What To Know
- However, the A580 has a slight edge in terms of dynamic range, meaning it can capture a wider range of tones and shadows in high-contrast scenes.
- The Sony A58 has a built-in flash with a guide number of 13, while the A580 lacks a built-in flash.
- The A580 has a slightly better autofocus system, larger LCD screen, and viewfinder, while the A58 offers faster continuous shooting and a built-in flash.
When it comes to entry-level DSLRs, Sony’s A58 and A580 models have long been popular choices among photography enthusiasts. However, with only a slight difference in their names, it can be confusing to understand the key distinctions between these two cameras. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the similarities and differences between the Sony A58 and A580, helping you make an informed decision about which camera best suits your needs.
Image Quality: A Tie with Minor Differences
Both the A58 and A580 feature a 20.1-megapixel Exmor APS-C CMOS sensor, ensuring sharp and detailed images. However, the A580 has a slight edge in terms of dynamic range, meaning it can capture a wider range of tones and shadows in high-contrast scenes. Nonetheless, both cameras produce excellent image quality for their class.
Autofocus: A580 Takes the Lead
The Sony A580 boasts a more advanced autofocus system than the A58. It features 15 autofocus points, including three cross-type sensors, compared to the A58’s 11 autofocus points with no cross-type sensors. This gives the A580 faster and more accurate focusing, especially in low-light conditions.
Continuous Shooting: A58’s Edge
In terms of continuous shooting speed, the A58 has the upper hand. It can capture up to 8 frames per second (fps) in continuous mode, while the A580 is limited to 7 fps. This can be a significant advantage for capturing fast-moving subjects or sports events.
LCD Screen and Viewfinder: A580’s Larger Viewfinder
The A580 features a larger, 2.7-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 230k dots, compared to the A58’s 2.5-inch LCD with 123k dots. The A580’s viewfinder is also larger, with a magnification of 0.74x compared to the A58’s 0.71x. This provides a more immersive and comfortable shooting experience.
Built-in Flash: A58’s Advantage
The Sony A58 has a built-in flash with a guide number of 13, while the A580 lacks a built-in flash. This can be a useful feature for adding extra illumination in low-light situations or when using fill-in flash.
Video Recording: Similar Capabilities
Both the A58 and A580 offer 1080p video recording at 30 fps. They also feature built-in stereo microphones for capturing audio. However, the A580 has a slightly wider ISO range for video, allowing for better low-light performance.
Price and Availability
The Sony A58 was released in 2010, while the A580 was introduced in 2011. As a result, the A58 is generally more affordable than the A580. Both cameras are still available new and used in the market.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Entry-Level DSLRs
The Sony A58 and A580 are both solid entry-level DSLRs that offer a range of features and capabilities. The A580 has a slightly better autofocus system, larger LCD screen, and viewfinder, while the A58 offers faster continuous shooting and a built-in flash. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: Both cameras have excellent image quality, but the A580 has a slight advantage in dynamic range.
Q: Which camera has faster autofocus?
A: The A580 has a more advanced autofocus system and is faster and more accurate.
Q: Which camera has a higher continuous shooting speed?
A: The A58 can shoot at 8 fps, while the A580 is limited to 7 fps.
Q: Which camera has a larger LCD screen and viewfinder?
A: The A580 has a larger 2.7-inch LCD screen and a 0.74x magnification viewfinder.
Q: Which camera has a built-in flash?
A: Only the A58 has a built-in flash.
