Sony A6400 vs Sony A6500: Which Mirrorless APS-C Camera Suits You Best?

When it comes to advanced mirrorless cameras in Sony’s APS-C line, the Sony A6400 and Sony A6500 remain strong contenders several years after their release. Both models mix cutting-edge autofocus, solid 4K video, and compact bodies, showing Sony’s dedication to hybrid shooters. But despite shared foundations, they carve out distinct niches - one edges forward with improved AI-driven autofocus and affordability, while the other boasts handy 5-axis in-body stabilization and subtle refinements.

Having extensively tested both cameras across multiple genres - from portrait and landscape to wildlife, sports, macro, and video - I’d like to unpack their nuances. Let’s explore which one fits your creative style, budget, and workflow best.

At First Glance: Size, Handling, and Controls

Size matters a lot for mirrorless system cameras, especially if you travel often or shoot street scenes weighing every ounce.

Right out of the gates, the A6400 clocks in lighter at 403g versus the A6500’s 453g body, a difference noticeable when handholding over long sessions. Both share the same general rangefinder-style mirrorless design, but the A6500 feels just a touch more substantial thanks to its slightly thicker grip and body depth.

Controls-wise, Sony laid them out with tempered change between models. Function buttons, dials, and the mode selector remain in familiar spots, with perhaps the A6400 offering a slightly more modernized menu interface. The A6500 does not have a touchscreen that fully supports menu navigation (limited), while the A6400’s touchscreen facilitates swift AF point reposition, a real convenience in fast-changing shooting environments.

Both feature the tilting 3" LCD with 922k-dot resolution, favorable for shooting at unconventional angles, selfies (A6400 shines here with a flip-up screen), and quick framing corrections.

If you prioritize portability and touch control, the A6400 scores higher for me on daily shooting comfort.

Imaging Sensor and Picture Quality: Much in Common, Subtle Distinctions

Both cameras pack a 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor measuring 23.5 x 15.6 mm with a 1.5x crop factor. They share the same Bionz X image processor generation, delivering excellent image quality consistent in Sony’s lineup.

Technically, the A6500 has a slightly lower max native ISO of 25,600 versus the A6400’s 32,000, but the latter’s boost up to ISO 102,400 rarely translates into usable images due to noise.

In controlled studio and field tests, both deliver stunning detail and well-saturated color depth - note the almost identical DxOMark color depth (A6400: 24.0 bits, A6500: 24.5 bits) and dynamic range (A6400: 13.6 stops, A6500: 13.7 stops). Low-light performance is comparable too, with the A6400 nudging just marginally higher at ISO 1431 versus 1405 (ISO equivalent low-light score).

From landscapes to portraits, image quality won’t be a limiting factor on either. However, the A6500’s slightly better color depth may offer finer gradation, a factor you’ll appreciate in professional portrait or landscape post-processing workflows.

Autofocus Performance: A Tale of Evolution and Specialization

This is where the Sony A6400 truly made waves on its 2019 launch - the introduction of Sony’s Real-time Eye AF for both humans and animals, marking a significant leap for hybrid shooters.

Both cameras incorporate a hybrid AF system with 425 phase-detection points covering a wide frame area, paired with contrast detection for refinement. However:

• The Sony A6400’s AF includes advanced real-time tracking and animal eye autofocus, a killer feature for wildlife and pet photographers.
• The A6500 lacks animal eye detection, which could be a critical differentiation if you regularly shoot animals or unpredictable subjects.
• Both offer continuous autofocus with eye detection during video, but A6400 is faster and more reliable in tracking moving eyes.

In sports or wildlife scenarios, the A6400’s AI-driven AF makes it easier to keep focus locked on erratic subjects, especially with fast-moving pets or kids. Meanwhile, the A6500 though not as advanced in AI, remains a powerhouse with speedy, precise AF on human subjects.

Image Stabilization: The A6500’s Built-in Advantage

One of the biggest selling points for the A6500 is its 5-axis sensor-based in-body image stabilization (IBIS). This is a significant upgrade for handheld shooting in low light, macro work, or longer focal lengths without an OSS (optical steady shot) lens.

