Olympus VG-160 vs Sony A550

Following is a in depth comparison of the Olympus VG-160 vs Sony A550, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the VG-160 (14MP) and the A550 (14MP) is relatively comparable but the VG-160 (1/2.3") and A550 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The VG-160 was launched 2 years after the A550 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus VG-160 being a Compact camera and the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going straight to a complete comparison, here is a brief summary of how the VG-160 scores against the A550 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VG-160 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus VG-160 Gallery and Sony A550 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera, you need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus VG-160 provides physical dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Sony A550 has proportions of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus VG-160 vs Sony A550 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the VG-160 compared to the A550.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the VG-160 and A550 is 96 and 63 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizes only by seeing technical specs. The image below might offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the VG-160 and A550.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras feature the identical megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizes. The VG-160 uses the smaller sensor which will make achieving bokeh more challenging. The younger VG-160 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.