Samsung ST90 vs Sony A290

On this page, we are comparing the Samsung ST90 versus Sony A290, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Samsung and Sony. The sensor resolution of the ST90 (14MP) and the A290 (14MP) is very close but the ST90 (1/2.3") and A290 (APS-C) boast different sensor sizing.

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The ST90 was launched 8 months later than the A290 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Samsung ST90 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the ST90 grades against the A290 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Samsung ST90 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A290. The complete galleries are viewable at Samsung ST90 Gallery and Sony A290 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera often, you will have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Samsung ST90 offers outer measurements of 92mm x 53mm x 17mm (3.6" x 2.1" x 0.7") and a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) and the Sony A290 has measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") along with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs).

See the Samsung ST90 versus Sony A290 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the ST90 against the A290.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the ST90 and A290 is 99 and 66 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizing merely by viewing technical specs. The graphic underneath should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the ST90 and A290.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras have the same megapixel count but different sensor sizing. The ST90 contains the smaller sensor which is going to make getting shallow DOF more difficult. The fresher ST90 should have a benefit in sensor tech.