Pentax XG-1 vs Sony A550

Here is a extensive analysis of the Pentax XG-1 and Sony A550, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Pentax and Sony. The resolution of the XG-1 (16MP) and the A550 (14MP) is pretty close but the XG-1 (1/2.3") and A550 (APS-C) have different sensor sizes.

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The XG-1 was unveiled 4 years later than the A550 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Pentax XG-1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the XG-1 scores versus the A550 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Pentax XG-1 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The full galleries are available at Pentax XG-1 Gallery & Sony A550 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Pentax XG-1 comes with outer measurements of 119mm x 89mm x 98mm (4.7" x 3.5" x 3.9") accompanied by a weight of 567 grams (1.25 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).

Compare the Pentax XG-1 and Sony A550 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the XG-1 and the A550.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the XG-1 and A550 is 66 and 63 respectively.

Normally, its tough to picture the contrast in sensor sizing merely by looking through a spec sheet. The visual here should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the XG-1 and A550.

Clearly, the two cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The XG-1 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Pentax XG-1 will provide you with more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots way more aggressively. The more modern XG-1 should have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.