Continuing Sony’s lineup of A-mount offerings is the Alpha a68, a new entry-level option that manages to squeeze in some high-end features. The major upgrade over its predecessor comes from the 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor and BIONZ X processor combination, which can create high-resolution imagery at sensitivities up to ISO 25600. Also, thanks to Sony’s Translucent Mirror Technology, users can leverage a phenomenally fast and accurate 4D FOCUS system with continuous shooting at up to 8 fps. This AF setup offers 79 phase-detect points, with 15 cross-type points that can operate at low light levels.
To further enhance the image-taking process, Sony has implemented its SteadyShot INSIDE stabilization to limit the effects of camera shake while shooting. The a68 also gains some added video chops with Full HD 1080p recording at up to 30 fps using the XAVC S codec at 50 Mbps. Video even has excellent AF tracking capabilities, due to the advantages of the Translucent Mirror Technology.
Besides the impressive internal enhancements, the outside of the a68 has received some welcome additions. The star of the upgrade is the rear control wheel, which now allows for rapid control over multiple settings with ease. Users can also customize 10 buttons for near-instant access to their most commonly used settings. For composition, the camera offers both a 0.39" 1,440k-dot OLED Tru-Finder EVF alongside a 2.7" 460.8k-dot tilting LCD screen, meaning users can choose a natural position, as well as operate at a variety of odd angles.
This camera is available as a body only or as a kit with an 18-55mm lens. This lens offers a versatile 27-82.5mm equivalent focal length on the APS-C camera and will help users get started, thanks to a wide-angle to short telephoto zoom range.
What do you think? Share your thoughts in the Comments section, below.
4 Comments
It depends on the type of photography that you do. The a6000 is an E mount camera. The a68 is an A mount camera. The E mount system is newer so there are fewer lenses available for that system. The A mount system has been around since the Minolta/Konica era. I don't know the exact number, but there must be hundreds of lens choices in the A mount format. I have thirteen and that's probably a low number compared some people out there. Some are prime lenses made for the Minolta that are a steal by today's standards. Then there is the cost issue. The a6000 is hundreds more. Then there is the size/weight issue. Burst rates are important to some. GPS is important to some. If I were a young person, just starting out in photography, I'd probably go with the a6000 because of it's size and feature set. And, it's the future. I'd add lenses as they become availbable. But, I'm in a different stage of the game. That game is nature photography and really big glass. Anyway, good luck and enjoy your Sony.
My question is why would someone want this camera as opposed to the A6000?
Hi James,
Compared to the a6000 I would say the a68 has a couple distinct difference that could make someone choose it. First, the DSLR form factor is more appealing to some who want a larger grip and maybe a more traditional feel for their camera. Second, the a68 offers SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization, whereas the a6000 does not.
A half dozen Minolta/Sony lenses acquired/purchased over last 20 years along with 2 Sony cameras. .