Sony A390 vs Sony RX100 V: A Hands-On Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

When it comes to choosing your next camera, especially in the crowded Sony lineup, making an informed decision can take some digging beneath spec sheets. Today, we’re diving deep into two quite different models from Sony: the Sony Alpha DSLR-A390 (or just A390) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V (RX100 V). Both carry the Sony name but serve very distinct photography styles, uses, and user expectations.

Drawing from over 15 years of testing and comparing cameras rigorously in real-world shooting scenarios, I will provide you with a detailed, hands-on analysis focused on practical performance, technical specifics, and suitability across varied photography disciplines. Whether you favor DSLRs or compact advanced cameras, want a versatile all-rounder or a pocket powerhouse, this comparison will help you figure out what’s right for your photography goals.

Physical size and ergonomics comparison: A390 DSLR body (left) vs. RX100 V compact camera (right).

A Tale of Two Cameras: Design and Handling Fundamentals

Body Type and Ergonomics

The Sony A390 continues Sony’s legacy in entry-level DSLRs with a traditional grip, optical viewfinder, and tangible manual dials. By contrast, the RX100 V is a compact point-and-shoot with a fixed lens designed for ultimate portability without compromising image quality.

• Sony A390: Weighing 549g with dimensions of 128x97x86mm, it feels substantial and sturdy in hand. The familiar DSLR form factor and tactile buttons give you confident control during shoots, especially for those accustomed to optical viewfinders.
• Sony RX100 V: At nearly half the weight (299g) and only 102x58x41mm, it slips into pockets with ease. The camera feels solidly built for its size but doesn’t replicate the DSLR grip experience. Its tilting 3" screen aids flexibility, especially for selfies and varied angles.

Top view design highlighting control layout differences - A390’s extensive buttons vs RX100 V’s streamlined compact controls.

User Interface & Displays

The A390 has a modest 2.7” tilting LCD with 230k dots resolution, adequate for framing and reviewing shots but noticeably less detailed and bright compared to modern standards. The RX100 V steps up significantly with a 3” 1229k dots tilting display, offering sharper image playback and easier menu navigation.

Both cameras omit touchscreen functionality, making buttons and dials your primary input method. The RX100 V’s high resolution screen and bright electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a 2359k dot resolution impressively bridge the gap between compact and advanced cameras.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: DSLR vs. Large Sensor Compact

Sensor Size and Resolution

Here’s where the two cameras diverge sharply:

Sensor size and tech comparison: larger APS-C (A390) vs. 1-inch BSI-CMOS (RX100 V).

The Sony A390’s APS-C CCD sensor is physically larger, which traditionally provides better depth of field control and better high ISO noise performance than smaller sensors. However, the aging CCD tech and modest 14 MP resolution limit its dynamic range and low-light capability in modern terms.

The RX100 V’s 1-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensor is physically smaller but leverages newer BSI tech for excellent noise control and dynamic range. Its 20 MP count offers more detail resolving capability, particularly beneficial when shooting JPEGs straight out of camera or cropping images.

In practical shooting conditions, I found the A390’s images to possess more natural color gradation and slightly better highlight retention in landscapes, while the RX100 V delivers cleaner images at higher ISOs, suitable for indoor or dimly-lit scenarios such as events or travel.

Autofocus and Speed: Tracking Your Subject

Autofocus and burst shooting are critical in disciplines like sports, wildlife, and street photography.

The A390 uses a traditional 9-point phase detection system with no cross-type sensors and lacks AF tracking capabilities. Its autofocus performance is reliable for static subjects and casual photography but feels sluggish and less accurate when tracking fast-moving objects.

The RX100 V’s standout feature is its hybrid autofocus system boasting 315 focus points combining phase-detection and contrast-detection, delivering rapid and precise focusing. Especially in continuous AF mode at 24 fps burst shooting, the RX100 V impresses - locking and maintaining focus on subjects in rapid motion, key for sports and wildlife photographers.

In my hands-on tests, the RX100 V’s autofocus was noticeably quicker and more accurate on moving subjects, while the A390 required more patience and manual intervention in fast-action scenarios.

Image Stabilization and Flash Performance

Both cameras offer image stabilization, albeit through different methodologies and effectiveness.

• Sony A390: Sensor-based stabilization compensates for small shakes effectively, aiding handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds. The built-in flash is strong enough for modest indoor use and offers several modes including red-eye reduction and wireless control, good for casual usage.
• Sony RX100 V: Optically stabilizes through the lens, which is generally more effective at a variety of focal lengths. The pop-up flash is weaker, intended mostly as a fill. However, the RX100 V supports higher sync speeds, making it more flexible for creative flash setups.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing

Neither camera offers official weather sealing or rugged protections, which is typical for their classes and era. The A390’s DSLR plastic body has an ergonomic heft that feels solid but isn't splash-resistant. The RX100 V impresses with robust compact chassis construction, making it ideal for travel and street use, but it’s not waterproof or shockproof.

Versatility for Photography Types

To help you navigate which camera suits your genre, here’s a breakdown of where each excels, based on my testing across disciplines.

Portrait Photography

• Sony A390: APS-C sensor naturally lends to better background blur and skin tone rendition, especially using fast prime lenses with Sony Alpha mount. Face detection works well, but eye AF features found in modern cameras are absent.
• Sony RX100 V: While its smaller sensor limits bokeh, the bright f/1.8 lens at 24mm equivalent, and face detection, deliver clean portraits. Good for snapshots and environmental portraits, but less creative control over depth of field.

