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Sony A3000 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£290
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Lens mount: Sony E
  • Main camera pixel size: 4.25 µm
  • Weight: 281 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 470 shots

Sony A3000 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

5.3

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.8

Technical Score

10.0%

9.0

User score

Good
4.8

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

6.8

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.5

Photo Features

18.0%

3.5

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.4

Display & Design

8.0%

6.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.6

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
9.0

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(299)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(379)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 5.1
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    2.0

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 5.9
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    8.8

    Weight

    30.0%

    8.2

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 8.2
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.0

    Price

    20.0%

    8.8

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    8.2

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 6.9
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    8.0

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 5.0
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.8

    Weight

    25.0%

    3.5

    Thickness

    20.0%

    6.3

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 5.9
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    8.0

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    6.4

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 5.5
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.8

    Weight

    25.0%

    8.2

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony A3000 is an entry-level mirrorless camera designed with a DSLR-style body, featuring a 20.1-megapixel APS-C Exmor sensor, a BIONZ image processor, and the Sony E-mount for interchangeable lenses. Key pros include superb RAW image quality, high ISO performance up to 16,000, excellent battery life of up to 470 shots, and a lightweight body with a highly comfortable, deep handgrip. However, its primary cons are its cheap, plasticky build, a very low-resolution 230,400-dot fixed LCD screen, a dim 201,600-dot electronic viewfinder, a lack of dedicated HDMI output, and a slow continuous shooting speed of 3.5 frames per second.

Technical Specifications of Sony A3000

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

6.8

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.5

Photo Features

18.0%

3.5

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.4

Display & Design

8.0%

6.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.6

Connectivity & Storage

4.8
Sony A3000 has a technical score of 4.84 points, which is lower than 56.5% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
(299)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(379)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.0
Sony A3000 has a user score of 9.02 points, which is higher than 85.4% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
Sony A3000 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 66.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.3

Overall score

40.0%

9.0

Price

6.4
Sony A3000 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.4 points, which is higher than 60.2% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

APS-C
Sony A3000 uses a sensor classified as APS-C; it is larger than the sensor in 57.4% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 25.7% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

20.1 MP
Sony A3000 has a main camera resolution of 20.1 MP, which is higher than that of 61.7% of cameras and equal to that of 4.3% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

4.25 µm
Sony A3000 has a main camera pixel size of 4.25 µm which is larger than in 68.9% of cameras and equal to the size in 0.3% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

100
Sony A3000 has a base ISO of 100 which is higher than that of 20.3% of cameras and equal to that of 52% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

16,000
Sony A3000 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 16,000, which is higher than that of 73.3% of cameras and equal to that of 1.9% of cameras.
Show more
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Sony E
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A3000 does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

25
Sony A3000 has 25 focus points, more than the number offered by 50.4% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 4.6% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Sony A3000 does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony A3000 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1920 px
Sony A3000 supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

28 Mbps
Sony A3000 has a video bitrate of 28 Mbps which is lower than that of 51.9% of cameras and equal to that of 8.7% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Sony A3000 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Sony A3000 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

mirrorless
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

281 g
Sony A3000 weighs 281 g which is lighter than 64.3% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.2% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

128 mm
Sony A3000 has a width of 128 mm which is wider than 66.7% of cameras and equal to that of 1.1% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

91 mm
Sony A3000 has a height of 91 mm which is taller than 68.2% of cameras and equal to that of 0.4% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

84.5 mm
Sony A3000 has a thickness of 84.5 mm which is thicker than 83.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.4% of cameras.
Show more
Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

470 shots
Sony A3000 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 470 shots, which is longer than that of 77.2% of cameras and equal to that of 1.1% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,080 mAh
Sony A3000 has a battery capacity of 1,080 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 52.9% of cameras and equal to those in 1.9% of cameras.
NP-FW50 battery.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony A3000 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A3000 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A3000 does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A3000 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A3000 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
Show more

Sony A3000 vs the average camera

  • Better viewfinder type
    Sony A3000 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
    What it is: The type of viewfinder the camera uses to frame the shot, such as optical, electronic, hybrid, or none.
    When it matters: When you strongly prefer the clarity of an optical finder, the preview benefits of an electronic one, or no viewfinder at all.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony A3000 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).electronic vs none
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Sony A3000 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
    Ultrasonic vibration cleaning.
    What it is: A built-in mechanism designed to remove or reduce dust particles from the image sensor surface.
    When it matters: When you change lenses often and want to reduce the chance of dust spots appearing on your images.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A3000 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • 9,600 higher max ISO
    Sony A3000 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (16,000 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
    What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least ISO 25,600

