Clicky

Sony A200 vs Sony A55

Portability
66
Imaging
49
Features
38
Overall
44
Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 front
 
Sony SLT-A55 front
Portability
67
Imaging
55
Features
80
Overall
65

Sony A200 vs Sony A55 Key Specs

Sony A200
(Full Review)
  • 10MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 100 - 3200
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • No Video
  • Sony/Minolta Alpha Mount
  • 572g - 131 x 99 x 71mm
  • Launched July 2008
  • Renewed by Sony A230
Sony A55
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Screen
  • ISO 100 - 12800 (Raise to 25600)
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Sony/Minolta Alpha Mount
  • 500g - 124 x 92 x 85mm
  • Introduced August 2010
  • Replacement is Sony A57
Photography Glossary

Sony A200 vs. Sony A55: A Deep Dive Comparison for Every Photographer’s Needs

If you’re on the hunt for a capable entry-level DSLR with a Sony badge, the choice between the Sony A200 and Sony A55 is a fascinating crossroads. Both cameras represent significant milestones in Sony’s early DSLR lineup but target slightly different users with distinct technology and feature sets. Drawing on years of hands-on testing and industry knowledge, we'll explore how these two stack up across every dimension that matters - image quality, autofocus, ergonomics, shooting disciplines, video capabilities, and overall value.

Let’s break down everything from sensor technology to real-world performance, so you can find the camera that fits your creative ambitions and workflow.

A Tale of Two Entry-Level DSLRs: Design and Ergonomics

Before you dive into the pixels and autofocus, the physical feel and control layout of a camera heavily influences your day-to-day shooting experience. In our tests, the Sony A200 and A55 revealed distinct design philosophies reflective of their release eras.

Feature Sony A200 Sony A55
Weight 572 g 500 g
Dimensions (mm) 131 x 99 x 71 124 x 92 x 85
Screen Size 2.7" fixed 3" fully articulating
Viewfinder Type Optical pentamirror (95% coverage) Electronic (100% coverage, 1,150k dots)
Body Type Compact SLR Compact SLR with SLT mirrorless design

Sony A200 vs Sony A55 size comparison
Sony A200 (left) vs. Sony A55 (right): Notice the size and ergonomic differences.

Sony A200: Classic DSLR Feel

The A200 feels like a traditional DSLR you’d expect from the late-2000s - solid, a bit on the heavier side, with comfortable grips. The fixed 2.7-inch screen offers basic framing and review capabilities, but lacks articulation, limiting flexibility.

The pentamirror optical viewfinder delivers a natural, lag-free look with slightly less than full-frame coverage (95%) and moderate magnification. Its control layout is straightforward but minimal, with emphasis on simplicity for beginners.

Sony A55: A Bridge to Mirrorless Innovation

Two years later, the Sony A55 took a daring step: replacing the optical viewfinder with an advanced electronic viewfinder (EVF). This 1,150k-dot EVF provides 100% frame coverage and smoother exposure visualization, essential when previewing exposure and white balance in real time.

The fully articulating 3-inch screen adds creative compositional options, especially useful for video recording, macro work, and awkward angles. Even with a similar footprint to the A200, the A55’s lighter weight and refined grip make it friendlier for prolonged handheld shooting.

Both cameras feel well-built but lack modern weather sealing or ruggedness found on current prosumer bodies.

Sony A200 vs Sony A55 top view buttons comparison
Top view layout: A200 maintains classic DSLR dials; A55 introduces more control wheels for flexible exposure adjustments.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Your Photography

The sensor is the centerpiece defining image fidelity - from resolution to dynamic range and low-light prowess. Sony’s engineering progression from the CCD sensor in the A200 to the CMOS sensor in the A55 creates a genuine leap in image quality.

Specification Sony A200 Sony A55
Sensor Type CCD CMOS
Sensor Size APS-C (23.6 x 15.8 mm) APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
Effective Resolution 10 MP 16 MP
Native ISO Range 100 – 3200 100 – 12800
Raw Support Yes Yes
Anti-aliasing Filter Yes Yes
DxOmark Overall Score 63 73
DxOmark Color Depth 22.3 bits 23.0 bits
DxOmark Dynamic Range 11.3 EV 12.4 EV
DxOmark Low Light ISO 521 816

Sony A200 vs Sony A55 sensor size comparison
Sensor specs and measured IQ metrics reveal how the modern CMOS sensor boosts dynamic range and low-light capabilities.

