Sony A290 vs Sony WX80

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Sony A290 versus Sony WX80, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are designed by Sony. The image resolution of the A290 (14MP) and the WX80 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the A290 (APS-C) and WX80 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The A290 was revealed 3 years prior to the WX80 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Sony A290 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony WX80 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the A290 matches up against the WX80 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha DSLR-A290 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX80. The full galleries are viewable at Sony A290 Gallery and Sony WX80 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and size. The Sony A290 enjoys outside measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 86mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 3.4") and a weight of 549 grams (1.21 lbs) and the Sony WX80 has specifications of 92mm x 52mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.9") along with a weight of 124 grams (0.27 lbs).

Check the Sony A290 versus Sony WX80 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use during that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the A290 compared to the WX80.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the A290 and WX80 is 66 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to see the difference between sensor sizing simply by looking at specs. The graphic underneath might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the A290 and WX80.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The A290 using its bigger sensor will make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Sony WX80 will resolve greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older A290 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.