Panasonic G6 vs Sony A290

Following is a extensive assessment of the Panasonic G6 versus Sony A290, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The sensor resolution of the G6 (16MP) and the A290 (14MP) is relatively comparable but the G6 (Four Thirds) and A290 (APS-C) offer different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The G6 was revealed 2 years after the A290 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic G6 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the G6 grades against the A290 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic G6 Gallery and Sony A290 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry around your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Panasonic G6 has exterior dimensions of 122mm x 85mm x 71mm (4.8" x 3.3" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 390 grams (0.86 lbs) and the Sony A290 has measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") along with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

Contrast the Panasonic G6 versus Sony A290 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at that time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the G6 versus the A290.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the G6 and A290 is 74 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to picture the difference in sensor sizes just by seeing a spec sheet. The picture below should give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the G6 and A290.

As you can see, both of those cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The G6 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh harder and the Panasonic G6 will show more detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots way more aggressively. The newer G6 should have a benefit in sensor tech.