Samsung PL170 vs Sony A99

Here, we are analyzing the Samsung PL170 vs Sony A99, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by brands Samsung and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap among the resolutions of the PL170 (16MP) and A99 (24MP) and the PL170 (1/2.3") and A99 (Full frame) posses totally different sensor dimensions.

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The PL170 was introduced 23 months earlier than the A99 making them a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A99 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple summary of how the PL170 scores against the A99 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Samsung PL170 and Sony SLT-A99. The whole galleries are available at Samsung PL170 Gallery and Sony A99 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera, you will want to consider its weight and size. The Samsung PL170 has exterior measurements of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) while the Sony A99 has specifications of 147mm x 111mm x 78mm (5.8" x 4.4" x 3.1") with a weight of 812 grams (1.79 lbs).

Check the Samsung PL170 vs Sony A99 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the PL170 and the A99.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the PL170 and A99 is 99 and 57 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to see the gap in sensor sizing purely by checking out specs. The visual underneath may give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the PL170 and A99.

As you can plainly see, both cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The PL170 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF trickier and the Sony A99 will produce greater detail using its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop images way more aggressively. The older PL170 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.