Sony RX1R II vs Sony A55

In this article, we are analyzing the Sony RX1R II vs Sony A55, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level DSLR and they are both offered by Sony. There is a huge difference among the image resolutions of the RX1R II (42MP) and A55 (16MP) and the RX1R II (Full frame) and A55 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The RX1R II was manufactured 5 years later than the A55 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Sony RX1R II being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the RX1R II matches up versus the A55 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II and Sony SLT-A55. The entire galleries are provided at Sony RX1R II Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Sony RX1R II provides physical dimensions of 113mm x 65mm x 72mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") and a weight of 507 grams (1.12 lbs) and the Sony A55 has sizing of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") along with a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Sony RX1R II vs Sony A55 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the RX1R II versus the A55.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the RX1R II and A55 is 78 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing just by checking out technical specs. The visual here should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the RX1R II and A55.

As you have seen, each of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The RX1R II due to its larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult and the Sony RX1R II will show greater detail due to its extra 26 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics a little more aggressively. The younger RX1R II will have an edge in sensor technology.