Sony A9 Review

This high-performing Sony camera changes the rules for sports photography

By Digital Camera
published

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Sony A9 verdict

The Alpha 9 is simply stunning – both as a technical achievement and as a tool for capturing fast-moving action. The silent 20fps continuous shooting mode can capture shots you would once have missed, and the AF system is complex but extremely effective. Bravo!

The competition

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II

Canon’s professional flagship combines high-speed shooting with a big buffer and great image quality, but it can’t match the A9’s specs.

Nikon D5

Loved and trusted by Nikon professionals, the D5 has a highly-regarded autofocus system, but can’t match the A9’s speed – or its price.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II

In many ways the outsider here, the E-M1 Mark II has a much smaller sensor, but blistering speed.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Digital Camera
Digital Camera

The sister print publication to this website, Digital Camera Magazine (opens in new tab) is Britain's best-selling photography publication – and it can also be purchased outside the United Kingdom as Digital Camera World. 


Digital Camera Magazine is packed with more expert advice and more inspirational images than any other title, with the sole aim of helping you become a better photographer. Every issue we also bring you a selection of great gifts which are designed to help you get more from your photography – everything from tips cards and cheat sheets to free software and bookazines. 


In addition to inspirational images, interviews, projects, mini tests and tutorials, each issue is packed with news, reviews and comparisons, as well as photographer vs photographer shootouts and head-to-head challenges using the best photo editing software.


The magazine is captained by Editor Niall Hampton (opens in new tab), with Technique Editor Alistair Campbell (opens in new tab) adding his own expertise.