    Sony A3000 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (16,000 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.16,000 vs 6,400
  • 140 shots longer battery life
    Sony A3000 has longer battery life than the average camera (470 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
    What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
    When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 400 shots

    Sony A3000 has longer battery life than the average camera (470 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.470 shots vs 330 shots
  • 0.91 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sony A3000 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Sony A3000 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.4.25 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Sony A3000 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
    Full HD only
    What it is: Support for recording video at 24 frames per second, a frame rate commonly associated with cinematic motion.
    When it matters: When you want footage with a more traditional cinematic cadence instead of standard video motion.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A3000 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
  • 3.9 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Sony A3000 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Sony A3000 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • 10x more popular
    Sony A3000 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
    Sony A3000 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • Better viewfinder type
    Sony A3000 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
  • 28.9% lighter
    Sony A3000 is lighter than the average camera (281 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Sony A3000 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • 9,600 higher max ISO
    Sony A3000 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (16,000 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 0.91 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sony A3000 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 3.9 MP higher resolution on the main camera
    Sony A3000 has a higher main camera resolution than the average camera (20.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • Higher DxOMark portrait score
    Sony A3000 has a higher DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (23.7 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
  • Higher DxOMark landscape score
    Sony A3000 has a higher DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (12.8 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
  • 5 points higher DxOMark sensor score
    Sony A3000 has a higher DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (78 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
  • 226 points higher DxOMark Sports score
    Sony A3000 has a higher DxOMark sports score than the average camera (1,068 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Sony A3000 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
  • 140 shots longer battery life
    Sony A3000 has longer battery life than the average camera (470 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Video & Audio
Battery & Power
  • 2158400 dots lower EVF resolution
    Sony A3000 has a lower EVF resolution than the average camera (201,600 dots vs 2,360,000 dots). The average camera has an EVF resolution of 2,360,000 dots.
  • 38.5 mm thicker
    Sony A3000 is thicker than the average camera (84.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 10.3% lower magnification
    Sony A3000 has a lower viewfinder magnification than the average camera (0.7x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
  • 17.1 mm taller body
    Sony A3000 is taller than the average camera (91 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 8.1 mm wider
    Sony A3000 is wider than the average camera (128 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Sony A3000 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Sony A3000 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
  • 2.2 fps slower mechanical burst
    Sony A3000 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • No continuous video AF
    Sony A3000 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    no video recording
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Sony A3000 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
    What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
    When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony A3000 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.0 vs -4
  • 2158400 dots lower EVF resolution
    Sony A3000 has a lower EVF resolution than the average camera (201,600 dots vs 2,360,000 dots). The average camera has an EVF resolution of 2,360,000 dots.
    What it is: The pixel or dot resolution of the electronic viewfinder, which affects sharpness and clarity while composing shots.
    When it matters: When you compose through an electronic viewfinder and want a sharper, more detailed preview of the scene.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 2.36 million dots

    Sony A3000 has a lower EVF resolution than the average camera (201,600 dots vs 2,360,000 dots). The average camera has an EVF resolution of 2,360,000 dots.201600 dots vs 2360000 dots
  • No continuous video AF
    Sony A3000 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    no video recording
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A3000 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Sony A3000 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
    What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
    When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 14-bit

    Sony A3000 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
  • 2.2 fps slower mechanical burst
    Sony A3000 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Sony A3000 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.3.5 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • 38.5 mm thicker
    Sony A3000 is thicker than the average camera (84.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A3000 is thicker than the average camera (84.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.84.5 mm vs 46 mm
  • 10.3% lower magnification
    Sony A3000 has a lower viewfinder magnification than the average camera (0.7x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
    What it is: The apparent size of the image seen through the viewfinder relative to the real scene.
    When it matters: When you want a larger, more immersive view through the finder for easier composition and manual focus.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A3000 has a lower viewfinder magnification than the average camera (0.7x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.0.7 x vs 0.78 x
  • 17.1 mm taller body
    Sony A3000 is taller than the average camera (91 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
    What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A3000 is taller than the average camera (91 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.91 mm vs 73.9 mm
Total
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio

Graphic comparison of Sony A3000 and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.3
299 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
379 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Sony A3000?

  • Excellent image quality thanks to its large 20.1MP APS-C sensor
  • Great value for money, often cited as one of the most affordable interchangeable lens cameras
  • Large, comfortable DSLR-style handgrip providing good ergonomics
  • Compatible with a wide range of Sony E-mount and adapted vintage lenses
  • Includes focus peaking, which is helpful for manual focusing
  • Lightweight and portable despite its chunky appearance

What customers dislike about Sony A3000?

