Sony TX20 vs Sony A55

Here, we will be evaluating the Sony TX20 versus Sony A55, one being a Ultracompact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR and both are manufactured by Sony. The image resolution of the TX20 (16MP) and the A55 (16MP) is pretty similar but the TX20 (1/2.3") and A55 (APS-C) offer different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The TX20 was manufactured 19 months later than the A55 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Sony TX20 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony A55 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick summary of how the TX20 grades versus the A55 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX20 and Sony SLT-A55. The entire galleries are available at Sony TX20 Gallery and Sony A55 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera, you're going to have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Sony TX20 offers outside dimensions of 96mm x 56mm x 18mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs) whilst the Sony A55 has measurements of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") having a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Take a look at the Sony TX20 versus Sony A55 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have at the time. Below is a front view size comparison of the TX20 vs the A55.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the TX20 and A55 is 96 and 67 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to picture the contrast between sensor measurements only by reviewing specs. The photograph below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the TX20 and A55.

All in all, each of these cameras come with the identical MP albeit different sensor measurements. The TX20 provides the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallow DOF more challenging. The younger TX20 provides a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.