Sony A390 vs Sony W380: An Exhaustive Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

When selecting a camera, photographers carefully balance competing priorities: image quality, operational control, versatility, portability, and budget. The Sony Alpha DSLR-A390 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W380 represent two markedly different approaches from Sony’s 2010 lineup, targeting distinct user profiles. This in-depth technical comparison evaluates both cameras across a broad spectrum of photographic disciplines and use cases, integrating rigorous hands-on testing insights and real-world experience with imaging technology.

Our objective is to equip enthusiasts and professionals with a comprehensive, nuanced understanding of these cameras based on their technological capabilities, ergonomic design, and performance in varied shooting scenarios.

First Impressions & Physical Handling: Size, Weight, and Ergonomics

Before delving into image quality and technical performance, it is critical to assess how each camera adapts to physical and operational demands in the field.

The Sony A390 is a compact DSLR built around a traditional SLR form factor with dedicated controls and a tilting LCD, while the W380 is an ultra-compact point-and-shoot with a fixed lens designed for portability and casual use.

Size and Weight

• Sony A390: Measures 128 x 97 x 86 mm, weighing 549 grams with battery.
• Sony W380: Significantly smaller at 91 x 52 x 20 mm and ultra-lightweight at 117 grams.

The size difference is stark. The A390’s heft and grip provide stability and tactile feedback ideal for extended sessions and manual operation. Conversely, the W380 fits comfortably in a pocket but may feel less substantial, especially during longer handheld shooting.

Ergonomics and Control Layout

The A390 features a DSLR-standard top plate replete with mode dials and control buttons that allow rapid access to exposure modes, ISO, and drive settings, important for workflow efficiency in demanding environments.

The W380, lacking any dedicated manual controls or tactile dials, operates solely through a menu-driven interface designed for simplicity.

The ergonomic difference is consequential: photographers accustomed to precise manual input will find the A390 far more flexible, while the W380’s minimal controls limit creative freedom.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Size Matters

The most fundamental disparity lies in sensor size and imaging performance, directly influencing resolution, dynamic range, depth of field control, and noise characteristics.

• Sony A390 sensor: 14.2-megapixel APS-C CCD, 23.5 x 15.7 mm (368.95 mm² sensor area).
• Sony W380 sensor: 14.1-megapixel 1/2.3" CCD, 6.17 x 4.55 mm (28.07 mm² sensor area).

Resolution and Detail

Both cameras offer similar pixel counts (~14 MP), but given the difference in sensor size, the A390's larger pixels typically provide better detailed rendition and less high ISO noise. Our lab tests and field captures confirm the A390 produces noticeably crisper images with superior tonal gradation.

Dynamic Range and Color Depth

DxOMark data rates the A390’s color depth at 22.5 bits and dynamic range at 11.5 EV, allowing nuanced rendering of shadows and highlights vital in landscape and portrait situations. Comparable data for W380 is unavailable, but smaller sensors generally exhibit limited dynamic range and color fidelity.

High ISO Noise Handling

The A390’s APS-C sensor maintains usable images up to ISO 1600, with gradual noise onset. The W380’s small sensor introduces visible noise beyond ISO 400, constraining low-light operation severely.

Display and Viewfinder Systems: Composing and Reviewing Images

The interface for framing and reviewing images also differentiates these models with implications for operational precision.

• Sony A390: 2.7-inch tilting LCD (230k dots), optical pentamirror viewfinder covering 95% frame, 0.49x magnification.
• Sony W380: Fixed 2.7-inch LCD (230k dots), no viewfinder.

The A390’s tilting LCD facilitates composition from unconventional angles - a boon for macro, street, and low-angle shooting - while its optical viewfinder affords stable, lag-free framing crucial for fast action.

The W380’s sole reliance on a fixed rear LCD may frustrate in bright outdoor conditions, where glare compromises visibility, and limits shooting posture versatility.

Autofocus Performance: Precision vs Simplicity

Autofocus is pivotal for capturing sharp images under diverse conditions, particularly in fast or unpredictable scenarios.

• Sony A390: 9 AF points, phase-detection autofocus, face detection enabled, continuous AF capable.
• Sony W380: 9 AF points, contrast-detection autofocus only, no face detection or continuous AF.

The DSLR’s phase-detection system offers faster and more reliable focus acquisition, especially in continuous tracking or low-light conditions. Face detection further enhances portrait accuracy.

The W380’s contrast-detection AF is slower and prone to hunting, limiting suitability for dynamic subjects.

Lens Ecosystem and Focal Range Versatility

Lens compatibility defines a camera’s adaptability across genres.

• Sony A390: Sony/Minolta Alpha mount with access to over 140 lenses spanning primes, zooms, macro, and specialty optics.
• Sony W380: Fixed 24-120mm equivalent lens, f/2.4-5.9 aperture.

The A390’s interchangeable lens system is a key strength, enabling tailored optics for every application: wide-angle landscapes, telephoto wildlife, macro close-ups, and portrait-friendly fast primes.

The W380's limited optical zoom and modest maximum aperture constrain creative control and low-light performance.

Burst Shooting and Shutter Speeds: Capturing the Action

Fast capture is essential in wildlife and sports photography.

• Sony A390: 3.0 fps continuous shooting, shutter speeds between 30 sec and 1/4000 sec.
• Sony W380: 2.0 fps continuous shooting, shutter speeds 2 sec to 1/1600 sec.

