Which Camera is Better: Sony A6300 or Canon EOS 80D?

Both Sony A6300 and Canon EOS 80D are remarkable cameras that will perform the same excellent job as most other digital cameras made in the 21st century. What truly matters is the skills, knowledge, technical proficiency, organisational skills, and artistic vision of the photographer, as opposed to the finer points between two or more great cameras.

Personally, I would lean towards the Canon EOS 80D. I have found the feel and handling of every Sony camera to be rather unpleasant, while Canon cameras are generally a joy to use. However, your personal preferences should not dictate your choice, and neither should the opinions of passionate Sony or Canon fans on the internet. Ultimately, the decision should be based on which camera meets your specific needs and preferences. You can borrow a camera from a friend, hire one for a few days (though not cheap, it's more affordable than buying the wrong camera), or try out a camera at a physical store to test it out.

Sensors and Image Quality

Both cameras boast 24.2MP sensors and are equipped with advanced image processing systems. The Canon EOS 80D features a Digic6 image processor, while the Sony A6300 has a BIONZ X image processor. Both offer excellent image quality, with reduced noise and a wider ISO range, especially in low-light conditions. The Sony A6300 is particularly noted for its advanced 4D FOCUS system, which provides better image quality and low-light sensitivity. It also supports 4K video in various frame rates, while the Canon EOS 80D is limited to Full HD video at 60fps.

Optical Performance and Autofocus Systems

The Canon EOS 80D comes with 45 AF points, all of which are cross-type, ensuring fast and precise focusing. In contrast, the Sony A6300 has an advanced 425-phase-detect AF system with 169-area contrast-detect points, making it an outstanding choice for photographers who need to focus on fast-moving subjects and objects in varied lighting conditions. The 4D FOCUS system in the Sony A6300 further enhances its capabilities, providing more AF points and enabling superior and accurate high-density tracking AF.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

The Sony A6300 offers a range of impressive specifications, such as its 425 phase-detect AF points, which is the highest number of AF points on any interchangeable lens camera. This camera is designed to provide an excellent experience for the photographer during every session, from handling to image quality and autofocus performance. If your primary aim is to capture high-quality images and videos, especially in low-light conditions and with minimal noise, the Sony A6300 is a top choice.

Ultimately, consider your specific needs and choose the camera that best aligns with your photographic goals and preferences. Whether you lean towards the Canon EOS 80D for its cross-type AF points or the Sony A6300 for its 4D FOCUS system and advanced AF capabilities, the decision should be based on a thorough understanding of your requirements and a hands-on evaluation of both cameras.