The A6400 lacks built-in stabilization, relying solely on lens-based OSS where available. For my macro and travel photography with primes that lack OSS, this means the A6500 gave me sharper shots handheld at slower shutter speeds without reaching for a tripod.

Whether you’re capturing blossoms close-up or the subtle sway of a forest canopy in a breeze, IBIS can be a decisive factor.

Burst Shooting and Speed: Tying for Sports and Action

Both models offer a continuous shooting speed of 11 frames per second with AF tracking - an impressive showing from an APS-C mirrorless sensor.

This high frame rate will satisfy sports photographers capturing decisive moments, or wildlife shooters snapping fleeting behavior. Both maintain a sizeable buffer that can handle bursts without slowdown for a respectable length, suitable for pro workflows.

Video Capabilities: Similar Foundations, Slight Differences

Sony deserves credit for offering 4K UHD video up to 30p at 100 Mbps on both these models, using the XAVC S codec with full pixel readout and no pixel binning. This translates to crisp, detailed footage for enthusiast videographers and Vloggers.

Both cameras have:

• Tilting screens (selfie-friendly on A6400)
• Microphone input jacks for quality audio recording
• No headphone jack, which is a mild limitation for monitoring sound on location

The main video difference is that the A6500 supports AVCHD recording alongside MP4, offering a more traditional video codec choice for those with established AVCHD workflows.

Neither supports 4K at 60p or advanced video features like S-Log 3 internally, which keeps them firmly in the semi-pro video sphere, but I found their output solid for YouTube, short films, and hybrid shoots.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Perfect for Rugged Use

Both cameras feature a magnesium alloy body with some degree of environmental sealing against dust and moisture.

The A6400 and A6500 are equally sturdy, built to withstand professional daily use in mixed weather. However, neither is weatherproof or shockproof to professional extremes, so proper care is still required.

Ergonomics and User Experience: Interfaces Matter

While handling is subjective, my personal experience favored the A6400’s more responsive touchscreen and refined menu navigation. The inclusion of a tilting screen that flips upward 180 degrees makes it ideal for self-portraits and vlogging.

The A6500’s touchscreen lacks full menu navigation capability and does not flip all the way up, which can be a hindrance to solo content creators or street photographers craving quick self-recording.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Both cameras use the Sony E-mount and share access to the same expansive ecosystem - with over 121 native lenses available from Sony and third-party manufacturers (Sigma, Tamron, Zeiss, etc.).

This vast selection provides everything from ultra-wide landscapes to telephoto wildlife glass. Both cameras apply the 1.5x crop factor that you’ll just need to account for in your lens choices.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life on APS-C mirrorless is always a considering factor for travel and extended shoots.

• The A6400 achieves approximately 410 shots/charge, an improvement over the A6500’s 350 shot rating.
• Both cameras use the Sony NP-FW50 battery.
• Storage wise, both accept UHS-I SD cards in a single slot; the A6500 also supports Memory Stick Pro Duo, though SD is the de facto standard.

For longer excursions without opportunity to recharge, the A6400 offers a more comfortable margin.

Connectivity: Keeping Up With Modern Needs

Both cameras feature built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy image transfer and remote control with Sony’s Imaging Edge mobile app. NFC enables one-touch pairing.

The A6400 and A6500 both offer HDMI out and USB 2.0, adequate for tethered shooting and external recording.

Neither includes GPS, unfortunately - a potential drawback for travel and landscape photographers who rely on location data.

Real-Life Performance in Photography Genres

To give you a better sense beyond specs, here’s how these cameras perform in popular photography disciplines and who will appreciate what.

Sony A6400 front Sony A6400 screen back Sony A6500 front Sony A6500 screen back

Portraits

Thanks to the A6400’s superior Real-time Eye AF (human and animal), nailing tack-sharp eyes in portraits is smoother and more reliable. Skin tones are natural from both cameras; the slightly better color depth of the A6500 shows up in subtle gradation under controlled lighting.

Portrait shooters focusing often on pets or kids will find the A6400’s animal eye AF transformative, while studio shooters might appreciate the A6500’s overall color depth.

Landscapes

Both cameras’ high dynamic range and 24MP resolution produce stunning details in highlights and shadows.

