Samsung HZ30W vs Sony A55

Following is a detailed overview of the Samsung HZ30W vs Sony A55, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Samsung and Sony. There is a considerable difference between the resolutions of the HZ30W (12MP) and A55 (16MP) and the HZ30W (1/2.3") and A55 (APS-C) posses different sensor dimensions.

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The HZ30W was revealed 7 months earlier than the A55 so they are of a similar age. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Samsung HZ30W being a Compact camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a detailed comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the HZ30W scores versus the A55 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung HZ30W & Sony SLT-A55. The full galleries are available at Samsung HZ30W Gallery & Sony A55 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and measurements. The Samsung HZ30W offers external measurements of 107mm x 61mm x 28mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) whilst the Sony A55 has proportions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") with a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Samsung HZ30W vs Sony A55 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using during that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the HZ30W compared to the A55.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the HZ30W and A55 is 91 and 67 respectively.

Generally, it is tough to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes just by looking at specs. The picture underneath will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the HZ30W and A55.

As you can plainly see, both cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The HZ30W having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field harder and the Sony A55 will give you greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more aged HZ30W is going to be behind in sensor technology.