When it comes to capturing fast-paced sports action, the performance of your camera's burst shooting capabilities can make all the difference. The Panasonic GH5 II and Sony Alpha A9 II are two popular choices among enthusiasts and professionals, each offering unique features tailored for sports photography. Understanding their burst shooting performance can help you choose the right camera for your needs.

Overview of the Panasonic GH5 II

The Panasonic GH5 II is renowned for its video capabilities, but it also offers impressive still photography features. It boasts a 20.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and a fast autofocus system. Its burst shooting mode can reach up to 14 frames per second (fps) with autofocus and auto-exposure tracking, making it suitable for capturing rapid sports movements.

Overview of the Sony Alpha A9 II

The Sony Alpha A9 II is designed specifically for sports and action photography. It features a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor and an advanced autofocus system with real-time tracking. Its burst shooting capability reaches up to 20 fps with blackout-free electronic viewfinder, enabling photographers to capture fast-moving subjects with precision.

Performance in Burst Shooting

The burst shooting performance of these cameras is a critical factor for sports photography. The Sony A9 II's ability to shoot at 20 fps with autofocus and auto-exposure tracking provides a significant advantage in capturing split-second moments. Its high buffer capacity allows for continuous shooting of up to 239 compressed RAW images, ensuring you don't miss crucial action.

The Panasonic GH5 II, while slightly slower at 14 fps, still offers reliable burst performance. Its electronic shutter minimizes shutter shock and allows for silent shooting, which can be advantageous during sensitive moments in sports. However, its buffer capacity is more limited compared to the Sony, typically handling around 100 RAW images before slowing down.

Autofocus and Tracking

Autofocus speed and tracking are vital in sports photography. The Sony A9 II's real-time tracking and Eye AF system excel at maintaining focus on fast-moving subjects, ensuring sharp images during rapid bursts. The Panasonic GH5 II uses contrast-detection autofocus, which is effective but generally not as fast or accurate as Sony's phase-detection system in high-speed scenarios.

Conclusion

For sports photographers seeking the highest burst shooting speed and advanced autofocus tracking, the Sony Alpha A9 II is the superior choice. Its ability to shoot at 20 fps with excellent subject tracking makes it ideal for capturing fleeting moments. The Panasonic GH5 II offers respectable burst performance, especially for those who prioritize video capabilities alongside stills, but it may fall short in high-speed sports scenarios.

  • Sony Alpha A9 II: Up to 20 fps, superior autofocus tracking, larger buffer capacity.
  • Panasonic GH5 II: Up to 14 fps, reliable but less advanced autofocus, smaller buffer.

Choosing between these two depends on your specific needs—whether you prioritize raw burst speed and tracking or a versatile camera that excels in both video and photography.