Samsung CL5 vs Sony W550

Its time to look closer at the Samsung CL5 and Sony W550, both Ultracompact cameras by manufacturers Samsung and Sony. There exists a huge gap among the sensor resolutions of the CL5 (9MP) and W550 (14MP) and the CL5 (1/2.5") and W550 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The CL5 was introduced 3 years before the W550 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Ultracompact).

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise overview of how the CL5 grades against the W550 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Samsung CL5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W550. The whole galleries are available at Samsung CL5 Gallery and Sony W550 Gallery.

In case you're looking to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to factor its weight and measurements. The Samsung CL5 features physical measurements of 93mm x 60mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.7") having a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Sony W550 has proportions of 94mm x 56mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of 110 grams (0.24 lbs).

Check out the Samsung CL5 and Sony W550 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising at the time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the CL5 versus the W550.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the CL5 and W550 is 95 and 96 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to envision the difference in sensor dimensions merely by seeing a spec sheet. The image here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the CL5 and W550.

Clearly, each of the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The CL5 using its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Sony W550 will produce greater detail using its extra 5 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more aged CL5 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.