Sony A330 DSLR: Review

Posted to Digital SLR 2010-01-06

Sony A330 DSLR review:

Another competitive entry into the digital SLR market is the Sony A330 DSLR, which offers consumers a high-quality alternative to traditional high-end cameras. This easy-to-use model is only one of the many great cameras that are available today. Despite lacking features of more prominent digital SLRs, the Sony A330 is a convenient camera that takes snapshots with quality and ease. If you're ready to trash the old traditional camera and move on to more modern technology, this is a great place to start.

The Sony A330 DLSR measures 5.04 x 3.82 x 2.81 inches and weighs a little more than a pound. It features a 10.8-megapixel sensor with autofocus, which is slightly less in quality compared to competing SLRs. On a more positive note, the Sony A330 features intuitive, user-friendly menus and help options that take the guesswork out of D-SLR photography. If you have been a fan of Sony's lower-market digital cameras, then you will definitely enjoy this one.

Rating:

3.6 out of 5

Quality

Having higher megapixels does not necessarily mean better quality, and in the case of this D-SLR, that is very true. This model produces high-quality, high-speed prints that are comparable to a similarly-priced Pentax camera. The variety of scene modes and advanced picture adjustments you can make can be overwhelming at times, but simplicity is still the main thesis for this camera.

Features

As mentioned earlier, the features on the Sony A330 are downgraded compared to similar models currently on the market. Sony's goal with this camera was to provide consumers with a convenient, easy-to-use digital SLR without all the hassle that is usually involved. This camera should not be underestimated, however, because the features that are included have proved to be incredibly useful. The majority of features are automatic enhancements, such as SteadyShot Inside image stabilization. If you don't like to tweak settings often, this is the camera for you.

Summary

If you are looking for a sophisticated DSLR, then you should consider some of Sony's more professional cameras. This particular model is not as complex as it may seem, yet it doesn't sacrifice quality or performance for simplicity. The number of features may not be as impressive as other cameras, but in the end, the picture is all that matters. Also, if you want a camera with a good number of zoom lenses, this is the one to check out. Overall, the Sony A330 is a great digital SLR.

Pros

Convenient- easy-to-use digital SLR with on-screen help
Powerful- 10.8-megapixel sensor should not be underestimate
Features- 2.7 inch LCD, SteadyShot stabilization, HDMI, supports SD/MMC

Cons

Average- as far as price and value, this model meets average
Simple- still lacks many of the impressive enhancements and features