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Sony 24.3 MP Black Digital Camera SLT-A65V With 18-55mm Lens
Brand | Sony |
Model Name | Sony SLTA65V |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 24.3 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | APS-C |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Exposure Control Type | Manual |
Form Factor | Compact SLR |
About this item
- 2nd Generation Translucent Mirror Technology camera
- 24.3 MP for superb detail and amazing enlargements
- Ultra-fast up to 10 fps continuous shooting with Auto Focus
- Built-in GPS chip for geotagging your pictures and video
- World's first HD Movie mode with AVCHD 60p/60i/24p
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Used but in very good condition. Good for personal & professional photography No Battery charger available, can be bought separately from Amazon.
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Price | $468.99$468.99 | $379.00$379.00 | $979.00$979.00 | $479.00$479.00 | -29% $497.99$497.99 List: $699.99 | $459.00$459.00 |
Delivery | Get it Apr 8 - 9 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | — | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it Apr 2 - 4 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Picture quality | — | 5.0 | — | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.4 |
Image stabilization | — | 4.8 | — | 4.6 | 4.1 | 4.4 |
Auto focus | — | 4.6 | — | 4.4 | 4.1 | 4.6 |
Value for money | — | — | — | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.7 |
Sold By | The Red Cup | Amazon.com | PAGING ZONE | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Digital Village |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD |
display size | 3 inches | 2.7 inches | — | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches |
lens type | zoom | Telephoto | Zoom | Wide Angle | mirror-lens | Telephoto, Wide Angle |
zoom type | Optical, Digital | Digital Zoom | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom | Digital zoom | — |
shooting modes | Scene, Shutter Priority, Panorama, Program, High dynamic rang, Automatic | Automatic | — | Landscape; portrait mode; close-up; night portrait; food; sports mode | Silent Shooting | Automatic |
connectivity tech | HDMI, USB | Wi-Fi | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC | NFC, HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB | Wi-Fi |
video resolution | FHD 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | FHD 1080p | 4K UHD 2160p | 1080p |
What's in the box
Product Description
Product Description
Best of both worlds, 24.3 megapixel and up to 10 fps. Get action photos, HD Movies and Live View shots that other cameras miss, thanks to Sony’s exclusive Translucent Mirror Technology. Enjoy smooth and creative HD video at full 1920 x 1080 resolution – at either 60p or 24p frame rate - plus the world’s first OLED electronic viewfinder.
From the Manufacturer
a77
Best of both worlds, 24.3 megapixel and up to 10 fps. Get action photos, HD Movies and Live View shots that other cameras miss, thanks to Sony's exclusive Translucent Mirror Technology. Enjoy smooth and creative HD video at full 1920 x 1080 resolution – at either 60p or 24p frame rate - plus the world's first OLED electronic viewfinder.
2nd Generation Translucent Mirror Design
Other DSLRs can shoot. Or they can focus with the speed and precision of Phase Detection AF. They cannot do both at once. Sony changes all that with the award-winning Translucent Mirror Technology system. It directs light to both the image sensor and the Phase Detection AF sensor simultaneously.
24.3 MP; best-in-class resolution
You get incredible detail and gorgeous enlargements thanks to an APS-C sensor with 24.3 megapixels. It's the worlds's first 24.3MPAPS-C DSLR
Upgraded BIONZ image processor
The brain of the camera is a Sony's BIONZ image processor substantially upgraded for the demands of 24.3 megapixel photography. Chroma noise reduction delivers high-resolution, low-noise photos even at ISO 16000. Also enables fast processing for up to 10 fps continuous shooting of data-intensive 24.3 MP images, 2D/3D Sweep Panorama modes and 6-image layering.
Sony Exmor technology
Conventional image sensors use only a handful of analog-to-digital (A/D) converters, which can slow you down. The Exmor sensor provides more than 5,600 column-parallel A/D converters. This helps enable continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second.
Ultra-fast up to 10 fps continuous
The translucent mirror makes it far easier to capture the decisive soccer kick or your baby at her absolute cutest. Shoots up to 10 frames per second at full-resolution 24.3 megapixels with continuous auto focus (AE locked after first frame).
