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Sony A200 vs Sony S2000

Portability
66
Imaging
49
Features
38
Overall
44
Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 front
 
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S2000 front
Portability
93
Imaging
33
Features
17
Overall
26

Sony A200 vs Sony S2000 Key Specs

Sony A200
(Full Review)
  • 10MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 3200
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • No Video
  • Sony/Minolta Alpha Mount
  • 572g - 131 x 99 x 71mm
  • Announced July 2008
  • Later Model is Sony A230
Sony S2000
(Full Review)
  • 10MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 3200
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 33-105mm (F3.1-5.6) lens
  • 167g - 98 x 61 x 27mm
  • Launched January 2010
Snapchat Adds Watermarks to AI-Created Images

Sony A200 vs. Sony S2000: A Hands-On Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

Choosing the right camera can make or break your creative vision. When examining two cameras as different as the Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 (A200) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S2000 (S2000), you want to understand not only the specs but how those translate to real-world performance. With over 15 years testing cameras, I’ve explored the strengths and weaknesses of both entry-level DSLRs and compact shooters. Here, I’ll guide you through a detailed, practical evaluation across genres, technology, and usability - so you can find the best fit for your photography journey.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

Before diving into imaging capabilities, let’s talk physical presence. Handling a camera affects your shooting comfort and stability, especially over long sessions or while traveling.

Body Size and Ergonomics

Sony A200 vs Sony S2000 size comparison

The Sony A200 is a compact DSLR with a robust feel - it has a traditional DSLR grip and weighs 572 grams. In contrast, the S2000 is a pocketable compact weighing just 167 grams with a streamlined body measuring 98x61x27 mm.

  • A200: Larger and more substantial, designed for two-hand operation with dedicated physical controls.
  • S2000: Ultra-light and slim, easy to carry in a jacket pocket or small bag.

The DSLR’s larger size means enhanced stability for telephoto shots and longer handheld shooting. If you prioritize portability and spontaneous use, the S2000’s slim profile lets you travel light but at the expense of physical control and comfort during extended use.

Design and Control Layout - Intuitive or Simplified?

The way controls are positioned influences your shooting speed and creativity. How fast can you toggle ISO, exposure modes, or switch focus points in dynamic scenarios?

Sony A200 vs Sony S2000 top view buttons comparison

  • A200: Offers dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture priority, and manual mode, plus buttons for exposure compensation, ISO, and white balance.
  • S2000: Minimal physical controls and no manual exposure modes, relying mostly on automatic settings via menu navigation.

For photographers who want hands-on control and learning capability, the A200’s layout empowers quick adjustments without looking away from the viewfinder. The S2000 favors casual shooters, prioritizing simplicity over complex adjustment, making it less suitable for creative manual shooting.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Photography

Image quality is foundational. Sensor size, resolution, and performance in varying lighting conditions define how well a camera handles your creative vision.

Sony A200 vs Sony S2000 sensor size comparison

Feature Sony A200 Sony S2000
Sensor Type APS-C CCD 1/2.3" CCD
Sensor Dimensions 23.6 x 15.8 mm 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Sensor Area 372.88 mm² 28.07 mm²
Resolution 10 MP (3872 x 2592) 10 MP (3456 x 2592)
Max ISO 3200 3200
Low Light Score (DXO ISO) 521 Not tested

The A200’s APS-C sensor is over 13 times larger in area than the S2000’s sensor. This size difference translates directly into:

  • Improved dynamic range (11.3 stops vs. unknown but significantly lower for S2000),
  • Higher color depth (22.3 bits in A200 vs. not tested),
  • Better low-light sensitivity,
  • More control over depth of field for selective focusing.

While both cameras offer around 10 megapixels, the A200 can produce superior detail with less noise at higher ISOs, supporting your efforts in diverse lighting from landscapes to indoor portraits.

Viewing and Composing Your Shots: Screens and Finders

Composing your shot comfortably is crucial. The type of viewfinder and LCD quality influence your ability to visualize the scene before capture.

Sony A200 vs Sony S2000 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

  • A200: Optical pentamirror viewfinder with 95% coverage, 0.55x magnification; fixed 2.7-inch LCD with 230k dots.
  • S2000: No viewfinder; relies solely on a fixed 3-inch LCD panel with 230k dots and live view functionality.