Why CMOS Wins Over CCD For Today’s Shooter

The A200’s CCD sensor offers respectable color depth and sharpness for its era but is outmatched by the A55’s CMOS sensor with Bionz processor combination. The newer sensor delivers:

  • Higher resolution (16MP vs 10MP) allowing more cropping flexibility.
  • Expanded ISO range up to 12,800 native (versus 3200 max on A200), enhancing low-light shooting.
  • Improved dynamic range by over 1 stop, preserving highlight and shadow details.
  • Better noise control at the upper ISO tiers, crucial for night photography and events.

In practical field tests, the A55 produces punchier, more detailed images with truer skin tones, richer gradients, and less chroma noise.

Autofocus Systems and Burst Rates: Capturing The Decisive Moment

Reliable autofocus and frame rates can make or break sports, wildlife, and street photography where timing is everything.

Feature Sony A200 Sony A55
AF System 9-point phase-detection 15-point phase-detection (3 cross-type)
Continuous autofocus Yes Yes
Face Detection AF No Yes
AF Tracking No No
Live View AF No Yes (contrast detection)
Continuous Shooting Speed 3 fps 10 fps

A200: Reliable but Basic AF

The A200’s 9-point AF setup uses traditional phase detection focusing, which performs well in good light but can struggle in low contrast or dim conditions. Continuous AF is available, but there is no face detection or tracking - meaning you’ll manually manage focus points to keep moving subjects sharp, a challenge for fast action.

A55: Faster and Smarter AF

Sony’s SLT (Single-Lens Translucent) mirror technology enables the A55 to shoot bursts at 10 frames per second with continuous phase-detection AF. Its 15 AF points (3 cross-type) and face detection make it a stauncher contender for capturing wildlife and sports.

The electronic viewfinder combined with live view contrast detection AF gives you instant feedback and precise focusing even in manual focus mode, a huge advantage for video and macro applications.

For tracking fast subjects, the A55 still requires skillful technique as it lacks complex subject tracking algorithms found on newer cameras.

LCD Screens and Viewfinders: Your Window to the World

Sony A200 vs Sony A55 Screen and Viewfinder comparison
Back-panel displays: the fixed 2.7” screen of A200 versus the bigger, fully articulated 3” screen on A55.

  • Sony A200: The A200’s 2.7-inch LCD with 230k dots is adequate for framing and image playback but can feel restrictive, especially under bright sunlight without an articulating feature. The optical viewfinder, though basic, has minimal lag and no color shift.

  • Sony A55: The A55’s 3-inch articulated LCD with 921k dots brings vibrant image preview and makes shooting from unusual angles easier - great for vloggers or creative compositions. The EVF with 100% coverage and high resolution offers live exposure previews to help nail complex lighting on the spot.

Whether you prefer optical realism or benefit from an electronic preview depends on your workflow. The EVF on A55 is better if you want to visualize histogram and exposure while shooting.

Exploring Photography Genres with Each Camera

Let’s investigate how these cameras serve various photographic disciplines based on their core strengths and weaknesses.

Portrait Photography

Aspect Sony A200 Sony A55
Skin Tone Rendering Good, natural Great, with improved color sensitivity
Bokeh Quality Decent with fast lenses Better control with higher res sensor
Eye Detection AF No Yes

Verdict: The A55’s higher resolution and face detection AF give it the edge for portraits, ensuring sharp eyes and skin tones that render beautifully. The articulated screen helps you compose creative shots easily.

Landscape Photography

Critical factors: dynamic range, resolution, sensor performance, and weather resilience.

  • Sony A200: 10MP is serviceable for moderate enlargements; decent dynamic range but limited ISO headroom for dusk/dawn shots. No weather sealing.
  • Sony A55: 16MP sensor with wider dynamic range, better highlight retention, and more exposure latitude. Articulated screen great for tripod work.

Verdict: Better resolution and dynamic range on the A55 make it more versatile for vibrant landscape captures.

