A6700 vs FX30
Jan 05, 2024I'm excited to share my experience with the Sony FX30 and a6700 cameras. I've used both cameras in real-world situations and I'm here to help you decide which camera is best for you. In this blog post, we'll be looking at side-by-side image comparisons in different lighting conditions, so you can see the difference in color science and image quality. Our goal is to provide you with an actual realistic use view, rather than just a spec vs spec comparison.
We used the same lenses on both cameras to ensure an even comparison, and we even got our hands on multiple lenses thanks to BH Photo. So, we didn't have to keep switching them out and reexposing everything.
Here are the lenses we used for the comparisons:
VILTROX 13mm F1.4 for some low light shots at night in a downtown area. https://geni.us/0WfCjJ
Sigma 18-50 F2.8 for some all-around B-roll shots. https://geni.us/bqwV
Sony 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 for some downtown shots during the day and some vlogging. https://geni.us/QGMf1F
Sigma 30mm f/1.4 for some cooking shots and product shots on a slider. https://geni.us/1KemkwA
Our goal is to help you decide which camera and lens setup is best for your specific needs. We want to make sure that you're happy with your decision and feel confident in your choice.
Camera Bodies
If you're looking for a durable camera that can withstand dust and moisture, look no further than the A6700 and the FX30. Both cameras are made of magnesium alloy and are built to last. One notable difference between the two cameras is their size and weight. The A6700 is smaller and lighter than the FX30, which makes it a popular choice for travel content creators or those who like a portable setup on the go.
On the other hand, the FX30 is meatier, with a further extending grip and a display that sticks out rather than inserting into the body like the a6700. Another point of comparison is the LCD screen. The a6700 has a screen with 1.03m dots, while the FX30 has 2.36m dots. While some may argue that this difference doesn't matter, for some photographers, a higher dot count can make all the difference.
When using focus peaking on the screen to ensure accurate focus, a higher dot count can make it easier to see the finer details, especially in high-key environments. So, in this case, the FX30 comes out on top. Both screens are touchscreen, but the a6700 has an updated touchscreen that allows you to change exposure settings and swipe left and right for quick menus. However, it's worth noting that touching the screen with your fingers can leave oils that will grease up the screen, making it more challenging to see in sunny environments.
Finally, the a6700 has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2.36m dots, which makes it a preferred camera for hybrid shooters. The EVF enables you to take better photos and helps you nail focus, making it a valuable tool for any photographer. So, which camera is right for you? It depends on your needs and preferences. If you're looking for a more portable option, the A6700 may be the way to go. But if you need a higher dot count on your LCD screen or a more advanced touchscreen, the FX30 may be the better choice. Ultimately, both cameras are durable and reliable options for any photographer.
User Experience
If you're in the market for a new camera, you may be considering the a6700 and the FX30. While both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, one notable difference is how easy they are to use right out of the box.
The a6700 is much easier to pick up and start shooting with, making it a great option for beginners or those who want a camera they can use right away. However, with practice, the FX30 becomes easier to use, making it an excellent choice for more experienced photographers. One of the significant advantages of the FX30 is its ability to use anamorphic lenses and view the desqueezed image on the display.
This feature makes the FX30 a popular choice for filmmakers. In contrast, if you were to shoot anamorphic with the a6700, the whole screen would look smooshed. Before the firmware update, users had to record externally when shooting anamorphic with the FX30 to de-squeeze the image. However, with the update, this issue has been resolved.
If you're interested in purchasing an anamorphic lens for the FX30, make sure to choose one with a squeeze factor of 1.33x or 2.0x, as those are the only options Sony provides within the menu system of the FX30.
Additionally, the FX30 allows you to shoot in 4k DCI, the 4K format used by digital cinema cameras, with a resolution of 4096 x 2160 pixels.
Both cameras have sensor-shift five-axis stabilization, but some users wonder if the AI chip in the a6700 makes its stabilization better than the FX30. However, after testing both cameras, it seems that they perform about the same.
It's worth noting that both cameras have rolling shutters due to their electronic shutter, which can be particularly noticeable when shooting with longer lenses. To stabilize the rolling shutter, consider using a monopod like the YC Onion Pineta if you're shooting with a zoom lens.
Finally, the a6700 has a smaller body that has no internal fan, which has led to an unpopular reputation for overheating, particularly in warmer climates. While both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, the right choice for you depends on your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
When it comes to comparing two capable cameras like the a6700 and the FX30, it's easy to get lost in the details and specs.
However, the truth is that no matter what a camera's advertised dynamic range is, it's the lens on the front of it and the person behind it that makes the real difference.
While it's essential to understand the technical aspects of a camera, such as dynamic range, it's equally important to focus on practicing and understanding the principles of light and exposure.
The more you practice and experiment with your camera, the better you'll become at using it and creating stunning images. When deciding between the a6700 and the FX30, it's crucial to ask yourself what you plan on shooting.
While both cameras can be used for various purposes, they excel in different areas. For instance, the a6700 is an excellent choice for vlogging or making talking head YouTube videos. On the other hand, the FX30 is better suited for storytelling documentaries or producing high-end commercials for professional clients.
While the a6700 is easier to use right out of the box, the FX30 offers more advanced features that make it a popular choice for professional photographers and filmmakers. However, it's essential to keep in mind that using the a6700 for extended periods can lead to overheating, which may require you to have a backup camera or record externally.
In conclusion, when choosing a camera, don't get too hung up on the technical details and specs. Instead, focus on practicing and understanding the principles of light and exposure. Ultimately, the right camera for you depends on your needs and preferences, so take the time to consider what you plan on shooting and choose accordingly.
