Olympus E-520 vs Sony A230

Here, we will be contrasting the Olympus E-520 vs Sony A230, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the E-520 (10MP) and the A230 (10MP) is pretty comparable but the E-520 (Four Thirds) and A230 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-520 was manufactured 9 months before the A230 so they are of a similar generation. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the E-520 matches up against the A230 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus E-520 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A230. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-520 Gallery and Sony A230 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-520 has exterior dimensions of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") accompanied by a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) whilst the Sony A230 has dimensions of 128mm x 97mm x 68mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.7") with a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-520 vs Sony A230 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-520 against the A230.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the E-520 and A230 is 68 and 69 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizes simply by going through a spec sheet. The picture below may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-520 and A230.

As you can see, both cameras come with the identical resolution albeit not the same sensor sizes. The E-520 contains the smaller sensor which should make obtaining shallow depth of field harder. The more aged E-520 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.