Sony A6400 vs Fujifilm X-T4: Which APS-C Mirrorless Should You Buy?

The Sony A6400 and Fujifilm X-T4 represent the two dominant philosophies in APS-C mirrorless photography. The Sony A6400, released in 2019, is built around autofocus performance, video capability, and modern technology. The Fujifilm X-T4, released in 2020, prioritises distinctive colour science, mechanical controls, and a design philosophy that emphasises tactile feedback and creative control.

Both are now available in the £600–£850 used market, making them two of the most compelling APS-C options for UK buyers in 2026. This comparison examines the key differences and provides a clear decision framework.

Specs Comparison

Autofocus: Sony's Clear Advantage

The Sony A6400 uses Sony's proven real-time tracking AF with eye-tracking, animal detection, and bird detection — features that have become industry standard for hybrid photographers and content creators. The Fujifilm X-T4 uses Fujifilm's X-Trans autofocus, which is fast and reliable but lacks the subject detection sophistication of Sony's system.

In real-world use, the Sony's AF is noticeably faster to lock, more reliable in low light, and significantly better at tracking moving subjects. For video work with continuous AF, the Sony is substantially more capable.

Verdict: Sony A6400 wins decisively on autofocus.

Colour Science: Fujifilm's Distinctive Advantage

Fujifilm cameras are built around the idea that colour rendering should be a core creative tool. The X-T4 ships with film simulation modes — Velvia, Astia, Provia, Classic Chrome — which are carefully engineered colour profiles that mimic Fujifilm's legendary film stocks. Many photographers find Fujifilm's colour rendering more distinctive and film-like straight out of camera.

Sony's colour science is more neutral and technically accurate. The A6400 produces clean, detailed files that are highly editable in post-production. For photographers who prefer to do extensive post-processing, Sony's neutral approach offers maximum flexibility. For photographers who want distinctive, film-like results with minimal editing, Fujifilm's colour science is a significant advantage.

Verdict: Fujifilm wins on distinctive colour rendering, Sony wins on neutral flexibility.

Ergonomics: Fujifilm's Mechanical Controls

Fujifilm's design philosophy prioritises mechanical controls. The X-T4 features a physical shutter speed dial, aperture ring on the lens, and dedicated exposure compensation dial — controls that many photographers find more intuitive and satisfying than menu-diving on Sony bodies.

Sony's A6400 is considerably more compact and lighter (403g vs 557g), with all controls accessed via menus or the rear dial. This is more efficient for some workflows but requires more button-pressing and menu navigation.

Verdict: Fujifilm wins on mechanical controls and tactile feedback, Sony wins on compact size.

Video: Sony's Advantage

Both cameras shoot 4K at up to 60fps, but the Sony's video autofocus is noticeably smoother and more predictable, particularly when tracking moving subjects. The Fujifilm's video AF can hunt slightly more in challenging conditions. Both offer excellent codec options (S-Log2/3 on Sony, F-Log on Fujifilm).

Verdict: Sony A6400 wins on video autofocus performance.

Image Stabilisation: Fujifilm Wins

The Fujifilm X-T4 has 5-axis IBIS rated at 6.5 stops — exceptional for a camera in this category. The Sony A6400 has no in-body stabilisation, relying on lens-based stabilisation. For video and handheld shooting at slow shutter speeds, the X-T4's IBIS is a material advantage.

Verdict: Fujifilm X-T4 wins decisively on image stabilisation.

Who Should Buy Which?

Our Verdict

For content creators, hybrid photographers, and anyone who shoots moving subjects, the Sony A6400 is the stronger all-round choice — its autofocus advantage is real and meaningful, its compact size is practical, and its lens ecosystem is unmatched.

The Fujifilm X-T4 is the right choice for photographers who prioritise distinctive colour science, mechanical controls, and in-body stabilisation. For stills photographers who want to spend less time post-processing and more time shooting, Fujifilm's approach is compelling.

Both cameras represent excellent value at their current used market prices. Your choice should be driven by your actual shooting style and workflow preferences.