Sony NEX-6 – a compact and connected system camera

What is it?

The NEX-6 is a new entry to Sony’s NEX range, combining some of the simple functionality of the higher-priced NEX-7 with wi-fi connectivity seen on the lower-specced NEX-5R.

It has a 16.1Mp CMOS sensor and includes auto and scene modes as well as full manual mode and others in between. You can also crank the ISO up to 25600 to help capture shots in very low light.

It features the Fast Hybrid autofocus we saw at IFA on the Sony NEX-5R, which uses a combination of phase and contrast detection autofocus to improve and speed up focussing.

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Below are our first impressions based on a short time with the product, not a full review. Read our Digital SLR reviews for full reviews of the latest DSLRs and Compact system cameras and to see which produce the sharpest shots and sport the quickest speeds. Read about how we test digital SLRs for an in-depth breakdown of all our DSLR and compact system camera tests.

Sony NEX-6 – Katie’s first impressions

The stacked configuration of the mode and setting control dials make it simple to choose programmes and make adjustments.

Having an OLED viewfinder is a real plus point over the NEX-5, although it makes for a large camera overall as you can see in our side-by-side shot in our picture gallery below.

The screen looked a little dull in the lighting of the exhibition centre, so I can see the viewfinder coming in very handy.

It’s an easy camera to get to grips with and start using and by adding wi-fi, Sony has made it quicker and simpler to share and upload photos too.

When can I buy it?

The NEX-6 is due to go on sale later this month, priced at £709 for the body only or £829 sold with the 16-50mm kit lens.

Get a closer look at the NEX-6 and see it alongside the NEX-5R:

Would you choose the NEX-6 over the NEX-7 to save a few hundred pounds? Or do you think the NEX-7 is worth the extra? Let us know what you think – post a comment below.

More on this…

• New at Photokina – the latest cameras shown at Photokina.
• Sony at Photokina – other Sony cameras at Photokina.
• Sony NEX7 – see full test results for the NEX-7.