Why A99 is better deal than D600

Started 8 months ago | Discussion thread
shoevarek
Regular MemberPosts: 302
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Re: Why A99 is better deal than D600
In reply to Amateur Sony Shooter, 8 months ago

Amateur Sony Shooter wrote:

For people not fixed on OVF, A99 is worth extra $700. Here is how I see it:

I think it is more than just OVF vs EVF debacle. Many FF Sony users switched because of the lens availability being disappointed with slow development of ZA line. The decision between selecting A99 or D600 is also more dependent on one's photography as that will highlight or negate some of the advantages or disadvantages you listed.

1) Likely A99's AF performance is between D600 (same as D7000) and 5D3. With duo AF layers and AF range, it can track fast moving subject with confidence, the same can't be said for D600;

This has to be seen and verified in reviews. It may be a draw. For primarily landscpae photographer or one that uses MF lenses difference may not matter.

2) SteadyShot enable every lens to be stabilized, useful for short prime, standard zoom;

SS is a useful feature, not a necessity but undeniable advantage of Sony at least for some photographers. Landscape photographers often use tripods so they often keep SS off. After using A900 for few years I myself wouldn't pay an extra few hundred dollars just to have in body stabilization.

3) Superior live view experience, from 3-wat tilt LCD, peaking, etc. right down to EVF level;

I think it goes both ways. For ones it is superior EVF experience and for others it is superior OVF experience. Tilting screen is useful but how much more useful in dollar terms?

4) tougher build quality, longer shutter life (200k vs 150k);

For pro it is important. For amateur those are quite artificial numbers. How many years of shooting those numbers convey - 5, 10 years? Seems like many change gear more often than that.

5) better video standard (1080 60p vs 30p) and a lot more feature and add on option for serious video;

For serious videographer, yes, for photographer it is really a moot point.

I might forget other benefits but basically I don't see anything in D600's favour other than being $700 cheaper and OVF. If anyone invested enough A-mount lenses, the cost and hassel of switching is more than $700 difference.

Then we should list D600 features that theoretically give it advantage over A99 which you conveniently bypassed, like no fixed mirror.

Overall if I had to buy new camera for myself I would reverse your statement. However I already have A900 and my opinion is that neither A99 nor D600 overall featureset provide any real advantages that would justify replacing my camera. Others having different needs may choose differently.

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