Sony SLT-A55 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£130
  • Avg. price in US: ~$120
  • Sensor size: APS-C
  • Lens mount: Sony A
  • Main camera pixel size: 4.82 µm
  • Weight: 500 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 330 shots

Sony SLT-A55 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

5.6

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%

5.6

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
5.6

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%

6.3

Sensor & Image

25.0%

5.6

Photo Features

18.0%

4.9

Video & Audio

14.0%

6.6

Display & Design

8.0%

4.9

Battery & Power

7.0%

3.1

Connectivity & Storage

Good
?

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

  • 5.8
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.5

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    10

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 7.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    6.3

    Weight

    30.0%

    4.6

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    10

    GPS

  • 7.2
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.8

    Price

    20.0%

    6.3

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    4.6

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 8.3
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    8.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    9.3

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 5.5
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.3

    Weight

    25.0%

    3.5

    Thickness

    20.0%

    5.9

    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%

    9.3

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 6.1
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.3

    Weight

    25.0%

    4.6

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    GPS

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £130

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 SLT-A55 is an innovative interchangeable-lens camera featuring a 16.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and unique Translucent Mirror Technology, which enables high-speed performance in a compact body. Key specifications include a 15-point phase-detection autofocus system, a 10fps continuous burst rate, and 1080i HD video recording with full-time continuous autofocus. Main characteristics and pros include its built-in GPS for geotagging, a fully articulated 3-inch 921k-dot 'TruBlack' LCD, and an high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage. However, notable cons include limited battery life (approximately 330–380 shots), a tendency for the sensor to overheat during extended video recording with image stabilisation enabled, and the occasional appearance of 'ghosting' artifacts in high-contrast scenes due to the fixed translucent mirror.

Technical Specifications of Sony SLT-A55

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

5.6
Sony SLT-A55 has a technical score of 5.58 points, which is higher than 65.9% 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 SLT-A55 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%

5.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

6.9
Sony SLT-A55 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.9 points, which is higher than 84.5% 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 SLT-A55 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

16.2 MP
Sony SLT-A55 has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP, which is higher than that of 47% of cameras and equal to that of 4.2% 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

4.82 µm
Sony SLT-A55 has a main camera pixel size of 4.82 µm which is larger than in 81% of cameras and equal to the size in 0.7% 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 SLT-A55 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

12,800
Sony SLT-A55 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12,800, which is higher than that of 54.5% of cameras and equal to that of 18.7% of cameras.
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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 SLT-A55 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

15
Sony SLT-A55 has 15 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 57.5% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 2.8% 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 SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 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

1920 px
Sony SLT-A55 supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% of cameras.
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

17 Mbps
Sony SLT-A55 has a video bitrate of 17 Mbps which is lower than that of 77.1% of cameras and equal to that of 3.6% of cameras.
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

8 bit
Sony SLT-A55 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
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

4:2:0
Sony SLT-A55 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
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

H.264
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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

slt
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

500 g
Sony SLT-A55 weighs 500 g which is heavier than 62.8% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.2% 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

124.4 mm
Sony SLT-A55 has a width of 124.4 mm which is wider than 61.1% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% 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

92 mm
Sony SLT-A55 has a height of 92 mm which is taller than 69.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.4% 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

84.7 mm
Sony SLT-A55 has a thickness of 84.7 mm which is thicker than 84.3% of cameras and equal to that of 0.4% 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

330 shots
Sony SLT-A55 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 330 shots, which is longer than that of 48.1% of cameras and equal to that of 3.9% of cameras.
380 with LCD.
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

1,080 mAh
Sony SLT-A55 has a battery capacity of 1,080 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 52.9% of cameras and equal to those in 1.9% 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 SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Sony SLT-A55 vs the average camera

