rate thanks to its advanced autofocus, that can be a good thing. Of course, we’d still like better touchscreen integration to help deliver a more streamlined shooting experience, but if this camera can help you increase your hit rate regardless of the subject you’re shooting, it’s a win-win.
Sony a6400 FAQs
Is an a6400 worth buying?
The Sony a6400 is a camera that should be considered for purchase due to the superior autofocus system, high picture quality, and small body size.
Is Sony a6400 a good beginner camera?
Because of its high price and high sophistication, the Sony a6400 may not be the best option for beginning photographers, despite its mandated features.
Is the Sony Alpha a6400 discontinued?
The Sony Alpha a6400 has not been officially put out of production as of March 2023.
Can I use Sony A6400 in the rain?
Even though the Sony a6400 does not have a weather-sealing feature, it can still be used safely in conditions such as moderate drizzle or mist.
Is Sony a6400 a DSLR or mirrorless?
The Sony a6400 is not a DSLR but a mirrorless camera type.
Is a 6400 suitable for portrait photography?
Because of its sophisticated precision and high-quality images, the Sony a6400 can be used for headshot photography.
Does the Sony a6400 have a touch screen?
The Sony a6400 has a touch screen that makes navigating the menus and selecting the focal point simple.
Does the Sony A6400 overheat?
During prolonged video recording, the Sony a6400 may experience problems with overheating, but it has significantly improved heat dissipation compared to earlier versions.
Is Sony a6400 good for product photography?
Because of its highly developed autofocus and high-quality images, the Sony a6400 can be an excellent option for taking pictures of products.
Is Sony A6400 good in low light?
Because of its high ISO range and picture stabilization technology, the Sony a6400 does perform admirably even when the available light is low.
How long does the Sony A6400 battery last?
The amount of pictures that can be taken on a single charge with the Sony a6400 is listed at around 360, but this number can change depending on how the camera is used.
Does Sony a6400 have eye focus?
The Sony a6400 does come equipped with sophisticated ocular autofocus.
Does an a6400 have a flip screen?
The screen on the Sony a6400 can be flipped up, making it ideal for taking selfies and for recording.
Does the Sony a6400 have a silent shutter?
The Sony a6400 does come equipped with a silent capture setting.
Does Sony a6400 have clear image zoom?
Yes, the Sony a6400 is equipped with clear image zoom, which enables digital zooming while preserving the clarity of the picture.
Can you use a 6400 while charging?
Yes, you can continue using the Sony a6400 even while it is charging with a power supply that is appropriate for it.
Is Sony a6400 suitable for landscape?
Because of its high resolution and sophisticated precision, the Sony a6400 can be an excellent option for taking photographs of landscapes.
Why is my Sony a6400 blurry?
Various things, such as camera shake, circumstances with poor light, or incorrect focus settings can cause the blurriness that the Sony a6400 can produce.
Why is my Sony a 6400 grainy?
Setting the Sony a6400 to a high ISO or shooting in low light can lead to graininess in the captured images.
Is Sony a6400 suitable for travel?
Because of its small size and numerous sophisticated features, the Sony a6400 can be an excellent option for taking photographs while traveling.