Nikon L20 vs Sony A100

Following is a in depth review of the Nikon L20 and Sony A100, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by companies Nikon and Sony. The image resolution of the L20 (10MP) and the A100 (10MP) is very well matched but the L20 (1/2.3") and A100 (APS-C) feature totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The L20 was released 2 years after the A100 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Nikon L20 being a Compact camera and the Sony A100 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a concise overview of how the L20 matches up versus the A100 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix L20 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A100. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon L20 Gallery and Sony A100 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera, you're going to have to think about its weight and measurements. The Nikon L20 provides exterior dimensions of 97mm x 61mm x 29mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 135 grams (0.30 lbs) and the Sony A100 has proportions of 133mm x 95mm x 71mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 2.8") and a weight of 638 grams (1.41 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon L20 and Sony A100 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the L20 versus the A100.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the L20 and A100 is 94 and 64 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to see the gap between sensor sizes only by checking technical specs. The picture here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the L20 and A100.

As you have seen, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact MP but not the same sensor sizes. The L20 includes the tinier sensor which is going to make achieving bokeh more difficult. The fresher L20 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.