Sony Alpha 68 review – Verdict

Many entry-level cameras aim to satisfy as broad a range of users as possible, but the Alpha 68 breaks from convention to deliver something more niche. The competence of its AF system, together with 8fps burst shooting (albeit in a JPEG-only option) and a well-designed body that allows great handling, means it’s likely to appeal most to those intending to photograph sports, wildlife or action of another kind. The further advantage of the translucent mirror technology – more specifically, the same autofocusing performance when using the LCD – also bodes well for those who like to use the rear screen for composition.

However, it’s the underspecified LCD and its poor performance that make the Sony Alpha 68 difficult to recommend against rival cameras, particularly for tripod-based work such as landscapes and macro, where a high-quality screen becomes more of a priority. The camera’s finish and build quality are also bettered by rivals, while certain operational idiosyncrasies also make it less than ideal in use.

Overall, while the appeal of the Alpha 68 is clear, capable alternatives from Nikon, Canon and Pentax, and a burgeoning compact system camera market in which Sony’s other models are winning much acclaim, mean it’s debatable whether that alone is enough to recommend it.