What To Know
- This higher shooting speed in the A58 allows for capturing a greater number of frames in a short period of time, making it ideal for sports, wildlife, or other fast-paced photography.
- This increased burst mode capacity in the A58 provides greater flexibility for capturing multiple shots of a moving subject or capturing a wide range of expressions in portrait photography.
- While the EVF in the A58 provides a more immersive experience, the pentaprism viewfinder in the A700 ensures a more accurate representation of the final image.
In the realm of digital photography, the Sony A700 and Sony A58 stand as two notable contenders within the enthusiast segment. Both cameras offer a range of features and capabilities, catering to the needs of aspiring photographers and hobbyists alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Sony A700 and Sony A58, examining their specifications, performance, and overall value proposition.
Image Quality
At the heart of any camera is its image quality. The Sony A700 boasts a 12.2MP APS-C sensor, while the Sony A58 features a 16.2MP APS-C sensor. While the A58 has a slightly higher megapixel count, the A700’s larger sensor size (23.6mm x 15.8mm vs. 23.5mm x 15.6mm) results in larger individual pixels. This translates to better low-light performance, reduced noise levels, and improved dynamic range in the A700.
Autofocus
Autofocus is crucial for capturing sharp images, especially in dynamic or low-light situations. The Sony A700 employs a 11-point phase-detection autofocus system, while the Sony A58 utilizes a 15-point phase-detection system. Both systems offer fast and accurate focusing, but the A58’s additional focus points provide a wider coverage area for improved subject tracking.
Continuous Shooting
For capturing fast-moving action, continuous shooting speed is essential. The Sony A700 can shoot up to 5 frames per second (fps), while the Sony A58 can shoot up to 8 fps. This higher shooting speed in the A58 allows for capturing a greater number of frames in a short period of time, making it ideal for sports, wildlife, or other fast-paced photography.
Burst Mode
Related to continuous shooting, burst mode enables photographers to capture a series of images in rapid succession. The Sony A700 can capture up to 100 JPEG images in a single burst, while the Sony A58 can capture up to 130 JPEG images. This increased burst mode capacity in the A58 provides greater flexibility for capturing multiple shots of a moving subject or capturing a wide range of expressions in portrait photography.
Sensor Stabilization
Image stabilization is a valuable feature for reducing camera shake, especially in low-light or when using longer focal lengths. The Sony A700 does not feature in-body image stabilization, while the Sony A58 incorporates SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization. This in-body stabilization system compensates for camera shake in all directions, resulting in sharper images and smoother videos.
Viewfinder and Display
The viewfinder and display are important aspects of a camera’s usability and overall experience. The Sony A700 features a 0.83x magnification pentaprism viewfinder, providing a bright and clear view of the scene. The Sony A58 utilizes a 0.74x magnification electronic viewfinder (EVF), which offers a live preview of the image with real-time exposure and focus information. While the EVF in the A58 provides a more immersive experience, the pentaprism viewfinder in the A700 ensures a more accurate representation of the final image.
Connectivity and Ergonomics
Connectivity and ergonomics play a role in the overall handling and workflow of a camera. The Sony A700 offers a standard USB 2.0 port, while the Sony A58 incorporates a faster USB 3.0 port. USB 3.0 provides significantly faster data transfer speeds, making it more efficient for transferring large image and video files. In terms of ergonomics, both cameras feature a comfortable grip and intuitive button layout, ensuring a comfortable and user-friendly shooting experience.
Final Note
The Sony A700 and Sony A58 are both capable cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Sony A700 excels in low-light performance, image quality, and viewfinder accuracy, while the Sony A58 offers faster continuous shooting, burst mode, in-body image stabilization, and a more immersive electronic viewfinder. Ultimately, the best choice between these two cameras depends on the specific needs and preferences of the individual photographer.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which camera has better battery life?
A: The Sony A700 and Sony A58 both have similar battery life, with the A700 rated for approximately 730 shots per charge and the A58 rated for approximately 800 shots per charge.
Q: Can I use the same lenses on both cameras?
A: Yes, the Sony A700 and Sony A58 share the same Sony A-mount lens mount, allowing you to use the same lenses on both cameras.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Sony A58 offers better video recording capabilities than the Sony A700. It can record Full HD (1920×1080) video at up to 60p, while the A700 is limited to 720p at 30p.
