Sony Alpha A6400 Release Date
Share this:
|
Buy Now $ 999.00 |
|
Buy Now $ 869.00 |
$998.00
CompareSony Alpha A6400
The Sony Alpha A6400 was release date on February 15, 2019, as announced by Sony at CES 2019. The Sony A6400 remains one of the most popular APS-C mirrorless cameras even in 2024, thanks to its fast autofocus, compact size, and vlogging-friendly flip screen. But is it still a good buy five years after its release? Here’s a detailed review.
Key Details About the A6400 Launch:
-
Announcement Date: Sony Alpha A6400 Release Date January 15, 2019
-
Market Release: February 15, 2019 (shipping started in late February)
-
Original Price:
-
Body Only: $899 USD
-
Is the A6400 Still Worth Buying in 2024?
✅ Yes, if:
✔ You want a compact, fast autofocus APS-C camera
✔ You prioritize vlogging (flip-up touchscreen)
✔ You need Sony E-mount lens compatibility
❌ No, if:
✖ You want in-body stabilization (IBIS) (A6600 has it)
✖ You need 10-bit video (A6700 is better)
Alternatives in 2024:
-
Sony A6700 (2023) – Better video, IBIS, but pricier ($1,398)
-
Fujifilm X-S20 – Great for video & color science ($1,299)
-
Used A6400 – Often under $600 (great value)
📌 Key Specs (At a Glance)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.2MP APS-C CMOS |
| Autofocus | 425-point phase-detection (Real-time Eye AF) |
| ISO Range | 100-32,000 (expandable to 102,400) |
| Max Video Quality | 4K 30p (no 10-bit, no 60p in 4K) |
| LCD Screen | 2.95″ 921k-dot tilt-up touchscreen |
| Continuous Shooting | 11 fps (mechanical shutter) |
| Battery Life | ~360 shots (CIPA) |
| Weight | 403g (body only) |
| Price (2024) | 600−800 (used/new) |
✅ Pros
✔ Blazing-fast autofocus – Still one of the best in its class (Real-time Eye AF for humans & animals).
✔ Compact & lightweight – Great for travel and vlogging.
✔ Flip-up touchscreen – Perfect for solo creators and YouTubers.
✔ Excellent lens selection – Sony E-mount has tons of affordable options.
✔ 4K video with S-Log2/3 – Good for color grading (but no 10-bit).
✔ USB charging – Useful for on-the-go shooting.
❌ Cons
❌ No in-body stabilization (IBIS) – Footage can be shaky without a stabilized lens or gimbal.
❌ 4K video crop (1.23x) – Slightly tighter than full-sensor readout.
❌ No headphone jack – Hard to monitor audio while recording.
❌ Mediocre battery life – Carry spares or use a power bank.
❌ Single SD card slot – Not ideal for pros who need backups.
📸 Photo Performance
-
Image Quality: Sharp 24MP files with good dynamic range (better than most phones).
-
Low Light: Clean up to ISO 3200; noisy beyond that.
-
Autofocus: Still best-in-class for APS-C (beats Fujifilm X-T30 II in tracking).
-
Burst Shooting: 11 fps is great for sports/wildlife (but buffer fills fast).
Best for: Street photography, portraits, travel, and casual wildlife shots.
🎥 Video Performance
-
4K 30p (8-bit 4:2:0) – Decent for YouTube but lacks 10-bit for serious grading.
-
1080p 120fps (slow-mo) – Soft quality but usable for B-roll.
-
No Log Profiles in 8-bit? S-Log2/3 is there, but banding can happen in gradients.
-
Mic Input? Yes (3.5mm), but no headphone jack.
Best for: Vloggers, indie filmmakers (with stabilization help).
🆚 Alternatives (2024)
| Camera | Why Pick It Over A6400? | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sony A6700 | 10-bit 4K, IBIS, better AF | $1,398 |
| Fujifilm X-S20 | 6K 30p, IBIS, film sims | $1,299 |
| Canon R10 | Faster burst, better ergonomics | $879 |
| Used A6600 | IBIS, bigger battery | ~$800 |
💰 Is It Still Worth Buying in 2024?
✔ Yes if:
-
You need a budget hybrid camera for photos & video.
-
You prioritize autofocus speed (great for pets/kids).
-
You’re a vlogger (flip screen + compact size).
❌ No if:
-
You need IBIS or 10-bit video (upgrade to A6700).
-
You shoot long events (bad battery life).
⭐ Final Verdict: 8/10
Best for: Travel photographers, vloggers, and beginners who want a reliable, compact Sony camera.
Where to Buy:
-
New: ~$800 (Amazon, B&H)
