Sony Alpha DSLR A200

In the world of entry level digital SLRs, there are many choices. Sony offers the A200 as a replacement to the A100. This new model adds higher resolution and some other impressive features. The Sony Alpha series are built on the Konica Minolta bodies and as such, all your Konica Minolta lenses will still work with these cameras.

Standout features

• In-body image stabilization

• 10.2 megapixels

• 3 frames per second continuous shooting speed

• 2.7 inch LCD screen

Features

The Sony Digital SLR cameras are fairly unique in that they place the image stabilization in the body of the camera as opposed to relying on the lens to perform this function. This allows image stabilization to be used with even the cheapest of lenses. The image stabilizer will help reduce shake and take out some of the blur in your images, making your images appear sharper.

The 10.2 megapixel CCD image sensor provides enough resolution to allow prints as big as you want. It should also be noted that this camera uses a CCD, rather than a CMOS sensor. CCD sensors are generally better at turning light into actual digital images.

The 2.7 inch LCD screen is large enough to display all the important info you need, yet small enough not to draw too much power from the battery.

The DSLR-A200 will is capable of shooting up to 3 fps, so you can be sure you get the perfect shot every time.

Summary of reviews

The Sony utilizes in-body image stabilization to allow a broader use of lenses. The experts also liked the ability to use a wireless flash, a feature not always found on an entry level DSLR. The experts didn’t like the proprietary USB connection which forces you to use the specific cable that came with the camera.

Consumers liked the image quality of the A200. The features were straight forward and easy to use. The compatibility of Minolta lenses was a big draw too. The most users didn’t like the non standard USB cable, but this was only a minor inconvenience. Most would recommend this product to their friends.

Summary

The Sony Alpha DSLR-A200 provides some nice features not commonly found in an entry level camera. The compatibility with the Minolta lenses of old make it a no brainer for Minolta SLR users looking to get into a digital camera.