This is undoubtedly the most professional Reviewer, i don't need a cameras channel subscription, i'm not buying cameras often, i just wanted a clean unbiased review on this camera and i finally found this video after checking about 10, where 2 were good and 8 were... garbage... thank you Tony.
I agree! This has nothing to do with the camera being cool. When I buy a cam with viewfinder it should be in the middle, or it will be very awkward to use (as I'm a lefty)
I love the way Tony talks and presents. I've been a DSLR using pro for ages now and am heavily invested in Nikkor glass, however when my aunt wanted a new camera I wanted her to get out of point & shoots, but a D5300 is too big of a size jump. So I suggested an A6000 and I've been able to teach her so much about photography, using manual modes, and suggesting different lenses for different uses. It's wonderful seeing that progression and you just can't learn all that with anything smaller than an A6000, it's a great camera. When looking at getting any APS-C camera I would only recommend an A6000 or a Nikon D500.
Tony, THANK YOU for backing me up on the fact that cameras that charge from USB are what we should want, and separate chargers are great additional accessories but not necessary. When I got my Rx100 everyone was complaining that the camera charges through USB and no charger is included, but I was confused. To me, that was a feature, not a bug.
I know I mentioned the gx7 in a previous comment, but your video made me think of it again. Not only does it share the evf placement of the a6000, but the touch screen is awesome and you can use it to change your focusing point while your eye is on the viewfinder. I am really impressed with this camera. That being said, I'm really jealous of the a6000's sensor. Apsc, phase detect, and 24 megapixels is awesome. Sony just doesn't have the lens lineup that micro 43 has.
You're right, the GX7 is very similar. We're comparing the a6000 to the E-M10, because that's what we have, but it has basically the same sensor and lens lineup, touch screen, IBIS, etc., so most of the comparisons will hold true. And you're definitely right about the lens selection--nothing in the mirrorless world can beat MFT right now, and lens selection is the most important factor when choosing a camera body to many of us. Would you believe Sony has *one* portrait lens? The 50mm f1.8. That's your only choice. In the MFT world, you have at least 3 great options.
Finally programmable cameras on the way! And btw I think touchscreens on cameras would stink for zooming... I need one button instant 100% zoom and synced scrolling at the same relative location. But moving on the picture with touch would be a nice bonus feature.
Worth noting there is another mic option the ECM-W1M. It uses Bluetooth and does have mic and headphone jacks. Its new so there isn't a whole lot of information atm but it purportedly works pretty well.
Tony, "all viewfinders should be in the upper left corner" Perhaps you are unaware that people out here come in left eye and right abilities. For left eyed people trying to use the viewfinder in the upper left corner is a pain. The center viewfinder works best for all of us not just right eyed people.From a left-eyed person, love your show
In fact for left eye people the viewfinder would be best placed in the upper right corner (for the same reason), not the middle. So putting it in the middle makes it bad for both RE people and LE people. And given that there are WAY more RE people it makes sense to go with the Sony placement, notwithstanding a version for both camps...
Then they should probably make a left eye version. But center sucks and like he said gets in the way of your nose. Most of us are right eye dominant so sony is satisfying the largest market which from a sales and cost standpoint makes sense.
The exact same thing came to my mind when he made that generalization. I am right-handed but use my left eye on a viewfinder. I do not care why I do, but I do so a centre VF suits both types. Many cameras also forgo a VF and stand with only the screen.
I totally agree about the touch screen convenience. Panasonic has it on MOST of their cameras, even the middle and lower mid line ones like G6 or whatever it is now. I think you should definitely review them too. I have a GH2 and as old as it is, the focus and focus tracking is pretty damn good, esp if you use the Panny/Leica 25mm 1.4
As an owner of a nex-5n for the last 4 years... This is the first camera that has me Wanting to upgrade. I'll be buying one soon. 4/20 I think Thanks for the quick look
Tony, there is one issue about the location of EVF. Actually Sony's EVF is not that 'nose friendly' if you are not used to BLINK your CORRECT EYE which is left eye in this case. For those who are used to blink their right eye easily, centre location is even better than that one. regards, Murat
I bought this camera so I can make my RU-vid video's higher quality. So far it is doing a great job. I'm uploading now at 1080p and 60 FPS. You mentioned that one downfall of this camera is that it can't shoot video for more than 30 minutes. It would be great IF it could shoot video for 30 minutes, but it can't. If you are shooting video, you're lucky to get 20 minutes before it over heats and shuts itself off. There is no way I'm getting a 30 minute shot. Never. Gotta stop, turn it off, let it cool down for a while and I'm good to go again. The other downfall is the battery life. It goes very quickly. I bought 3 more batteries and a wall charger because honestly, as nice as USB charging goes, it charges SUPER slow. So, I always have many backup batteries charged up. Great camera otherwise. Does a fantastic job!
