Sony HX30V vs Sony A57

In this write-up, we are comparing the Sony HX30V and Sony A57, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR and they are both built by Sony. The image resolution of the HX30V (18MP) and the A57 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the HX30V (1/2.3") and A57 (APS-C) possess different sensor size.

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The HX30V was introduced 6 months before the A57 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Sony HX30V being a Compact camera and the Sony A57 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the HX30V grades against the A57 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V and Sony SLT-A57. The whole galleries are viewable at Sony HX30V Gallery and Sony A57 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Sony HX30V has got external dimensions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs) and the Sony A57 has measurements of 132mm x 98mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 618 grams (1.36 lbs).

Contrast the Sony HX30V and Sony A57 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the HX30V against the A57.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the HX30V and A57 is 90 and 64 respectively.

More often than not, it's tough to imagine the gap between sensor measurements purely by looking at technical specs. The visual here will offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the HX30V and A57.

As you can tell, both of those cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The HX30V having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Sony HX30V will resolve more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images far more aggressively.