World's first OLED viewfinder
There's never been anything quite like the Tru-Finder OLED electronic viewfinder. For size, speed and brightness even after sunset, this is a gem. It begins with 2359K dots for amazing resolution and high contrast ratio for incredible depth. OLED reduces motion blur to a bare minimum. You can also see the results of camera adjustments in real time with superb color and detail.
Full-Time Live View in LCD or EVF
You can use both the LCD monitor and OLED Electronic Viewfinder for composing shots in Live View. Both provide a what-you-see-is-what-you-get preview of white balance, focus, depth of field, exposure and 100% framing accuracy, plus informative on-screen displays.
Tilt/swivel LCD screen
Tilt it up or down to frame high- and low-angle shots that would otherwise be hit-or-miss. Tilt and swivel under the camera for self-portraits. Finally, the monitor folds flush to the camera with the LCD exposed for shooting or protected for travel.
921K dot TruBlack LCD screen
Sony's 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD monitor has 921K dots for superb resolution. The TruBlack screen includes a special resin layer to suppress internal reflections, increasing contrast compared to conventional LCDs. Sunny Weather mode boosts visibility even further.
Graphic Display
Clarifies the relationship between aperture and shutter speed, as well as the effect each has on photographic results.
HD Movies at 60p, 60i, or 24p
Capture spectacular HD Movies. This is the world's first DSLR to offer a choice of super-smooth 60p, standard 60i or cinematic 24p, all at Full HD 1920x1080 resolution. AVCHD Progressive codec delivers stunning picture quality. MP4 codec offers smaller files for easier upload to the web.
HD movies with full manual control
Now you don't need to surrender control when you shoot HD movies. Enjoy the full expressive potential of Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority or Manual (P/A/S/M) control in HD movie mode.
Full-time Phase Detection AF
You get fast, accurate auto focus in every mode—even HD Movie and Live View—thanks to Sony's exclusive Translucent Mirror Technology. While Contrast Detection Auto Focus often hunts for correct focus, Phase Detection AF knows exactly where correct focus is, and goes straight for it.
HDMI output for HD viewing
Enjoy HD movies and stunning still images on a compatible HDTV. The camera includes an HDMI output. In addition, the BRAVIA Sync system works with compatible Sony BRAVIA HDTVs enabling you to control camera playback using the television's remote.
15-point Auto Focus
To maximize the value of Translucent Mirror Technology, Sony incorporates Phase Detection AF of great sophistication. 15 sensors with 3 cross sensors maximize precision for both vertical and horizontal subjects.
World's shortest release time lag
Helps ensure that the image you want is the image you get. Once auto focus occurs, release time lag is the delay between fully pressing the shutter release and when the camera actually starts taking the picture. Long lag makes it harder to capture fast-moving objects. The Sony A65 boasts the world's shortest DSLR release time lag at only 0.05 seconds.
Object Tracking AF
Locks onto a specified object and maintains focus even as the subject moves. Unpredictable subjects stay in focus even while zooming. You can concentrate on composition without worrying about focus. 6-image layering
Leverages the fast BIONZ processor to capture six images in a fraction of a second, and then combine the data. The result is one incredible single image that gets a cleaner result in Multi-Frame NR mode or sharper nighttime pictures in Hand-held Twilight mode.
Multi-frame NR
Experience incredible low-light shooting without a flash. The camera captures six images in a fraction of a second. Combining the data from all six, it creates a single image with a reduction in noise equivalent to two additional steps of ISO sensitivity. Sensitivity selectable up to ISO 25600. (Recommended for still subjects.)
Handheld Twilight mode
Get gorgeous shots at night without a tripod. Combines six frames into a single image for smooth, low-noise evening shots. (Recommended for still subjects.)
Auto HDR built into camera
Captures more scene dynamic range than a single exposure can handle—and more range than photo film. Combines the best highlight detail from one shot, the best mid-tones from a second and the best shadow detail from a third for one incredible shot. (Recommended for still subjects.)
3D Sweep Panorama Mode
Capture vast scenic vistas and 16:9 shots in spectacular 3D. As you sweep across the panorama, the camera records separate right-eye and left-eye images that make landscapes come alive on your 3D television. Records both JPEG and MPO file formats.
Sweep Panorama Mode
Capture expansive landscapes automatically. Press the shutter, sweep vertically or horizontally. The camera does the rest, continuously shooting images and stitching them together.