Wildlife Photography

Key needs: fast continuous shooting, accurate AF, and telephoto lens compatibility.

  • Sony A200: Slow 3 fps burst limits action sequences. AF points less dense. Still compatible with vast Minolta mount lenses.
  • Sony A55: 10 fps burst rate and more AF points better track moving subjects.

Verdict: The A55 is a clear winner, especially for fast and unpredictable wildlife shooting.

Sports Photography

  • Sony A200: Limited by slower burst and simpler AF.
  • Sony A55: Fast burst and superior AF performance favor capturing split-second moments.

Street Photography

Prioritizes discretion, compactness, and quick AF:

  • Sony A200: Less discreet due to larger size and pentamirror viewfinder.
  • Sony A55: Lighter, quieter SLT mechanism and electronic viewfinder facilitate better street shooting; articulated screen aids urban environment creativity.

Macro Photography

Factors: focus precision, live view, and stabilization.

  • Sony A200: No live view; manual focus only.
  • Sony A55: Live view with magnification aids focusing; sensor-based image stabilization helps.

Night and Astro Photography

Essential: high ISO performance, low noise, and long exposure control.

  • Sony A200: ISO ceiling at 3200, more noise.
  • Sony A55: ISO 12800 native and clean output at high ISOs give it a clear advantage.

Video Capabilities

Feature Sony A200 Sony A55
Video Support None Full HD 1080p (60fps), AVCHD, MPEG-4
Microphone Port No Yes
Articulating Screen No Yes

The A55 introduces full HD video with advanced codecs and external mic input for higher audio fidelity, vastly expanding creative options.

Travel Photography

Key factors: size, weight, battery life, versatility.

  • Sony A200: Heavier, smaller screen, longer battery life (though official data unavailable).
  • Sony A55: Lighter, very versatile with video and articulating screen but requires more power.

Professional Work

Priorities: robust files, workflow integration, reliability.

  • Both support RAW files ideal for advanced post-processing.
  • Neither feature weather sealing or professional ruggedness.
  • The A55’s higher resolution files suit commercial and portfolio work better.

Build Quality and Handling

Neither camera is explicitly weather-sealed. The A55's more compact body feels slightly more modern, though both are made with sturdy plastics and metal mounts suitable for everyday enthusiast use.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Both cameras use Sony’s Minolta Alpha mount, granting access to over 140 compatible lenses ranging from ultra-wide primes to super-telephoto zooms, including third-party options from Sigma, Tamron, and Zeiss.

You will find a large pool of quality optics, including specialty lenses for macro, tilt-shift, and portraiture.

Connectivity and Storage

  • Sony A200: CompactFlash card storage only, USB 2.0 connectivity, no wireless.
  • Sony A55: More versatile with SD card support, built-in GPS, USB 2.0, HDMI out, and Eye-Fi wireless connectivity support.

Battery Life and Power Management

The official battery life figure for the A55 is 380 shots, while the A200’s remains unspecified but generally expected to be longer due to less power-intensive electronics.

Pricing and Value Comparison

Camera Approximate Current Price Value Level
Sony A200 $100 (used/older listings) Excellent budget starter option
Sony A55 $800 (new or used in good condition) Premium entry-level with video

While the Sony A200 is an affordable gateway into DSLR photography, the A55’s advanced features justify the higher investment for serious users.

Real-world Image Samples


Sample images showcasing skin tones from the A55’s higher resolution sensor, landscape detail, and low light shots.

How Each Camera Performs Across Genres and Scores


Genre-specific performance shows the A55’s strength in low-light, video, and fast action versus the A200’s steady portrait and basic landscape capabilities.


Overall performance ratings favor the A55, but the A200 remains credible for learning and budget-focused shooters.

Final Recommendations: Which Sony DSLR Should You Choose?

Choose the Sony A200 if:

  • You are budget-conscious and want a straightforward DSLR for learning foundational photography.
  • You primarily shoot portraits, landscapes, and casual photography.
  • Video is not a priority.
  • You prefer optical viewfinders with no EVF lag.
  • You desire a lightweight, durable body for occasional shooting.

