Olympus 6000 vs Sony A100

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Olympus 6000 and Sony A100, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the 6000 (10MP) and the A100 (10MP) is fairly well matched but the 6000 (1/2.3") and A100 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The 6000 was announced 2 years later than the A100 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus 6000 being a Compact camera and the Sony A100 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the 6000 grades versus the A100 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus Tough 6000 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A100. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus 6000 Gallery and Sony A100 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus 6000 has outer dimensions of 95mm x 63mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.5" x 0.9") along with a weight of 179 grams (0.39 lbs) while the Sony A100 has dimensions of 133mm x 95mm x 71mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 2.8") having a weight of 638 grams (1.41 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 6000 and Sony A100 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the 6000 vs the A100.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 6000 and A100 is 94 and 64 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing simply by looking at specifications. The photograph underneath will provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 6000 and A100.

To sum up, both the cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The 6000 contains the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining bokeh more challenging. The more recent 6000 will have an advantage in sensor innovation.