Shot Result Preview
See the results before you take the shot. This preview takes the guesswork out of camera settings by showing the effects of the aperture, shutter and DRO settings on the depth of field, motion and dynamic range.
Main Sensor Quick AF Live View
Combines the fast focus of Phase Detection AF with high quality Live View images right from the main sensor. This is made possible by Sony Translucent Mirror Technology. You get accurate images and 100% framing on the LCD monitor or eye-level viewfinder.
ISO 16000 sensitivity
Incredibly clear low-light pictures without sacrificing detail, made possible by the low-noise Exmor APS HD CMOS image sensor and refined BIONZ image processor.
AUTO+ (Advanced Auto) mode
Get cleaner, more dynamic pictures and fewer missed shots. Unifies and simplifies Sony intelligent technologies. The camera automatically recognizes the correct scene mode.
11 Picture Effect modes
Discover innovative ways to make your images and videos pop. These include Posterization (Color, B/W), Pop Color, Retro Photo, Partial Color (Red, Green, Blue, Yellow), Soft High-key, High Contrast Monochrome, Toy Camera, Soft Focus, HDR Painting, Rich-tone Monochrome, and Miniature.
Face Detection and Registration
The camera can automatically detect up to eight individual faces and adjust focus, exposure, white balance and flash to help deliver crisp, properly lit images of people. Can prioritize children or adults. Face Registration can remember friends and family members and prioritize them.
1200-Zone exposure metering
Reads exposure directly from the main image sensor. Choice of Multi, Center and Spot metering accommodates a full range of shooting situations.
SteadyShot INSIDE stabilization
Image stabilization reduces blur by compensating for camera shake. Typical DSLR systems build image stabilization into selected lenses only. SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization is built into the camera body itself. You'll reduce blur with every A Mount lens, including macro and wide-aperture standard zoom lenses.
Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO)
Improves results with backlit subjects and recovers details hidden in shadows. Settings include Auto, Level with a choice of five operating levels and Off.
Smile Shutter technology
Captures a smile the moment it happens. Simply select the Smile Shutter mode and the camera takes the picture automatically. You can prioritize children or adults and adjust the smile sensitivity.
Up to 560 Shots of battery life
Take up to 560 shots on a single charge with Sony Stamina battery power. Sony's InfoLITHIUM battery system enables you to see the percent of power remaining, so you can keep shooting in confidence.
P/A/S/M exposure modes
The camera offers a full range of controls from the beginner's AUTO+ mode to P/A/S/M: Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual. On-screen prompts help you refine your skills, build your confidence and exercise greater creative control.
Advanced Anti-Dust Technology
Anti-Dust Technology helps keep the CMOS sensor clean, resulting in consistently clear pictures. First a static-free coating on the sensor's low-pass filter helps repel dust. Then vibration automatically dislodges dust from the sensor.
Built-in Flash (GN12)
To help you shoot more effectively, the camera includes a built-in flash (Guide Number 12) that can also trigger a wireless accessory flash (sold separately). The integrated hot shoe enables you to expand your lighting options with a range of accessory flashes (sold separately).
Slot for two media types
For cost-effective, convenient storage and sharing of your images, the camera accepts Memory Stick PRO Duo/Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo and SD/SDHC/SDXC media (Class 4 or higher recommended, sold separately). (APS-C size HD CMOS image sensor With 19.5 times the area of the typical camcorder image sensor, APS-C makes the difference between amateur and professional-looking video, delivering an exceptional combination of high resolution, high sensitivity and gorgeous, blurred backgrounds.
