Glossary
AF points
The number of selectable autofocus zones across the frame. More points usually means denser frame coverage and finer subject-tracking granularity.
Autofocus points are the discrete locations on the sensor where the AF system can lock focus. Modern mirrorless bodies report point counts ranging from a few hundred to several thousand.
Why the count alone can mislead
Coverage area and detection type matter more than raw count:
- A 425-point system covering 100% of the frame outperforms a 1,053-point system covering only the center 60%.
- Hybrid phase-detect + contrast AF is faster than contrast-only with twice as many points.
What to compare
- Coverage area (% of frame).
- AF detection mode count (eye-AF for humans, animals, birds, vehicles).
- Low-light AF rating (EV value — lower is better, -6 EV is excellent).
- Continuous AF tracking frame rate.
In comparisons
For sports and wildlife, prioritize bodies with subject-recognition AF (eye-detection for the relevant subject) over raw point count.
Where this matters
Categories that use af points
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