Sony HX5 vs Sony W350

In this write-up, we are comparing the Sony HX5 versus Sony W350, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Ultracompact and both of them are designed by Sony. There is a big difference between the resolutions of the HX5 (10MP) and W350 (14MP) and the HX5 (1/2.4") and W350 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The HX5 was revealed 6 months later than the W350 and they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Sony HX5 being a Compact camera and the Sony W350 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving in to a detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the HX5 matches up vs the W350 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W350. The full galleries are viewable at Sony HX5 Gallery and Sony W350 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera, you have to consider its weight and size. The Sony HX5 has got external dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs) and the Sony W350 has specifications of 91mm x 52mm x 17mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.7") with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

See the Sony HX5 versus Sony W350 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have at that time. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the HX5 and the W350.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the HX5 and W350 is 92 and 97 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing only by going over a spec sheet. The photograph underneath might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the HX5 and W350.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The HX5 having a larger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Sony W350 will offer you greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images far more aggressively.