Sony A1 Mark II camera has been updated, and many new features have been added to it. In this particular article, we are going to discuss the set of updated features one by one. The total number of updates we have in the newest version of this camera is 15. So, let’s start with a comparison table that will let you know the type of updates and the differences we have between the first and second generation of this camera. Later on, we will discuss it briefly so you can understand it properly.
Comparison Table: Sony A1 vs. Sony A1 II
| Feature | Sony A1 | Sony A1 II |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Dual BIONZ XR | Dual BIONZ XR + Dedicated AI Chip |
| Autofocus System | Real-Time Tracking (Human, Animal, Bird) | Advanced AI AF (Human, Animal, Bird + Insects) |
| Continuous Shooting | 30 FPS with compressed RAW | 120 FPS JPEG (crop mode), 30 FPS full-res RAW |
| Sensor | 50.1 MP Stacked CMOS | 50.1 MP Updated Stacked CMOS |
| Image Stabilization (IBIS) | 5.5 stops | 8 stops |
| Video Capabilities | 8K 30p, 4K 120p | 8K 60p, 4K 120p, 4K 240p |
| Dynamic Range | 15 stops | 15+ stops |
| LCD Display | Tilting 3.0″ LCD (1.44M dots) | 4-axis Multi-Angle 3.2″ LCD (2.1M dots) |
| EVF Resolution | 9.44M dots, 240Hz refresh rate | 9.44M dots, 240Hz with improved optics |
| Ports | USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI Type-A | USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, HDMI Type-A (Full-Size) |
| Memory Card Slots | Dual CFexpress Type A/SD | Dual CFexpress Type A/SD |
| Subject Recognition | Eye AF (Human, Animal, Bird) | AUTO AF + Car, Motorcycle, Insect, Drone |
| Battery Life | ~530 shots (CIPA) | ~670 shots (CIPA) |
| Body Design | Magnesium alloy | Magnesium alloy with improved ergonomics |
| Price | Approx. $5,498 B&H Store | Approx. $6,498 B&H Store |
1. Sony A1 Mark II: AI Chip Upgrade and New Design
Sony has added the AI chip inside the Sony Alpha A1 Mark II camera, which Sony missed at the time of the original announcement. Not just that, the Sony FX3 Mark II also doesn’t have the AI chip, and the Sony A7 IV update is still due with any AI chip integration. All these cameras are the ones that need AI chip integration to enhance their performance. Fortunately, the Alpha A1 Mark II camera now has it, and it upscales the overall performance of the camera. The design has been inspired by the A9 III, which we will talk about in detail.
2. New Design With Improved Heat-Sink Unit
Sony A1 Mark II Body has been redesigned to adapt to longer focal-length lenses. The design has been inspired by the Sony A9 Mark III camera. It is much more improved, much more user-friendly in hand, and much more rugged compared to the first generation of the Alpha A1 camera. So overall, we do have design improvements. It has been said very clearly during the press that the heat sink mechanism of the camera has been improved in a way that ensures while shooting 8K video even in uncontrolled weather environments, it wouldn’t have any problem.
3. Sony A1 Mark II AI-Powered Burst Mode
The biggest advantage in the burst mode is the new autofocus algorithm support, which is now powered by an AI chip inside the camera. So, the overall tracking has been much improved. If we talk in detail, we now have an Enhanced AI AF/AE-based 120 FPS crop mode in the A1 Mark II camera. Sony also UPSCALED buffer memory up to 2X. With this, you can now capture up to 240 RAW files at 30 frames per second and 400 frames of JPEGs. Earlier, RAW was limited to 155 frames, and JPEGs were limited to 165 frames in the Alpha A1 camera.
4. Sony A1 Mark II Image Stabilization Upgrade
The image stabilization hardware has also been improved compared to the Sony Alpha A1. Earlier, it was limited to 5.5 stops; now, the hardware has been upscaled to an 8.5-stop rating. It’s the maximum physical limit available in any camera out there, so now you have a significant improvement compared to the original A1 camera.
The article will be updated soon… with more information stay tuned
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