Samsung PL170 vs Sony W830

Below is a comprehensive analysis of the Samsung PL170 vs Sony W830, both Ultracompact cameras by rivals Samsung and Sony. The image resolution of the PL170 (16MP) and the W830 (20MP) is very comparable and both cameras posses the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The PL170 was revealed 4 years earlier than the W830 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Ultracompact).

Before diving into a detailed comparison, here is a concise overview of how the PL170 grades against the W830 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Samsung PL170 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W830. The full galleries are viewable at Samsung PL170 Gallery & Sony W830 Gallery.

If you're planning to lug around your camera, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Samsung PL170 comes with outside measurements 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 W830 has dimensions of 93mm x 52mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.0" x 0.9") with a weight of 122 grams (0.27 lbs).

Look at the Samsung PL170 vs Sony W830 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use during that time. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the PL170 against the W830.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the PL170 and W830 is 99 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to picture the difference in sensor measurements merely by checking out a spec sheet. The visual underneath will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the PL170 and W830.

As you can see, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You can expect to see the Sony W830 to produce more detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images more aggressively. The older PL170 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.