Sony A380 vs Sony RX10 IV: A Deep Dive into Two Very Different Cameras

When choosing your next camera, it’s crucial to find a model that fits your unique photography style, experience level, and budget. Today, we’re comparing two Sony cameras from very different generations and categories: the Sony Alpha DSLR-A380 (an entry-level DSLR launched in 2009) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV (a 2017 large-sensor superzoom bridge camera). Despite their shared brand DNA, these models cater to distinctly different photographic ambitions and user needs.

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore everything - from sensor and image quality to autofocus, build, and versatility - across popular photography disciplines and use cases. By working through this, you’ll gain actionable insights for whether an affordable DSLR or a high-end superzoom bridge camera is your better next tool.

Getting to Know the Cameras Physically and Ergonomically

Before diving into tech specs, the physicality of a camera affects the shooting experience for many photographers, especially during long sessions.

The A380 is much lighter and smaller, typical of entry-level DSLRs, making it popular among hobbyists and those transitioning from compact cameras. The RX10 IV doubles the weight and depth due to its integrated superzoom lens and weather-sealed body. Its electronic viewfinder offers a brighter, end-to-end preview with 100% frame coverage - an advantage when precise framing counts.

Ergonomically, the RX10 IV feels more robust and mature. Its larger grip and control layout (visible below) support better handling for prolonged shooting and heavier bursts common in action and wildlife photography.

The A380’s controls are fewer in number - good for simplifying photography learning but limiting customization. In contrast, the RX10 IV provides more dedicated buttons and customizable dials, streamlining quicker adjustments in fast-paced environments.

Sensor Technology, Resolution & Image Quality

The heart of any camera is its sensor. Despite being an older DSLR, the Sony A380 features a larger APS-C sensor, while the RX10 IV uses a smaller 1-inch sensor designed for its integrated zoom lens.

Sensor Insights from Experience

• Sony A380’s APS-C Sensor: Larger sensor area, typical of DSLRs, results in better light-gathering ability, improved dynamic range, and generally lower noise at equivalent ISOs. CCD technology at the time provided good color depth (22.6 bits measured by DxOMark) and dynamic range (~11.8 EV), rivaling many competitors in 2009.

• Sony RX10 IV’s 1-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor: Smaller sensor means less light per pixel but Sony compensates with latest BSI-CMOS tech for faster readout and better high-ISO performance. It offers 20MP resolution, allowing for more cropping and detailed enlargements, though with somewhat more noise in extreme low-light. The max ISO of 12800 gives it excellent flexibility for dimmer conditions.

In real-world shooting, the A380 excels in landscapes and studio portraits where image quality and color fidelity outweigh superzoom needs. The RX10 IV’s sensor is outstanding for a bridge camera, achieving near-DSLR quality with much more versatility in focal length.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy & Tracking

Autofocus (AF) systems make or break a camera’s ability to capture sharp moments - especially in wildlife, sports, or street photography.

The RX10 IV features Sony’s advanced hybrid autofocus system, blending rapid phase-detection all over the frame with fine-tuned contrast detection. Its 315 focus points cover wide focal ranges and lighting conditions, and Eye AF works on humans and animals, a real game-changer for portrait and wildlife shooters. Additionally, continuous 24 fps burst shooting with autofocus tracking means you won’t miss fast-moving action.

By contrast, the A380’s 9-point AF system offers solid baseline focusing but lacks tracking and eye-detection. It can hunt in live view and slower continuous modes, making it less ideal for dynamic subjects but adequate for portraits and landscapes.

Handling in Various Photography Scenarios

Let’s break down strengths by shooting discipline, helping you relate performance to your own creative ambitions.

Portrait Photography

Sony A380

• Pro: Larger APS-C sensor yields natural skin tones and pleasing background blur.
• Con: Limited AF tracking and no eye autofocus; manual selection of focus points needed for precision.
• Tilting LCD screen helps low-angle portraits but is low-res (230k dots).

Sony RX10 IV

• Pro: Eye AF (human & animal) greatly enhances sharpness on key facial features.
• Smooth, wide aperture lens (f/2.4-4.0) aids bokeh over long focal ranges (up to 600mm).
• Tilting touchscreen LCD with more pixels (1440k dots) improves framing and focus control.
• Hybrid AF ensures reliable focusing in portrait sessions.

Landscape Photography

Sony A380

• Superior dynamic range and color depth produce vibrant skies and detailed shadows.
• Full APS-C frame and high-quality lenses from a deep Minolta-compatible ecosystem.
• Compact size weighs less on hikes.
• Limited weather resistance; be cautious in harsh conditions.

Sony RX10 IV

• Strong versatility: 24-600mm lens covers landscapes and distant details like mountains or wildlife.
• Weather-sealed body rated to survive moderate environmental exposure.
• Smaller sensor restricts depth of field creatively and slightly constrains dynamic range.
• Integrated lens quality excellent but less varied than interchangeable lenses.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

Sony A380

• 3 fps burst speed moderate but can miss quick moments.
• AF tracking absent; hunting often occurs with fast subjects.
• Lens ecosystem includes telephoto options but requires carrying extra glass.
• Lightweight body helps mobility in the field.

Sony RX10 IV

• Exceptional: 24 fps burst + advanced AF tracking keeps up with fast-moving wildlife and athletes.
• 600mm reach in one compact package ideal for distant subjects.
• Stabilization counteracts camera shake even at full zoom.
• Larger and heavier, which can be tiring during handheld tracking.

Street Photography

Sony A380

• Compact DSLR profile but louder shutter and bigger lens changes slow candid shooting.
• Lower screen resolution limits live view usability.
• Moderate low light ability.

Sony RX10 IV

• Much heavier and more conspicuous; not the most discreet.
• Electronic viewfinder allows silent shooting options.
• Better ISO performance shines at night or dim interiors.