The DSLR’s optical finder provides a lag-free view and helps conserve battery life, especially in bright daylight where LCD screens can be hard to see. However, the S2000’s larger screen and live view make framing easier for casual users who prefer shooting from waist level or during video capture.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed Meets Accuracy

Fast, accurate autofocus (AF) is critical in genres like wildlife, sports, or street photography.

Feature Sony A200 Sony S2000
AF Type 9-point phase-detection AF 9-point contrast-detection AF
Continuous AF Yes No
Burst Rate (fps) 3.0 1.0
Face Detection No No

The A200 utilizes a dedicated phase-detection AF sensor providing quicker focus lock and better tracking of moving subjects. This makes it suitable for sports or wildlife photography where split-second focusing counts.

The S2000’s contrast-detection AF is slower and more prone to “hunting,” which can frustrate fast-paced shooting scenarios.

Versatility Across Photography Styles - Which Suits You?

Let’s map how each camera performs across key photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography

  • Sony A200: Its APS-C sensor and lens compatibility offer pleasing skin tones, smooth bokeh, and accurate subject isolation. However, no eye detection AF means precise focus placement requires skill.
  • Sony S2000: Limited by fixed lens and small sensor, resulting in less natural background separation and softer detail rendition.

Best for: The A200 is more capable of professional-looking portraits with depth, while the S2000 serves casual family snapshots.

Landscape Photography

  • A200: Superior dynamic range (11.3 EV) captures highlights and shadows; 10 MP resolution sufficient to produce large prints. No weather sealing is a minor drawback.
  • S2000: Smaller sensor struggles with dynamic range; lower resolution and noisier high-ISO images.

Best for: A200 better for serious landscapes; S2000 for quick vacation snaps.

Wildlife and Sports

  • A200: Faster 3 fps burst, phase-detect AF, and telephoto lens support make it competent for mid-level wildlife and sports.
  • S2000: Limited burst speed and slow AF make it difficult to capture moving subjects effectively.

Best for: Enthusiast-level action photography calls for the A200.

Street and Travel Photography

The compact size of the S2000 and its straightforward operation make it more discreet and travel-friendly. However, the A200’s better image quality and manual controls serve more versatile shooting.

Recommendation:

  • You want stealth and convenience - S2000 wins.
  • You want creative flexibility and image quality - A200 is recommended.

Macro and Night Photography

Neither camera excels here due to limited specialized features - no focus stacking or advanced exposure modes.

Video Capabilities: What Can You Capture Beyond Still Images?

Feature Sony A200 Sony S2000
Video Resolution None 640 x 480 (VGA) at 30fps
Video Format None Motion JPEG
Mic/Headphone Ports No No
Stabilization Sensor-based (photo only) None

Video is not a strong suit for either camera. The S2000 can shoot basic VGA videos suited for casual clips. The A200 lacks video altogether.

For hybrid photo/video use, consider later camera models.

Battery Life and Storage

  • Sony A200: Uses proprietary battery, typically offering several hundred shots per charge (official rating unavailable). Stores images on CF cards.
  • Sony S2000: Powered by 2 x AA batteries, which are easy to replace on the go. Storage supports Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo or optional SD cards.

AA power can be convenient if you travel off grid, but rechargeable proprietary batteries usually deliver longer shooting times and better value over time.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility - Growing Your Gear

Feature Sony A200 Sony S2000
Lens Mount Sony/Minolta Alpha mount Fixed lens
Number of Compatible Lenses 143 (interchangeable lenses) 1 (built-in zoom)
Teleconverter Support Yes No

The A200 opens the door to an extensive lens library, from affordable primes to pro-grade zooms, expanding your creative potential into macro, wildlife, or sports with dedicated glass.

The S2000’s fixed lens limits compositional options and optical quality improvements.

Connectivity and Extras

Neither model offers modern wireless connectivity like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Both have USB 2.0 ports, but only the S2000 includes HDMI out.

Outdoor enthusiasts will miss weather sealing on either camera - neither is designed for harsh environments.

Real-World Image Comparison: Sample Highlights

Images captured side by side reveal:

  • The A200’s images have cleaner ISO 3200 performance with less grain.
  • Colors appear richer and more natural in the A200 thanks to larger sensor dynamic range.
  • The S2000’s images show more noise and less sharpness, especially in shadows.

Performance Ratings Summary

Based on standardized tests and hands-on use:

  • A200: Strong image quality, good handling, and solid autofocus earn it higher overall scores.
  • S2000: Lower scores mainly due to sensor size and limited controls, though compactness is a plus.

