| I own it | I want it | I had it |
| 125 | 8 | 55 |
The Sony ALpha SLT-A33 and A55, are the first cameras to incorporate Sony's translucent mirror design. The Single Lens Translucent (SLT) cameras offer live view with full-time fast phase-detection AF whether in stills or movie shooting. This is achieved by having a fixed, semi-transparent mirror that redirects a small amount of light onto the AF sensor while allowing the rest through onto the main imaging sensor. The A55 is built around a 16.2MP sensor while the A33 features a 14.2MP unit. Both feature 3.0" articulated LCDs, full HD video recording and ISO sensitivity up to 12,800, while the A55 also features built-in GPS. As well as being highly innovative, both cameras are fast, responsive and capable of excellent image quality.
| Body type | Compact SLR |
| Max resolution | 4912 x 3264 |
| Effective pixels | 16.2 megapixels |
| Sensor size | APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| ISO | Auto, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800, (25600 with boost) |
| Lens mount | Sony/Minolta Alpha mount |
| Focal length mult. | 1.5× |
| Articulated LCD | Fully articulated |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 921,000 |
| Min shutter speed | 30 sec |
| Max shutter speed | 1/4000 sec |
| Format |
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| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC/Memory Stick Pro Duo/ Pro-HG Duo |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 500 g (1.10 lb / 17.64 oz) |
| Dimensions | 124 x 92 x 85 mm (4.88 x 3.62 x 3.35″) |
| GPS | BuiltIn |
The Sony SLT-A55 is an excellent all-rounder with a comprehensive feature set. The translucent mirror technology gives it an innovative touch and the best live view AF on the market. Continuous shooting performance is the best in its class - just don't plan on shooting the Olympics with it.
Good for: Feature-hungry photographers from entry- to enthusiast level
Not so good for: Anyone who expects real pro-level sports camera performance at a budget price
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Gold Award
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76%
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 | 24.1 megapixels 3.2″ screen APS-C sensor |