CrazyBadCuber I never understand why people want to record more than 30 minutes (besides of the import tax regulations). You need to edit it anyway and like you said, the internal temperature will get too high (I wouldn't film longer than 30 minutes even if the camera could do that!).
Lutte Kikker It depends on what you're filming. What if you wanted to do a time lapse that wasn't picture by picture, but actually filming something for an hour and then speeding it up in post? I mean you might not want to do that, but a lot of people do. Some people on RU-vid also film many takes over and over again and then during editing they find the best parts and edit it together. If it's unscripted material then they might be in a good headspace and things are going well and then the camera shuts off and he/she loses the footage they were just recording. It's a pain in the ass that way. I personally don't need anything filmed that long, but I do see why others do. The fact that this thing is advertised to shoot for 30 minutes is completely misleading and I think it's wrong for Sony to say that when it will overheat before that time is up. I think it's wrong of them to also release an expensive product, advertise that it can shoot video and then don't tell people about the overheating problem.
Awesome video Tony! I've been researching a lot about the a6000 vs the pentax k 50 and k3 models but am not sure if I should pull the trigger on the a6000 yet, thinking that a successor to it may come around. What do you think? Also what are your thoughts on low light performance on micro fourthirds cameras vs crop sensors such as on the a6000 and d3300 and full frame?
I've got a Galaxy Note 4, and I enjoy the camera on it a lot, but I've recently been thinking about getting an actual camera that I can bring around with me easily. I'm definitely not a photographer in the slightest; I just enjoy taking pictures when I want to, and I'm basically planning ahead for having one that will satisfy my needs for most of my life. I figure I could just get this, and if I need something more, then I could just upgrade the lens. I've been checking out your videos, and will probably check out more, as well as your book if I wanted to learn more, so I want to say thanks for them as well as this review! Hopefully I can finalize my choice soon!
I'd have to agree about the lack of touch screen. I have an nex6 and while I really like the camera a touch screen would make it so much more user friendly. Even the A7 doesn't get one. Sony is certainly capable of making a brilliant one. I don't understand why they haven't.
Which one should I buy? a7r, a6300, Fuji X-T1, Nikon d7200, or something else? Need it for astrophotography, landscape photography, long exposure shots with a ND Filter and some pics of surfers ripping through waves.
Having the viewfinder on the left is only useful if you use your right eye thought... I use my left eye and a such don't care for it being on the to left as it just didn't look as balanced aesthetically
7:20 I prefer no touch screen. With my NEX 5R, it seemed I was always hitting it when I didn't want to. People seem to dislike the menu system on the A6000, but I actually like it, especially when combined with the programmable buttons.
Tony, Awesome review. I have learned a great deal here. I am a re beginner from 18 years ago with video work. My goal, record guitar instructional's and live bands outdoors and in venue settings where stage lights may or may not be enough light. Bought this camera open box at Best Buy tonight @ $449.00 with 16-50 lens, nothing else included. I had expressed to the sales rep "mic output" is a must. The rep showed me a usb to pin jack adapter as a mic out that I can buy on line. Done deal. UNTIL I got home, removed the shrink rap off the camera and watched your review. "NO MIC OUT". Super bummed. Right price! and everything you point out this a6000 offers in 2019 was perfect I thought. I want this camera with a mic out and maybe a flip rotating screen but not a must. What next? I love the a6000 app for FB/Phone/RU-vid, USB charging, size, weight, auto focus, and good for beginner for stills too! Looked at the canon sl2, 77d...liked those but not as much as the a6000. Truly respect your knowledge and reviews. Any recommendations? H.E.L.P.
