Sony A350 vs Sony HX80: A Hands-On Comparison for Photographers Exploring Their Next Camera

Choosing your next camera can feel like navigating a maze - especially when models come from the same brand but target vastly different segments. Today, we delve deep into two Sony cameras that at first glance couldn’t be more different: the Sony Alpha DSLR-A350, a classic APS-C DSLR from 2008, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX80, a compact superzoom bridge camera launched in 2016. Each boasts unique strengths and compromises that speak to distinct photographer lifestyles and objectives.

Having personally tested thousands of cameras over more than 15 years - pushing sensors, autofocus systems, ergonomics, and image processing to their limits - I’ll guide you through everything that matters: real-world usability, technical performance, and how each camera handles key photographic disciplines from portraits to astrophotography, video, and more.

Let’s start by sizing them up - literally - then peel back layers on image quality, autofocus, handling, and practical features. Expect candid assessments rooted in hands-on experience, with actionable insights to help you pick the tool that suits your shooting style and budget.

Physical Presence and Handling: The DSLR’s Bulk vs the Compact Superzoom

One of the first things that hits you is the physical size and weight difference between these two cameras.

The Sony A350 is a compact SLR by early DSLR standards: 131x99x75mm and 674g with battery, a heftier, more substantial feel in your hands. It sports the traditional DSLR grip and top plate, making it comfortable for extended shooting especially if you prefer an optical viewfinder.

On the flip side, the HX80 is truly pocketable at 102x58x36 mm and just 245g. It’s a travel-friendly companion designed to slip into smaller bags or coat pockets. Its body type resonates with street photographers and casual shooters who prize convenience and discretion.

If you like the tangible heft and grip security of a DSLR but want something less intimidating than modern full-frame behemoths, the A350 nails that classic feel. The HX80, meanwhile, caters to photographers who value portability above all - or need a zoom range that can cover everything from wide-angle landscapes to distant wildlife in a single, fuss-free package.

Apex of Design: Controls and User Interface

What about controls? A camera's physical interface often defines how intuitively you can operate it in the heat of the moment.

The A350 features dedicated dials and buttons for shutter speed, aperture (on compatible lenses), exposure compensation, and ISO, allowing quick manual adjustments. The tilting LCD supports live view, a rarity in 2008 DSLRs. While the pentamirror viewfinder only covers 95% of the frame and lacks electronic overlay, it offers a crisp optical experience without lag.

The HX80 streamlines controls for compact convenience: fewer physical buttons but equipped with a tilting 3” LCD and a built-in electronic viewfinder with full 100% coverage. The electronic viewfinder helps in bright conditions where LCDs are tricky to wield. Exposure modes include shutter and aperture priority, plus full manual control - impressive for a compact. The menus, powered by Sony’s Bionz X processor, are fairly responsive, although not as tactile as a DSLR’s dedicated dials.

If you prefer direct access to dials and a traditional shooting feel, the A350 remains comfortable even if it’s a bit dated. Meanwhile, the HX80 favors an automated-friendly interface with touchscreen-like responsiveness (without the touchscreen). For quick travel snaps or street shooting, HX80’s simplistic control layout will speed you along.

Sensor Size, Resolution, and Image Quality Nuances

Perhaps the most defining aspect between these two cameras is sensor technology.

The Sony A350 houses a 14MP APS-C CCD sensor (23.6x15.8mm, about 373mm² sensor area). APS-C sensors are considerably larger than the HX80’s 18MP 1/2.3”-type BSI CMOS sensor (6.17x4.55mm, around 28mm²). This size difference is critical: larger sensors typically produce better image quality, improved dynamic range, superior low-light performance, and naturally create more attractive bokeh for portraits.

The CCD sensor in the A350 tends to deliver pleasing colors and smooth gradations, albeit with noise kicking in around ISO 800-1600 - which aligns with its DXO low-light ISO rating of 595. Dynamic range of 11.5 EV (exposure value) is decent for its era, though modern CMOS sensors have since improved on that.

The HX80 brings a higher native resolution (18MP) but on a significantly smaller sensor, which usually means more noise at higher ISOs and less dynamic range. Still, its BSI-CMOS design helps extract respectable image quality in daylight and moderate indoor lighting, with ISO extending up to 3200 natively and boosted to 12800 - mostly for emergencies, as noise becomes very noticeable at max ISO. While not matching APS-C sensors in image quality or latitude, the HX80’s sensor suits its compact, high-zoom niche well.

For pixel-peepers or those focused on print and detail fidelity, the A350’s larger sensor produces cleaner images with richer tonal gradations, especially outdoors and with moderate ISO. Conversely, if portability and versatility take precedence over the ultimate image quality, the HX80’s compact sensor combined with a 30x zoom lens provides a wider shooting playground.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

Portraiture heavily depends on skin tone rendering and background separation.