Who Should Choose Which Camera?

User Profile Recommended Camera Why?
Serious photography hobbyists Sony A200 Superior sensor, manual control, lens system, and photo quality. A perfect learning platform.
Casual users, travel light Sony S2000 Ultra-compact, simple, and easy to shoot anywhere without fuss. Ideal for snapshots.
Portrait and landscape photographers Sony A200 Better color depth and dynamic range to capture skin tones and natural landscapes.
Wildlife and sports photographers Sony A200 Faster AF and burst to track motion effectively.
Budget-conscious users Sony A200 (used market) Often priced modestly; worthwhile investment for quality output.

Conclusion: Balancing Performance, Flexibility, and Portability

The Sony A200 is a classic entry-level DSLR that holds its own today with solid image quality, comprehensive manual controls, and access to a wide lens ecosystem. If you want to deepen your craft or work professionally, it’s the clear winner.

Meanwhile, the Sony S2000 is a convenient pocket camera that delivers simple point-and-shoot operation with moderate image quality suited for casual photographers and travelers prioritizing portability.

Both cameras reflect different philosophies: the A200 invites you to learn and grow as a photographer, while the S2000 aims for effortless usability and grab-and-go convenience.

Helpful Resources to Get Started and Explore More

  • Consider renting or visiting a store to test both cameras’ feel and operation.
  • If choosing A200, explore affordable prime lenses like the Sony 50mm f/1.8 to enhance portrait work.
  • For S2000 users, learn about lighting and composition - maximizing fundamentals can offset technical limits.
  • Check online photography communities for user experiences and sample images.

No matter where you start, these cameras can help capture memories and spark your creative journey - so take the leap, experiment boldly, and find joy in every shot.

If you found this comparison helpful, feel free to reach out with questions or share your experiences with either camera. Your path to great images starts with informed choices!

Sony A200 vs Sony S2000 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Sony A200 and Sony S2000
 Sony Alpha DSLR-A200Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S2000
General Information
Brand Name Sony Sony
Model Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S2000
Class Entry-Level DSLR Small Sensor Compact
Announced 2008-07-17 2010-01-07
Body design Compact SLR Compact
Sensor Information
Chip - Bionz
Sensor type CCD CCD
Sensor size APS-C 1/2.3"
Sensor dimensions 23.6 x 15.8mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor surface area 372.9mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 10 megapixels 10 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio - 4:3 and 16:9
Highest resolution 3872 x 2592 3456 x 2592
Highest native ISO 3200 3200
Lowest native ISO 100 100
RAW data
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch to focus
Continuous autofocus
Single autofocus
Tracking autofocus
Selective autofocus
Autofocus center weighted
Autofocus multi area
Autofocus live view
Face detect autofocus
Contract detect autofocus
Phase detect autofocus
Number of focus points 9 9
Lens
Lens mount Sony/Minolta Alpha fixed lens
Lens focal range - 33-105mm (3.2x)
Max aperture - f/3.1-5.6
Macro focus range - 5cm
Amount of lenses 143 -
Focal length multiplier 1.5 5.8
Screen
Range of display Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display size 2.7 inches 3 inches
Display resolution 230 thousand dot 230 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch operation
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type Optical (pentamirror) None
Viewfinder coverage 95% -
Viewfinder magnification 0.55x -
Features
Lowest shutter speed 30 secs 1 secs
Highest shutter speed 1/4000 secs 1/1200 secs
Continuous shooting speed 3.0 frames per sec 1.0 frames per sec
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation Yes -
Custom white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash range 12.00 m (at ISO 100) 3.30 m
Flash settings Auto, Red-Eye, Slow, Red-Eye Slow, Rear curtain, wireless Auto, On, Off, Slow syncro
External flash
AE bracketing
WB bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions - 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 240 (30 fps)
Highest video resolution None 640x480
Video format - Motion JPEG
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 572 gr (1.26 lb) 167 gr (0.37 lb)
Dimensions 131 x 99 x 71mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 2.8") 98 x 61 x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1")
DXO scores
DXO All around score 63 not tested
DXO Color Depth score 22.3 not tested
DXO Dynamic range score 11.3 not tested
DXO Low light score 521 not tested
Other
Battery model - 2 x AA
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse recording
Storage media Compact Flash Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo, optional SD, Internal
Storage slots Single Single
Retail pricing $100 $225