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Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Phase Detection, Selective single-point, Face Detection, Multi-area, Single, Continuous, Live View |
---|---|
Display Resolution Maximum | 921,000 |
Photo Sensor Size | APS-C |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Effective Still Resolution | 24.3 MP |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 24.3 MP |
White balance settings | Auto, Flash torch |
Self Timer Duration | 10 seconds |
JPEG quality level | Fine |
Camera Flash | Built-In |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift |
Flash Modes Description | Fill Flash, Red Eye Reduction, Slow Sync |
Flash Sync Speed | 1/160_sec |
Video Capture Format | AVCHD |
Video Capture Resolution | FHD 1080p |
Video Standard | mpeg4 |
Viewfinder Magnification | 1.1x |
---|---|
Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
Screen Size | 3 Inches |
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Fully-articulated |
Model Name | Sony SLTA65V |
---|---|
Brand | Sony |
Model Number | SLTA65VK |
Customer Reviews |
3.7 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #155,138 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #233 in DSLR Cameras |
ASIN | B005IHAIDO |
Color | Black |
Included Components | Tripod, Battery, Remote |
Specification Met | No |
Assembly Required | No |
Age Range (Description) | Adult |
Processor Description | Bionz |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.2 x 3.19 x 3.82 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 1.37 Pounds |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Lens Type | zoom |
---|---|
Optical Zoom | 5 x |
Maximum Aperture | 3.5 Millimeters |
Zoom Type | Optical, Digital |
Autofocus Points | 15 |
Camera Lens Description | 55 millimetres |
Compatible Mountings | Sony/Minolta Alpha DT, Sony/Minolta Alpha |
Focus Type | Autofocus & Manual |
Maximum Focal Length | 55 Millimeters |
Minimum Focal Length | 18 Millimeters |
Photo Filter Thread Size | 55 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 12800 |
---|---|
Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Exposure Control Type | Manual |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Shooting Modes | Program, Panorama, High dynamic rang, Scene, Shutter Priority, Automatic |
Batteries Required? | Yes |
---|---|
Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included) |
Are Batteries Included | Yes |
Rechargeable Battery Included | No |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Description | Rechargeable NP-FM500H battery & charger |
Battery Weight | 76 Grams |
Target Gender | Unisex |
Connectivity Technology | USB, HDMI |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 10 |
Wireless Communication Technology | EyeFi |
Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo |
Special Feature | Waterproof |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Skill Level | Amateur, Professional |
Form Factor | Compact SLR |
Hardware Interface | Memory Stick PRO Duo, HDMI, SDHC, SDXC, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo |
Audio Recording | Yes |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
GPS | Built-In |
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the image quality and ease of use of the camera. For example, they mention that it takes some of the best pictures this side of a FF pro camera, has a large and brilliant LCD screen, and that the button layout is intuitive. They are also satisfied with performance, and ergonomics. That said, opinions are mixed on quality, focus, value, and light sensitivity.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the image quality of the camera. They say it takes some of the best pictures this side of a FF pro camera, and is pleased with the picture results. The camera has a full-color, high-resolution image display that helps to keep the image relatively in focus.
"...With the whole viewfinder area a full-color high-resolution image display, readout, status and other information can be displayed anywhere you..." Read more
"...While it can get a bit annoying, it does help keep the image relatively in focus...." Read more
"...The EVF (ELECTRONIC VIEW FINDER) gave me the goose bumps. Crystal clear image which will make you want to buy this camera even if the rest of it..." Read more
"...mm 2.8 lens (see separate review for this terrific lens), takes some of the best pictures this side of a FF pro camera - if you stay to ISO 800 and..." Read more
Customers find the camera easy to use. They mention that it has user friendly menus, and the button layout is intuitive. They also appreciate the built-in help and explanation menus. Customers also mention that the camera is simple and easy to get familiar with, and that the menu selections and controls are intuitive.
"...I like how the A65 has a dedicated ISO button for quick changes...." Read more
"...In terms of size, clarity and utility, the finder in the A65 at least rivals, but in some respects surpasses some of those found in much more..." Read more
"...Simple Easy camera that can get as technical as you want it to once you get to that point if you're a beginner...." Read more
"...Intuitive and well thought-out ergonomics.7) Fast and responsive operation. Fastest continuous shooting in class (10 frames per second)...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the performance of the digital camera. They say that it provides exceptional performance at a modest price. The results have been stellar, the AF is very good, and they get consistent results. The high ISO performance is the best outside of a FF sensor, and the camera does pretty well compared to the competition. It is very usable and is slightly better at high ISO.
"...It is MINT and works PERFECTLY. If you do a quick search there are web sites devoted to rating Minolta lenses that work with Sony Alphas...." Read more
"...a few seconds - all without having to use a tripod - it really works amazingly well...." Read more
"...unheard of in this price range, but this camera provides it and does so very well!..." Read more
"...even at those soft and somewhat noisy default settings, the camera does pretty well compared to the competition - and really quite well indeed given..." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the ergonomics of the digital camera. They mention that it is well-laid out, feels good in the hand, and is well balanced. The user interface is intuitive and responsive.