Nice review. The problem with not having a charger is that if you have more than one battery then you cannot use your camera while you charge the spare. I have a Sony travel camera that charges via usb and it is a real pain. The other issue is that usb cannot supply a lot of power (unless you have a fast charger) so the battery takes an age to charge, again a pain.
This is a really nice review of the a6000 camera I just bought. If you do a review on the NFC feature in a later video, keep in mind to update the smart remote app in the camera appstore. This will give your smartphone way more control over the a6000.
I can't get used to a viewfinder on the side at all. In my opinion it's less stable and once you use a longer lens it feels a bit awkward and uncomfortable to hold it beside your face But well, that's personal preference and we're lucky enough that we can choose between both.
+1, there are some advantages to both viewfinder positions IMO, but i prefer it centered (more or less). I'd like to see it positioned a bit lower though to avoid the bump at the top of the camera, but that might be difficult because of sensor placement (and stabilization on the OM).
Hello Tony and Chelsea, quick question but first let me say that I really enjoy your informative and extremely educational channel. Just was wondering if you could comment quickly or if you have any thoughts on why the dxomark sharpness scores for virtually all Sony E-mount lenses are all 1p-mp better when tested on the a5000 vs the a6000 if the a6000 is a newer model? Thanks for all your great videos.
Dear Tony, Thanks for the great work i was waiting to buy Canon 70D as my first dslr.i wanna do photography as a hobby but now im think of buying a mirror less camera i really feel like buying Sony a6000 can it beat canon 70D and Olympus EM1? thanks alot Shalika
Thank you for your review Tony! I just bought an A6000 and I love it already! I am a big Sony fan and I have had many Sony cameras including the A77, which I still have! I do have one question, do you recommend any type of adapters to adapt my Sony A-mount lens to the Sony E-mount? Thank you!
What camera would you personally chose given a choice between Olympus OM-D E-M10 and Sony 6000? Am torn between the two. I will be using it for travelling and family events mostly. Thanking you in advance.
Hi Tony, i have a lot of respect for your work and the way you try to educate and inform your viewers, i'm new into photography, i got myself the Nikon D3400 with the kit 18-55 dx vr lens, but i think of switching to this camera, what do you think about this switch between D3400 and A600? it will be a progress? please help me settle my thoughts. regards Bob Lee.
The view finder is more convenient of the left side if you are right handed. Being left handed, it's more natural to close my right and look through my left eye. So having it on the far left doesn't help or hurt as opposed to having it in the center.
Nice video. Can you make a A6000 vs. EM-10 comparison video like you did for the X-T1 vs. EM-1? These cameras seem like the best beginner mirror-less cameras. Thanks
Tony Northrup Please Tony, consider video AF performance, it´s supposed to give "the best" video AF performance of this type of cameras, just behind the very excellent Canon 70D. It would be nice to know if that´s true!
Really informative video. I'm stuck between this camera and a Canon 100D/SL1 as a travel camera. I have an old Rebel XT with 3 lenses, some pre-dating digital: The EF 100-300 4.5-5.6 USI, the EF 28-105 3.5-4.5 USI, and the kit EF-S 18-55 3.5-5.6. I think that if I had no lenses I'd be strongly biased towards the a6000. I would purchase the a6000 with a kit lens and the 55-210. Am I better off going Sony a6000 or just getting the Canon SL1 body?
I have been scouting for the Nikon DSLR 710... Now with the reviews on the a6000, I am intrigued of the lower cost and the ability to use my current lenses if I decide on the Sony. I prefer portrait work but my clients are typically fitness events. Can the a6000 match the 710?
