Sony A290 vs Sony A550

Let's look a little more closely at the Sony A290 versus Sony A550, both Entry-Level DSLR digital cameras and they are both built by Sony. The resolution of the A290 (14MP) and the A550 (14MP) is fairly similar and both cameras have the same sensor size (APS-C).

Photography Glossary

The A290 was revealed 7 months later than the A550 so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before going straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the A290 scores against the A550 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha DSLR-A290 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A550. The full galleries are available at Sony A290 Gallery and Sony A550 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Sony A290 enjoys outside dimensions of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") along with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs) and the Sony A550 has proportions of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs).

Compare the Sony A290 versus Sony A550 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the A290 compared to the A550.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the A290 and A550 is 66 and 63 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to see the difference between sensor measurements purely by going over specifications. The photograph below will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the A290 and A550.

Plainly, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same exact resolution so you should expect similar quality of images although you might want to consider the release date of the products into consideration. The more modern A290 will have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.