Sony introduced two new UHD 4K-capable APS-C cameras in its mirrorless line-up, the Alpha 6600 and the Alpha 6100.
Both new cameras feature a 24.2 megapixel Exmor CMOS image sensor and internal 4K (3840 x 2160) recording to the XAVC S format using a full pixel read-out image oversampled by about 2.4x, Sony said. And both cameras are equipped with a “flip screen” that tilts up 180 degrees so that it can be seen by the subject, which caters to “vlog-style content,” Sony said.
Sony also said these cameras borrow some color science from their full-frame big brothers, especially where natural skin tones are concerned.
Sony marketing video for the Alpha 6600 launch.
Despite all the similarities, you’ve probably guessed that the cameras aren’t identical, even for video shooters. For example, only the Alpha 6600 features an HLG picture profile for “instant HDR” output via USB connection to an HLG-compatible display, as well as S-Log3 and S-Log2 gamma profiles for maximum latitude in post-production color-grading. And while both cameras have microphone inputs for on-board audio capture, the Alpha 6600 also has a headphone jack for monitoring.
Both models have 425 focal-plane phase-detection and 425 contrast-detection autofocus points. Additionally, both models have Sony’s Real Time Tracking feature for AI-driven object recognition and Real Time Eye AF, as first seen on Sony’s Alpha 7R IV, which tracks a subject’s eye to keep focus stable as the subject moves through the frame. Notably, Real Time Eye AF is only available in video on the Alpha 6600.
In short, if you’re looking to shoot video with one of these cameras, the Alpha 6600, with its HLG capabilities, audio monitoring, and Real Time Eye AF, is the clear choice.
Sony Alpha 6600
Sony also launched a pair of new lenses to go with the new cameras: an E 16–55mm F2.8 G and an E 70–350mm F4.5–6.2 G OSS.
“These new APS-C cameras provide excellent image quality in a compact package, with the ability to take full advantage of Sony’s growing lineup of 54 different E-mount lenses,” said Neal Manowitz, deputy president of Imaging Products and Solutions at Sony Electronics, in a prepared statement. “We are proud to bring so many of our innovations into our APS-C lineup and to provide creators with several new tools to realize their vision.”
The Alpha 6600 is due in November at a price of $1,400 body only, or $1,800 with an 18–135mm kit lens. The Alpha 6100 will show up a little sooner, in October, and will sell for $750 body only, $850 with a 16–50mm kit lens, or $1,100 with the 16–50mm and a 55–210mm kit lens.
