Sony Alpha a6400 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85
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Sony Alpha a6400 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85: 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 provide a detailed evaluation and comparison of two different camera models that fall into the same category - Semi-Pro Mirrorless. Although these cameras are from the same category, they were introduced by different brands - Sony and Panasonic. Although Sony Alpha a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 are both equipped with the same CMOS sensor, they boast of different resolution. Thus, Sony Alpha a6400 has a sensor with a resolution of 24.0 MP, while Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 has a different resolution of 16.0 MP.
To get started, let’s take a look at some of the key features of Sony Alpha a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 and, after this, we can go on to our detailed comparison of these models.
Sony Alpha a6400 Key Features:
- 24.0 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 32000 (Expands to 102800)
- Image Stabilization: No
- 3″ Tilting Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 11.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 120 x 67 x 60 mm
- Weight: 403 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: No
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 Key Features:
- 16.0 MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor
- ISO 100 - 25600 (Expands to 100 - 25600)
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- 3″ Fully Articulated Screen
- ViewFinder: Yes
- 9.0 fps Continuous Shooting
- Video: 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
- Built-in Wireless: Yes
- Dimensions: 128 x 89 x 74 mm
- Weight: 505 g
- Environmental Sealing: Yes
- Built-in GPS: No
- Also known as Panasonic Lumix DMC-G80
Why is Sony Alpha a6400 a better choice than Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85
| NFC | Yes vs No | Easy wireless connectivity with compatible devices |
| Bluetooth | Yes vs No | Connect your camera to other devices via Bluetooth |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.0 MP vs 16.0 MP | 33.3% more pixels |
| Sensor Area | 366.6 mm2 vs 224.9 mm2 | 38.7% larger pixel area |
| Continuous Shooting | 11 fps vs 9 fps | 2 fps faster |
| Number Of Focus Points | 425 vs 49 | 376 more focus points |
| Battery Life | 410 shots vs 330 shots | 80 more frames with a single charge |
| Weight | 403 g vs 505 g | 102 g lighter |
| Dxo Color Depth | 24 vs 22.8 | Better color depth |
| Dxo Dynamic Range | 13.6 vs 12.5 | Better dynamic range |
| Dxo Low Light Iso | 1431 vs 656 | Better High ISO performance |
What are the key reasons to pick Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 over Sony Alpha a6400
| Image Stabilization | Yes vs No | All lenses are stabilized |
| Flash Range | 6.2 vs 6 | 0.2 better flash range |
| Screen Type | Fully Articulated vs Tilting | Flexible shooting positions |
| Screen Resolution | 1,040k dots vs 922k dots | 11.3% higher resolution screen |
| Viewfinder Resolution | 2,360k dots vs 2,359k dots | 0% higher resolution |
| Viewfinder Magnification | 0.74 vs 0.7 | 0.04 better magnification |
Key PROs of Sony Alpha a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85
| Touch Screen | Yes | Yes | Easy control of camera functions |
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3″ | Large display |
| Screen Type | Tilting | Fully Articulated | Help viewing and changing settings easily |
| Viewfinder | Electronic | Electronic | Better framing and control |
| Raw Support | Yes | Yes | Better image quality |
| AutoFocus Face Detection | Yes | Yes | Very handy for portraits |
| Microphone Port | Yes | Yes | High quality audio recording option |
| Timelapse Recording | Yes | Yes | Creative shooting |
| Bracketing | Yes | Yes | Useful for tough lighting conditions and HDR |
| Continuous Shooting | 11.0 fps | 9.0 fps | Nice continuous shooting |
| Built-In Flash | Yes | Yes | External flash available |
| Flash Sync Port | Yes | Yes | Port for Flash Sync |
| Environmental Sealing | Yes | Yes | Shoot at tough conditions |
Key CONs of Sony Alpha a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85
| Headphone Port | No | No | No headphone port |
Sony Alpha a6400 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85: 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 a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 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 a6400 is a lighter option of these two, as it weights 102g less than the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85. 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 a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 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 a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 any different in terms of sensor type?
In fact, that's exactly what makes these two models really different. Thus, it is a good point to consider if your are choosing between these two cameras. Sony Alpha a6400 features a 24.0 MP APS-C sized CMOS sensor and boasts of a Bionz X processor . Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85, in its turn, comes with a 16.0 MP Four Thirds sized CMOS sensor , which makes it significantly different from the first model.
Take a look below to find the comparison of Sony Alpha a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 by the size of their sensors.
One more distinctive feature of compared models is the sensor size. Sony Alpha a6400 has a sensor area 0.6x bigger compared to Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85. What does it mean? This basically means that if you these cameras them with the same aperture and focal length, the first model will give you more control in terms of the blurry background and depth of field.
