Sony A580 DSLR Review | 108 Data compared

The DPReview evaluation of the Sony Alpha DSLR-A580 highlights a 16.2-megapixel sensor that delivers detailed images, low shadow noise, and a versatile dual live-view system, including a 7 fps burst rate and 1080p video. Key strengths include effective in-camera features like Auto HDR, 3D Sweep Panorama, and high-precision contrast-detection focusing. Conversely, the review identifies significant drawbacks, including a lack of continuous autofocus and exposure control during video recording. Further limitations include aggressive noise reduction at high ISOs and an awkward design for key buttons, coupled with a protruding LCD screen.

The Sony Alpha A580 is a mid-range, 16.2-megapixel APS-C DSLR that delivers excellent image quality, strong dynamic range, and exceptional battery life rated at over 1,050 shots. A major highlight of the camera is its versatile autofocus capabilities, including an upgraded 15-point phase-detection system and the "Focus Check Live View" mode, which supports both contrast-detection AF and hyper-accurate manual focus magnification. Reviewers highly praised its "magic" multi-frame modes, particularly the Multi-Frame Noise Reduction feature which micro-aligns six exposures to make high-ISO images up to ISO 3,200 look as clean as ISO 400. Additional pros include an articulating display screen, in-body stabilization, robust 7 frames per second speed-priority shooting, and the introduction of 1080i Full HD video recording with a dedicated movie button and an external microphone jack.

The Sony A580 is a mid-range, feature-rich APS-C DSLR positioned just below the company's full-frame Alpha 850. Released as part of an effort to solidify Sony's presence in the traditional DSLR market alongside its mirrorless NEX and unique SLT lines, the camera adapts existing brand technologies rather than breaking new technological ground. Designed to appeal to both new photographers and existing Alpha system fans, the camera aims to directly compete with contemporary APS-C offerings from Canon and Nikon. The core advantages of the camera center around its robust performance, solid feature set, and good video options. However, the review highlights that its overall output is slightly hindered by some image quality issues. Ultimately, the review evaluates the A580 as a competent contender, though it must fight hard to hold its own against major rivals in its specific price tier.

Despite its impressive photography capabilities, the A580 falls short when it comes to video recording features. Users are limited to manual focus during video captures and cannot adjust the shutter speed while recording. The camera captures smooth 1080i HD video at 60 fields per second using the AVCHD codec, but it lacks alternative frame rates (like 24fps or 30fps) to achieve a cinematic look. Furthermore, traditional camera users may find it frustrating that the standard shooting interface lacks an Auto ISO option. While it offers great connectivity—including standard mini-HDMI, mini-USB, and an external mic input—the restricted video capabilities make it less ideal for users looking for a multi-purpose hybrid camera.

The Trusted Reviews analysis highlights the Sony Alpha a580 as a feature-rich DSLR, praising its fast 7fps burst rate, versatile tilt-angle LCD screen, and impressive 1,050-shot battery life. Key advantages also include the Sweep Panorama mode and effective 16.2-megapixel resolution, positioning it as a strong competitor to Canon and Nikon models. However, the review outlines significant limitations, noting that the traditional mirror construction prevents continuous autofocus during video, requiring manual adjustments. Furthermore, the camera lacks manual exposure controls in movie mode, and the autofocus system can struggle with tracking fast-moving subjects.

The Sony Alpha a580 is a 16.2-megapixel traditional DSLR featuring a 3-inch, 921k-dot vertical-tilting LCD screen, dual live-view functionality with Quick AF, and solid image handling with built-in HDR and D-Range optimization. It provides flexible, switchable storage (SD/Memory Stick) and offers both MP4 and Full HD 1080i AVCHD video formats. However, the camera suffers from significant noise above ISO 800 and restricted Auto ISO, while the autofocus system struggles in low-contrast, low-light scenarios. Video functionality is hampered by a lack of continuous autofocus and limited, or non-existent, manual controls during recording, along with a specialized, yet restrictive, Focus Check Live View mode.

The Sony Alpha 580 is a mid-range, 16.2-megapixel DSLR that delivers excellent image quality, fast performance, and a well-designed, comfortable layout. A major addition to this successor model is full 1080i HD video capability, complete with a dedicated movie button and a 3.5mm external microphone jack. Photographers will benefit from a very fast 7 frames-per-second burst rate, dual support for both MemorySticks and SD cards, and a bright 3-inch tilting LCD screen that provides shooting flexibility. It stands out for automated in-camera features like an impressive built-in HDR mode, Sweep Panorama for instant wide-angle stitching, and multi-frame noise reduction that layers six shots to clear up low-light images. Its Live View mode is also notably faster than competitors because a secondary sensor allows it to autofocus while the mirror is up. Despite these strengths, the camera has some clear limitations for advanced and video-centric users. The most prominent drawback for experienced still photographers is the complete lack of a Program Shift feature, which prevents switching between reciprocal exposure combinations in Program mode. Additionally, many of the camera's best automated shooting...

The Sony Alpha 580 is a traditional DSLR featuring a robust design, a dual live view system, and vibrant, natural color reproduction. Key advantages include a durable, tilting LCD screen for versatile shooting angles, along with twin memory card slots supporting SD and Memory Stick Pro Duo. Conversely, the review notes significant drawbacks, including a restrictive, single-axis screen fold and a cumbersome playback system that prevents mixing photo and video viewing. Additional cons include loud mirror slap, a clunky pop-up flash, and severe, long-lasting buffer delays of up to 50 seconds after high-speed shooting. Amateur Photographer

Executive Summary The Sony Alpha 580 (and its sibling, the 560) is a historically unique DSLR distinguished by its pioneering three-way viewing system, utilizing an optical viewfinder, "Quick Live View," and true sensor-fed "Focus Check Live View". The Quick Live View system operates via a secondary internal camera to offer an agile, 5-frame-per-second shooting experience with fast phase-detect autofocus, though it drops image accuracy down to a 90% crop with low-resolution VGA quality. In contrast, the Focus Check Live View pulls data directly from the main sensor to deliver a 100% accurate preview of depth-of-field, colour, and contrast, alongside highly precise 7.5x or 15x manual focus magnification and contrast-detect autofocus. The camera also demonstrates exceptional low-light capabilities, keeping raw image files virtually noise-free up to ISO 1600 and remarkably clean up to ISO 3200.