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Sony A230 DSLR Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£120
  • Avg. price in US: ~$100
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Lens mount: Sony A
  • Main camera pixel size: 6.12 µm
  • Weight: 490 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 510 shots

Sony A230 DSLR review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.5

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.5

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.5

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

5.4

Sensor & Image

25.0%

5.3

Photo Features

18.0%

2.2

Video & Audio

14.0%

3.9

Display & Design

8.0%

6.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.6

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 5.5
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    4.5

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.3

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    10

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 7.2
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    6.4

    Weight

    30.0%

    9.2

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 8.2
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.9

    Price

    20.0%

    6.4

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    9.2

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 8.0
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    4.5

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    10

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 6.1
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.4

    Weight

    25.0%

    5.4

    Thickness

    20.0%

    6.3

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 7.0
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    10

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    4.5

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 6.4
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.4

    Weight

    25.0%

    9.2

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £120

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Sony Alpha A230 is an entry-level DSLR featuring a 10.2-megapixel APS-C CCD sensor, a BIONZ image processor, and a built-in SteadyShot INSIDE sensor-shift image stabilization system that provides up to 3.5 stops of compensation. Key characteristics include a 2.7-inch LCD with a user-friendly graphic interface, a 9-point autofocus system with an Eye-Start feature, and dual memory card slots for both SD and Memory Stick Pro Duo media. Its main pros are a compact, lightweight body weighing approximately 450g, compatibility with a wide range of Sony A-mount and Minolta AF lenses, and an intuitive design tailored for photography beginners. However, it suffers from several cons, including a lack of video recording and live view capabilities, a relatively slow continuous shooting speed of 2.5 fps, and a smaller, less ergonomic grip compared to its predecessor.

Technical Specifications of Sony A230 DSLR

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

?

Sensor & Image

25.0%

?

Photo Features

18.0%

?

Video & Audio

14.0%

?

Display & Design

8.0%

?

Battery & Power

7.0%

?

Connectivity & Storage

4.5
Sony A230 DSLR has a technical score of 4.47 points, which is lower than 71.8% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
1.0
Sony A230 DSLR has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.5

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

6.1
Sony A230 DSLR has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.1 points, which is lower than 60.2% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

APS-C
Sony A230 DSLR uses a sensor classified as APS-C; it is larger than the sensor in 57.4% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 25.7% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

10.2 MP
Sony A230 DSLR has a main camera resolution of 10.2 MP, which is lower than that of 95.6% of cameras and equal to that of 0.9% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

6.12 µm
Sony A230 DSLR has a main camera pixel size of 6.12 µm which is larger than in 95.4% of cameras and equal to the size in 0.4% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

100
Sony A230 DSLR has a base ISO of 100 which is higher than that of 20.3% of cameras and equal to that of 52% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

3,200
Sony A230 DSLR reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 3,200, which is lower than that of 62.8% of cameras and equal to that of 22.7% of cameras.
Show more
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Sony A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony A230 DSLR has a built-in focus motor. 10.9% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

9
Sony A230 DSLR has 9 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 67.1% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 26% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Sony A230 DSLR supports phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.3% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Sony A230 DSLR supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

N/A
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

N/A
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

N/A
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

N/A
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Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

dslr
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

490 g
Sony A230 DSLR weighs 490 g which is heavier than 60.5% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

128 mm
Sony A230 DSLR has a width of 128 mm which is wider than 66.7% of cameras and equal to that of 1.1% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

97 mm
Sony A230 DSLR has a height of 97 mm which is taller than 77.2% of cameras and equal to that of 1.7% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

67.5 mm
Sony A230 DSLR has a thickness of 67.5 mm which is thicker than 61.4% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
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Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

510 shots
Sony A230 DSLR has a CIPA-rated battery life of 510 shots, which is longer than that of 82.7% of cameras and equal to that of 0.7% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

900 mAh
Sony A230 DSLR has a battery capacity of 900 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 77.8% of cameras and equal to those in 0.7% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Sony A230 DSLR has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A230 DSLR does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A230 DSLR does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A230 DSLR does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Sony A230 DSLR does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Sony A230 DSLR vs the average camera

  • In-body stabilization
    Sony A230 DSLR supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
    What it is: A stabilization system that physically moves the image sensor to reduce shake during handheld shooting.
    When it matters: When you often shoot handheld and want sharper results at slower shutter speeds without relying only on lens stabilization.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony A230 DSLR supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Sony A230 DSLR supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
    When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

    Importance: HIGH

    Sony A230 DSLR supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • 2.78 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sony A230 DSLR has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6.1 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
    What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
    When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 3.5 µm

    Sony A230 DSLR has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6.1 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.6.12 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Sony A230 DSLR includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
    Sensor-shift dust reduction.
    What it is: A built-in mechanism designed to remove or reduce dust particles from the image sensor surface.
    When it matters: When you change lenses often and want to reduce the chance of dust spots appearing on your images.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A230 DSLR includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • 180 shots longer battery life
    Sony A230 DSLR has longer battery life than the average camera (510 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
    What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
    When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 400 shots