Excellent review. I am buying this camera today. Was debating between this, the Panasonic DMC-GX7 and Olympus OMD-EM10...(all great choices) This guy is so lovable. 10:44 ("finally, right??) lol
Hi Tony, you got another concise review here. Been eyeing this camera and saving up for it. Considering this A6000, for the price that can provide me 179 AF points, tiltable LCD, and I learned from one of you tube upload that with an adapter, Nikon lenses can be used. More so, since this is a CSC, there are situations that I can not bring neither my D7000 and D7100 which both calls for its bulkiness and weight. Truly, we buy gears based on our scene interests and most importantly, according to how much you can spend on it. By the way, GH4 regardless of funds, is on top of my list, though. Likewise, would like to hear from you later on the new Samsung NX-1. It seems by far, have overtaken some of the features of GH4 and A6000, NX-1 was recently launched in Photokina 2014. Thanks for sharing!
I always use my left eye on the viewfinder. Just habit I suppose. I'm not sure my left is better than my right. So viewfinder on the left is not an advantage for me. In terms of design, it follows the old range finder look, or like older cameras such as the Olympus Trip 35 (my first camera). I wonder how it compares to the now old EM5 Mk 1. I bought the EM5 for the lens choice and that I'm taking it out on events in the hills so expecting weather. I thought I'd like the touch screen and spent time in the shop playing pointing at things to focus and shoot. I use it sometimes, but not that much. Maybe like other things, I'd get used to it.
Very informative thank you. As a Lumix GH2 user, I'd like to see the lag test also carried out on the GH3 and GH4 if possible; perhaps a future review could be a face-off between the XT1, OMD, GH3/4 and a Sony? I agree about the placement of the EVF that you mention, I will need to buy an eye cup for my GH2 (if one exists) as under bright sunlight (which we have a lot of here), some light does enter the EVF from the side because my nose touches the back of the camera body. I like the idea that one could upgrade the camera body software for additional or advanced features, but only if these features come out much later as upgrades, whereas it seems to me that these upgrades are already available yet the camera is brand new. So it seems to me that Sony are making additional profits from features that could already have been included in the camera upon release. Additionally, when my smart phone upgrades itself with a firmware update, I am not asked to pay extra money, so why should a Sony user be charged for additional features in this way. The only benefit this upgrading system has is that, say as in my case, I have a GH2 and then certain features that are on the GH3 become available to the GH2, and so by upgrading, the life of my camera is extended and I have no need to buy a GH3. However, of course, a camera/technology manufacturer is unlikely to do this because it wants consumers to buy their new models. Is it a shame that I cannot upgrade my GH2 with some of the features in the GH3 as I would happily pay a reasonable amount for them.
We'll definitely put the EVF against the GH2 and GH4 when we do the GH4 review. And I mostly agree with you about the software... especially if all the apps are developed by Sony. If they open the app store to third parties, we could get hundreds of creative apps in there with features that wouldn't otherwise exist. But now, most of the $10 apps were features already built into the E-M10. The apps are overpriced, too, compared to iPhone apps.
Great review. I love your book by the way (stunning digital photography)--taught me a lot. Q: I have a Nikon D7100 and love it. I take it most places, but it is a beast. I am looking for a smaller, quality mirrorless 4/3rds option for backpacking and hiking in the PNW. I've seen both reviews of the A6000 and the Olympus OMD EM10. Which is your favorite?
I agree so much regarding the place of the view finder...it must be in left corner! So, why do SONY A7 have it in middle?:( I hate that high top on that camera, if SONY A7 had same place of the view finder as A6000...wow. Or...why not put a full frame sensor in the A6000 house??? (and of course mic in)
Hi Tony, I really enjoy watching your videos. You do such a clear and logical approach to reviewing and discussing various cameras, it is a pleasure to watch. I have the A6000 and I m considering purchasing the Panasonic Lx100 as a second camera. I was wondering if you have used the Lx100 and your thoughts? Tk john
Fuji put the viewfinder in the middle to facilitate a larger vf without adding too much bulk. Fuji is actually famous for rangefinder style viewfinders!
Thanks for posting this! How would you rate the Sony E-Mount 35mm f/1.8 OSS prime lens for this camera? I'm interested in purchasing the camera,but just the body, since the kit lens has limitations.
I thought that Nikon D3300 5300 have Toshiba sensor, not Sony's one I'd like to buy this camera, it's good for everyday use. On the other hand i like DSLR format, that's why i want to buy old but still one the best entry-level D5100)
Hi Tony. I currently shoot with a D600 but it is just too big and heavy to take with me on trips anymore. I am on the fence looking to switch to a mirrorless but am stuck between the A6000, Fuji X-E2 and the O-MD E-5 or 10.
