Panasonic SZ7 vs Sony A550

Let's look a bit more closely at the Panasonic SZ7 and Sony A550, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the SZ7 (14MP) and the A550 (14MP) is pretty similar but the SZ7 (1/2.3") and A550 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizes.

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The SZ7 was revealed 2 years after the A550 which is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic SZ7 being a Compact camera and the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the SZ7 grades against the A550 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The full galleries are viewable at Panasonic SZ7 Gallery & Sony A550 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic SZ7 enjoys outer measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Sony A550 has dimensions of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") with a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Examine the Panasonic SZ7 and Sony A550 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at the time. Below is a front view size comparison of the SZ7 against the A550.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ7 and A550 is 95 and 63 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to envision the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by going over a spec sheet. The pic underneath might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ7 and A550.

Clearly, each of the cameras have the same MP albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The SZ7 offers the tinier sensor which will make achieving shallow depth of field tougher. The younger SZ7 will have an advantage in sensor technology.