    Sony A230 DSLR has longer battery life than the average camera (510 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.510 shots vs 330 shots
  • Better viewfinder type
    Sony A230 DSLR uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
    Pentamirror optical viewfinder.
    What it is: The type of viewfinder the camera uses to frame the shot, such as optical, electronic, hybrid, or none.
    When it matters: When you strongly prefer the clarity of an optical finder, the preview benefits of an electronic one, or no viewfinder at all.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony A230 DSLR uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).optical vs none
  • Built-in AF motor
    Sony A230 DSLR has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
    When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A230 DSLR has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
  • 2.42x cheaper
    Sony A230 DSLR is cheaper than the average camera (£120 vs £290).
    Sony A230 DSLR is cheaper than the average camera (£120 vs £290).£120 vs £290
  • Better viewfinder type
    Sony A230 DSLR uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
  • 2.78 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sony A230 DSLR has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (6.1 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Sony A230 DSLR includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • In-body stabilization
    Sony A230 DSLR supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Sony A230 DSLR supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • Built-in AF motor
    Sony A230 DSLR has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
  • 180 shots longer battery life
    Sony A230 DSLR has longer battery life than the average camera (510 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Battery & Power
  • 0.3 in smaller screen
    Sony A230 DSLR has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
  • 5 % lower viewfinder coverage
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower viewfinder coverage than the average camera (95% vs 100%). The average camera has viewfinder coverage of 100%.
  • 23.1 mm taller body
    Sony A230 DSLR is taller than the average camera (97 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 24.1% heavier
    Sony A230 DSLR is heavier than the average camera (490 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 8.1 mm wider
    Sony A230 DSLR is wider than the average camera (128 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 21.5 mm thicker
    Sony A230 DSLR is thicker than the average camera (67.5 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 6 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (10.2 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Sony A230 DSLR does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Sony A230 DSLR supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
  • 10 points lower DxOMark sensor score
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower DxOMark sensor score than the average camera (63 points vs 73 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sensor score of 73 points.
  • Lower DxOMark landscape score
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (11.4 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
  • 311 points lower DxOMark Sports score
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower DxOMark sports score than the average camera (531 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
  • 3,200 lower max ISO
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower max ISO than the average camera (3,200 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 4 older
    Sony A230 DSLR is older than the average camera (2009 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    May 2009
  • Lower DxOMark portrait score
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower DxOMark portrait score than the average camera (22.3 vs 23.0). The average camera scores 23.0.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Sony A230 DSLR has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
  • 1.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (2.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
  • 3.2 fps slower mechanical burst
    Sony A230 DSLR has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (2.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • 14 fewer AF points
    Sony A230 DSLR has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • No manual exposure control
    Sony A230 DSLR does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
  • 50,000 fewer shutter cycles
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower shutter durability than the average camera (50,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.
    unofficial estimate
  • 2 fewer microphones
    Sony A230 DSLR has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • No continuous video AF
    Sony A230 DSLR does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    no video recording
  • 220 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (900 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • Older HDMI version
    Sony A230 DSLR uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Sony A230 DSLR has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
    What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
    When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Sony A230 DSLR has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.0 vs -4
  • 6 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (10.2 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (10.2 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.10.2 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • 0.3 in smaller screen
    Sony A230 DSLR has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
    What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
    When it matters: When you want a larger display for reviewing shots, using menus, or shooting from awkward angles.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 3 in

    Sony A230 DSLR has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.2.7 in vs 3 in
  • 2 fewer microphones
    Sony A230 DSLR has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
    What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
    When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 2 microphones

    Sony A230 DSLR has fewer microphones than the average camera (0 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.0 vs 2
  • 5 % lower viewfinder coverage
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower viewfinder coverage than the average camera (95% vs 100%). The average camera has viewfinder coverage of 100%.
    What it is: The percentage of the final image area that is visible through the viewfinder when composing a shot.
    When it matters: When you want the framed view to closely match what will actually appear in the final photo.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: 100%

    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower viewfinder coverage than the average camera (95% vs 100%). The average camera has viewfinder coverage of 100%.95 % vs 100 %
  • 1.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (2.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
    What it is: The official stabilization effectiveness rating measured under CIPA standards, usually expressed in stops.
    When it matters: When you compare how effective stabilization really is for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 5 stops

    Sony A230 DSLR has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (2.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.2.5 stops vs 4 stops
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Sony A230 DSLR does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
    What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
    When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A230 DSLR does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • No continuous video AF
    Sony A230 DSLR does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    no video recording
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony A230 DSLR does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
Total
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Battery & Power
Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Sony A230 DSLR and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony A230 DSLR?

