Olympus E-420 vs Sony A580

Following is a detailed analysis of the Olympus E-420 and Sony A580, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras by brands Olympus and Sony. There exists a large gap between the resolutions of the E-420 (10MP) and A580 (16MP) and the E-420 (Four Thirds) and A580 (APS-C) feature different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The E-420 was launched 3 years prior to the A580 which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact SLR).

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short summary of how the E-420 grades versus the A580 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-420 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A580. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-420 Gallery & Sony A580 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera, you're going to have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-420 features exterior dimensions of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") along with a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) while the Sony A580 has specifications of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") and a weight of 599 grams (1.32 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-420 and Sony A580 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Following is the front view measurement comparison of the E-420 against the A580.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-420 and A580 is 77 and 64 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to picture the difference between sensor sizes just by reviewing specifications. The pic here might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the E-420 and A580.

To sum up, both of these cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-420 because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field trickier and the Sony A580 will offer you extra detail utilizing its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more aged E-420 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.