In this guide, we've rounded up the best Sony cameras for a variety of users. Whether you're looking for a simple point-and-shoot compact camera or want to try the Mirrorless interchangeable lens format for maximum versatility, we have solutions for you. Our top picks represent the best Sony has to offer in terms of stills and video, with prices ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Ever since Sony revolutionised the transition to the Mirrorless market, other manufacturers have been scrambling to catch up. Sony is a recognised brand in its own way.
The decision to buy a new camera involves a variety of factors. Features such as film frame rate or in-body image stabilisation have a significant impact on a photographer's ability to shoot in low light or create ethereal cinematic content. If you're shooting action or sports photography, you'll need a fast burst rate to get every last detail of every piece of data in your scene. See which of the best Sony cameras is best for you by looking at the list below.
Sony A1
The new A1 is a true beast in the Sony line-up (and in any camera line-up), dominating the mirrorless market with astonishing 50MP stills and 8K 30p video recording. It can record 4K video at 120 frames per second, but it comes with a hefty price tag. Given that it's the most expensive camera on this list, only those with substantial pockets or high-end professionals who need the latest technology will likely be able to afford it. However, for videographers who need sharp focus while recording, tools like Real-Time Eye AF and Real-Time Tracking for movies are becoming increasingly important.
Sony A7 III
This compact 35mm full-frame mirrorless camera is a clear contender for one of the best Sony cameras, as it works admirably in almost every situation. Key benefits include the camera's 693-point phase-detection autofocus coverage, which can be as low as EV-3 for low-light photography, highly detailed 4K movies with HDR and fast 10FPS stills capture. Portrait photographers will love Eye AF for effective eye-tracking focusing when taking photos. Even filmmakers will appreciate 4K with full pixel readout with Hybrid Log-Gamma for fast HDR editing. Our camera is surpassed by other cameras on our list of the best Sony cameras, as well as other cheaper models, but in our opinion the A7 III offers the best value.
Sony A6400
The A6400 offers a wealth of useful functions in a compact design and is designed for vloggers and others who frequently film themselves. Thanks to its small design, amateurs and enthusiasts can easily set up their own shooting setups at home or on the go, with 4K shooting and a 180-degree tiltable screen. There's no in-body image stabilisation, so handheld footage will need to be stabilised with extra hardware or software, but for the price, this APS-C Mirrorless camera is ideal for beginner YouTubers. For other options, see our overview of the best cameras for vlogging.
Sony A9 II
The A9 II is one of the greatest Sony cameras, and while it is undoubtedly designed for pros, amateurs may still get one if they have sizable financial balances. The major takeaway from this camera, apart from its respectable specifications like its 24.2MP stills and 4K Ultra-HD video, is its excellent network connectivity and dependability in the field. A 1000BASE-T LAN terminal that securely sends data over FTPS is available for professionals that need to post instantly to FTP sites. Add to that the Voice Memo feature, which enables you to record your own explanations for up to a minute to assist others and yourself understand your material. It also connects to 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi for unhindered high-speed transmission.
Sony RX100 V
The RX100 V has some amazing numbers on the specification list for a small camera. This small camera has a Vario-Sonnar Zeiss lens that guarantees sharpness and reliability and can shoot 20.1MP stills and 4K Ultra-HD video. The RX100 V has an unusually large image sensor for a compact of this size. The massive 1-inch sensor is housed inside a small, ergonomic housing. If you're on a budget, we believe this slightly older model, currently available alongside other RX100 models, offers the best value.
Sony RX10 IV
The RX100 IV makes a real effort to bridge the gap between photography and videography at a time when photographers and filmmakers frequently switch between the two mediums. The lens' wide focal length range of 24-600mm (equivalent to 35mm) is matched by a 24FPS stills shooting speed and 4K maximum video resolution. It's ideal for people who want to get started but don't yet need the extra complexity and price of an interchangeable lens system. They don't want to be constrained by a small camera.
Sony HX99
Travel photographers who need a small, compact camera with contemporary features such as a 180-degree tilt screen for vlogging or selfie shots, 4K video for incredibly detailed film footage and a powerful optical zoom of 24-720mm equivalent for 35mm full-frame shooting will find the best compact Sony camera suitable. The camera's built-in five-axis image stabilisation, which is particularly useful when shooting at the longer end of the lens' zoom, will also ensure smooth shots and low-light photography. Although the included 1/2.3in-type image sensor can only produce 18.2MP still images, it makes up for this with a fast burst rate of 10FPS for still images.
Sony A6000
A simple APS-C camera. However, it is a great opportunity for amateurs or enthusiasts looking for one of the best Sony cameras to start photography or to enter the Sony camera market. Although only compact and lightweight, the interchangeable lens system allows users to quickly change lenses at a very low cost. It's unfortunate that it's only Full HD (1080) compatible, but that's more due to how old it is as it was released in 2014.
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