Thanks Tony for finally showing sony some attention. I love my A7 and had a nex 6 before that. Keep in mind when comparing it to the other mirrorless however it's price. The xt1 and em1 are much more expensive. A7 Range. An em10 is a much more fair comparison. Cheers.
Tony, you said that an adapted Sony alpha lens wouldnt give you autofocus or aperture adjustment....but I dont think this is correct. Please look at the LA-EA2. It includes phase detection in the adapter itself.
Great review! I have not watched all of your videos on sony s6000, but I see threads of conversation about this camera heating up in movie record mode?
Excellent review Tony! WRT the pop-up flash and the hot shoe. I believe the pop-up flash has the same GN as the NEX-7 (GN=6). Also, it looks like they used the traditional hot shoe design rather than the NEX-7 hot shoe, which requires a converter?
Hi Tony! Thanks for the nice video! I am going to buy the Sony a6000, and everything seems good (albeit the camera is a bit heave and big)). Still the features are great.. But, how loud is it? It seems the shot sound is like that of Sony A7R, is it really so?
Hi guys, I have recently gotten into photos using a friend´s Canon T5i and im looking to get my first enthusiast camera. I was pretty keen on the Pentax KS2 but have now come across this A6000 and I´m pretty torn, I know they are different machines but pricewise very similar with comparable kit lenses, I´m interested mostly in landscape photos and I like action sports like mountain biking and snowboarding so maybe something I could take along for some of those times as well. Love your content, sorry for long question!
There is also a xlr input adapter voor the sony camera's. And don't forget the Metabones adaptors so you can use autofocus and apature controle with your Canon/ Nikon lenses.
Hey Tony, I need some help in picking my first semi-pro camera! I have a few mirrorless cameras in mind and I hope you can help me in making a decision. Samsung NX2000, Fujifilm X-A1 or Olympus E-PL5? Which is better in terms of image quality and value for money? Thanks in advance:)
Hi Tony, I'm new to DSLRS (upgrading from a point-and-shoot), what's the best Canon DSLR you'd recommend for beginners (new model and old model)? Thanks, and by the way, your channel rocks, I'm definitely going to buy your book once I get my first DSLR, I can't wait!
This really depends on your needs (landscapes, portraits, sports, etc) and budget. Check my Photography Buying Guide (sdp.io/usbg) for detailed recommendations and tips for saving money.
Hi Tony. I am impressed by the specs and image quality of the Sony A6000 and am planning to buy one. I have found a couple of options for the kit lens. One with 16-50mm and another which also includes a 50-210mm telephoto lens. I am interested in taking pictures of friends, family, landscapes and also low light photography. Should I go for a prime 50mm f1.8 instead of the telephoto. Please suggest. Also please tell me if there is a difference among Sony A6000, A6000L and A6000Y
Tony .. same here 70D or a6000 . also can 70D record longer than 30 min ? which 1 should i buy ? i really don't care about the weight. all i care is image/video quality can you help ?
Oh, it depends what you want. The 70D has far better AF than the a6000, more lenses, and image quality will be pretty similar. But it's bigger and more expensive. Neither camera can record more than 30 minutes; you'll want to get either a real video camera or a Panasonic GH2/GH3/GH4 for longer recordings (that's what we use in the video studio). If you don't care about weight, get a DSLR... unless you need that longer recording, and then you're stuck with a US version of a Panasonic, or a hacked GH2/Gh3.
If i buy a 70D i will buy a kit lense < EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM> is this a good combo for image and video quality ? i know i should get a L lens but too much money....lol
Tony, I'm looking for video camera to replace my (firmware hacked) Nikon D5100. Would you consider the a6000 over something like the Nikon D600? I'm interested in natural light motion capture. The D5100 looks too noisy to me after about ISO 320. What I end up doing is shooting at ISO 400 at F1.4 when it's dark. All I need is a couple of stops and I'll be happy.
