What To Know
- In terms of buffer capacity, the a6400 can capture up to 99 JPEG images or 46 RAW images in a single burst, while the 80D can capture up to 78 JPEG images or 25 RAW images.
- The a6400 can record 4K video at up to 30 fps and Full HD video at up to 120 fps, while the 80D can record 1080p video at up to 60 fps.
- The Sony Alpha a6400 is a mirrorless camera, which means it is smaller and lighter than the Canon 80D, which is a DSLR camera.
When it comes to choosing a high-quality camera, two popular options that often come to mind are the Sony Alpha a6400 and the Canon 80D. Both cameras offer excellent features and capabilities, making them ideal for aspiring photographers. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Sony Alpha a6400 and the Canon 80D to help you make an informed decision.
Sensor and Image Quality
The Sony Alpha a6400 boasts a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, while the Canon 80D features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor. Despite having the same resolution, these sensors differ in their construction. The a6400’s sensor utilizes a back-illuminated (BSI) design, which enhances light sensitivity and reduces noise levels. The 80D’s sensor, on the other hand, employs a traditional front-illuminated (FI) design.
In terms of image quality, both cameras deliver sharp and detailed images with accurate colors. However, the a6400 has a slight edge in low-light performance due to its BSI sensor, which allows it to capture cleaner images at higher ISO settings.
Autofocus System
One of the most significant differences between the a6400 and the 80D is their autofocus systems. The a6400 is equipped with Sony’s advanced 425-point hybrid autofocus system, which combines phase-detection and contrast-detection points for fast and accurate focusing. The 80D, on the other hand, uses a 45-point all-cross-type phase-detection autofocus system, which is also highly effective but not as sophisticated as the a6400’s system.
In practice, the a6400’s autofocus system excels in challenging lighting conditions and when tracking fast-moving subjects. It also supports Eye AF, which allows you to focus precisely on the subject’s eyes.
Shooting Speed and Buffer
The Sony Alpha a6400 has a faster shooting speed than the Canon 80D. It can capture up to 11 frames per second (fps) with continuous autofocus, while the 80D can only manage 7 fps. This makes the a6400 a better choice for capturing fast-paced action or sports photography.
In terms of buffer capacity, the a6400 can capture up to 99 JPEG images or 46 RAW images in a single burst, while the 80D can capture up to 78 JPEG images or 25 RAW images.
Video Capabilities
Both the Sony Alpha a6400 and the Canon 80D offer impressive video capabilities. The a6400 can record 4K video at up to 30 fps and Full HD video at up to 120 fps, while the 80D can record 1080p video at up to 60 fps.
The a6400 has a slight edge in video quality due to its advanced image stabilization system and its ability to record in S-Log2 gamma profile, which provides greater flexibility for color grading. Additionally, the a6400 features a built-in microphone input, while the 80D requires an external microphone for audio recording.
Ergonomics and Handling
The Sony Alpha a6400 is a mirrorless camera, which means it is smaller and lighter than the Canon 80D, which is a DSLR camera. The a6400 weighs approximately 403 grams, while the 80D weighs around 730 grams.
Both cameras offer comfortable ergonomic grips, but the a6400’s smaller size and weight make it more convenient to handle for extended periods. The a6400 also features a fully articulating touchscreen, which allows for more versatile shooting angles.
Battery Life
The Sony Alpha a6400 has a longer battery life than the Canon 80D. It can capture up to 410 shots on a single charge, while the 80D can manage around 960 shots. This makes the a6400 a better choice for photographers who plan on shooting for longer periods of time without access to a power source.
Connectivity and Expandability
Both the Sony Alpha a6400 and the Canon 80D offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. They also both have built-in flash units.
In terms of expandability, the a6400 has a multi-interface shoe, which allows you to connect external accessories such as microphones and electronic viewfinders. The 80D, on the other hand, has a hot shoe, which supports a wider range of accessories but requires additional adapters for some types of devices.
Which Camera is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fast autofocus, high shooting speed, and advanced video capabilities, the Sony Alpha a6400 is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a traditional DSLR with a longer battery life and more extensive lens options, the Canon 80D is a solid option.
Answers to Your Questions
Q1. Which camera has better image stabilization?
A1. The Sony Alpha a6400 has a more advanced image stabilization system than the Canon 80D, which provides better results when shooting handheld or in low-light conditions.
Q2. Can either camera shoot in RAW format?
A2. Yes, both the Sony Alpha a6400 and the Canon 80D can shoot in RAW format, which provides greater flexibility for post-processing and editing.
Q3. Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A3. The Sony Alpha a6400’s faster autofocus system and higher shooting speed make it a better choice for wildlife photography, where capturing fast-moving subjects is essential.