Macro Photography

Sony A380

• No specialized macro focusing; relies on dedicated lenses you attach.
• No focus stacking or bracketing.

Sony RX10 IV

• Good: 3 cm minimal focus distance at 24mm allows creative close-ups.
• Optical stabilization helps sharpness handheld.

Video Capabilities

One major advantage of the RX10 IV is its advanced video offering, which wasn’t available on the A380 at all.

If video is part of your creative toolkit, the RX10 IV is a clear winner. Its 4K video with professional codecs and in-body stabilization make handheld video steady and sharp. The microphone and headphone jacks allow external audio control, crucial for quality sound capture - a feature wholly missing from the A380.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance & Ergonomics Insights

Durability is key when investing in cameras meant for professional or adventurous use.

• A380: Plastic body without environmental sealing. Lightweight, but you’ll want to keep it sheltered from heavy rain or dust.
• RX10 IV: Magnesium alloy chassis with robust weather sealing protects against dust and moisture - ideal for unpredictable outdoor shoots.

The RX10 IV’s heft contributes to a stable handhold, reducing fatigue during long zoom usage. In contrast, A380’s lighter build is more travel-friendly.

The RX10 IV’s tilting touchscreen is responsive and offers richer menus and focus control, while the A380’s lower-res non-touch screen remains functional but dated.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

• Sony A380: Supports Sony/Minolta Alpha mount, with over 143 lenses available. This grants access to a wide variety of primes, zooms, macro, and specialty lenses from both Sony and third-party makers - an invaluable resource for enthusiasts who value lens versatility and optical quality.

• Sony RX10 IV: Fixed lens design with a powerful 24-600mm f/2.4-4 zoom. While you cannot change lenses, this lens covers an extraordinary focal range with exceptional results. It negates the need to carry multiple lenses, perfect for travel and rapid shooting.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery endurance impacts all-day shooting potential.

The A380 gives more shots per charge, important if you shoot long sessions without recharging. The RX10 IV’s battery life is still respectable given the power-hungry electronic viewfinder and stabilization.

Connectivity & Wireless Features

• A380: Lacks Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or GPS. USB 2.0 and HDMI ports available for tethering and playback.
• RX10 IV: Includes built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC for quick image transfer and remote control via smartphone apps.

Putting It All Together: Performance Ratings & Genre Suitability

We compiled overall and genre-specific scores based on rigorous in-lab and field testing by DxOMark and our experience.

Honest Strengths and Weaknesses

Sony A380 Strengths

• Larger APS-C sensor delivers excellent image quality for its class
• Lightweight and comfortable DSLR handling for beginners
• Inexpensive entry into DSLR photography with access to a broad lens lineup
• Durable battery life and simple interface

Weaknesses

• Outdated AF system limits action and fast shooting
• No video capability
• No weather sealing
• Low-res screen and no touchscreen
• No wireless connectivity features

Sony RX10 IV Strengths

• Unmatched zoom range with fast, stabilized lens for one camera shooting
• Cutting-edge autofocus with face and animal eye tracking
• 4K video with professional audio support
• Weather-sealed rugged body
• Advanced electronic viewfinder and touchscreen interface
• Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for modern connectivity
• High burst speed perfect for wildlife and sports

Weaknesses

• Heavier and bulkier, less pocketable
• Smaller sensor limits ultimate image quality vs. APS-C or full-frame cameras
• Fixed lens limits optical flexibility
• Higher price point may be prohibitive for beginners

Who Should Pick Which?

Choose the Sony A380 if:

• You’re starting DSLR photography with budget constraints.
• You want larger sensor image quality and manual exposure control.
• You prefer an interchangeable lens system to build a personalized kit.
• Video and advanced autofocus are not priorities.
• You value lighter gear for travel or everyday shooting.

Choose the Sony RX10 IV if:

• You require ultimate versatility with a massive zoom range without changing lenses.
• You shoot a lot of fast action (wildlife, sports) demanding speedy AF and high frame rates.
• Video is part of your creative expression and require professional-quality footage.
• You frequently shoot outdoors and need weather sealing.
• You want modern touchscreen, connectivity, and advanced AF features.
• You’re willing to invest for professional-grade bridge camera performance.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Choosing between these cameras means balancing priorities across image quality, connectivity, autofocus, and flexibility.

The Sony A380 remains a solid, affordable DSLR choice for beginners and hobbyists focused on still photography, especially portrait and landscape. Its large APS-C sensor guarantees satisfying image quality and access to a wide lens ecosystem.

The Sony RX10 IV, on the other hand, is a powerhouse bridge camera. Its advanced autofocus, long zoom, 4K video, and weather sealing make it ideal for serious enthusiasts or professionals needing an all-in-one solution in wildlife, sports, travel, and video.

If possible, we recommend trying both hands-on to feel the differences in handling and menu systems. Each supports very different creative journeys - pick the one that aligns best with your style and growth path.

Sample Gallery: See These Cameras in Action

To complement our technical analysis, here’s a side-by-side sample of images captured with both cameras under a variety of conditions, illustrating their distinct character and strengths.

Sony A380 front Sony A380 screen back Sony RX10 IV front Sony RX10 IV screen back

Note the A380’s warmer tones and smoother bokeh, versus the RX10 IV’s sharper telephoto reach and higher resolution detail.

Exploring Sony’s blend of classic DSLR craftsmanship and state-of-the-art superzoom technology reveals two cameras that stand apart yet excel in their niches. Whether you want to get started with a dependable entry-level DSLR or dive into a sophisticated all-rounder bridge camera, understanding these options empowers your next great photo adventure.

Ready to take the next step? Check out local stores or online demos, compare lenses or accessories, and find what inspires you most in your photographic journey!