Nikon D3000 vs Sony A55

Below is a in-depth assessment of the Nikon D3000 and Sony A55, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the D3000 (10MP) and A55 (16MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor dimensions (APS-C).

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The D3000 was unveiled 8 months earlier than the A55 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the D3000 matches up against the A55 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon D3000 and Sony SLT-A55. The full galleries are provided at Nikon D3000 Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Nikon D3000 has got physical dimensions of 126mm x 97mm x 64mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.5") having a weight of 536 grams (1.18 lbs) while the Sony A55 has dimensions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") along with a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon D3000 and Sony A55 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use at that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the D3000 vs the A55.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the D3000 and A55 is 69 and 67 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements merely by viewing a spec sheet. The photograph underneath will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the D3000 and A55.

Clearly, both of those cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Sony A55 to result in extra detail having an extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The older D3000 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.