Sony Alpha a6000 vs Nikon D5600
Sony Alpha a6000 vs Nikon D5600: 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!
In this review, we are going to make a detailed comparison of two cameras that fall into different categories. While the first model we are looking at, Sony Alpha a6000 belongs to a Semi-Pro Mirrorless category, the other model, Sony Alpha a6000 is a Entry-Level DSLR camera. One of the key common traits of both cameras we are looking at is sensor. Both Sony Alpha a6000 and Nikon D5600, are equipped with the same 24.0 MP CMOS sensors.
Both cameras we are going to look at in our overview fall into two different categories - MirrorLess and DSLR. Keeping in mind all the distinctive features of each category, it will be hard to make a detailed comparison of these two models. However, we will do our best to make this review as unbiased and detailed as possible.
To get started, let’s take a look at some of the key features of Sony Alpha a6000 and Nikon D5600 and, after this, we can go on to our detailed comparison of these models.
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.
Nikon D5600 Key Features:
- 24.0 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 25600
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3.2″ Fully Articulated Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 5.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 1920 x 1080 (60, 50, 30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps), 640 x 424 (30, 25 fps)
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 124 x 97 x 70 mm
- Weight: 465 g
- Environmental Sealing: No
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Replaced Nikon D5500. Compare
Sony Alpha a6000 was substituted by Sony A6300.
Sony Alpha a6000 substituted Sony NEX-6.
Why is Sony Alpha a6000 a better choice than Nikon D5600
| Continuous Shooting | 11 fps vs 5 fps | 6 fps faster |
| Number Of Focus Points | 179 vs 39 | 140 more focus points |
| Weight | 344 g vs 465 g | 121 g lighter |
| Dxo Low Light Iso | 1347 vs 1306 | Better High ISO performance |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.7 vs 0.55 | 0.15 better magnification |
What are the key reasons to pick Nikon D5600 over Sony Alpha a6000
| Bluetooth | Yes vs No | Connect your camera to other devices via Bluetooth |
| Flash Range | 12 vs 6 | 6 better flash range |
| Screen Size | 3.2″ vs 3″ | 0.2" larger screen |
| Screen Type | Fully Articulated vs Tilting | Flexible shooting positions |
| Screen Resolution | 1,037k dots vs 922k dots | 11.1% higher resolution screen |
| Touch Screen | Yes vs No | Easy control of camera functions |
| Battery Life | 820 shots vs 360 shots | 460 more frames with a single charge |
| Microphone Port | Yes vs No | High quality audio recording option |
| Dxo Dynamic Range | 14 vs 13.1 | Better dynamic range |
Key PROs of Sony Alpha a6000 and Nikon D5600
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3.2″ | Large display |
| Screen Type | Tilting | Fully Articulated | Help viewing and changing settings easily |
| Viewfinder | Electronic | Optical (pentamirror) | Better framing and control |
| 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 a6000 and Nikon D5600
| Headphone Port | No | No | No headphone port |
| Image Stabilization | No | No | No image stabilization |
| Environmental Sealing | No | No | No environmental sealing |
Sony Alpha a6000 vs Nikon D5600: 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 a6000 and Nikon D5600 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 a6000 is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 121g less than the Nikon D5600. 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 a6000 and Nikon D5600 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 a6000 and Nikon D5600 any different in terms of sensor type?
In terms of sensor type and resolution, these models are identical. Both Sony Alpha a6000 and Nikon D5600 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 a6000 and Nikon D5600 by the size of their sensors.
Sony Alpha a6000 and Nikon D5600 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 a6000 and Nikon D5600 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 a6000 and Nikon D5600 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 a6000 | Nikon D5600 |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
|
| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
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
Nikon D5600 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- You might not like Nikon skintone
- 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
Nikon D5600 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Fully Articulated Screen
- Large APS-C(23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- Big battery life (820 shots)
Disadvantages:
- Big size (124 x 97 x 70 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
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)
Nikon D5600 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
No Significant Advantages
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (5.0 fps)
- No Environmental Sealing
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/4000s)
- Smal Number of autofocus Points (39)
- Small Number of CrossFocus Points (9)
- Small battery life (820 shots)
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 DisadvantagesNikon D5600 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:
- Big weight (465 g)
- Big size (124 x 97 x 70 mm)
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
Nikon D5600 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (14.0)
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- No Environmental Sealing
Comparison of Sony Alpha a6000 vs Nikon D5600: 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 a6000 or Nikon D5600, 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 a6000 and Nikon D5600 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 a6000 deserves a higher Total Score than the Nikon D5600. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Sony Alpha a6000 vs Nikon D5600 Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Sony Alpha a6000 | Nikon D5600 | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Sony | Nikon |
| Model | Alpha a6000 | D5600 |
| Announced | Apr 23, 2014 | Nov 10, 2016 |
| Body Type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless | Compact SLR |
| 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 | 51,200 | n/a |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Sony E | Nikon F |
| Number of Lenses | 83 | 287 |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1.5x | 1.5x |
| Macro Focus Range | ||
| AutoFocus | ||
| AF Touch |  |
|
| AF Continuous | |
|
| 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 | 39 |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | n/a | 9 |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Tilting | Fully Articulated |
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3.2″ |
| Screen Resolution | 922k dots | 1,037k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Electronic | Optical (pentamirror) |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 1,440k dots | 0k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | 100% | 95% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | 0.7 | 0.55 |
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 30 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 s | 1/4000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 11.0 fps | 5.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 6 | 12 |
| Flash Modes | Flash off, auto, fill-flaw, slow sync, redeye reduction, hi-speed sync, wireless control | Auto, Red-eye, Slow sync, Rear curtain |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
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| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| DxO Sensor Scores | ||
| DxO Sensor Score | 82 | 84 |
| DxO Color Depth | 24.1 | 24.1 |
| DxO Dynamic Range | 13.1 | 14.0 |
| DxO Low Light ISO | 1347 | 1306 |
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 24p), 1440 x 1080 (30p, 25p), 640 x 480 (30p, 25p) | 1920 x 1080 (60, 50, 30, 25, 24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25 fps), 640 x 424 (30, 25 fps) |
| Max Video Resolution | 1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Video Formats | MPEG-4, AVCHD, XAVC S | MPEG-4, H.264 |
| 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 | 344 g | 465 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 120 x 67 x 45 mm | 124 x 97 x 70 mm |
| Battery Life | 360 shots | 820 shots |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | Battery Pack |
| Battery Model | NP-FW50 | EN-EL14 |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | Optional | |
| Storage Type | SD/ SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Storage Slots | 1 | 1 |
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