Olympus VH-515 vs Sony A350

On this page, we will be evaluating the Olympus VH-515 vs Sony A350, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the VH-515 (12MP) and the A350 (14MP) is relatively close but the VH-515 (1/2.3") and A350 (APS-C) posses different sensor sizes.

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The VH-515 was introduced 4 years later than the A350 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus VH-515 being a Compact camera and the Sony A350 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the VH-515 matches up vs the A350 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VH-515 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A350. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus VH-515 Gallery & Sony A350 Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus VH-515 has got exterior measurements of 102mm x 60mm x 21mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 0.8") and a weight of 152 grams (0.34 lbs) whilst the Sony A350 has sizing of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 674 grams (1.49 lbs).

See the Olympus VH-515 vs Sony A350 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the VH-515 and the A350.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the VH-515 and A350 is 95 and 62 respectively.

More often than not, it can be tough to picture the gap in sensor measurements only by viewing technical specs. The photograph underneath might offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the VH-515 and A350.

As you have seen, the two cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The VH-515 with its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF harder and the Sony A350 will provide you with extra detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots more aggressively. The more recent VH-515 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.