Samsung HZ15W vs Sony A55

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Samsung HZ15W and Sony A55, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Samsung and Sony. There exists a sizable gap between the sensor resolutions of the HZ15W (12MP) and A55 (16MP) and the HZ15W (1/2.3") and A55 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The HZ15W was brought out 18 months prior to the A55 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. The two cameras offer different body type with the Samsung HZ15W being a Compact camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the HZ15W matches up against the A55 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung HZ15W & Sony SLT-A55. The entire galleries are provided at Samsung HZ15W Gallery & Sony A55 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Samsung HZ15W enjoys external measurements of 105mm x 61mm x 37mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Sony A55 has measurements of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") and a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Take a look at the Samsung HZ15W and Sony A55 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the HZ15W against the A55.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the HZ15W and A55 is 90 and 67 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to see the difference between sensor sizing just by checking a spec sheet. The graphic underneath might offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the HZ15W and A55.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The HZ15W because of its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony A55 will resolve greater detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older HZ15W is going to be behind in sensor technology.