  • Compact and lightweight body design
  • Effective in-body Super SteadyShot image stabilization
  • Dual memory card slots (SD and Memory Stick Pro Duo)
  • Simple and intuitive menu system ideal for beginners
  • Fast and accurate autofocus for its class
  • Great value for an entry-level DSLR
  • Helpful on-screen graphic interface for new users

What customers dislike about Sony A230 DSLR?

  • No Live View or tilting LCD screen
  • No video recording capability
  • Small and uncomfortable hand grip for some users
  • Sluggish continuous shooting speed of 2.5 fps
  • Kit lens can produce slightly soft images at wide apertures
  • Proprietary hot shoe limits third-party flash options
  • Small battery capacity compared to predecessors

Expert reviews

C
cnet.com
15/07/2009
Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 review - CNET

The Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 is an entry-level digital SLR camera that serves as a modest, lightweight upgrade over its predecessor, the A200, offering identical image quality and performance to its pricier sibling, the A330. It features quick power-on times, snappy autofocus in both good and dim lighting, and built-in wireless flash capabilities. Users will appreciate its dual card...Read more

W
whatdigitalcamera.com
01/10/2009
Sony Alpha a230 Review - What Digital Camera

The Sony Alpha a230 is recognized for its highly competitive budget performance and lightweight, well-built design that offers strong value for entry-level photographers. Key performance advantages include decent high ISO noise results and a highly reliable metering system for accurate exposures. Conversely, the review identifies significant handling deficiencies, specifically a...Read more

C
cameralabs.com
15/10/2009
Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 | Cameralabs

The Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 is an entry-level DSLR designed as a lighter, more compact, and user-friendly successor to the older A200, making it an accessible upgrade for beginners transitioning from point-and-shoot cameras. It retains its predecessor's internal specifications, featuring a 10.2 Megapixel CCD sensor and built-in, sensor-shift image stabilisation (SteadyShot) that works...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
19/10/2009
Sony Alpha A230 18-55mm kit review

The Sony Alpha A230 (18-55mm kit) is an entry-level digital SLR camera reviewed by Ben Pitt for Expert Reviews on 19 October 2009. It launched at a reviewed price of £349 including VAT as a budget-friendly option to replace the previous A200 model. The review highlights a few key pros, including its very affordable price point, a more compact and 150g lighter body than its...Read more

P
photoreview.com.au
No Date Provided
Sony DSLR-A230 - Photo Review

The Photo Review Australia evaluation highlights the Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 as a capable, budget-friendly entry-level camera featuring body-integrated SteadyShot Inside image stabilisation, fast autofocus in bright light, and robust RAW file handling. It offers extensive user-adjustable controls for beginners, though the design is specifically tailored for those focused on still...Read more

D
digitalkamera.de
29/09/2009
Review: Sony Alpha 230 - Digitalkamera.de

The digitalkamera.de review highlights the Sony Alpha 230 as an affordable, user-friendly entry-level DSLR boasting very good image quality, driven by a 10-megapixel CCD sensor. Pros include excellent color depth, crisp details, and an intuitive interface designed for beginners. However, to achieve this price point, the camera lacks advanced features such as Live View, in-camera...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
connect-living.de
29/07/2009
Sony Alpha 230 review - connect-living

The Sony Alpha 230 is an entry-level DSLR camera that balances an upgraded interface with mixed hardware and performance trade-offs. On the positive side, the camera introduces a modern HDMI output for displaying high-resolution digital slide shows directly onto HD televisions, allowing users with newer Sony Bravia models to navigate using their TV remote control. Its overall body...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
camerarace.com
N/A
Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 - Review and Specifications

The Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 is a budget-friendly, entry-level camera offering excellent value, featuring a lightweight, compact design and a proficient 40-segment honeycomb metering system. It delivers commendable low-noise performance up to ISO 800 and clean results at ISO 1600, making it a competitive option for beginners. However, the camera suffers from poor ergonomics, featuring a...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
dxomark.fr
05/2009
Sony Alpha 230 - DXOMARK Scores & Camerarace Specifications

The Sony Alpha 230 is an entry-level DSLR released in May 2009 that features a 10.12-megapixel APS-C CCD sensor and a Sony Alpha DT lens mount. Designed primarily for beginners, the camera stands out for its lightweight design and built-in sensor-shift image stabilization, allowing users to stabilize any attached lens. Its technical highlights include a maximum shutter speed of...Read more

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F
fotografie.nl
20/01/2010
Sony A230 review - Fotografie.nl

The Sony A230 is reviewed as a highly simplified, affordable entry-level DSLR designed specifically for beginners. A major pro highlighted in the review is its 10-megapixel CCD sensor, which delivers excellent colours, gradation, and detail sharpness. It provides respectable ISO performance up to ISO 800, which can stretch to 1600 or 3200 in low-light situations. Furthermore, its...Read more

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