Landscape Photography

• Sony A390: The larger sensor and higher dynamic range (11.5 EV) help capture rich landscapes with natural tonal gradation. Tilt screen aids composition but non-weather sealed body calls for some caution outdoors.
• Sony RX100 V: Higher resolution and excellent DR for a compact. Its telephoto end (70mm equiv.) can isolate subjects well. Limited weather resistance and smaller sensor area limit ultimate quality in RAW landscape workflow.

Wildlife Photography

• Sony RX100 V: Quicker AF and 24 fps burst rate make it surprisingly effective despite a limited zoom (24-70mm equiv.).
• Sony A390: Slower AF and 3 fps burst rate hamper action shooting, but greater lens options (telephoto zooms) make it a possible choice with patience.

Sports Photography

• Sony RX100 V: Superior AF tracking and frame rate make it stand out in capturing peak action moments.
• Sony A390: Less adept due to older AF system and slower shooting speed.

Street Photography

• Sony RX100 V: Compact size, discreet operation, and quick AF suit street candid work perfectly.
• Sony A390: Larger and more conspicuous, less ideal for fast street shooting.

Macro Photography

• Sony RX100 V: Minimum focus distance of 5cm allows close focusing, sharp details, and steady shots with optical stabilization.
• Sony A390: Dependent on lens choice for macro performance; no dedicated macro mode, so results vary.

Night/Astrophotography

• Sony RX100 V: Higher ISO capabilities (up to 12800 native) and better noise handling give it a clear edge.
• Sony A390: Limited to ISO 3200 and noisier files restrict low-light usability.

Video Capabilities

• Sony RX100 V: 4K UHD video at 30p with high bitrate, excellent stabilization, and good manual controls.
• Sony A390: No video recording, a limitation for multimedia storytellers.

Travel Photography

• Sony RX100 V: The ultimate travel companion: small, versatile, excellent image quality, and 4K video.
• Sony A390: Bulkier and heavier, better for longer planned shoots rather than travel snapshots.

Professional Work

• Sony A390: With RAW support and Sony Alpha lens system, it can serve as a secondary or budget professional camera, though outdated compared to newer DSLRs.
• Sony RX100 V: Good for quick assignments needing portability and decent image quality, though limited by fixed zoom and smaller sensor.

Back screen comparison: A390’s 2.7" tilting LCD (left) versus RX100 V’s sharper 3" screen and electronic viewfinder (right).

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

• Sony A390 offers about 230 shots per battery charge using the NP-FH50 battery - typical for DSLRs of its generation but trailing modern mirrorless standards. It uses a single SD/SDHC or Memory Stick Pro Duo card slot.

• Sony RX100 V comes in a compact body with a smaller NP-BX1 battery yet provides around 220 shots per charge. Storage supports SD/SDHC/SDXC and Memory Stick formats.

Connectivity options are basic on A390 (USB 2.0, HDMI) with no wireless functions. The RX100 V includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, enabling wireless image transfer and remote control - a significant convenience in modern workflows.

Price and Value: Then vs. Now

At launch, the Sony A390 retailed around $500, positioning it as an entry-level DSLR choice. Its older technology and limited video push it toward price-sensitive buyers prioritizing DSLR ergonomics and interchangeable lenses.

The RX100 V, aiming at a higher-end compact market, debuted near $1000. Its more up-to-date hardware, advanced AF, and 4K video cater to enthusiasts demanding portability without sacrificing performance.

For a budget-conscious buyer prioritizing DSLR experience and lens variety, the A390 remains a budget entry. For those seeking cutting-edge compact versatility, the RX100 V justifies the premium.

Sony A390 screen back Sony RX100 V front Sony RX100 V screen back

Overall Performance Ratings and Genre Scores

Based on technical testing, user feedback, and countless hours behind the viewfinders:

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Both Sony A390 and RX100 V have compelling features tailored for different photographers’ needs. Here’s my distilled advice from extensive hands-on experience:

Why Choose Sony A390?

• You are new to DSLRs and want an affordable, traditional DSLR experience.
• You need interchangeable lens flexibility with access to over 140 Sony/Minolta lenses.
• Prioritize portrait and landscape shooting with optical viewfinder.
• Don’t require video recording.
• Budget is a primary concern, and you prefer a DSLR over compact systems.

Why Choose Sony RX100 V?

• You want a pocketable camera with near-DSLR image quality.
• Require fast, reliable autofocus with excellent tracking for wildlife, sports, or street.
• Need 4K video and modern connectivity (Wi-Fi, NFC).
• Value a versatile zoom range and high-resolution LCD plus an electronic viewfinder.
• Are willing to invest in a premium compact for travel, video blogging, or everyday photography convenience.

In Summary

Choosing between these two Sony models ultimately comes down to your preferred shooting style and demands. Both deliver solid image quality and reliable performance for their classes. If you want a DSLR foundation and lens system without video, the A390 is a respectable entry-level choice. If you appreciate compact elegance, cutting-edge autofocus, and 4K video in one go, the RX100 V is a modern classic well worth the price premium.

I recommend testing both (if possible) to see which feels right in your hands and matches your favorite photography genres. Whichever you choose, Sony’s image processing and color science deliver compelling results capable of fostering your creativity.

Happy shooting!