"...I liked the Sony quite a bit better because the body felt better balanced, was slightly lighter and smaller, and the button layout was..." Read more
"...Intuitive and well thought-out ergonomics.7) Fast and responsive operation. Fastest continuous shooting in class (10 frames per second)...." Read more
"...The menus are well laid out and the ergonomics are excellent. It makes me want to use it more...." Read more
"...It has tons of feautures, it is light and feels good on the hand...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the quality of the camera. Some mention it's a truly great camera, excellent, and does a credible job. They say the video is excellent when shooting in 60p, and the AF is very good. However, others say that it'll not shut off or start up, and that the kit lens is cheap and slow.
"...Controls: all were very good, but the exposure control being on the left side of the Sony made it much easier to control your settings while looking..." Read more
"...'s somewhat more expensive than the Nikon 3200, it has a significantly better viewfinder, much better high-speed shooting, and better movie modes...." Read more
"...the light to the fixed-mirror design, you make up for it with the amazing EVF and the camera's speed...." Read more
"...The controls are well arranged and build quality seems very nice. Body is made in Japan. No problems...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the focus of the camera. Some mention that it has a faster autofocus phase than contrast detection, and has incredibly fast AF. However, other customers say that it won't keep up with 10fps for very long, has sluggish refresh rates, and that the jpeg engine is not as good as Olympus.
"...So you get live-view all the time plus tremendously faster focusing than you'd normally achieve using live-view...." Read more
"...Thing is quick as hell but be warned that after taking the 10fps there is a one or 2 sec delay where the cam takes time to dump it onto the SD..." Read more
"...Full-time live view system and full time phase detection AF for both stills and movies - FAR better than the clunky live view systems `tacked on'..." Read more
"...-mirror design, you make up for it with the amazing EVF and the camera's speed. The EVF is much larger than anything else in its class...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the value of the camera. Some mention it packs this much value for the money, while others say that the kit lens is probably not worth it if you have a higher requirement of picture quality. The price hit over the A65 is also a problem. The 18-55 lens is almost worthless and the kit is pretty basic.
"...But this thing is more then Awesome and way worth it. Only $33 bucks..." Read more
"...If funds are more limited, the A65 is still a real deal and offers a lot for the money...." Read more
"...I considered the A77 too, BUT here is the problem: a big price hit over the A65. Yes it does have a magnesium body and is weather sealed...." Read more
"...Body is made in Japan. No problems. It's a good value for a multi-purpose camera and makes my DSLRs look really old...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the light sensitivity of the camera. Some mention that it has surprisingly good low light abilities, while others say that it does not do well in low light.
"...be fitted with comparatively small pentamirror viewfinders, the large, bright and high-resolution EVF of the Sony A65 stands apart...." Read more
"...For some reason the camera requires a lot of light beyond the normal incandescent and florescent bulbs you have at home...." Read more
"...But you can't really beat the price. puts out abundant amount of light and its under $200 bucks..." Read more
"...away the competition in terms of resolution, and with surprisingly good low light abilities too - might be the best sensor residing in any camera..." Read more
Reviews with images
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Most of my comparisons have been indoor flash shots and a night shots outside. Pixels comparisons aside (16m for the 5100 and 24 for the A65), I am astounded by how much better the Sony photos are. And I thought the 5100 was good-and it is, of course. One of reasons I bought the 5100 was to replace a Nikon D80. I love having a flip out screen, which it and the Sony have. I NEED flip out screens, the G12 has one too. I take a lot of my shots from a position other than up to my eye. Anyway, more about the A65.
The OLED viewfinder is amazing. For a real thorough review of the viewfinder alone check out a review of the A77 here on Amazon. The A65 and A77 share the same viewfinder. First off, is shows the entire image which you don't get with the 5100. You have to move up to, what the D7000 to get that? I have to tell you the ability to level the camera in the viewfinder in two axis is REALLY handy. No more wonky horizons. I hike a lot in our local PA mountains. The ability to sight across from one hill side to the other and use the viewfinder as a sighting level is a real cool, but admittedly esoteric use of the view finder. Once you have the viewfinder tilt and yaw indicator you will be spoiled forever trust me on that!
