Sony A230 vs Sony W380

In this article, we are analyzing the Sony A230 versus Sony W380, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Ultracompact and both of them are offered by Sony. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the A230 (10MP) and W380 (14MP) and the A230 (APS-C) and W380 (1/2.3") use different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The A230 was launched 7 months prior to the W380 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Sony A230 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony W380 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before getting through a more detailed comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the A230 matches up vs the W380 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W380. The complete galleries are available at Sony A230 Gallery and Sony W380 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Sony A230 has external measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 68mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.7") with a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs) and the Sony W380 has dimensions of 91mm x 52mm x 20mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Check the Sony A230 versus Sony W380 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the A230 against the W380.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the A230 and W380 is 69 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing purely by looking through specifications. The graphic below might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the A230 and W380.

To sum up, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The A230 featuring a larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field simpler and the Sony W380 will render greater detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos far more aggressively. The older A230 will be behind in sensor technology.