Sony HX5 vs Sony W830

In this article, we will be matching up the Sony HX5 versus Sony W830, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Ultracompact and both of them are built by Sony. There is a significant difference among the resolutions of the HX5 (10MP) and W830 (20MP) and the HX5 (1/2.4") and W830 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The HX5 was brought out 4 years before the W830 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Sony HX5 being a Compact camera and the Sony W830 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go straight into a full comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the HX5 scores against the W830 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W830. The entire galleries are available at Sony HX5 Gallery and Sony W830 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Sony HX5 enjoys external dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Sony W830 has measurements of 93mm x 52mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.0" x 0.9") having a weight of 122 grams (0.27 lbs).

Analyze the Sony HX5 versus Sony W830 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing at that moment. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the HX5 compared to the W830.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the HX5 and W830 is 92 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing only by seeing specs. The visual underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the HX5 and W830.

All in all, the two cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The HX5 because of its bigger sensor will make shooting bokeh easier and the Sony W830 will provide greater detail having its extra 10MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The older HX5 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.