After the Vlog with Sony event(June 2019) I was offered to try and test out another camera. This time it was their latest crop sensor mirrorless camera, the Sony α6400. This product was introduced by Sony Philippines to the local market April 2019 (global announcement was January 2019). For more information about the camera you can check out this post and official product page from Sony.
We also did an un-boxing video below:
Upon handling the unit, the body design didn’t had much difference from its’ predecessor (α6300, & α6500). If you check out specs and compared all three models you’ll find very little difference. If you look up all three cameras the major body difference between all cameras is that the α6400, can tilt the LCD all the way up, so that you can use selfie mode(if you’re in to that). And I never really got into the touch screen feature, since I’m so used with toggle wheels, buttons and what not. So meaning it helps for people that like to change the settings by tapping on the LCD.
When it comes to shooting stills, I’ve immediately thrilled because the AF of the device was quick and accurate. It seems that I’ve never missed my focus once I set it on the right AF-point. After all the α6400 has 425 phase and contrast detect AF points. And a very recent firmware update that even improved Sony’s Eye-AF on human and pet subjects. I tested this feature out as soon as I saw our cat lounging around.
When it came around to video testing, I was dumb founded, cause I didn’t know that dedicated movie record button was on the far right hand side(and I didn’t notice it). But after noticing my error, I started shooting videos immediately. Surprisingly I shot a lot of video with the α6400. The camera boasts 4K resolution @30fps, and 1080p @120fps. Personally I wouldn’t go dabble with 4K yet since none of my computers at home can handle this video format yet. What I really liked about the camera, was the AF system that it had. It made video shooting very easy.
The only qualm that I had with the Sony α6400 was its menu system. I tried the following Sony cameras in the past( Sony RX100 III, and Sony α7 RIII) each camera has a similar menu system but I’m still a little confused with the menu. But I think this can be worked around with frequent use and practice.
For someone who regularly shoots, I’ve brought the camera to all events , screenings and gatherings that we went to, since this what I do with test units. I’m a firm believer that if a camera can withstand wear and tear and shoot along side with whatever your trying to capture then it passes the test. So far the α6400 was able to keep up and then some. This camera packs a wallop since it has features that would leave other cameras in the dust. Sony really has done leaps and bounds when it comes to making photographers and videographers life easier.
A heavy contender if you’re looking for a new camera. An easy choice if you are looking to upgrade from a mobile phone. If I have the resources to make a decision to go for a crop sensor mirrorless camera this will be the camera that I would purchase.
Thank you Sony Philippines for letting me play with the Sony α6400.