Sony A350 vs Sony HX5

On this page, we will be matching up the Sony A350 and Sony HX5, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are sold by Sony. There is a sizable difference between the image resolutions of the A350 (14MP) and HX5 (10MP) and the A350 (APS-C) and HX5 (1/2.4") provide different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The A350 was launched 24 months prior to the HX5 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Sony A350 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony HX5 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the A350 scores versus the HX5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The complete galleries are viewable at Sony A350 Gallery & Sony HX5 Gallery.

If you're planning to lug around your camera often, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Sony A350 provides exterior dimensions of 131mm x 99mm x 75mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") with a weight of 674 grams (1.49 lbs) while the Sony HX5 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Compare the Sony A350 and Sony HX5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are using during that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the A350 vs the HX5.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the A350 and HX5 is 62 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to picture the gap between sensor measurements simply by reading specifications. The graphic here might provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the A350 and HX5.

To sum up, the 2 cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The A350 due to its bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Sony A350 will offer you more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will let you crop pictures more aggressively. The older A350 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.