Choose the Sony A55 if:

  • You desire advanced features, including fast burst rates, video recording, and articulated screens.
  • You shoot action, wildlife, sports, or video content regularly.
  • You need superior image quality with higher resolution and better low-light performance.
  • You want live view with enhanced autofocus and face detection.
  • You prefer an electronic viewfinder with full coverage and exposure previews.

Parting Thoughts: Start Exploring Your Creative Journey

Choosing between the Sony A200 and A55 comes down to weighing classical DSLR simplicity against innovative SLT technology. Both cameras open doors to creative discovery, each suited to different workflows and ambitions.

The A200 delivers fundamental DSLR reliability and a gentle learning curve. In contrast, the A55 propels you into hybrid photography and videography with smarter autofocus and enhanced image quality.

Whatever you pick, consider complementing your kit with quality lenses, sturdy tripods, and external flashes to maximize your results. And always try handling each camera in person if possible - ergonomics can profoundly shape your shooting experience.

Ready to dive deeper? Check out sample images from both cameras, explore compatible accessories, and take your next step toward capturing memorable imagery.

Happy shooting! Your journey into photography begins with informed choices, and understanding your gear is the first creative step.

Sony A200 vs Sony A55 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Sony A200 and Sony A55
 Sony Alpha DSLR-A200Sony SLT-A55
General Information
Company Sony Sony
Model Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 Sony SLT-A55
Type Entry-Level DSLR Entry-Level DSLR
Launched 2008-07-17 2010-08-24
Body design Compact SLR Compact SLR
Sensor Information
Processor - Bionz
Sensor type CCD CMOS
Sensor size APS-C APS-C
Sensor dimensions 23.6 x 15.8mm 23.5 x 15.6mm
Sensor area 372.9mm² 366.6mm²
Sensor resolution 10 megapixels 16 megapixels
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio - 3:2 and 16:9
Peak resolution 3872 x 2592 4912 x 3264
Highest native ISO 3200 12800
Highest enhanced ISO - 25600
Minimum native ISO 100 100
RAW photos
Autofocusing
Manual focus
AF touch
Continuous AF
Single AF
AF tracking
Selective AF
AF center weighted
AF multi area
AF live view
Face detection AF
Contract detection AF
Phase detection AF
Number of focus points 9 15
Cross focus points - 3
Lens
Lens mounting type Sony/Minolta Alpha Sony/Minolta Alpha
Available lenses 143 143
Focal length multiplier 1.5 1.5
Screen
Screen type Fixed Type Fully Articulated
Screen sizing 2.7 inch 3 inch
Resolution of screen 230k dot 921k dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch functionality
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder Optical (pentamirror) Electronic
Viewfinder resolution - 1,150k dot
Viewfinder coverage 95 percent 100 percent
Viewfinder magnification 0.55x 0.73x
Features
Minimum shutter speed 30s 30s
Fastest shutter speed 1/4000s 1/4000s
Continuous shutter speed 3.0fps 10.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Custom WB
Image stabilization
Inbuilt flash
Flash range 12.00 m (at ISO 100) 10.00 m (@ ISO 100)
Flash settings Auto, Red-Eye, Slow, Red-Eye Slow, Rear curtain, wireless Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Slow Sync, High Speed Sync, Rear Curtain, Fill-in, Wireless
Hot shoe
Auto exposure bracketing
White balance bracketing
Fastest flash sync - 1/160s
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Video resolutions - 1920 x 1080 (60, 29.97 fps), 1440 x 1080 (30fps), 640 x 424 (29.97 fps)
Highest video resolution None 1920x1080
Video data format - MPEG-4, AVCHD, H.264
Mic input
Headphone input
Connectivity
Wireless None Eye-Fi Connected
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None BuiltIn
Physical
Environmental seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 572 gr (1.26 lb) 500 gr (1.10 lb)
Dimensions 131 x 99 x 71mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 2.8") 124 x 92 x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score 63 73
DXO Color Depth score 22.3 23.0
DXO Dynamic range score 11.3 12.4
DXO Low light score 521 816
Other
Battery life - 380 shots
Battery format - Battery Pack
Battery model - NP-FW50
Self timer Yes (2 or 10 sec) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse feature
Type of storage Compact Flash SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo
Storage slots Single Single
Launch price $100 $800