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The new Sony A77 II builds on the solid foundation of its predecessor, offering significant upgrades—especially in autofocus performance—while retaining the familiar, compact APS‑C body.
At its core lies a 24.3‑megapixel APS‑C sensor paired with Sony’s flagship BIONZ X processor, which the company claims delivers markedly better low‑light handling and overall image fidelity.
The autofocus system has been overhauled to feature a total of 79 points, 15 of which are cross‑type, making it the most densely packed AF grid on a dedicated sensor at the time of release. While some competitors, such as the A6000, integrate phase‑detection points directly on the sensor, Sony’s solution still offers unrivaled flexibility and precision.
With a maximum focus range of EV‑2, the A77 II can lock onto extremely dim subjects and maintain continuous focus at up to 12 fps—thanks to a translucent mirror that never blocks the AF sensor during burst shooting. This fixed‑mirror advantage is one of the key reasons Sony’s mirrorless lineup outperforms many DSLRs in speed.
AF tracking has been refined, providing additional modes beyond the standard continuous and one‑shot. Users can group AF points for looser tracking, employ area AF to monitor objects across the frame, and fine‑tune sensitivity to suit dynamic scenes.
The camera’s OLED Tru‑Finder sports an impressive 2,360,000‑dot resolution, delivering a clear, bright view that surpasses typical DSLR optical displays. The 3‑inch rear LCD incorporates white pixels for enhanced visibility in bright lighting conditions.
Internally, the body houses 11 fully programmable buttons and retains the ergonomic control set that made the original A77 popular among pros.
Video capabilities receive a modest upgrade, offering Full‑HD 60 fps capture. While 4K was not included—likely due to processing constraints and cost considerations—Full‑HD remains suitable for most documentary and event work.
Pricing positions the A77 II as a competitive offering: the kit, featuring a 16‑50mm f/2.8 zoom lens, retails for $1,800, while the body alone is $1,200. This aggressive pricing places it near the Fujifilm X‑T1, making it an attractive choice for serious enthusiasts.
Hands‑on impressions and a full review will follow soon.