With the push of a button you can zoom in the view finder very easily. You can turn on and off the information you see in the finder.
Here's another advantage in bright daylight: You can review the photos in the finder with your eye through the finder. That is another of MANY pluses of the EVF. I understand Sony has broken some new ground with this new EVF vs. the older iterations of EVFs. They are here to stay. My guess is the optical viewfinder will fade (no flames please). This a very big deal. Using it is a "wow" moment as it is a better mousetrap.
If you put the 5100 on Live View and compare it to the Sony A65 there is NO comparison. If you take a photo in Live View you need to wait until the darn mirror flips up and down. Slooooooow. A P&S camera such as the G12 is MUCH faster shot to shot since it does not have to operate a mirror. The Sony just zooms along merrily, click, click, click, click. Then if you want to mimic a chain gun on a Apache helicopter put it on a continuous 10 shots a second mode. I had no way to measure it, but I put the 5100 on continuous shooting (of course, NOT with Live View) and it was quite a bit slower with that darn 'ole mirror getting a workout. Don't forget, though, to minimize your SD card choking on all that data you need to use one of "Extreme" SD cards. I assume you would want that type of SD card for videos anyway (I don't do much video). A cheapy SD card will work fine unless you want to play machine gun with the shutter. No matter what, it will not keep up with 10fps for very long. I am not sure how the other DSLRs fair in that regard. I did use it an action pistol match my son and competed in. I was able to capture his flying brass and the Glock in full recoil which was pretty cool.
I recently shot some video and played it back on my Sony Bravia 50" TV (I am NOT, in general, a Sony fanboy, as I currently own Nikon, Canon and Lumix cameras) via the mini HDMI port on the camera. It was truly excellent. Another review here on Amazon from an obvious video enthusiast called it "amazing". I won't dispute that. The quality of the audio seem pretty darn good. the microphone sits on top of what would be the pentaprism in an arc. Previously, my videos from the Canon G12 have been on my computer monitor. I am not doing a pixel peeping comparison. Based on my experience and web site reviews the video capabilities are probably best in class.
Shot to shot comparison is: A65 is sharper, but with better color rendition. The only thing the 5100 MAY have over the A65 is perhaps a slightly stronger flash, but not by much. a November 11th review on a German camera web site came out and declared the best camera under 1000 euros. I think the camera has maybe two weakness (or maybe two characteristics that are not better than a Canon or Nikon): the first is that the flash is good but the Nikon may be a bit better. But no one matches Nikon on that. The second is that at high ISOs the quality MAY fall off a little more quickly than comparable Nikon or Canon offerings. That MAY be a tradeoff from having 24m pixels. I say that ONLY from the reviews I have read. I have not had any real world comparisons for high ISOs. My comparisons using a flash in a room with a lot of detail shows the A65 pretty much blowing the 5100 into weeds. I think some have also questioned that the Sony .jpg engine and advised shooting in RAW until Sony refines the firmware. That may be, but the photos, to this amateurs and non-technogeek, look awfully good. It is a heck of a camera and a joy to uses.
I like how the A65 has a dedicated ISO button for quick changes. You can modify one of the 5100's buttons to do the same thing, but I don't think it is as intuitive. In fact, none of the command structure in the 5100 is as intuitive as the Sony's. I have to hunt for options on the Nikon that seem easier to find on the Sony. I have had the 5100 for 7 months and only two days for the Sony...
Here is a bonus to the Sony that I was ignorant of until last week. Legacy AF Minolta and Konica-Minolta lenses work just fine on all the Alphas. Shame on me for not knowing. When Sony bought Minolta in 2005 they wisely retained the old A-mount. Why is that important? You are not stuck buying new Sony lenses. You can buy good used Minoltas that are HIGHLY rated Japanese made lenses. I got my A65 with the 18-55 kit lens. I just received a used Minolta 70-210mm f3.5-4.5 off eBay for $120. It is MINT and works PERFECTLY. If you do a quick search there are web sites devoted to rating Minolta lenses that work with Sony Alphas. Did I say BARGAIN? The lens I bought I think sold for $350 when it was new. On site showed it at $625 in today's money (based on the old purchase price) if I recall. Even if the Nikon, Canon and Sony were equivalent at the same price point (and they are not) being able to use the legacy Minolta lens is a real plus. (I almost forgot-I had a Canon Rebel XTi. Had buyers remorse right away. The photos from it just did not look good, but that is dam water long gone soured me on Canon DSLRs. I love my G12 though! I realize Canons DSLR are fantastic cameras with lots of happy campers. A semipro I know that shoots wildlife switched to high-end Canons from Nikon simply because comparable lenses from Canon are much cheaper than Nikon, but that is a story for another day).
