Sony HX100V vs Sony W290

Here is a in depth analysis of the Sony HX100V and Sony W290, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both built by Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the HX100V (16MP) and W290 (12MP) but both cameras posses the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The HX100V was introduced 2 years later than the W290 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Sony HX100V being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony W290 being a Compact camera.

Before getting right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick summation of how the HX100V scores against the W290 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX100V and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290. The whole galleries are viewable at Sony HX100V Gallery and Sony W290 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Sony HX100V features outer dimensions of 122mm x 87mm x 93mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 3.7") accompanied by a weight of 577 grams (1.27 lbs) and the Sony W290 has measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

See the Sony HX100V and Sony W290 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the HX100V and the W290.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the HX100V and W290 is 66 and 94 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to see the difference between sensor sizing just by going over technical specs. The photograph below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the HX100V and W290.

As you have seen, both of these cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Sony HX100V to offer greater detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The younger HX100V will have an edge with regard to sensor tech.