Canon 550D vs Sony A55

Let's take a closer look at the Canon 550D and Sony A55, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras by rivals Canon and Sony. The sensor resolution of the 550D (18MP) and the A55 (16MP) is relatively similar and they come with the same exact sensor sizes (APS-C).

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The 550D was revealed 4 months prior to the A55 so they are of a similar generation. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact SLR).

Before delving straight into a full comparison, below is a brief summation of how the 550D scores versus the A55 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon EOS 550D and Sony SLT-A55. The full galleries are viewable at Canon 550D Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and size. The Canon 550D features external dimensions of 129mm x 98mm x 62mm (5.1" x 3.9" x 2.4") having a weight of 530 grams (1.17 lbs) whilst the Sony A55 has specifications of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

See the Canon 550D and Sony A55 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the 550D vs the A55.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the 550D and A55 is 70 and 67 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to see the difference between sensor sizes just by reviewing a spec sheet. The image here might give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the 550D and A55.

Clearly, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Canon 550D to deliver extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures far more aggressively.