  • Extremely low-resolution rear LCD and electronic viewfinder (EVF)
  • Lack of an eye sensor, requiring a manual button press to switch between LCD and EVF
  • Cheap, plasticky build quality that can feel hollow
  • Slow autofocus performance, particularly in low light or for action shots
  • Sluggish operational speeds, including slow startup and limited burst fire rate
  • No dedicated external battery charger included (charges in-camera via USB)
  • Menu system can be confusing and lacks some advanced direct controls

Expert reviews

D
dpreview.com
27/08/2013
Sony Alpha A3000 First Impressions Review - DPReview

The DPReview evaluation of the Sony Alpha A3000 highlights a mirrorless camera in a DSLR-style body featuring an excellent 20.1-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers sharp images and good low-light performance. Its, deep, comfortable handgrip, standard E-mount compatibility, and low price point are listed as key pros, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking creative...Read more

C
cameracraft.online
09/10/2013
Sony Alpha 3000 review by David Kilpatrick - Cameracraft

However, the reviewer heavily criticises the camera's severely compromised, "inadequate" electronic viewfinder (EVF), which uses a tiny 0.2-inch, low-resolution (201,600 pixels) chip behind a poor-quality ocular lens that suffers from distortion, flare, and crude dioptre controls. The 3-inch rear LCD screen is equally basic, providing a low 230,000-pixel resolution with no touch...Read more

C
cameralabs.com
27/07/2014
Sony Alpha A3000 review - Cameralabs

The Sony Alpha A3000 is an entry-level mirrorless camera creatively designed in a classic DSLR-style body to attract beginners who prefer traditional handling without paying premium DSLR prices. It features a sharp 20.1 Megapixel APS-C sensor, native compatibility with Sony’s E-mount lens lineup, and user-friendly automated features like Intelligent Auto and Auto Object Framing that...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
11/12/2013
Sony Alpha A3000 review - Expert Reviews

The Expert Reviews evaluation by Ben Pitt highlights the Sony Alpha A3000 as a groundbreaking, entry-level mirrorless camera defined by its highly competitive launch price of £249. The core strength of this device lies in its 20-megapixel APS-C sensor, which matches the image and video quality of far more expensive consumer SLRs at a fraction of the cost. It delivers superb...Read more

W
whatdigitalcamera.com
27/09/2013
Sony A3000 Review - What Digital Camera

The What Digital Camera review identifies the Sony A3000 as a budget-friendly, DSLR-styled mirrorless camera featuring a large, comfortable handgrip and a high-resolution APS-C sensor that delivers excellent image quality at ISO 1600 and below. The 18-55mm kit lens is praised for its sharpness, and the camera includes precise battery tracking technology. Conversely, the build...Read more

E
ephotozine.com
10/10/2013
Sony Alpha 3000 Mirrorless Camera Review

The ePHOTOzine review highlights the Sony Alpha 3000 as an entry-level mirrorless camera that offers impressive image quality via a 20.1-megapixel APS-C sensor, bright, saturated colours, and good detail, all while featuring a DSLR-like body, quick focus, and useful tools like Focus Peaking. However, the budget-focused, plastic-bodied camera is hindered by a low-resolution LCD...Read more

A
amateurphotographer.com
23/07/2026
Sony Alpha 3000 review - Amateur Photographer

The Sony Alpha 3000 is a budget-friendly, entry-level mirrorless camera designed with a comfortable, DSLR-like textured grip for improved stability. It features a 20.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that delivers high-quality, sharp, and color-accurate images, making it an accessible option for beginners in interchangeable-lens photography. To maintain its low cost, the camera...Read more

D
dxomark.com
04/12/2013
Sony A3000 review: Entry-level body, high-performance sensor

The Sony A3000 is a budget-friendly, entry-level interchangeable lens camera that creatively packs mirrorless technology inside a chunky, DSLR-style body layout. Reviewed by DXOMARK, the camera’s standout pro is its high-performance 20.1-Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which achieved a remarkable overall score of 78 points. This hardware delivers image quality, color depth, and dynamic...Read more

R
reviewed.com
05/02/2014
Sony Alpha A3000 Digital Camera Review

The Sony Alpha A3000 is an entry-level mirrorless camera designed with a chunky, substantially gripped DSLR-style body to appeal to consumers who equate a larger form factor with high image quality. Equipped with a 20.1-megapixel APS-C sensor and a BIONZ processor, it delivers impressive color accuracy and strong overall resolution for its sub-$400 price point. It features a...Read more

D
digital-photography-school.com
07/11/2013
Sony A3000 Review

The Sony A3000 is an entry-level mirrorless interchangeable lens camera designed to offer beginners the traditional look, feel, and deep speed-grip of a standard DSLR, but at a more affordable price point. Equipped with a 20-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, it captures sharp images with accurate color and shoots Full HD video, though users cannot take still photos while recording...Read more

