Sony a6100
Announced August 28, 2019
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
Sony a6100 is a compact, entry-level mirrorless camera that provides class-leading autofocus and high-quality 4K video for enthusiasts on a budget. Although it shares the excellent performance of more expensive models, its plastic build and limited interface design reflect its lower price point.
Weighted from 26 reviewer scores
Pros
- Class-leading, AI-driven autofocus system with fast, reliable subject tracking
- High-quality 4K video recording with no recording time limits
- Compact, lightweight, and portable body design
- Excellent image quality and low-light performance
- Versatile flip-up touchscreen for vlogging and selfies
Cons
- Low-resolution electronic viewfinder and LCD screen
- Missing professional video features like picture profiles and headphone jacks
- Cumbersome menu system with limited touchscreen functionality
- Plasticky build quality without weather sealing
- Lacks in-body image stabilization
- Launch price $750 (USD)
- Sensor 24.2MP APS-C CMOS
- Video 4K 29.97p
- Stabilization None
- Burst 11 fps electronic 11 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 26 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- DPReview 82/100
The a6100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera built around one of the best autofocus systems we've encountered (as of late 2019).
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I’d say while the A6000 remains a bargain for anyone looking for a budget mirrorless cameras that still punches above its weight for sports and action, the A6100 is well worth spending the extra for those who shoot video and value having 4k, a selfie screen, unlimited [...]
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The A6100 is capable of taking great photographs, much like every other Sony Alpha camera, but it's the user interface and the handling that make a camera enjoyable or not. It's difficult to come to a conclusive verdict on this camera.
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The new Sony A6100 is a much more significant upgrade from the incredibly popular A6000 than the A6400 and A6600 were from the A6300 and A6500 respectively, gaining a lot of cutting-edge functionality from the more expensive, sophisticated models.
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The a6100 is standing on the shoulders of an award-winning giant in the a6000 [...] All of the improvements in this model make a meaningful impact to performance, keeping Sony’s entry-level mirrorless offering at the top of the pile.
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[The] improvements don't come cheap, as the A6100 is nearly twice the price of the original A6000, somewhat limiting its appeal as an entry-level camera.
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The Sony a6100 is a compact, speedy camera with strong image quality and excellent autofocus.
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Considering the design, price point and feature set, the Sony A6100 is arguably the most enticing camera in Sony’s A6000 series today.
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Sony's stubborn embrace of poor interface design can be frustrating, but those drawbacks are minor for an otherwise-fantastic photographic device.
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For its APS-C camera series, Sony has stuck with the "don't fix what ain't broke" mantra.
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It's quite hard to not get it, it does everything really well for not long money.
- Digital Trends 8/10
At nearly half the cost of the flagship A6600, Sony's entry-level A6100 has everything you need.
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Sony has priced the A6100 rather well, compared to the more expensive A6400 and A6600 models.
- Photo Review 8.9/10
Like the α6400, the relatively small size and light weight of the α6100 makes it ideal for travellers, while its flip-up monitor enables it to be used for vlogging or selfie shooting.
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With its lightweight and compact build, superb autofocus system, fast shooting speed and more than acceptable video performance, the a6100 is a highly impressive entry-level model that will serve enthusiastic amateurs faithfully.
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Shooting a sunset with the Sony a6100. Sony has been a leader in mirrorless cameras for quite a few years now and the Sony a6100 is no exception.
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I got a really good deal on mine, and the camera's perfect for what I want it for.
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[I] give you one of the best casual beginner photo cameras out there today and probably a really good B camera for a professional photographer. Sony a6100, honestly, I love this camera.
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The Sony a6100 isn’t perfect, but it offers so many good things for such a low price that it turns into a deal that’s difficult to reject.
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Dollar for dollar, this is Sony's best APS-C camera.
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In my opinion, the Sony a6100, as I said at the top of the video, is easily I think a quick recommendation to anyone looking to get fantastic hybrid performance on a fixed budget.
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A6100 occupies the high return on investment spot in this lineup.
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Despite all these drawbacks, the A6100 is still one of the best bangs for the buck entry-level camera purchases in 2019 with its great image quality and superb AF capabilities both in stills and in video modes.
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[...] I think the Sony a6100 is an outstanding option if you're looking for a small and portable but super powerful entry-level camera.
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I like it. It just works.
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So if you're looking for a amazing starter camera, Sony a6100, I love this thing.
