Resolution Chart Comparison

Shots here are of our 'version two' resolution chart which provides for measurement of resolution up to 4000 LPH (Lines Per Picture Height). A value of 20 equates to 2000 lines per picture height. For each camera the relevant prime lens was used. The chart is shot at a full range of apertures and the sharpest image selected. Studio light, cameras set to aperture priority (optimum aperture selected), image parameters default. Exposure compensation set to deliver approximately 80% luminance of white area.

Sony DSLR-A350 (3.1 MB, 14 MP)	Canon EOS 450D (2.6 MB, 12.2 MP)
Pentax K20D (8.5 MB; 14.5 MP)	Sony DSLR-A200 (2.4 MB; 10 MP)

Sony DSLR-A350	Canon EOS 450D
Pentax K20D	Sony DSLR-A200

Sony DSLR-A350	Canon EOS 450D
Pentax K20D	Sony DSLR-A200

Sony DSLR-A350	Canon EOS 450D
Pentax K20D	Sony DSLR-A200

Measurable results

The A350's measurable resolution is certainly impressive. It's on a par with Canon's 450D, which isn't hugely surprising - the moire pattern visible in the 450D's chart suggests it has a slightly weaker Anti-aliasing filter in front of the sensor. Sony has sacrificed a tiny fraction of absolute resolution in order to avoid this effect. It's also worth remembering that the difference between the 450D's 12.2MP and the A350's 14.2MP output is only a 7% increase in resolution in each dimension.