What To Know
- In the realm of digital photography, Sony has established itself as a formidable force, offering a range of cameras that cater to the needs of both amateur and professional photographers.
- While the EVF may not be as bright as a pentaprism viewfinder, it allows for precise focusing and the ability to see the effects of your settings before taking the shot.
- In terms of connectivity and sharing options, both the Sony A700 and A77 offer a range of features to facilitate seamless transfer and sharing of your images.
In the realm of digital photography, Sony has established itself as a formidable force, offering a range of cameras that cater to the needs of both amateur and professional photographers. Two such cameras that have garnered significant attention are the Sony A700 and A77. While sharing some similarities, these cameras also possess distinct features that set them apart. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences between the Sony A700 and A77, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision when choosing a camera that aligns with your photography aspirations.
Sensor and Image Quality
Both the Sony A700 and A77 feature a 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, capturing images with impressive resolution and clarity. However, the A77 boasts a newer sensor technology, resulting in enhanced image quality. The A77’s sensor exhibits improved noise reduction capabilities, producing cleaner images, especially in low-light conditions. Additionally, the A77 offers a wider dynamic range, allowing for greater detail in both highlights and shadows.
Autofocus System
The autofocus system is a crucial aspect of any camera, influencing the sharpness and accuracy of your shots. The Sony A700 utilizes a phase-detection autofocus system with 11 focus points, providing reliable performance in most lighting conditions. On the other hand, the A77 employs a more advanced phase-detection autofocus system with 19 focus points, ensuring faster and more precise focusing, even in challenging lighting situations.
Continuous Shooting Speed
For capturing fast-paced action or sequences, continuous shooting speed is paramount. The Sony A700 offers a respectable 5 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting speed, enabling you to capture multiple shots in quick succession. The A77, however, outperforms the A700 in this regard, boasting a blistering 12 fps continuous shooting speed, making it ideal for capturing sporting events, wildlife, or any other scenario that demands rapid shooting.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
The viewfinder and LCD screen play a significant role in composing your shots and reviewing your images. The Sony A700 features a pentaprism viewfinder with 95% coverage, providing a bright and clear view of your subject. The A77, on the other hand, utilizes an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage, offering a real-time preview of your image, including any adjustments you make to settings. While the EVF may not be as bright as a pentaprism viewfinder, it allows for precise focusing and the ability to see the effects of your settings before taking the shot.
Video Capabilities
In the realm of video recording, the Sony A700 and A77 present contrasting capabilities. The A700 offers basic video recording capabilities, capturing footage at a resolution of 640×480 pixels at 30 fps. However, the A77 takes video recording to a new level, supporting Full HD 1080p video recording at 60 fps. The A77 also features advanced video features such as continuous autofocus and the ability to record in AVCHD format, providing greater flexibility and higher-quality video output.
Ergonomics and Handling
When it comes to ergonomics and handling, both the Sony A700 and A77 are well-designed cameras that offer a comfortable grip and intuitive controls. The A700 features a traditional DSLR design with a pronounced handgrip and dedicated dials for quick access to key settings. The A77, on the other hand, adopts a more compact and lightweight design, making it easier to carry around for extended periods. Additionally, the A77’s tilting LCD screen allows for more flexible shooting angles, especially when working from low or high perspectives.
Dynamic Range and ISO Performance
The dynamic range of a camera refers to its ability to capture a wide range of tones from bright highlights to dark shadows. The Sony A700 exhibits a dynamic range of approximately 10.5 stops, allowing for decent detail retention in high-contrast scenes. The A77, however, surpasses the A700 in this aspect, offering a dynamic range of approximately 12 stops, providing greater flexibility in capturing challenging lighting conditions.
Connectivity and Sharing
In terms of connectivity and sharing options, both the Sony A700 and A77 offer a range of features to facilitate seamless transfer and sharing of your images. Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for wireless image transfer to compatible devices such as smartphones or tablets. Additionally, the A700 and A77 support remote shooting capabilities, enabling you to control your camera and capture images remotely using a smartphone or tablet.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration when choosing a camera, especially for photographers who spend extended periods shooting in the field. The Sony A700 utilizes a proprietary NP-FM500H battery, which provides approximately 500 shots per charge. The A77, on the other hand, employs a larger NP-FM500H battery, offering an improved battery life of approximately 730 shots per charge, ensuring longer shooting sessions without the need for frequent battery changes.
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Camera for Your Needs
The Sony A700 and A77 are both capable cameras that offer a range of features to suit the needs of various photographers. While the A700 remains a solid choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable DSLR, the A77 emerges as the more advanced and versatile option for photographers who demand faster autofocus, higher continuous shooting speeds, and enhanced video capabilities. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your specific photography style, budget, and the features that are most important to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which camera has a better autofocus system?
- The Sony A77 features a more advanced phase-detection autofocus system with 19 focus points, providing faster and more precise focusing compared to the A700’s 11-point autofocus system.
2. What is the continuous shooting speed of the A700 and A77?
- The Sony A700 offers a continuous shooting speed of 5 fps, while the A77 boasts a significantly faster continuous shooting speed of 12 fps.
3. Does the A700 support Full HD video recording?
- No, the Sony A700 does not support Full HD video recording. It captures video at a maximum resolution of 640×480 pixels at 30 fps.
4. Which camera has a longer battery life?
- The Sony A77 offers a longer battery life than the A700, providing approximately 730 shots per charge compared to the A700’s 500 shots per charge.
5. Does the A77 have a tilting LCD screen?
- Yes, the Sony A77 features a tilting LCD screen, allowing for more flexible shooting angles and easier composition when working from low or high perspectives.
