Resolution Chart Comparison (JPEG)

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.

Nikon D3000 (2.8MB, 10.2 MP)	Canon EOS 1000D (2.2 MB, 10.1 MP)
Sony Alpha 230 (2.4 MB; 10.2 MP)	Pentax K2000 (2.7 MB, 10.2 MP)

Nikon D3000	Canon EOS 1000D
Sony Alpha 230	Pentax K2000

Nikon D3000	Canon EOS 1000D
Sony Alpha 230	Pentax K2000

Nikon D3000	Canon EOS 1000D
Sony Alpha 230	Pentax K2000

Measurable results

There are few surprises here - the Nikon D3000 and Canon EOS 1000D are close in terms of detail resolution although the EOS 1000D just has the edge in terms of absolute resolutino and images are slightly sharper at default settings. The Sony Alpha 230 gives the softest images of all four cameras here, but its vertical resolution is (or appears to be) quite good given the generally soft output. In fact, it is possible to count nine vertical lines at frequencies as high as 2600LPH, which is beyond the theoretical Nyquist frequency of the sensor. However, as we'll see from the raw comparisons over the page, all is not necessarily what it seems to be...