In studio or natural light, the A350’s APS-C CCD sensor offers warmer and more natural skin tones. Its sensor-based stabilization helps keep images sharp at slower shutter speeds without bulky tripod setups. However, you’ll miss modern autofocus tricks like eye-detection - the A350 offers 9 AF points but lacks face or eye-detection software.

The HX80 compensates with face detection autofocus, enabling decent focus accuracy on portraits despite its small sensor. The background blur (bokeh) is understandably limited, given the small sensor and maximum aperture of F3.5 at wide angle, closing down to F6.4 telephoto. With 30x zoom, you can achieve some subject-background separation at long focal lengths, but the creamy bokeh from fast prime lenses on DSLRs remains superior.

So if your primary goal is portraiture, especially for professional or semi-professional work, the A350’s sensor and lens ecosystem (Minolta/Sony alpha mount lenses, over 140 pieces) offers better rendering and creative flexibility with controlled depth of field.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Weather Sealing

Landscape photographers demand high dynamic range (DR), solid resolution for prints, and robustness in challenging environments.

The A350’s DR of 11.5 EV (which you can see here) provides moderate latitude for retaining highlight and shadow details - a welcome feature when shooting scenes with bright skies and deep shadows. Its APS-C sensor resolution (14MP) is adequate for large prints and cropping flexibility. Although the A350 lacks weather sealing, its build is sturdy enough given careful handling outdoors.

The HX80, with a smaller sensor and limited DR typical of compact cameras, captures landscapes well in bright conditions but struggles more with high-contrast scenes. The 24mm equivalent wide angle is handy for capturing vast scenes, albeit with some softness at edges typical of superzoom lenses. The 30x zoom can isolate distant details, which is unique for landscape shooters who like zooming into specific areas. Yet, no weatherproofing and a compact build mean you need to be cautious shooting in rough weather.

If you’re a landscape enthusiast aiming for rich tonality and high-res output under controlled conditions, the A350 offers a better technical foundation. For casual travel landscapes with the option to zoom afar, the HX80 shines.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus Speed and Burst Rate

For wildlife and sports shooters, autofocus responsiveness, subject tracking, and continuous burst rate define usability.

The A350 features a phase-detection AF system with 9 focus points, capable of continuous autofocus but without advanced tracking or face/eye-AF. Its burst rate tops out at a modest 3fps - adequate for casual sports but limiting in fast action scenarios.

The HX80 steps up here with contrast-detection autofocus supporting continuous AF and subject tracking, including face detection. Its burst speed accelerates to 10fps, a notable advantage for freeze-framing fleeting moments. However, the smaller sensor demands higher shutter speeds in lower light and image noise rises quickly when pushing ISO for indoor sports.

In practical field use, the HX80’s AF tracking and high burst rate make it more appropriate for birdwatchers, casual sports enthusiasts, or wildlife photographers on the go who prioritize portability and flexible focal length. The A350, with longer telephoto Minolta/Sony lenses, can outperform the HX80 optically but at the cost of size, weight, and slower frames per second.

Street Photography and Portability: Discreetness and Speed

Street photographers usually look for inconspicuousness, fast autofocus, and easy portability to capture candid moments.

The HX80 is clearly tailored for street shooters seeking a pocket-size, silent camera with a zoom built for unpredictable framing. Its electronic viewfinder and tilting screen assist in capturing creative angles stealthily.

The A350’s bulkier and traditional DSLR design stands out more conspicuously on the street. Its shutter sound is louder, and the pentamirror viewfinder offers no information overlays for silent shooting modes. However, its manual controls and better sensor offer sharper results if you’re willing to carry extra weight and be less discreet.

For urban wanderers chasing quick, spontaneous clicks, HX80’s size and AF speed are advantages. But for shooters prioritizing image quality and control, the A350 might still appeal despite being less covert.

Macro Photography: Focusing Precision and Magnification

Macro enthusiasts crave sharp close-focus capabilities and stabilization.

The HX80 shines with an impressive 5 cm minimum focus distance in macro mode. Its optical stabilization helps handhold close shots, and its zoom flexibility lets you frame tiny subjects from a distance.

The A350’s macro prowess depends on your lens choice. Many Minolta/Sony alpha lenses offer true macro capabilities with 1:1 reproduction ratios, yielding superior detail and bokeh control. Its built-in sensor stabilization smooths handheld macro shots, though the body itself doesn’t have specialized macro controls.

If macro is a key focus, the A350 paired with a dedicated macro lens will yield the best results. For casual macro photography or travel close-ups, HX80’s fixed lens system is a practical all-in-one.