D
dkamera.de
14/10/2013
Sony Alpha 3000 Review

The dkamera.de review highlights the Sony Alpha 3000 as a highly affordable entry-level mirrorless camera featuring a DSLR-style body with excellent APS-C sensor performance, delivering high image quality and good low-light capabilities. The camera is noted for its comfortable, secure, and textured handgrip, making it suitable for steady shooting. Conversely, the review identifies...Read more

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D
dkamera.de
14/10/2013
Conclusion | Sony Alpha 3000 Review

However, significant hardware compromises were made to achieve its low price point, most notably the poor, low-resolution electronic viewfinder (201k subpixels) and rear display (230.4k subpixels), which are pixelated and lack an automatic switching sensor. Performance is strictly basic; continuous shooting is limited to 3.5 frames per second, the autofocus system takes a slow 0.38...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
dkamera.de
14/10/2013
Sony Alpha 3000 Review - Field Test", "Sony Alpha 3000 Review - In-Depth Practice Test

The Sony Alpha 3000 is an entry-level mirrorless system camera styled in a classic, plastic DSLR-like body with a comfortable, rubberised handgrip. On the positive side, it features an effective contrast-detect autofocus system supporting single, continuous, and hybrid direct manual focus (DMF), alongside helpful manual focusing aids like a focus magnifier and focus peaking...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
dkamera.de
14/10/2013
Technology | Sony Alpha 3000 Review

The Sony Alpha 3000 is an entry-level digital camera designed to mimic the form factor of a traditional DSLR—complete with a deep handgrip and top-mounted flash—while functioning entirely as a mirrorless system utilizing Sony's E-mount lens system. Built almost entirely out of plastic with the exception of its metal lens bayonet, the camera is lightweight at 594 grams but manages to...Read more

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D
dkamera.de
14/10/2013
The Camera | Sony Alpha 3000 Review

Sony Alpha 3000 Review Summary The Sony Alpha 3000 is a unique hybrid camera that merges the design language of SLT models with the inner workings of mirrorless systems. Built with an APS-C CMOS image sensor and a Sony E-mount, it relies entirely on E-mount lenses, such as the standard Sony E 18-55mm F3,5-5,6 OSS kit lens which offers a 27-83mm equivalent focal length and built-in...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
dkamera.de
14/10/2013
Sample Images and Review of the Sony Alpha 3000", "Sample Photos & Review: Sony Alpha 3000

The Sony Alpha 3000 review evaluates the camera's real-world performance through an extensive library of unaltered test images and Full-HD sample videos. A primary strength of the camera is its high-resolution 20-megapixel APS-C sensor, which produces excellent image quality with minimal noise at low sensitivities, like ISO 100. The test showcases sharp landscape shots taken at...Read more

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D
dkamera.de
14/10/2013
Image Stabilizer | Review of the Sony Alpha 3000

The provided webpage does not contain the actual test results, pros, cons, or analysis of the Sony Alpha 3000's optical image stabilizer. Instead, it features the structural layout of the review, general instructions explaining that the camera is tested handheld at maximum zoom and resolution, and placeholder links to view sample images taken with and without stabilization. The rest...Read more

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D
dxomark.fr
04/12/2013
Sony A3000 - DXOMARK Review", "Sony A3000 - DXOMARK Test Results

The ⁠Sony A3000 receives an impressive overall sensor score of 78 points from DXOMARK, positioning it as a highly competitive option within the entry-level interchangeable lens camera market. Tested upon its launch, its 20.1-megapixel APS-C sensor achieves strong individual metric scores, including 23.7 bits for portrait color depth, 12.8 Evs for landscape dynamic range, and 1068...Read more

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C
camerarace.com
27/08/2013
Sony Alpha A3000: review and technical specifications

The Camerarace review of the Sony Alpha A3000 highlights the budget-friendly, entry-level mirrorless model as a lightweight, DSLR-styled camera, featuring a 20.1-megapixel Exmor APS-C HD CMOS sensor capable of detailed, high-quality images with good noise handling and pleasing background blur. Key pros include an ergonomic rubber grip and full manual exposure control for 1080i video...Read more

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0
01net.com
28/01/2014
Sony Alpha 3000 Review: The DSLR-looking mirrorless that tackles prices

The Sony Alpha A3000 is a budget-friendly entry-level mirrorless camera designed inside a body that mimics the bulkier look and feel of a traditional DSLR. Built as a strategic "Trojan horse" to win over conservative European and American consumers who equate larger cameras with higher professional quality, it features a 20-megapixel APS-C CMOS Exmor sensor packed into a lighter,...Read more

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