If you check out eBay lenses. I cannot recommend one seller too highly; ddrfam1439. Dennis deals only with Minolta lenses and is the best seller of ANYTHING I have bought from eBay. There are other reliable lenses dealers on there, but if Dennis has it I would buy with 110% confidence.
I considered the A77 too, BUT here is the problem: a big price hit over the A65. Yes it does have a magnesium body and is weather sealed. If I go hiking in bad weather I will take my weather proof Lumix TS2. It is quite a bit larger and heavier though than the A65. They share the same EVF - that is important. Yeah, I guess it has a couple more focus points, but in real world I don't think that matters. Sometimes technical reviews focus (to steal a phrase) on pixel peeking and theoreticals rather than real world use. Maybe a pro needs the A77, but $999 vs. $1999? I can find other uses for $1000 - more lenses and filters maybe with lots left over for 18-year old Scotch.
I have always had Nikons and Canons, but until now, never gave Sony a look. The buzz about the A77 caused me to check out the line and I am glad I did. This Sony A65 is like jumping into an Audi S4 from a VW Golf from my Nikon. I think for $999 there is nothing better-at the moment anyway.
I will try to update this review over time.
November 11, 2011 UPDATE. Remember the scene in "Something About Mary" when the greasy P.I. Healy (played to a "T" by Matt Dillon), was lurking around Mary's apartment? Through his binoculars, he got a glimpse of the body of her prune-like neighbor, but not seeing the face he thought it was Mary. To his fellow buffoon and voyeur he muttered "oooof, first chink in the armor, Teddy". Well, the A65 has a problem. Sometimes it will not shut or or start up. Taking the battery out and putting it back in solves it for a while. It is acting flaky. I did check on-line and I am running the latest firmware (1.03). So I called Sony...they are emailing me a FedEx label to ship to the Laredo TX service center. The camera is working, but I don't trust it to hold the charge as something drained the battery even though the switch was 'OFF' when I was not using it. I will report how Sony does on service. It is working so I will use it some, but ship it out on Monday.
November 14, 2011 UPDATE: I updated and edited some of the text above. AND the camera seems to be working just fine. I may not sent it back just yet. I took quite a few shots and video yesterday. Likely, my 5100 is going on eBay; don't need both.
Late November 14 UPDATE: Although it does seem to be working fine now, I think since I have the FedEx (ground) label I may as well send it back to have it gone over. By the way, when I was talking to Sony over the weekend they gave me the address to send it to. I then said it would be nice to get a prepaid label. The rep said, "we will email you one". I am not sure if she just forgot or that is something you have to ask for. With Sony losing money it may be the latter.
Update November 24, 2011: camera was shipped to Sony in Laredo, TX on 11/16 and arrived 11/21. I received an email from Sony that evening indicating it was received. I just got a phone call this morning (Thanksgiving!) from a fellow at the service center asking me questions on the on-off/battery issue. He said it will ship next Tuesday and arrive to me on Thursday. I have to give Sony high marks to Sony for customer service at this point. I did feel bad, though, for the fellow working on Thanksgiving. That was pretty unexpected.