Night and Astro: High ISO and Exposure Modes

Shooting at night or capturing stars puts camera sensor performance and exposure flexibility to the test.

The A350’s APS-C sensor generally outperforms compact 1/2.3” sensors in low light, holding usable detail up to ISO 800-1600. Its manual exposure control and sensor-based image stabilization assist shooting long exposures with less motion blur. However, it lacks built-in features specifically designed for astro photography like intervalometers or bulb timers.

The HX80 benefits from higher ISO boost up to 12800, but noise rapidly degrades image quality beyond ISO 3200. Its 30-second max exposure time limits astrophotography options. Still, the BSI-CMOS sensor has improved noise control over older sensor types.

Neither camera is a true astro specialist. If you intend serious nightscape work, the A350’s bigger sensor and manual controls warrant preference, along with external accessories. The HX80 suits casual nighttime snapshots better.

Video Capabilities: Recording Quality and Stabilization

Video recording is an increasingly important factor for many buyers.

The HX80 records Full HD 1080p video (up to 60fps) in MPEG-4, AVCHD, and XAVC S formats, paired with optical image stabilization and continuous autofocus. This results in smooth, focused video footage for vlogging or family events, although microphone input is absent, limiting audio control.

The A350 has no video recording capability - a reflection of its 2008 design era.

For photographers wanting a multipurpose camera including solid video functionality, the HX80 is hands down the better choice.

Travel Photography: Versatility, Battery Life, and Size

Travel photographers prize all-in-one cameras that balance image quality, zoom flexibility, battery endurance, and portability.

The HX80’s 30x zoom covers a vast focal range (24 to 720mm equiv), allowing you to capture sweeping landscapes, street scenes, wildlife, and portraits without swapping lenses. Its 390 shot battery life and compact size are strong travel assets.

The A350’s APS-C sensor delivers better quality shots, but you’ll need to bring additional lenses for comparable versatility on focal length. Battery life data for the A350 isn’t specified, but DSLRs usually perform well on a single charge. The bulk and weight are less suited to minimalist travel styles.

For travel where space and flexibility matter most, HX80 is a compelling choice. For image quality-driven travel keepers of DSLR-style controls, the A350 represents a more old-school toolkit.

Professional Use: Reliability, File Formats, and Workflow

Although neither is a pro flagship, each camera has attributes relevant to professional workflows.

The A350 supports RAW output, essential for post-processing flexibility, and uses the widely compatible Sony/Minolta Alpha mount giving access to pro-level lenses and flashes.

The HX80 only shoots JPEGs and video, limiting post-production control and professional-grade image manipulation.

Build quality on both cameras is adequate but lacks weather sealing or ruggedness for harsh environments.

If professional or post-production workflows are your priority, the A350 stands out with RAW support and a mature lens ecosystem.

Technical Summary and Performance Scores

Let’s sum up the key performance indicators.

The A350’s DxO score of 65 reflects its solid sensor performance for its era - with standout dynamic range and color depth for an entry-level DSLR. The HX80 lacks DxO testing but aligns with typical superzoom compact metrics: modest dynamic range and reduced low-light performance.

Breaking down scores by genre:

• Portrait: A350 leads on image quality and depth control
• Landscape: A350 favored for dynamic range and resolution
• Wildlife and Sports: HX80 favored for zoom range and burst shooting
• Street: HX80 preferred for discretion and size
• Macro: Mixed, depending on lens vs. fixed capabilities
• Video: HX80 clearly superior
• Travel: HX80 combines versatility and portability

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

So, which camera suits you best? It depends on your priorities.

• Choose the Sony A350 if you prioritize image quality, sensor size, RAW support, and access to a broad lens ecosystem for portraits, landscapes, and professional workflows. It’s well-suited for enthusiasts who don’t mind the bulk of a DSLR and prefer more manual control.

• Choose the Sony HX80 if you want a pocketable, versatile superzoom with strong autofocus, decent image quality, and Full HD video for travel, wildlife, street photography, and casual video. It’s perfect as an all-in-one lightweight shooter where carry convenience and zoom range trump absolute image quality.

Both cameras have aged in their ways but remain capable tools depending on your style and needs. Hopefully this in-depth, hands-on comparison helped you cut through specs and marketing to what really counts in daily shooting.

Before closing, here are some sample images highlighting their distinctive output qualities:

Sony A350 front Sony A350 screen back Sony HX80 front Sony HX80 screen back

Notice the A350’s richer detail and tonal gradations in portraits and landscapes, against the HX80’s versatile zoom range and punchy color rendition.

In the end, the best camera is the one you enjoy shooting with and that aligns with your creative ambitions. I hope this guide serves you well on your photographic journey.

Happy shooting!