Sony A550 vs Sony RX100 VA

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Sony A550 and Sony RX100 VA, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Large Sensor Compact and both are sold by Sony. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the A550 (14MP) and RX100 VA (20MP) and the A550 (APS-C) and RX100 VA (1") offer totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The A550 was announced 9 years before the RX100 VA and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Sony A550 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony RX100 VA being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick overview of how the A550 grades against the RX100 VA in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Alpha DSLR-A550 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V(A). The whole galleries are provided at Sony A550 Gallery and Sony RX100 VA Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Sony A550 offers physical measurements of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 632 grams (1.39 lbs) while the Sony RX100 VA has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") having a weight of 299 grams (0.66 lbs).

Compare the Sony A550 and Sony RX100 VA in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you choose at that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the A550 against the RX100 VA.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the A550 and RX100 VA is 63 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to envision the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reviewing a spec sheet. The graphic below will give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the A550 and RX100 VA.

As you can see, both the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The A550 having a larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Sony RX100 VA will offer more detail with its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos way more aggressively. The older A550 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.