Samsung HZ10W vs Sony A550

In this write-up, we are matching up the Samsung HZ10W versus Sony A550, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Samsung and Sony. There is a considerable difference between the image resolutions of the HZ10W (10MP) and A550 (14MP) and the HZ10W (1/2.3") and A550 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

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The HZ10W was unveiled 6 months earlier than the A550 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both cameras offer different body type with the Samsung HZ10W being a Compact camera and the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the HZ10W scores against the A550 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Samsung HZ10W & Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The full galleries are viewable at Samsung HZ10W Gallery & Sony A550 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera often, you should take into account its weight and size. The Samsung HZ10W has got external measurements of 105mm x 61mm x 37mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.5") having a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Sony A550 has specifications of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") along with a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Compare the Samsung HZ10W versus Sony A550 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you use during that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the HZ10W against the A550.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the HZ10W and A550 is 90 and 63 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to see the difference between sensor sizing only by checking a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the HZ10W and A550.

Clearly, both cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The HZ10W using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF harder and the Sony A550 will give extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a little more aggressively.