Sony A6700 Review: The Ultimate APS-C Mirrorless Camera?

Sony's legacy in camera innovation continues to shine with the introduction of the Sony A6700. This APS-C format mirrorless camera is a testament to Sony's dedication to merging high-end features with user-centric designs. In this comprehensive camera review, we'll explore the nuances that make the Sony A6700 a top-tier choice for both budding and seasoned photographers. To see how the A6700 stacks up against the rest of Sony's APS-C range, check out our full Sony APS-C mirrorless camera roundup.

At the core of the Sony A6700 is the synergy between the 26 MP Exmor R CMOS Sensor and the BIONZ XR imaging processor. This combination guarantees that every image is captured with unmatched detail, vivid colours, and exceptional clarity. Whether photographing in bright midday sun or challenging low-light situations, the A6700 delivers consistently across a wide range of photography scenarios.

AI-Powered Autofocus System

Sony's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology is evident with the A6700's autofocus system. The camera inherits the AF advancements from Sony's premium A7R V model. With up to 759 phase-detection points covering 93% of the image area, and deep learning technology underpinning Real-time Recognition AF, the A6700 can detect subjects with unprecedented detail — distinguishing between types of animals (birds, bugs) and vehicles (cars, planes). If you'd like to understand how the APS-C sensor affects field of view and image quality compared to full-frame, our guide to understanding camera sensor sizes is a great place to start.

An additional 334 phase-detect AF points ensure faster and more accurate focusing. The AI-based auto-framing tracks subjects seamlessly, eliminating manual adjustments when filming dynamic, unpredictable subjects.

High-Speed Continuous Shooting

The BIONZ XR processing engine and substantial buffer memory allow for capturing over 1000 JPEG images, up to 59 compressed RAW images, or up to 23 lossless compressed RAW images in rapid succession. The camera can silently shoot continuously at up to 11 fps using its electronic shutter, with full resolution AF/AE tracking.

Precision in Low Light

Advanced AF algorithms ensure precise autofocus down to EV -3.0 in AF-S mode. The Focus Priority mode further enhances AF reliability in dim lighting or when using smaller apertures.

Full-time DMF and Focus Bracketing

Full-time DMF (Direct Manual Focus) allows seamless switching to manual focus by rotating the lens's focus ring. Focus Bracketing enables the A6700 to automatically capture up to 299 images with sequentially shifted focus points — perfect for selecting the ideal shot or creating incredible depth of focus in post.

Time-Lapse and Creative Look

The in-camera time-lapse function enables mesmerising time-lapse videos directly within the camera. For tips on getting the most from this feature, see our guide to capturing perfect time-lapse photography. The Creative Look feature offers 10 presets — reminiscent of Fujifilm's film-look presets — allowing photographers to set the mood before shooting for instantly share-ready images.

The Sony A6700 is a videographer's and vlogger's delight. With 4K120p recording and Sony's proprietary 6K oversampling technology, 4K videos are of the highest quality with minimal artefacts and unparalleled colour performance.

Breathing Compensation

When paired with compatible lenses, Breathing Compensation uses Clear Image Zoom technology to maintain a consistent angle of view, suppressing any changes due to shifts in focus position. This breathing metadata can also be harnessed in post-production.

Formats and Profiles for the Pros

The camera captures 4K (QFHD: 3840 x 2160) at up to 60p. XAVC S-I (All-Intra) and XAVC HS formats with 10-bit 4:2:2 colour sampling further enhance video quality. The S-Cinetone picture profile incorporates the same colour science as Sony's CineAlta and Cinema Line, while S-Log3 offers up to 14+ stops of latitude for creative colour grading.

Custom LUTs and High Frame Rate Recording

A unique feature is the ability to import and use custom LUT files, letting videographers preview post-processing looks while shooting in S-Log. High Frame Rate 4K 120P recording enables in-camera capture of high-resolution movies for smooth slow motion in post. The S&Q mode allows in-camera recording of slow or quick motion sequences.

Stabilisation with Active Mode

Active Mode provides enhanced movie image stabilisation for handheld shooting, detecting camera shake and compensating optically — even in 4K — without compromising mobility.

Professional-Quality Audio

The microphone input and MI hotshoe ensure achieving professional-quality audio is straightforward and efficient. To complete your video setup, our video lighting guide for YouTube and content creators covers the best lights to pair with a camera like the A6700.

The Sony A6700, weighing just 493 grams, is crafted for photographers and videographers always on the go. Despite its compact stature, it doesn't compromise on top-notch features.

Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD

One of the standout upgrades is the transition to a vari-angle-style touchscreen LCD — a significant advantage for videographers, granting flexibility to capture dynamic shots from diverse angles. The new screen offers a 33-degree wider viewing angle than the A6600, and its OLED display shines twice as bright, making it invaluable for outdoor shoots.

High-Performance Electronic Viewfinder

The 2.36 million-dot XGA OLED electronic viewfinder offers a detailed and vibrant view of your subject, with twice the brightness of the A6600 and a 33-degree wider viewing angle. Its frame rate can be ramped up to 120 fps — double the standard rate — for a smoother viewfinder experience when tracking fast-moving subjects.

Versatile LCD Monitor

The 3.0-type touch-panel LCD monitor with approximately 1.03 million dots offers extensive positioning freedom, ensuring you never miss the perfect shot — whether capturing from ground level or navigating tight shooting environments.

Front Dial: A Welcome Addition

The introduction of a second command dial at the front marks the A6700 as Sony's first a6x00 series camera to facilitate control using both forefinger and thumb, aligning it with the esteemed Sony a7 series. This streamlines the user experience and offers more intuitive control over camera settings.

Refined Controls and Robust Build

The A6700 features a dedicated dial for seamless switching between Stills, Video, and Slow & Quick video modes, positioned below the exposure mode dial. Constructed from durable magnesium alloy with environmental sealing at all joints, it includes microphone and headphone ports, a micro HDMI socket, and a USB Type-C port supporting USB power delivery and USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) data transfer.

Integrated Bluetooth and WiFi make sharing your photographic masterpieces as effortless as capturing them. Compatibility with Sony's Creators' App further simplifies cloud uploads and content sharing.

Equipped with the NP-FZ100 battery, the A6700 boasts one of the most impressive battery lifespans in its category — 570 shots per charge using the rear LCD, or 550 using the EVF. Extended shooting sessions without constant battery worry, whether on a day-long shoot or travelling without easy access to power.