Sony cameras are pretty spectacular in many ways. They offer technological advancements, great performance, and a good form factor, making them the best devices for many photographers. While the company has been offering exciting models in recent years, we have decided to look back at cameras that made a difference in the past and continue to do so today. If you are looking for cost-effective models that offer distinct image quality, these cameras on the list will be of help to you.
Sony NEX 7
The Sony NEX series (New E-mount eXperience) has been important to the company. The NEX 7 is the first mirrorless camera to feature a high-resolution 24MP sensor, offer 25 AF points, and evoke memories of Mamiya cameras. The device came with a 921600-dot LCD, ISO up to 16,000, and offered 10fps of burst rate. Additionally, the camera is pleasant to hold and features a smart focusing system. The latter means it focuses on you, making shooting an easy experience. It also offers the best image quality, with vibrant colors and good dynamic range. As we noted in our review, “There is something about the image quality right out of the camera that reminds me of both Canon and Nikon. The files have Nikon’s general sharpness but are mixed in with Canon’s subtle color tonality depth.” Today, you get the device for less than $500.
Sony A99 Mk II
The Sony A99 II is a successor to the much-revered A99. The device was Sony’s DSLR offering, and it was capable of competing with the best brands. It offered 79 hybrid AF points, a burst rate of 12 frames per second, and a 42.2MP CMOS full-frame sensor. It features GPS, supports 4K video recording, and includes 5-axis image stabilization. As for its performance, you get incredible focus, versatile RAW files, and it also feels good in your hands. The battery life is also just spectacular, and the controls are perfectly placed. Plus, hybrid shooters get a nice touch of video. As we said in our review, “Both Canon and Nikon deliver better high ISO results, but neither deliver the depth of color or highlight recovery that the Sony a99 II can showcase. “
Sony RX1
The Sony RX1 is a compact camera featuring a 35mm 24MP sensor and equipped with a Zeiss Sonnar 35mm f2 lens. It offers image stabilization, a maximum ISO of 6400, multiple metering modes, and focus sensitivity of up to 6 EV. The device also features a 1.23M-dot LCD, a 5 fps burst rate, and is capable of recording 1080p videos. The camera is extremely expensive, but it offers good image quality. One can recover details from both underexposed and overexposed images. The high ISO output is clean up to ISO 3,200 and becomes unusable above ISO 10,000. Similarly, the build quality will keep you happy. If you are looking for a device that does not need additional lenses, then this one is for you.
