The Sony a9 is a big step forward for mirrorless technology. It betters the fastest, most expensive SLRs in capture rate, spreads its autofocus system across almost the entirety of a full-fame image sensor, and has a really fantastic EVF-one that, in many ways, is a better option for shooting action...

Shoots at 20fps with subject tracking; Full-frame 24MP image sensor; 93-percent focus coverage; Electronic shutter eliminates blackout; Also supports traditional mechanical shutter; Large, crisp EVF; Tilting touch LCD; In-body 5-axis stabilization; New high-capacity battery; Dual SD slots; 4K video.

Pricey; Only one slot UHS-II compliant; Dense menu system; Uncompressed Raw capture cuts speed to 12fps; Lens library missing wide aperture super telephoto options

Even if there are parts of the Sony α9 package that feel like overkill, that's kind of the appeal.

20 FPS Continuous shooting; Dual USC-II SD Slots

Astronomically expensive

Recent market statistics confirm that mirrorless cameras represent the only sector of the 'serious' camera market that is showing any real growth. The α9 is smaller and faster than either the Canon 1DX Mk II or Nikon D5 and its high ISO images are noticeably better and its video quality is superior.

Even with our squawks about the menu system, the Sony Alpha A9 is very special. For $4,500, it should be outstanding and we're happy to say it is. At this price, and with features like Ethernet built in, it's targeted to professional sports photographers, but anyone in need of a super fast camera...

20 fps continuous shooting; No-blackout viewfinder; 693-point AF system; Great image quality; Strong 4K video quality

Inscrutable menu system; Battery life still lags behind DSLRs

The Sony a9 is more than just a refinement of the company's a7-series of full-frame mirrorless cameras; it's an evolution. With meaningful ergonomic and user interface improvements, the a9 is a polished and highly capable camera. It may not be a go-to camera for landscape and studio photographers, but its compact dimensions, silent operation, abundant speed and blackout-free shooting make it not only a step forward for mirrorless, but a compelling proposition for professionals who can't afford to miss a moment.

Sports, peak action, wedding, event and child photography, photojournalism;

Landscape and studio photographers for whom resolution and dynamic range are important considerations;

What more to say This camera and lens combination takes glorious photos, and helps you take them easily. My, what a great camera and lens.

Glorious photos; easy to use

Quite the price

While Sony's A7-series cameras have offered a tantalizing glimpse into Sony's vision for the future, they always seemed to be missing that extra bit of polish. Creaky lens mounts, a pokey autofocus system, pitiful battery life...

The A9 is the first full frame camera with tilting touch screen, just like my three-year old A5100. The A9 has decent phase-detection technology, too, with even more PDAF points than on my A5100 to get the brilliant video touch-to-spot-focus exclusively available only on Sony touch screen cameras...

I own and use the Sony A9 (ILCE-9/B) since August 2017 and had sufficient time for testing, with landscape, nature and street photography. I mostly used the Zeiss Batis 85mm. In summary, I can say that this is a really strong camera, and it better be at with this price! Is the camera perfect - No!

Was using Nikon for over 8 years. When switched to this camera - was amazed by all these new technologies. Great camera!