Sony HX5 vs Sony W290

In this write-up, we are matching up the Sony HX5 versus Sony W290, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras and they are both produced by Sony. The sensor resolution of the HX5 (10MP) and the W290 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the HX5 (1/2.4") and W290 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor dimensions.

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The HX5 was released 17 months after the W290 making the cameras a generation away from one another. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief summary of how the HX5 matches up vs the W290 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290. The complete galleries are viewable at Sony HX5 Gallery and Sony W290 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Sony HX5 has external dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Sony W290 has proportions of 98mm x 57mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Check the Sony HX5 versus Sony W290 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the HX5 compared to the W290.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the HX5 and W290 is 92 and 94 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions simply by checking a spec sheet. The picture below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the HX5 and W290.

Clearly, both cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The HX5 due to its larger sensor will make getting shallower DOF less difficult and the Sony W290 will give you extra detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos far more aggressively. The newer HX5 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.