Update March 18, 2012: I have had the A65 for some time now and can reflect further. It is a fantastic camera with a ton of best in class benefits with only one Achilles heel (very high ISO performance-beyond 1600-is not as good as Canikon). OK, so what I have been up to? Buying lots of Minolta legacy lenses (50/1.7; MACRO 50/2.8; 35-105; 35-80; 700210/f3.5-4.5) and a Sony Carl Zeiss 16-80. Here would be a killer deal: buy the A65 body and the Carl Zeiss 16-80. Then add maybe the Minolta 70-210 (a good one if you can find it. Get the Minolta MACRO 50/2.8 too if you dig closeup work-which I do). I have run comparison tests on all my lens as accurately as I can...the CZ is fantastic from center to edge. The Minolta 50 MACRO 2.8 is just about as good, but the 50/1.7 falls on its ass in the corners-at least my example does. I also compared these lens to the kit lens...the kit lens is no POS. It is quite decent. I got my CZ lens off eBay in as new condition for $625. New it is $800, so it is not cheap. Some have complained that it has a plastic (well made though) body and not metal (the mount is metal). Well, a metal CZ lens cost about double this one, plus it is LIGHTER - always good.
At the risk of repeating myself...the ability to use those legacy Minolta lens is HUGE. For example, the MACRO 50 I got in super shape off eBay for $220 (and gulped at that). The Sony version of that lens now sells for over $500! I paid only $120 for that 70-210/f3.5-4.5 and it is fantastic. I don't know what you would have to pay for a new lens with comparable optics and range.
I have also picked up a couple of flashes. You can get a Minolta 3600HS for a good price on eBay. It DOES have its limitations (head flips up but does not swivel and cannot cut the power). A MUCH better choice, albeit more expensive is the Sony HVL-F56AM. It is a rebadged Minolta 5600. It has far more capabilities than the 3600. Check them out.
If you REALLY want very high ISO performance, buy a Pentax DSLR and not the Canon or Nikon. Pentax blows everyone into the weeds-and they are an excellent value. As for really low light stuff, such as street shooting, I am fortunate to have a Fuji X100 which does that so well (among other things very well, but with more than a few quirks).
1) AEL/Focus lock
In multi-segment metering mode, BOTH the exposure and focus are locked when the the shutter is pressed halfway, which I consider a good thing. This allows me to set exposure+focus with one button and then recompose the scene prior to taking the shot. In the other two metering modes (center-weighted and spot) pressing the shutter half-way only locks the focus. If you recompose the shot, the exposure setting changes based on the new area. While in these two metering modes, you have to use the AEL button to hold the exposure. In many cases, I prefer to use center-weighted metering so as a result, I have to push two buttons to hold exposure and focus.
2) Exposure meter
Although there is wealth of icons and status data on the VF and LCD screen, it is missing a exposure meter in P/A/S shooting mode! How can this be on such a pro-consumer lever camera? Am I missing it? If so please submit a comment and let me know. The only indication you get is a flashing aperture/shutter-speed if you pushed the setting too far (greater that +/-3EV). But you have no idea how far off you are getting away from nominal exposure as you change settings.
3) Image preview - zoom in/out
If you press zoom while viewing an image, it automatically takes you to very large magnification. This is good if you want to check focus but sometimes all I want to see is if the subject has blinked or not. And because of this feature I have to zoom out substantially or pan around to find the face and check the eyes. It can take a good 10 seconds and people don't want to wait around for the second shot.
4) Image preview - zoom buttons
On a related item to above, the zoom buttons do not automatically zoom in/out if you press and hold. You have to press the button for each increment of zooming. I have counted 24 presses of the Zoom Out button to get back to full view of the image!! I know you can press the center keypad button to fully zoom out in press, but the point is that if you press Zoom In, be prepared to press a Zoom Out a number of times to see a slightly less magnified view.
5) Image preview - scrolling through images
My 32GB card can hold 3000 pictures but the camera offers no practical way of navigating in this very large space. The fastest way I have figured out is to scroll down in increments of 9 thumbnails, which can take minutes to go through that many pictures. I am really surprised at this lack of software support to find pictures or navigate sensibly. A friend's 2 year old Nikon (D3100??) has the option to zoom out from one picture to 9 thumbnails, to 50 thumbnails to a calendar navigation where pictures can be shown by date taken, all by pressing the zoom out button incrementally. Oh, and the zoom in/out advance automatically without having to press each time.
There are many things I really like about the camera and I have waited years to upgrade my camera (my previous being the Olympus C-8080 I bought in 2003!). So I am a bit disappointed at not being able to get the full functionality I was hoping for.
I am not sure what I'll end up doing. I'll check the A-77 and Nex-7 to see how they compare on the above issues.
Good luck
Armen