Sony WX220 vs Sony A55: A Hands-On Comparison from an Expert’s Perspective

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially with such diverse options as Sony’s ultracompact WX220 and entry-level DSLR A55. Over my 15 years testing thousands of cameras for varied photography disciplines, I’ve developed a nuanced eye for what technically differentiates models in practical, real-world use. In this comprehensive comparison, I dive deep into how these two distinctly positioned Sony cameras stack up against each other - from sensor technology and ergonomics to autofocus and image quality - giving you an authoritative, transparent guide to pick the best fit for your photography needs and budget.

The Story Behind the Cameras: Who Are They For?

• Sony WX220: Launched in early 2014, this ultracompact digital camera is essentially built for casual photographers and travelers prioritizing convenience, portability, and simple point-and-shoot operation, yet with decent zoom reach.

• Sony A55: Released in 2010 as an entry-level DSLR with a translucent mirror (SLT) design, it targets enthusiasts and budding professionals who want robust manual controls, an APS-C sensor delivering DSLR-grade image quality, and extensive lens compatibility.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here’s a visual primer comparing their physical size and ergonomics.

As you can see, the WX220 is a pocketable powerhouse of simplicity, while the A55 demands a dedicated camera bag and offers a heftier, more substantive grip and control layout.

Sensor and Image Quality: Size Matters

At the heart of any camera’s image performance is its sensor - determining resolution, dynamic range, noise control, and color fidelity.

From my hands-on testing, the scale of difference cannot be overstated. The APS-C sensor in the A55 is more than 13 times larger in area than the tiny 1/2.3" sensor in the WX220. This translates to:

• Superior Noise Performance: Even at high ISO, the A55 produces usable, low-noise images ideal for low-light and indoor shooting without resorting to flash.

• Dynamic Range: The A55 offers significantly better retention of highlight and shadow detail, a vital trait for landscapes and high-contrast scenes.

• Color Depth and Tonality: Larger sensors capture finer tonal gradations, making portraits and nature photography richer and more natural-looking.

Meanwhile, WX220’s smaller sensor, though decent for casual snapshots and web sharing, struggles beyond ISO 800 with visible noise and limited dynamic capability. The lack of RAW means limited post-processing flexibility.

Real-World Tip: If you care about post-production or printing large, the A55’s sensor is markedly more capable. The WX220 suits quick snaps or travel photos where size and convenience outweigh image fidelity.

Design, Ergonomics and Controls: Comfort Meets Function

Operating ease and physical integration with your shooting style matter immensely.

• Sony WX220: Minimalist with a fixed 3-inch 460k-dot LCD, no viewfinder, no manual exposure controls, and a fixed lens. Ideal for “point-and-shoot” users who value simplicity over granular control. However, I found the narrow body and small buttons less comfortable for extended shooting or manual tasks.

• Sony A55: Compact DSLR form factor with fully articulated 3-inch 921k-dot touchscreen, electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage, and extensive manual controls including shutter/aperture priority, exposure compensation, and custom white balance. The ergonomics are professional oriented, with a substantial grip supporting heavy lenses and prolonged handheld shooting.

The articulated screen on the A55 supports creative angles and videography better, while the WX220’s fixed display limits flexibility.

My Testing Insight: For photographers accustomed to DSLR or mirrorless cameras, the A55 feels naturally intuitive and rewarding to use. Beginners or travelers seeking a compact grab-and-go may appreciate the WX220’s simplicity but should expect to sacrifice manual finesse.

Autofocus: Precision and Speed Across Disciplines

Autofocus (AF) sets the pace of your shooting workflow, especially for action, wildlife, and fast-moving events.

The A55’s SLT design incorporates phase-detection AF via its translucent mirror, enabling faster and more accurate autofocus compared to the WX220’s contrast-detection-only system. In practice:

• For Wildlife and Sports: The A55’s faster focus acquisition and predictive tracking excel, keeping up with fast subjects during bursts.

• For Portraits: Both cameras detect faces, but the A55’s selective AF points allow more composition control.

• Low-Light Focusing: The A55 performs better due to sensitive phase-detection AF, although neither sports eye detection (now common in modern cameras).

During my critique, I observed the WX220 AF tended to hunt under dim lighting or fast action, which hampers quick decisive shots.

Burst Shooting and Buffer Performance

Both cameras offer 10 fps burst rates, impressive specs on paper.

• Sony WX220: Limited continuous frames due to small processor and buffer size - practical use is short bursts at reduced JPEG quality.

• Sony A55: Handles sustained bursts better owing to DSLR-grade processing and fast memory card interface.

For sports or dynamic wildlife photographers, the A55's buffer handling enables capturing the perfect moment in longer bursts.

Lens and Accessory Ecosystem

The WX220’s fixed 25-250mm (10x zoom) lens is sealed in and non-interchangeable, limiting creativity and quality upgrades.

The A55 employs the Sony/Minolta Alpha mount, compatible with over 140 lenses, including:

• Fast prime lenses for portraits and artsy bokeh
• Telephoto zooms for wildlife and sports
• Wide-angle lenses for landscapes and architecture
• Macro lenses for close focusing precision

This vast lens selection lets the A55 adapt to every photography style and grow with your skills.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera features weather or dust sealing.

• The WX220’s build is plastic and lightweight, ideal for casual travel but requires careful handling.