Hello Tony. I just started shooting sports. I want to know if the Sony a6000 would be a good camera for the job ? The sports are both day time and night time. Thank you.
Hi guys, my girlfriend and I are new to photography. I picked up an a6000 to start. But through some Craigslist’s trades I have the opportunity to get an a6000 or a 5100 (obviously some price difference) what’s the best way of playing photography 2 player? Same camera or no?
Great preliminary review. I just subscribed. I already have an a6000 and find it an improvement over the NEX6 in almost every way--except one important way: to my knowledge the a6000 has no HDMI live view. This means when I'm in my studio and want to record an educational movie I'm shooting blind. That would not be the case if there was a flip out lcd monitor--but there isn't. It's crazy. You supply a cam with great video image quality and provide no live view means? Really? But I noted in your review you were able to get the live view out on a monitor. If that right? If so, how did you do it? If not, is there a camera in the e mount Sony products you know of that has the image improvement of the a6000 but with live view capabilities? It's an indispensable feature for me.
I like that you prefer the usb charging... so do I... I think it's a nice feature... less clutter, less to carry... I see the obstacles and objections that everyone else complains about... but for me, I like usb charging
Hey, man! Thanks for the video, very informative. Would you recommend the a6000 over, say, the nikon d5300 for a person who just wants to start entering the world of photography without much compromise? What cameras are best in this price range? Thanks again!
Rogério Moretti If you're a casual shooter, the a6000 is the better choice. If you have more serious ambitions, the D5300 is the better choice because you'll have native access to a wider variety of lenses and flashes.
Maybe it's comparing apples and oranges, but I'd like to see a showdown between the A6000 and a DSLR like the Canon 70D. I want to buy a new multi-purpose-cam, and I'm kind of torn between….
We filmed a focus test between the A6000 and the D3300 (haven't checked the results yet), so stay posted. The other big difference is native lens and flash availability. The image quality will be the same...
i find your reviews very helpful i wish if u could make a review for the Sony rx100 m3 I'd like to buy one and i hope its the right choice for me and what are the main ravels for that camera
Hey Tony regarding the sony a6000 I was looking in your listings of reviews like you say in this video that you was going to have a second review more intensive but I couldn't find it. But regarding this camera I would to ask you do you think this is a great investment to buy this camera for a walk around camera? I been doing photography already like for 3 yrs is my weekend partime job and my working camera right now is the Canon 7D Mark ii, 17-40mm f/4 L, 24-105mm f/4 L and 50mm 1.4,. However as you know walking in New York city with a big camera like that I can ended be a victim. So as a expert in this topic what is you answer. Also if I purchase the a6000 is their any adapter that I can use my Canon lenses with the Sony a6000. Thank you very much and I am looking forward to receiving your answers. God bless.
Tony/Chelsea, Love your videos. In your subsequent review I'm sure you'll cover battery life for stills and video, which looks to be the biggest weakness of this camera. Also all AF tracking videos I've seen so far were in bright sun, how does it cope in poor lighting (e.g. indoor sports). Lastly how durable is the construction. It will probably come with a 1-yr warranty in South Africa. Is it built to last? P.S. (A6000 AF+sensor) + (Nikon D4s Battery) = ???
We're editing the second comparison now, so be sure to subscribe to see it. We'll make a point of testing the AF in lower light, too, but our experience so far has been good (we haven't gone through all the results yet, however).The battery life does indeed suck, but it's sucked on all my mirrorless cameras.
I really don't get why Sony of all companies wouldn't be putting touch screens on all there cameras, it was a big let down with the A7 series as well, Sony is usually an innovating company and they already have touch screens on there smart phones, but then they make there cameras stupid, it really doesn't make sense, and I also don't get why they have pull out screens instead of fully articulating screens, why have a screen that pulls out but limits your angles, portrait shooters want to sometimes shoot at high and low angles also, but as far as the view finder goes, I use my left eye, so the view finder placement on the left doesn't help me get my nose out of the way
I bought this and it's a really nice camera but considering that I live in The Bahamas I'm unable to download Playmemories thus making it very difficult to transfer pictures from the camera to the smartphone (Android). So I'm very upset that i can't use the Wifi function on it.