Sony HX300 vs Sony W230

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Sony HX300 vs Sony W230, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are produced by Sony. There exists a substantial gap between the resolutions of the HX300 (20MP) and W230 (12MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The HX300 was announced 4 years later than the W230 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Sony HX300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony W230 being a Compact camera.

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a simple overview of how the HX300 scores versus the W230 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W230. The whole galleries are provided at Sony HX300 Gallery & Sony W230 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera regularly, you're going to have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Sony HX300 comes with physical measurements of 130mm x 103mm x 93mm (5.1" x 4.1" x 3.7") with a weight of 623 grams (1.37 lbs) whilst the Sony W230 has dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Contrast the Sony HX300 vs Sony W230 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the HX300 vs the W230.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the HX300 and W230 is 63 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to visualize the gap between sensor sizing just by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph here will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the HX300 and W230.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You can count on the Sony HX300 to give extra detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The newer HX300 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.