If you’re looking for a capable camera that bridges the gap between enthusiast photography and vlog/video content, the Sony A6400 stands out. Even though it came out a few years back, it still gets rave reviews because of its autofocus, image quality, and compact build. In this Sony A6400 review, we explore whether this compact mirrorless camera lives up to the hype for photographers, vloggers, and content creators.
Sony A6400 Review: Key Features
Here are the standout features of the Sony A6400:
Sensor & Resolution: 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor delivers sharp stills and good dynamic range.
Autofocus: Fast hybrid autofocus with 425 phase-detection + 425 contrast detection points. Excellent Eye AF / subject tracking performance.
Shooting Speed: Up to 11 fps continuous shooting.
Video Capabilities: Shoots 4K video (without the 30-minute limit some older models had) and is popular for vlogging or casual video work.
Design & Portability: Compact, lightweight; flip-up screen for selfies/vlogging.
What Customers & Experts Love
Some of the commonly praised strengths:
Autofocus & Tracking: Multiple reviews name autofocus as one of the best features — it’s snappy, accurate, and works well even under moving subjects.
Image Quality: Very good quality for stills: clean, sharp, especially with good lenses; dynamic range handles highlights/shadows impressively.
Versatile Use: Great for travel, street, vloggers, hobbyists who want good video + stills without lugging around a large camera.
Value: Many users feel it punches above its weight, especially when bundled with the kit lens, given the feature-set.
What Some Users Don’t Like / Trade-Offs
Here are trade-offs you might want to be aware of:
No In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): This is often mentioned. For video or low light, you’ll sometimes need stabilized lenses or external stabilization.
Ergonomics / Controls: Some users find the menu system or button layout less intuitive; body design feels dated to a few reviewers.
Battery Life: Moderate—fine for casual use, but if you shoot a lot of video or burst shooting, you’ll want extra batteries.
Video Limitations: While good, there are limits: no extremely high bitrate or very high frame rate in 4K out of the box — for professional video work, some users may want more.
Is the Sony A6400 Good for Video?
| Great Fit If You… | Maybe Pick Something Else If… |
|---|---|
| • Want a mix of good still photos + video • Travel or carry camera often; want compact & lightweight • Like built-in Eye AF and subject tracking • Want solid value for price | • Need IBIS or extreme low-light performance • Do professional video with high frame-rate or high bitrate needs • Want a touchscreen with full articulation • Don’t want to carry extra batteries |
Verdict
The Sony A6400 remains a fantastic choice if you want plenty of features without going full-pro price. Autofocus, image quality, and versatility are big pluses. If your needs are modest, this camera gives you more than you might expect. Just keep in mind the battery, the lack of IBIS, and whether the video limits matter for your projects.
FAQ
Q1: Does the Sony A6400 have image stabilization built in?
A1: No, the body doesn’t have IBIS (in-body image stabilization). If stabilization matters to you, either use stabilized lenses or consider cameras that include IBIS.
Q2: Is the flip-up screen good for vlogging?
A2: Yes, many users like it. It flips upward, allowing you to see yourself while filming. It’s not fully articulating (sideways swivel), but it does the job for basic selfie/vlog shots.
Q3: Can I shoot long videos without auto-stop?
A3: Yes. One of the improvements in this model is the removal of a 30-minute recording limit in many markets (depends on firmware/region).
Q4: How many photos can I shoot in a burst, and how fast?
A4: The A6400 can shoot up to 11 frames per second in continuous mode, which is great for action or fast moments. The buffer (how many images you can take before slowdown) depends on the lens and memory card.
Q5: Is it still a good buy in 2025?
A5: If your priorities are autofocus, decent 4K video, portability, and you don’t need every top video spec (or IBIS), then yes — it’s still very relevant and good value.