Sony HX20V vs Sony W550

Below is a thorough analysis of the Sony HX20V vs Sony W550, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Ultracompact and both of them are built by Sony. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the HX20V (18MP) and W550 (14MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The HX20V was announced 13 months later than the W550 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. The two cameras offer different body type with the Sony HX20V being a Compact camera and the Sony W550 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go through a complete comparison, below is a brief overview of how the HX20V grades vs the W550 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W550. The whole galleries are provided at Sony HX20V Gallery and Sony W550 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you will have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Sony HX20V features physical measurements of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs) while the Sony W550 has dimensions of 94mm x 56mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 110 grams (0.24 lbs).

Check the Sony HX20V vs Sony W550 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the HX20V versus the W550.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the HX20V and W550 is 90 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor measurements only by going over technical specs. The photograph here should give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the HX20V and W550.

As you have seen, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Sony HX20V to deliver more detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The younger HX20V is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.