• The A55’s magnesium alloy body offers improved durability and a solid feel for daily professional use, though still not weatherproof.

Battery Life and Storage

I found the A55’s improved battery life allows a fuller day’s shooting, important for trips or events without frequent recharging.

Video Capabilities and Audio

Both offer full HD 1080p recording, but:

• WX220 supports AVCHD and MPEG-4 with 60p and 60i at 1920x1080. No external mic or headphone ports.

• A55 provides AVCHD, MPEG-4, and H.264 with microphone input (external audio recording), enhancing video quality for creators.

Neither camera supports stabilized video out of the box beyond sensor/optical stabilization for stills.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

The WX220 benefits from NFC for easy smartphone pairing and sharing, convenient for social shooters. The A55 has integrated GPS, helping geotag landscapes and travel photos.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Let’s explore how these cameras perform in practical photography situations.

Portrait Photography

• A55:

  • APS-C sensor delivers smooth, nuanced skin tones.
  • Wide lens choice for flattering focal lengths.
  • Selective AF points help with eye detection.
  • Manual controls for precise depth of field using aperture priority.

• WX220:

  • Smaller sensor limits background blur.
  • Basic fixed zoom lens restricts creative framing.
  • Face detection works but can lack finesse in complex lighting.

Landscape Photography

• A55:

  • Larger sensor with better dynamic range preserves detail in shadows and bright skies.
  • Articulated screen and viewfinder facilitate composition under tricky angles.
  • Lens options enable ultra-wide vistas.

• WX220:

  • Limited dynamic range and resolution suitable for casual snapshots.
  • Lightweight and portable but no weather sealing.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• A55:

  • Superior continuous AF with phase detection supports fast-moving subjects.
  • Extensible telephoto lenses (400mm+) possible.
  • 10 fps burst sustained longer.

• WX220:

  • Contrast AF struggles with action.
  • 10x zoom decent for distant subjects but struggles with sharpness at max reach.
  • Short burst duration.

Street Photography

• WX220:

  • Extremely compact and discreet - ideal for street shoots.
  • Quick start-up and simple UI.

• A55:

  • Bulkier and more conspicuous but excellent image quality.
  • Silent shooting not available (loud shutter).

Macro Photography

• A55:

  • Compatible with specialized macro lenses offering superior close-up focus precision.
  • Sensor-level stabilization assists.

• WX220:

  • No dedicated macro support.
  • Fixed lens minimum focusing distances limit true macro.

Night / Astro Photography

• A55:

  • Better high ISO performance for dim-light and star shots.
  • Manual exposure control key for precise long exposures.

• WX220:

  • Limited ISO performance and no manual exposure modes restrict night photography options.

Video Shooting

• A55:

  • Professional audio inputs.
  • Articulated screen benefits vloggers and filmmakers.

• WX220:

  • Good basic full HD with simple controls.
  • No external audio option.

Travel Photography

• WX220:

  • Ultra-portable, lightweight, and ready out of the bag.
  • NFC for rapid sharing.

• A55:

  • More versatile but significant size and weight tradeoff.
  • Longer battery life and GPS features helpful.

Professional Work

The A55, with RAW output, extensive manual shooting modes, and lens flexibility, can serve as a budget-conscious tool for aspiring pros. The WX220’s limitations make it unsuitable for professional workflows but solid for point-and-shoot documentation.

Sample Image Gallery: Side-by-Side Image Quality

Sony WX220 front Sony WX220 screen back Sony A55 front Sony A55 screen back

Note the A55’s superior detail retention, smoother bokeh around the subject, and better highlight control compared to the WX220, which shows more noise and less tonal depth.

Overall Performance Summary Ratings

Genre-Specific Performance Breakdown

This visualizes which camera excels where - note the WX220’s niche in street and travel, while the A55 dominates in portraits, sports, and low light.

Price and Value Considerations

• Sony WX220: Approx. $198 (new/used), unbeatable affordability with respectable basic capabilities.

• Sony A55: Around $800 new, reflecting advanced features, sensor size, and lens ecosystem.

For budget-conscious buyers needing simple documentarian capacity, the WX220 is compelling. However, photographers ready to invest in quality, flexibility, and growth should opt for the A55.

Final Thoughts: Which Sony Is Right for You?

Pick the Sony WX220 if…

• You want an ultra-lightweight, pocketable camera to carry anywhere.
• Your photography needs are casual or recreational with snapshots for social sharing.
• You prefer immediate simplicity without manual controls.
• Budget constraints prioritize cost over professional features.

Go for the Sony A55 if…

• You desire professional image quality with a large APS-C sensor.
• You need manual exposure modes, RAW shooting, and superior autofocus.
• You want access to a broad lens selection.
• You shoot diverse subjects - portraits, landscapes, sports, wildlife - and demand performance.
• Budget allows investing in a camera to grow with your skills.

Why You Can Trust This Review

My evaluations stem from extensive side-by-side testing under real shooting conditions over years, covering both controlled indoor tests and varied outdoor environments. I’ve handled both cameras personally across portrait sessions, wildlife parks, cultural streets, landscapes, and video projects, assessing every technical metric and user experience parameter pertinent to serious buyers.

Summary

Making an informed choice starts with your photographic priorities. Hopefully, this detailed comparison arms you with clear expectations and expert insights so that whichever Sony you pick, you’re investing in a camera that truly enhances your creative vision.

Happy shooting!