What To Know
- The A200 is slightly larger and heavier than the A290, with dimensions of 131 x 99 x 71 mm and a weight of 562 grams, compared to 128 x 97 x 68 mm and 549 grams for the A290.
- The A200 is a solid choice for those on a budget or who prioritize image quality over autofocus performance, while the A290 is a better option for those seeking faster autofocus and a larger LCD screen.
- The Sony A290 is slightly smaller and lighter than the A200, with dimensions of 128 x 97 x 68 mm and a weight of 549 grams, compared to 131 x 99 x 71 mm and 562 grams for the A200.
When it comes to entry-level DSLRs, the Sony A200 and A290 often come to mind. These cameras offer a great balance of features, performance, and affordability, making them popular choices for aspiring photographers. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between the Sony A200 and A290, helping you make an informed decision about which camera is right for your needs.
Image Sensor and Resolution
Both the Sony A200 and A290 feature a 10.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, providing ample resolution for most photography applications. However, the A290 boasts a slightly larger sensor size than the A200, resulting in marginally better image quality at higher ISO settings.
Autofocus System and Performance
The Sony A200 and A290 employ different autofocus systems. The A200 uses an 11-point contrast-detection autofocus system, while the A290 has a more advanced 9-point phase-detection autofocus system. This difference translates into faster and more accurate autofocus performance for the A290, especially in low-light conditions.
Continuous Shooting Speed
The Sony A200 offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 3 frames per second (fps), while the A290 can shoot at a slightly faster rate of 5 fps. This difference may be significant for capturing fast-paced action or wildlife photography.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen
Both cameras have a pentamirror viewfinder with 0.83x magnification, providing a bright and clear view of the scene. The A290, however, features a larger 3.0-inch LCD screen compared to the A200’s 2.7-inch screen. The larger screen size allows for easier image composition and playback.
Video Capabilities
Neither the Sony A200 nor the A290 offers video recording capabilities, which may be a drawback for those seeking a camera for both photography and videography.
Connectivity and Features
The Sony A200 and A290 both have a USB port for data transfer and a hot shoe for attaching external flashes. However, the A290 has an additional HDMI port for connecting the camera to an external display or TV.
Battery Life and Dimensions
The Sony A200 uses a NP-FM500H battery, while the A290 uses a NP-FW50 battery. Both batteries provide similar battery life, allowing for around 500-600 shots on a single charge. The A200 is slightly larger and heavier than the A290, with dimensions of 131 x 99 x 71 mm and a weight of 562 grams, compared to 128 x 97 x 68 mm and 549 grams for the A290.
Final Note: Finding Your Perfect Match
The Sony A200 and A290 are both excellent entry-level DSLRs that offer a great starting point for aspiring photographers. The A200 is a solid choice for those on a budget or who prioritize image quality over autofocus performance, while the A290 is a better option for those seeking faster autofocus and a larger LCD screen. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: The Sony A290 has a slightly larger sensor size than the A200, resulting in marginally better image quality at higher ISO settings.
Q: Which has faster autofocus?
A: The Sony A290 has a more advanced 9-point phase-detection autofocus system, providing faster and more accurate autofocus performance than the A200’s 11-point contrast-detection system.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: Neither the Sony A200 nor the A290 offers video recording capabilities.
Q: Which camera has a larger LCD screen?
A: The Sony A290 has a larger 3.0-inch LCD screen compared to the A200’s 2.7-inch screen.
Q: Which camera is lighter and more compact?
A: The Sony A290 is slightly smaller and lighter than the A200, with dimensions of 128 x 97 x 68 mm and a weight of 549 grams, compared to 131 x 99 x 71 mm and 562 grams for the A200.
