Sony Alpha a5100 vs Sony Alpha a6000
- APS-C
- 24 megapixels
- Sony E (NEX)
-
53
Overall -
23
Imaging -
57
Features -
84
Size -
1
Price
Sony Alpha a5100 vs Sony Alpha a6000: a Complete Review and Comparison
Are you looking for the best camera to suit your needs? Due to a wide range of options, making a wise and weighted decision can be rather challenging. Which specs to keep in mind? What are the key pros and cons of each model? This comparison should give some helpful hints!
The goal of this overview is to provide a detailed comparison of two popular camera models introduced by the same brand - Sony. Although both products are offered by the same brand, they come from different categories. Thus, Sony, is a camera from Entry-Level Mirrorless category, while Alpha a6000 is a Semi-Pro Mirrorless camera. The first common feature of Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 that is worth mentioning is sensor. Both cameras feature 24.0 MP CMOS sensors.
Now, before we can move on to our comparison, let's take a moment to look at the key characteristics of Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000.
Sony Alpha a5100 Key Features:
- 24.0 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 25600
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3″ Tilting Screen
- ViewFinder: No
- 6.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p, 25p), 1280 x 720 (120p), 640 x 480 (30p, 25p)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 110 x 63 x 36 mm
- Weight: 283 g
- Environmental Sealing: No
- Built-in GPS: No
- Replaced Sony a5000.
Sony Alpha a6000 Key Features:
- 24.0 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 25600 (Expands to 51200)
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3″ Tilting Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 11.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p, 25p), 640 x 480 (30p, 25p)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 120 x 67 x 45 mm
- Weight: 344 g
- Environmental Sealing: No
- Built-in GPS: No
- Replaced Sony NEX-6.
- Replaced by Sony A6300.
Being a newer model, Sony Alpha a5100 substituted Sony a5000.
Why is Sony Alpha a5100 a better choice than Sony Alpha a6000
| Touch Screen | Yes vs No | Easy control of camera functions |
| Battery Life | 400 shots vs 360 shots | 40 more frames with a single charge |
| Weight | 283 g vs 344 g | 61 g lighter |
What are the key reasons to pick Sony Alpha a6000 over Sony Alpha a5100
| Continuous Shooting | 11 fps vs 6 fps | 5 fps faster |
| Flash Range | 6 vs 4 | 2 better flash range |
| External Flash | Yes vs No | Connect off-camera flash |
| Dxo Color Depth | 24.1 vs 23.8 | Better color depth |
| Dxo Dynamic Range | 13.1 vs 12.7 | Better dynamic range |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.7 vs No | 0.7 better magnification |
Key PROs of Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3″ | Large display |
| Screen Type | Tilting | Tilting | Help viewing and changing settings easily |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.0 MP | 24.0 MP | Bigger prints and more details |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | Yes | Yes | Very handy for portraits |
| Bracketing | Yes | Yes | Useful for tough lighting conditions and HDR |
| Built-In Flash | Yes | Yes | External flash available |
| Flash Sync Port | Yes | Yes | Port for Flash Sync |
Key CONs of Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000
| Screen Resolution | 922k dots | 922k dots | Small screen resolution |
| Microphone Port | No | No | No microphone port |
| Headphone Port | No | No | No headphone port |
| Timelapse Recording | Yes | Yes | No timelapse recording |
| Image Stabilization | No | No | No image stabilization |
| Environmental Sealing | No | No | No environmental sealing |
Sony Alpha a5100 vs Sony Alpha a6000: Comparing Two Models By Physical Characteristics
Before heading straight to the technical characteristics of each model, let’s start with comparing their physical specs. Let’s start with looking at the physical difference of the two products. Below are images that clearly show the sizes of Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 from the front view.
Now, let’s go on and see how the reviewed models are different or similar by the top view.
After looking at these images, you should get a clear idea of each model’s dimensions and how they are different from each other. However, we are not going to stop there. The next characteristic worth looking at is the weight. Of course, not every photographer is concerned about the weight, for example, it wouldn't be a decisive point for those who shoot in a studio. However, it is still an important factor because if you happen to go on a long photo session or just love having the camera with you wherever you go, you want to be sure that the chosen model isn't too heavy.
Speaking of weight, Sony Alpha a5100 is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 61g less than the Sony Alpha a6000. This difference, in fact, can become a significant disadvantage for the photographers, who prefer to have their cameras with them wherever they go.
Comparing Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 by the type of Sensor and Resolution
Sensor is, without a doubt, the most significant element of every digital camera. Its type, size, and resolution are the factors that define the quality of future shots. Thus, it is barely possible to pick a suitable camera without looking at these specs.
Are Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 any different in terms of sensor type?
In terms of sensor type and resolution, these models are identical. Both Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 come equipped with the same CMOS that has a resolution of 24.0 MP. Thus, if you are wondering, which option to choose, this is not a factor you should be looking at.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 by the size of their sensors.
Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 are identical by this indicator, as each feature a sensor of the same size. Thus, both cameras will provide the same level of control in terms of the depth of field if you use them with the same focal length and aperture.
For Which Fields Of Photography Are Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 Suitable?
If you are interested in photography or has made a career in this field, you should know that different types of shooting actually require different camera characteristics. While one model can produce outstanding portraits, at the same time, it can be terrible for shooting landscapes, and so on. Thus, before you purchase a specific camera, it is vital to decide, which type of shooting you do most often and consider an option that suits it the most.