The A6500’s IBIS gives an edge for hand-held long exposures without a tripod, but the A6400’s lighter form factor makes lugging gear less taxing.

If you regularly shoot in challenging weather, both offer basic dust/moisture resistance but require care from rain or heavy elements.

Wildlife

The A6400’s enhanced autofocus with animal eye detection and tracking accelerates sharp captures on unpredictable wildlife subjects. The faster burst rate with a stable buffer is useful for fidgety animals.

The A6500’s IBIS assists when using non-stabilized tele lenses, but the A6400’s refined AF more than compensates for the lack of stabilization for action shots.

Sports

Fast AF, 11fps burst, and solid tracking put both cameras on par for casual to enthusiast sports shooters. However, the A6400’s real-time AF tracking may better catch fleeting expressions or contact points, especially outdoors.

If you shoot indoors or poorly lit arenas, IBIS helps (A6500 wins here), but high ISO performance proximity means both are competitive.

Street Photography

The A6400’s smaller weight, responsive touchscreen, and selfie flip screen make it better for the quick-reacting demands of street shooting. Its quieter shutter is less obtrusive.

The A6500 is slightly heavier and its screen tilts rather than flips, slightly reducing flexibility.

Macro Photography

Built-in 5-axis stabilization on the A6500 really shines here - enabling tack sharp handheld macro shots without a tripod. The A6400 requires tripod or stable lens OSS assistance.

Both cameras have similar focusing precision, but the A6500 edges ahead on image sharpness handheld.

Night and Astro Photography

Both are capable performers at high ISO with relatively low noise up to ISO 6400, and 30-second exposures are possible.

The A6500’s IBIS can reduce need for tripod in some night shoots but astrophotography generally favors manual controls and tripod use equally.

Video

The A6400’s newer menus and flip-up screen cater more intuitively to Vloggers and hybrid shooters. The 4K quality is identical, though the A6500’s AVCHD support permits more traditional workflows.

Absence of headphone jacks reduces on-location audio monitoring fidelity with both.

Travel Photography

In travel scenarios, the A6400’s lighter weight, longer battery life, and compact handling are highly beneficial. The tilting touchscreen maximizes framing ease while on the go.

A6500’s stabilization is handy for handheld shots, but the weight penalty might matter on long treks.

Professional Workflows

With full RAW support, both integrate well into professional post-processing. The A6500’s slightly better color depth and file latitude could matter in high-end commercial shoots.

Environmental sealing is similar; neither offers dual slots for backup - a pro-limitation both share.

Price and Value: What’s the Cost of Features?

Currently, the Sony A6400 is around $900, while the A6500 typically sells for approximately $1300, a $400 premium.

Is the IBIS and minor sensor advantage on the A6500 worth this for you?

If stabilization or subtle image gradation is essential - for macro, handheld tele-lens work, or professional post - the A6500 makes sense despite older AF.

For most hybrid shooters, the A6400 offers a superior autofocus system, new features, lighter weight, longer battery, and newer software refinements at a better price.

Final Thoughts: Which Sony APS-C Mirrorless Fits Your Craft?

Having put thousands of shots through both cameras under varied conditions, here’s my bottom line:

• Choose the Sony A6400 if you want:

  • Cutting-edge autofocus with real-time human and animal eye tracking
  • Lightweight and compact design for travel or street use
  • Better touchscreen responsiveness and selfie-friendly flip screen
  • Longer battery life and newer menu system
  • Strong all-rounder for portraits, wildlife, sports, and casual video
  • Solid value at a lower price point

• Opt for the Sony A6500 if you need:

  • In-body 5-axis stabilization for handheld macro, low-light, and telephoto work
  • Slightly better color depth and dynamic range for studio or landscape precision
  • Traditional video workflow with AVCHD codec support
  • Love a slightly more robust grip and don’t mind extra bulk
  • Able to justify paying for built-in stabilization and minor sensor edge

In the end, both cameras remain worthy solutions in the advanced APS-C mirrorless arena. Your choice boils down to whether in-body stabilization or the latest autofocus intelligence matters most to your image-making process.

No affiliation or sponsorship exists in this review - just my unvarnished first-hand testing and years of professional experience trying to help you find the gear that amplifies your creative vision.

Happy shooting!