For Which Fields Of Photography Are Sony Alpha a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 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 a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 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 a6400 | Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 |
|---|---|---|
| Portrait Photography |
|
|
| Street Photography |
|
|
| Sports Photography |
|
|
| Daily Photography |
|
|
| Landscape Photography |
|
|
Sony Alpha a6400 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
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 for Portrait Photography
Advantages:
- Image Stabilization
- Face Detection Focusing
Disadvantages:
- Small Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) sensor
Sony Alpha a6400 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 60 mm)
- No Image Stabilization
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 for Street Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Fully Articulated Screen
- Image Stabilization
- Large Four Thirds(17.3 x 13 mm) sensor
Disadvantages:
- Big size (128 x 89 x 74 mm)
Sony Alpha a6400 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Fast Continuous Shooting (11.0 fps)
- Environmental Sealing
- Big Number of autofocus Points (425)
Disadvantages:
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/4000s)
- Small battery life (410 shots)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 for Sports Photography
Advantages:
- Environmental Sealing
Disadvantages:
- Slow Continuous Shooting (9.0 fps)
- Slow Max Shutter Speed (1/4000s)
- Smal Number of autofocus Points (49)
- Bad Low Light ISO (656)
- Small battery life (330 shots)
Sony Alpha a6400 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 (403 g)
- Big size (120 x 67 x 60 mm)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 for Daily Photography
Advantages:
- Built-in Flash
- Built-in View Finder
- Live View
- Wireless Connectivity
- Video is available
Disadvantages:
- Small Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) sensor
- Big weight (505 g)
- Big size (128 x 89 x 74 mm)
Sony Alpha a6400 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Large APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) sensor
- High resolution sensor (24 MP)
- Good Dynamic Range (13.6)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
No Significant DisadvantagesPanasonic Lumix DMC-G85 for Landscape Photography
Advantages:
- Good Dynamic Range (12.5)
- Environmental Sealing
- Live View
- RAW Support
Disadvantages:
- Small Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) sensor
- Low resolution sensor (16 MP)
- Bad Low Light ISO (656)
Comparison of Sony Alpha a6400 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85: 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 a6400 or Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85, 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 a6400 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 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 a6400 deserves a higher Total Score than the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85. Thus, if you are choosing between these options, we would recommend you to choose the first model over the other one.
Sony Alpha a6400 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 Table Of Technical Specs
For better understanding of each model’s technical characteristics, find the detailed comparison below:
| Sony Alpha a6400 | Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 | |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Brand | Sony | Panasonic |
| Model | Alpha a6400 | Lumix DMC-G85 |
| Announced | Jan 15, 2019 | Sep 19, 2016 |
| Body Type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless | SLR-style mirrorless |
| Sensor | ||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS |
| Sensor Size | APS-C | Four Thirds |
| Sensor Dimensions | 23.5 x 15.6 mm | 17.3 x 13 mm |
| Sensor Area | 366.60 mm2 | 224.90 mm2 |
| Sensor Resolution | 24.0 MP | 16.0 MP |
| Max Image Resolution | 6000 x 4000 | 4592 x 3448 |
| Max Native ISO | 32,000 | 25,600 |
| Max Boosted ISO | 102,800 | 25,600 |
| Min Native ISO | 100 | 100 |
| RAW Support |  |
|
| Lens | ||
| Manual Focus | |
|
| Lens Mount | Sony E | Micro Four Thirds |
| Number of Lenses | 102 | 94 |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 1.5x | 2x |
| 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 | 425 | 49 |
| Number of Cross Focus Points | n/a | n/a |
| Screen | ||
| Screen Type | Tilting | Fully Articulated |
| Screen Size | 3″ | 3″ |
| Screen Resolution | 922k dots | 1,040k dots |
| Live View | |
|
| Touch Screen | |
|
| ViewFinder | ||
| ViewFinder | Electronic | Electronic |
| ViewFinder Resolution | 2,359k dots | 2,360k dots |
| ViewFinder Coverage | 100% | 100% |
| ViewFinder Magnification | 0.7 | 0.74 |
| Photography Features | ||
| Min Shutter Speed | 30 s | 60 s |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 s | 1/4000 s |
| Continuous Shooting | 11.0 fps | 9.0 fps |
| Shutter Priority | |
|
| Aperture Priority | |
|
| Manual Exposure Mode | |
|
| Exposure Compensation | |
|
| Custom White Balance | |
|
| Image Stabilization | |
|
| Built-in Flash | |
|
| Flash Range | 6 | 6.2 |
| Flash Modes | auto, slow sync, rear sync, redeye reduction, wireless, hi-speed sync | Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced On/Red-eye Reduction, Slow Sync., Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off |
| External Flash | |
|
| AE Bracketing | |
|
| WB Bracketing | |
|
| Exposure Modes | ||
| Multi-Segment | |
|
| Average | |
|
| Spot | |
|
| Partial | |
|
| AF-Area | |
|
| Center Weighted | |
|
| DxO Sensor Scores | ||
| DxO Sensor Score | 83 | 71 |
| DxO Color Depth | 24.0 | 22.8 |
| DxO Dynamic Range | 13.6 | 12.5 |
| DxO Low Light ISO | 1431 | 656 |
| Video Features | ||
| Video Resolutions | 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, XAVC S, MP4, H.264, Linear PCM | 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC |
| Max Video Resolution | 3840 x 2160 | 3840 x 2160 |
| Video Formats | MPEG-4, H.264 | MPEG-4, AVCHD |
| 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 | 403 g | 505 g |
| Physical Dimensions | 120 x 67 x 60 mm | 128 x 89 x 74 mm |
| Battery Life | 410 shots | 330 shots |
| Battery Type | Battery Pack | Battery Pack |
| Battery Model | NP-FW50 | n/a |
| Other Features | ||
| Self Timer | |
|
| Timelapse Recording | |
|
| GPS | ||
| Storage Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick DUO (UHS-I compliant) | SD/SDHC/SDXC card |
| Storage Slots | 1 | 1 |
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