Resolution Chart Comparison

Shots here are of our new '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 +0.7 EV to +1.3 EV.

Sony Alpha DSLR-A100 (2,213 KB; 10 MP)	Canon EOS 30D (2,409 KB; 8.2 MP)
Sony DSC-R1 (3,739 KB; 10 MP)	Nikon D200 (2,728 KB; 10 MP)

Sony Alpha DSLR-A100	Canon EOS 30D
Sony DSC-R1	Nikon D200

Sony Alpha DSLR-A100	Canon EOS 30D
Sony DSC-R1	Nikon D200

Sony Alpha DSLR-A100	Canon EOS 30D
Sony DSC-R1	Nikon D200

Measurable findings (three measurements taken for each camera):

We were a little surprised to see the Alpha DSLR-A100 beating the Nikon D200 on our resolution charts, but that's how things played out. The A100 delivered slightly more absolute horizontal and vertical resolution than the D200 and continued detail much further (the 'extinction resolution'). Here also we're seeing more of an advantage from ten megapixels over the eight megapixels of the Canon EOS 30D, however these numbers mean fractional improvements and as we have already seen don't always equate to a visibly more detailed 'real life' image.