The DSLR’s faster shutter ceiling and modest continuous rate make it more viable for moderate action sequences, though not on par with pro-level sports cameras.

The W380’s slower shutter range and burst rate hamper freeze-frame capabilities.

Exposure Control and White Balance Customization

Flexibility in exposure modes and white balance ensure accurate, creative image rendering.

• Sony A390: Full manual exposure, aperture priority, shutter priority, exposure compensation, custom white balance, WB bracketing.
• Sony W380: Automatic exposure only, custom white balance without bracketing.

The DSLR affords precise exposure adjustments, essential for challenging lighting. The compact’s automatic operation aids ease but limits deliberate control.

Stabilization and Flash Features

Image stabilization and flash versatility impact handheld shooting success in variable conditions.

• Sony A390: Sensor-based stabilization, multiple flash modes including wireless control and slow sync, external flash support.
• Sony W380: Optical stabilization, basic flash with Auto, On, Off, Slow Syncro modes only, no external flash.

While optical stabilization can be effective, sensor-based systems like the A390’s typically perform better across all lenses. The advanced flash options of the A390 facilitate creative lighting schemes absent from the W380.

Battery Life and Storage Mediums

Practical usability during extended outings depends on power endurance and storage flexibility.

• Sony A390: Uses NP-FH50 battery, approx. 230 shots per charge, single SD/SDHC or Memory Stick Pro Duo slot.
• Sony W380: NP-BN1 battery, manufacturer does not specify shots per charge, single SD/SDHC or Memory Stick Duo based slot.

The DSLR’s battery life is adequate though modest for an APS-C, requiring spares for heavy usage. The W380’s compact format may necessitate frequent recharging.

Video Recording Capabilities

While neither camera specializes in video, their offerings vary.

• Sony A390: No video capture.
• Sony W380: 720p HD video at 30 fps, Motion JPEG format.

The W380 provides basic but usable HD video capture, beneficial for casual video alongside stills. The absence of video on the A390 limits multimedia flexibility.

Sample Image Quality Comparison: Practical Real-World Results

Looking beyond specs, actual photos reveal the cameras' effectiveness.

Sony A390 screen back Sony W380 front Sony W380 screen back

• The A390 produces images with more depth, richer colors, and finer detail in both JPEG and RAW formats.
• W380 images are adequate for snapshots, with softer focus and more noise evident at higher ISO or shadows.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers environmental sealing; both cameras require care under adverse conditions.

The A390's robust DSLR body is more resilient against minor impacts; the W380’s slim plastic shell is fragile by comparison.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration

• Both cameras offer USB 2.0 and HDMI outputs.
• Neither supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS.

The lack of wireless connectivity is a limitation by modern standards but typical for their eras and price points.

Performance Ratings and Genre-Specific Suitability

The A390 scores higher across most categories - portrait, landscape, wildlife, sports - especially excelling in image quality, control, and adaptability.

The W380’s strengths lie in portability and basic travel or street photography where minimalism and convenience overlap.

Genre-by-Genre Analysis and Recommendations

Portrait Photography

• A390: Superior skin tone rendition, reliable eye detection, and customizable autofocus points facilitate compelling portraits with bokeh-rich background separation.
• W380: Limited control, no face detection, produces passable but less refined portraits.

Landscape Photography

• A390: Larger sensor, higher dynamic range, and lens options enabling wide-angle shooting excel in capturing expansive scenes with detail.
• W380: Modest zoom range and sensor limit image quality and tonal depth, but acceptable for casual landscapes.

Wildlife Photography

• A390: Faster phase-detection AF and lens interchangeability support tracking distant moving subjects, though burst rate is moderate.
• W380: Fixed zoom only, slow AF, less suitable.

Sports Photography

• A390: Moderate frame rate and precise autofocus render it viable for low-level sports capture, particularly in good light.
• W380: Not recommended due to sluggish autofocus and low burst rate.

Street Photography

• A390: Less discreet due to size but better manual control.
• W380: Pocketable and unobtrusive, ideal for snapshot street work, albeit with image quality compromises.

Macro Photography

• A390: Enables use of dedicated macro lenses offering high magnification and focus precision.
• W380: Minimum focus distance of 5 cm sufficient for casual close-ups but limited detail capture.

Night and Astro Photography

• A390: Acceptable high ISO performance, long shutter range suited for astrophotography with tripod use.
• W380: Limited ISO sensitivity and short max exposure impede low light utility.

Video Capabilities

• A390: None.
• W380: Basic 720p video suitable for casual capture only.

Travel Photography

• A390: Offers versatility and robustness but at the cost of increased size and weight.
• W380: Highly portable, battery demands favor limited use.

Professional Work

• A390: Supports RAW, true manual controls, and third-party lens ecosystems, facilitating integration into pro workflows.
• W380: Geared toward amateur snapshots, insufficient for professional demands.

Conclusion: Choosing Between Sony A390 and Sony W380

Both cameras have clear niches: the Sony A390 remains relevant for imaging enthusiasts seeking DSLR functionality without a steep price, while the W380 offers a lightweight alternative for snapshot photography and quick point-and-shoot convenience.

By examining these candidates through the lens of extensive hands-on testing and practical use-cases, photographers can confidently align their priorities with the model best tailored to their creative aspirations and operational needs.