Sony A290 vs Sony HX7V

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Sony A290 versus Sony HX7V, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both created by Sony. The resolution of the A290 (14MP) and the HX7V (16MP) is relatively well matched but the A290 (APS-C) and HX7V (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The A290 was unveiled 13 months prior to the HX7V which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony HX7V being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a thorough comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the A290 matches up vs the HX7V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha DSLR-A290 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX7V. The full galleries are provided at Sony A290 Gallery & Sony HX7V Gallery.

If you're looking to lug around your camera frequently, you'll need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Sony A290 features external measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") with a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs) while the Sony HX7V has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Check out the Sony A290 versus Sony HX7V in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the A290 compared to the HX7V.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the A290 and HX7V is 66 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to envision the difference between sensor measurements merely by looking at technical specs. The photograph underneath should offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the A290 and HX7V.

As you can tell, both cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The A290 having a bigger sensor will make getting shallower DOF easier and the Sony HX7V will give you greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older A290 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.