Samsung PL170 vs Sony W310

Lets look a bit more closely at the Samsung PL170 versus Sony W310, both Ultracompact digital cameras by competitors Samsung and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the PL170 (16MP) and W310 (12MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The PL170 was launched 13 months after the W310 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Ultracompact).

Before getting into a thorough comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the PL170 grades against the W310 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Samsung PL170 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W310. The complete galleries are viewable at Samsung PL170 Gallery and Sony W310 Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera regularly, you'll need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Samsung PL170 enjoys outer 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) and the Sony W310 has dimensions of 95mm x 55mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of 137 grams (0.30 lbs).

See the Samsung PL170 versus Sony W310 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have at that moment. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the PL170 against the W310.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the PL170 and W310 is 99 and 96 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to envision the difference between sensor dimensions merely by going over technical specs. The pic here might give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the PL170 and W310.

As you have seen, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Samsung PL170 to deliver more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The more modern PL170 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.