Samsung PL170 vs Sony A550

Here is a complete analysis of the Samsung PL170 and Sony A550, former being a Ultracompact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Samsung and Sony. The sensor resolution of the PL170 (16MP) and the A550 (14MP) is fairly similar but the PL170 (1/2.3") and A550 (APS-C) possess different sensor dimensions.

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The PL170 was revealed 14 months later than the A550 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the PL170 grades versus the A550 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Samsung PL170 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The full galleries are provided at Samsung PL170 Gallery & Sony A550 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera frequently, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Samsung PL170 has external dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) whilst the Sony A550 has dimensions of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") having a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Contrast the Samsung PL170 and Sony A550 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the PL170 versus the A550.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the PL170 and A550 is 99 and 63 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to imagine the gap between sensor sizing only by reviewing specs. The graphic below will provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the PL170 and A550.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The PL170 using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Samsung PL170 will deliver more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics far more aggressively. The fresher PL170 should have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.