Sony Alpha A6300 review

While there's room for improvement in terms of design and operation, the A6300 is nevertheless a competent and reliable camera that does what it sets out to do very well. Crucially, it captures pleasing images on standard settings and records video to a high standard.

The previous A6000 can currently be had for less than half the price of the A6300, and this could make the newer model appear overpriced – although those using the viewfinder or focus tracking with some frequency, or needing 4K video recording to hand, may find this premium more reasonable.

Still, the model isn't short of strong competitors. Videographers may well be drawn to the cheaper 4K-shooting Panasonic Lumix GX8; that camera's form, and the additions of an electronic viewfinder and flexible LCD, make it seem like the A6300's closest rival, while the company's bulkier GH4 or the GH4R update are also viable alternatives if video recording is key.

Those not fussed about 4K video resolution can also turn to the excellent Olympus OM-D E-M5 II or newer Pen-F, both of which offer the advantage of built-in image stabilization over the A6300, and many prospective purchasers may also add the Fujifim X-T1, and even one of Sony's similarly priced A7-series models, to their shortlist.

We liked

There's plenty to like about the A6300. Its focusing system is sound, replete with options for capturing a range of different subjects and performs strongly when tracking moving subjects, while the viewfinder is a pleasure to use. The tiltable screen makes composing images at ground level or high up easy. Video quality is excellent, and images are pleasing straight out of the camera.

We disliked

In the absence of any significant failings, it's only really a handful of smaller shortcomings that let the A6300 down. The screen feels somewhat underpowered; some of the controls aren't quite as accessible as they could be; and the lack of in-camera raw processing is a shame. Furthermore, while the tiltable LCD is great, it's shame it's not a touchscreen.

These are all minor issues though, and none of them should realistically discourage anyone interested in what the A6300 offers.

Final verdict

The A6300 is a well-rounded model that should have wide appeal, both on account of what it offers on paper and its performance in a range of situations.

Those intending on using the A6300 for more considered video recording, or for tracking moving subjects (or both) are likely to be very pleased with what the camera offers, while the excellent electronic viewfinder also makes it a good choice for traditionalists who may have reservations about moving away from optical types. It's only really a handful of design and handling issues that let it down, making it slightly less convenient to operate than needs be.

Those who are tempted by what the camera offers but are on a budget should consider the previous A6000, which is still available at a temptingly low price.