Nikon D5500 vs Sony A55

On this page, we will be reviewing the Nikon D5500 versus Sony A55, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by companies Nikon and Sony. There exists a big gap among the resolutions of the D5500 (24MP) and A55 (16MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor sizes (APS-C).

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The D5500 was unveiled 4 years after the A55 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the D5500 scores vs the A55 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon D5500 and Sony SLT-A55. The full galleries are provided at Nikon D5500 Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera often, you will have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Nikon D5500 has exterior dimensions of 124mm x 97mm x 70mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 420 grams (0.93 lbs) whilst the Sony A55 has dimensions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") with a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon D5500 versus Sony A55 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the D5500 versus the A55.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the D5500 and A55 is 71 and 67 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by researching specs. The image below might give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the D5500 and A55.

All in all, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Nikon D5500 to render greater detail having an extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The newer D5500 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.