This section of our comparison is devoted to the performance of Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 in different fields of photography. Here we are going to look at the five main areas and evaluate how well each of the reviewed models performs in them. This will help you choose an option that suits your needs the most depending on your interest in one or several of these fields.
| Photography Type | Sony Alpha a5100 | Sony Alpha a6000 |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
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| Street Photography |
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| Sports Photography |
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| Daily Photography |
|
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| Landscape Photography |
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|
Sony Alpha a5100 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- No Image Stabilization
Sony Alpha a6000 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- No Image Stabilization
Sony Alpha a5100 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Small size (110 x 63 x 36 mm)
- Live View
- Large APS-C(23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- No Built-in View Finder
- No Image Stabilization
Sony Alpha a6000 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Large APS-C(23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (120 x 67 x 45 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Sony Alpha a5100 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Big Number of autofocus Points (179)
- No View Finder
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (6.0 fps)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/4000s)
- Small battery life (400 shots)
- Small size (110 x 63 x 36 mm)
Sony Alpha a6000 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Fast Continuous Shooting (11.0 fps)
- Big Number of autofocus Points (179)
Disadvantages:
- No Environmental Sealing
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/4000s)
- Small battery life (360 shots)
Sony Alpha a5100 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- Small weight (283 g)
- Built-in Flash
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- No Built-in View Finder
Sony Alpha a6000 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesSony Alpha a5100 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (12.7)
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- No Environmental Sealing
Sony Alpha a6000 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (13.1)
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- No Environmental Sealing
Comparison of Sony Alpha a5100 vs Sony Alpha a6000: Final Verdict
Hopefully, our detailed overview of these models has helped you consider all the main specs, pros and cons of each cameras. Maybe, after reading this comparison, some of you have already decided which option to opt for depending on your needs and preferences. However, if you are still wondering which option is a better choice, Sony Alpha a5100 or Sony Alpha a6000, below you can see what scores each of them received in five different aspects. To wrap up, we have used our unique Decision Algorithm that assesses different camera models upon 63 different factors including their price, and, if possible, DxO Mark scores. This algorithm allows us to make our verdict more consistent and objective.
What is our final verdict? Based on our comparison and the final scores of Sony Alpha a5100 and Sony Alpha a6000 here is what we can say in conclusion:
According all the factors that we considered in the process of comparing these two cameras, Sony Alpha a5100 deserves a higher Total Score than the Sony Alpha a6000. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Sony Alpha a5100 vs Sony Alpha a6000 Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Sony Alpha a5100 | Sony Alpha a6000 | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Sony | Sony |
| Model | Alpha a5100 | Alpha a6000 |
| Announced | Aug 17, 2014 | Apr 23, 2014 |
| Body Type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless | Rangefinder-style mirrorless |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | APS-C | APS-C |
| Sensor Dimensions | 23.5 x 15.6 mm | 23.5 x 15.6 mm |
| Sensor Area | 366.60 mm2 | 366.60 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.0 MP | 24.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 6000 x 4000 | 6000 x 4000 |
| Max Native ISO | 25,600 | 25,600 |
| Max Boosted ISO | n/a | 51,200 |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Sony E (NEX) | Sony E |
| Number of Lenses | 83 | 83 |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1.5x | 1.5x |
| Macro Focus Range | ||
| AutoFocus | ||
| AF Touch | |
 |
| AF Continuous | |
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| AF Single | |
|
| AF Tracking | |
|
| AF Selective | |
|
| AF Center | |
|
| AF Multi Area | |
|
| AF Live View | |
|
| AF Face Detection | |
|
| AF Contrast Detection | |
|
| AF Phase Detection | |
|
| Number of Focus Points | 179 | 179 |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | n/a | n/a |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Tilting | Tilting |
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3″ |
| Screen Resolution | 922k dots | 922k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Electronic | |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 0k dots | 1,440k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | % | 100% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | 0.7 | |
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 s | 1/4000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 6.0 fps | 11.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 4 | 6 |
| Flash Modes | Flash off, auto, fill-flaw, slow sync, redeye reduction | Flash off, auto, fill-flaw, slow sync, redeye reduction, hi-speed sync, wireless control |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
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| WB Bracketing | |
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| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
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| Average | |
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| Spot | |
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| Partial | |
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| AF-Area | |
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| Center Weighted | |
|
| DxO Sensor Scores | ||
| DxO Sensor Score | 80 | 82 |
| DxO Color Depth | 23.8 | 24.1 |
| DxO Dynamic Range | 12.7 | 13.1 |
| DxO Low Light ISO | 1347 | 1347 |
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p, 25p), 1280 x 720 (120p), 640 x 480 (30p, 25p) | 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p, 25p), 640 x 480 (30p, 25p) |
| Max Video Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Video Formats | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S |
| Microphone Port | |
|
| Headphone Port | |
|
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless Connectivity | |
|
| HDMI | |
|
| USB | USB 2.0 | USB 2.0 |
| Physical | ||
| Environmental Sealing | |
|
| Water Proof | |
|
| Dust Proof | |
|
| Shock Proof | |
|
| Crush Proof | |
|
| Freeze Proof | |
|
| Weight | 283 g | 344 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 110 x 63 x 36 mm | 120 x 67 x 45 mm |
| Battery Life | 400 shots | 360 shots |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | Battery Pack |
| Battery Model | NP-FW50 | NP-FW50 |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
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| Timelapse Recording | |
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| GPS | ||
| Storage Type | SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo | SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo |
| Storage Slots | 1 | 1 |
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