It is very common for camera manufacturers to update their old line-ups with new models even though there are just two or three new features. This may seem like the case with Sony Alpha A6300 and Sony Alpha A6500. These two models look very similar to each other. Also, there aren’t many changes on the new model. Well, wait a minute! Before you judge these mirrorless digital cameras, you should know the “small” yet very important differences between Sony Alpha A6300 vs A6500. Continue reading below!
Image Processor
At first, Sony Alpha A6300 and Sony Alpha A6500 may seem to come with the same components. They each feature the 24 MP APS-C CMOS image sensor, which promises incredible detail and color quality. However, they use different processors. The old Sony Alpha A6300 still uses an old Bionz X processor, which is pretty good.
But Sony Alpha A6500 comes with a brand-new Bionz X processor with a front-end LSI chip. The new version offers increased buffer depth and performance that is most noticeable when shooting at higher ISO levels.
Image Stabilization
The next big difference between these two sibling models is the image stabilization. Sony Alpha A6300 does not have any built-in image stabilization. So, if you don’t want your pictures and videos to be shaky, you need to use either a tripod or a good lens with image stabilization. (See another comparison between Sony Alpha a6000 vs a6300)
Sony Alpha A6500 boasts built-in five-axis image stabilization. It is able to reduce greatly the movements in five different axes, ensuring stable and clear results. It ensures reliable performance regardless of the lens you are using. The built-in image stabilization is quite effective and useful in a variety of shooting situations.
Video Features
Both Sony Alpha A6300 and Sony Alpha A6500 are quite popular choices for videography. They both are able to record 4K videos with full pixel readout and no pixel binning for the best results. They do deliver incredible image quality.
Sony Alpha A6500 comes with two new video modes, which are the Slow and Quick modes. In other words, this camera will allow you to choose the frame rate setting between 1 fps to 100 fps in eight different steps for 4X slow-motion or 50X quick-motion recording.
Display and Menu
The next difference between Sony Alpha A6300 vs A6500 is the display. The new model comes with a touch screen. While not all people are fans of the touch screen control, this is still a nice feature especially because you can use it along with the buttons. Sony Alpha A6500 also comes with a redesigned menu layout, which feels better because you can reach certain settings more quickly.
Battery Life
Unfortunately, Sony Alpha A6500 has a slightly shorter battery life. It can only last for up to 350 shots. The predecessor Sony Alpha A6300 can last for about 400 shoots. At least, the difference is not very dramatic.
Conclusion
If you already own a Sony Alpha A6300, there is no need to upgrade to Sony Alpha A6500, as the changes are not very significant. You should aim for a higher class model if you really want to upgrade. However, new users should choose Sony Alpha A6500, which comes with a better image processor, built-in image stabilization, and more video features.