The Sony α9 II, announced in October 2019, is a full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera. It supersedes the Sony α9. The new model is built for speed, reliability, and high-level productivity.
The α9 II boasts all the advanced and impressive features of its predecessor, the α9, and improved ergonomics, connectivity, speed, and quicker AF performance. It also sports improved wireless connectivity functions and high-level video recording capabilities.
General
Pros |
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Voice memo function |
Fast hybrid AF system |
Great in lowlight |
Fast |
Weather-sealed |
Cons |
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Expensive |
No built-in flash |
No illuminated button |
Key Features
24.2 MP Stacked Exmor RS CMOS Sensor And BIONZ X Processor
The α9 II features approximately 24.2 megapixels Exmor RS backside illuminated stacked CMOS sensor and an improved BIONZ X image processing engine that renders high-speed performance and incredible image quality.
The combination of this effective 24.2MP sensor and an improved image processor significantly enables the camera’s overall speed and performance capabilities. Furthermore, the BIONZ X image processor works along a front-end LSI to realize faster processing time and smooth tonal rendering.
In-Body 5-Axis Optical Image Stabilization And Blur Reducing Structure
The α9 II also features an improved 5.5 stop effective five-axis optical image stabilization, capable of compensating for approximately five different kinds of cameras encountered during handheld shooting of pictures and movies.
This allows photographers and videographers to confidently use any compatible lens, including third-party lenses, for handheld sports and other shooting without getting blur from camera movement.
To further strengthen the camera, Sony has redesigned the shutter unit assembly with dampened screws to absorb any shutter shock. Thus, the Sony α9 II has a blur-reducing structure.
Fast Hybrid Autofocus System
The α9 II has a fast autofocus system featuring 693 phase-detection points along with 425 contrast-detection areas for accurate and quick subject detection, focusing, and tracking in different lighting conditions with sensitivity down to -3EV.
Real-time Tracking and Real-time Eye AF are both designed and available for fast and accurate tracking of your subject across the frame.
- Animal Eye Autofocus system for effective detection and tracking of wildlife and pet across the image area
- The Human Eye AF system employs artificial intelligence AI to detect and process eye data in real time and track the subject’s eye across the frame with speed and accuracy.
This makes the camera ideal for wildlife and portrait photography.
Voice Memo Function
The α9 II’s voice memo function allows users to record audio or spoken information in conjunction with still images. This drastically improves the workflow of new agencies. Users can record approximately 60 seconds of voice memos with the Sony α9 II camera.
These voice memos saved as WAVE (.wav) files can be attached to images and played when reviewing the files. The images can be transferred via the FTP along with the related image data without the need for additional software or equipment and without sacrificing the clicked images’ quality.
This function greatly makes the mirrorless camera an ideal device for any form of photojournalism task. Aside from these functions, the α9 II also offers fast and reliable wireless connectivity and remote shooting along with high-speed data transfer via a LAN terminal supporting 1000BASE-T.
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Photo Clicked by Sony A9 II
Video And Image Qualities
Video Recording
Regarding stills, it is capable of capturing and producing high-quality images with detailed information and edge-to-edge sharpness. The colors are rich and bright, and the overall picture output is practically impressive.
For video, the α9 II produces beautiful and cinematic 4K UHD videos in multiple frames up to 30fps. Full HD (1080p) movie recording is also supported for up to 120 frames per second.
Practically, the α9 II renders impressive and beautiful images and videos across different shooting situations.
Low Light Performance
The α9 II thrives and produces impressive still images and videos in low light thanks to the native high sensitivity of ISO 100 to 51,200 (expandable to 50 t0 204,800).
Body Build And Handling
Sony designed the α9 II to suit working even under adverse weather conditions. It has a magnesium alloy chassis, which makes it rugged, sturdy, and durable. Next, it weighs approximately 678g (With Battery, Recording Media). So, it is also lightweight.
The lens mount has also been improved by additional six screws to maximize rigidity and make it more durable for heavy telephoto lenses. The grip has also been redesigned to provide great comfort and feel throughout the handheld shooting session.
Viewfinder And Display
The model has a 3.69m-dot resolution and 0.78x-magnification Quad-VGA OLED Tru-Finder EVF with approximately 100% frame coverage for bright and clear viewing. In addition to the EVF, it also offers a 3.0″ 1.44m-dot touch-sensitive rear LCD, which is adjustable upward by approx. 107 degrees and downward by approx. 41 degrees.
Display
Viewfinder
Speed Performance
Approximately 20fps and 10fps are possible using the electronic shutter and mechanical shutter, respectively.
Battery Performance
Per charge -according to CIPA testing standards:
For Pictures: Approx. 500 shots (EVF) / approx. 690 shots (LCD monitor)
For Actual Movie Recording: Approx. 110 min (Viewfinder) / Approx. 120 min (LCD monitor).
For Continuous Movie Recording: Approx. 195 min (Viewfinder) / Approx. 200 min (LCD monitor)
Price:$4,498. Buy from Amazon.
Exposure
Communication
Flash
Focus
What Type Of Photography Is The Sony α9 II Suitable For?
The Sony α9 II full-frame interchangeable lens camera is specifically designed for sports photography and photojournalism. However, it is also ideal for wildlife photography and shooting fast-moving subjects, like models.
Who Should Buy? Value For Money?
The α9 II is designed for professional photographers and videographers. Although expensive, the mirrorless model has some of the best and most advanced features. So, it is one of the best mirrorless cameras in the store.