  • In-body stabilization
    Sony SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Sony SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • Better viewfinder type
    Sony SLT-A55 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
    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 SLT-A55 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).electronic vs none
  • Has microphone input
    Sony SLT-A55 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera has a microphone input for connecting an external mic.
    When it matters: When you record video and want better audio than the built-in microphones can provide.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony SLT-A55 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • Fully articulated screen
    Sony SLT-A55 has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
    What it is: A fully articulating display that can swing outward and rotate for flexible framing angles.
    When it matters: When you shoot from awkward angles, vlog, or need to see the screen while standing in front of the camera.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony SLT-A55 has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
  • 1.48 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sony SLT-A55 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.8 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 SLT-A55 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.8 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.4.82 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Sony SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF in video
    Sony SLT-A55 supports phase-detection autofocus in video, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Phase-detection autofocus support while recording video, helping the camera keep moving subjects sharp.
    When it matters: When you record moving subjects and want the camera to refocus smoothly and confidently during video.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony SLT-A55 supports phase-detection autofocus in video, the average camera does not.
  • Better viewfinder type
    Sony SLT-A55 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
  • Fully articulated screen
    Sony SLT-A55 has a fully articulated screen, the average camera does not.
  • 41% higher magnification
    Sony SLT-A55 has a higher viewfinder magnification than the average camera (1.1x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
  • 1.48 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Sony SLT-A55 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (4.8 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Sony SLT-A55 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • 6,400 higher max ISO
    Sony SLT-A55 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (12,800 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • In-body stabilization
    Sony SLT-A55 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Sony SLT-A55 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • Built-in AF motor
    Sony SLT-A55 has a built-in focus motor, the average camera does not.
  • Has microphone input
    Sony SLT-A55 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF in video
    Sony SLT-A55 supports phase-detection autofocus in video, the average camera does not.
  • Has GPS
    Sony SLT-A55 supports GPS, the average camera does not. 9.8% of cameras support GPS.
  • 920000 dots lower EVF resolution
    Sony SLT-A55 has a lower EVF resolution than the average camera (1,440,000 dots vs 2,360,000 dots). The average camera has an EVF resolution of 2,360,000 dots.
  • 26.6% heavier
    Sony SLT-A55 is heavier than the average camera (500 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 38.7 mm thicker
    Sony SLT-A55 is thicker than the average camera (84.7 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 18.1 mm taller body
    Sony SLT-A55 is taller than the average camera (92 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 4.5 mm wider
    Sony SLT-A55 is wider than the average camera (124.4 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Sony SLT-A55 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
  • 3 older
    Sony SLT-A55 is older than the average camera (2010 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    August 2010
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Sony SLT-A55 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
  • 1.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Sony SLT-A55 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.
  • No manual exposure control
    Sony SLT-A55 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
  • 8 fewer AF points
    Sony SLT-A55 has fewer focus points than the average camera (15 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • 43.3% lower video bitrate
    Sony SLT-A55 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (17 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • Older HDMI version
    Sony SLT-A55 uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Sony SLT-A55 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 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 SLT-A55 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (1 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.1 vs -4
  • 1.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Sony SLT-A55 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 SLT-A55 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
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Sony SLT-A55 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
    What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
    When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 14-bit

    Sony SLT-A55 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
  • 920000 dots lower EVF resolution
    Sony SLT-A55 has a lower EVF resolution than the average camera (1,440,000 dots vs 2,360,000 dots). The average camera has an EVF resolution of 2,360,000 dots.
    What it is: The pixel or dot resolution of the electronic viewfinder, which affects sharpness and clarity while composing shots.
    When it matters: When you compose through an electronic viewfinder and want a sharper, more detailed preview of the scene.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 2.36 million dots

    Sony SLT-A55 has a lower EVF resolution than the average camera (1,440,000 dots vs 2,360,000 dots). The average camera has an EVF resolution of 2,360,000 dots.1440000 dots vs 2360000 dots
  • No manual exposure control
    Sony SLT-A55 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
    What it is: Gives the user control over the overall brightness of the image by adjusting exposure compensation values.
    When it matters: When the automatic settings make the image too bright or too dark for your taste.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony SLT-A55 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
  • 43.3% lower video bitrate
    Sony SLT-A55 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (17 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
    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

    Sony SLT-A55 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (17 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.17 Mbps vs 30 Mbps
  • 3 older
    Sony SLT-A55 is older than the average camera (2010 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    August 2010
    What it is: The month and year when the camera was officially announced or released.
    When it matters: When you want a newer camera with more current features, support, or connectivity.

    Importance: LOW

    Sony SLT-A55 is older than the average camera (2010 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.2,010 vs 2,013
  • 38.7 mm thicker
    Sony SLT-A55 is thicker than the average camera (84.7 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    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

    Sony SLT-A55 is thicker than the average camera (84.7 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.84.7 mm vs 46 mm

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sony SLT-A55?

  • Extremely fast continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second
  • Advanced, highly responsive phase-detection autofocus during both still photography and video recording
  • Excellent electronic viewfinder (EVF) that is bright and offers a great live-view experience
  • Effective in-body image stabilization (SteadyShot) which works with any attached lens
  • Compact, lightweight body with a very practical, fully articulating flippy screen
  • Solid JPEG image quality and color accuracy, especially at lower and mid-range ISO settings

What customers dislike about Sony SLT-A55?

  • Prone to overheating, particularly during extended video recording sessions
  • Small and somewhat cramped handgrip that can become tiring or uncomfortable to hold with larger, heavier lenses
  • Burst mode limitations (lack of live-view updates during 10fps shooting and no aperture control if continuous AF is needed)
  • Limited battery life due to the power demands of the electronic viewfinder and live view system
  • Video recording length limitations (especially in warm environments or when image stabilization is active)

Expert reviews

D
dpreview.com
24/08/2010

The DPReview of the Sony SLT-A55 highlights the camera as a groundbreaking model featuring a fixed, semi-transparent mirror design that enables 10 frames-per-second continuous shooting with active phase-detection AF. Key advantages include its 16.2MP APS-C sensor, excellent full-time live view, and an articulated screen, which collectively bridge the gap between traditional DSLRs...Read more

W
whatdigitalcamera.com
17/01/2011

The Sony Alpha SLT-A55 is recognized as an innovative, high-value camera using Single Lens Translucent technology to deliver 10 fps burst shooting and continuous autofocus, outperforming traditional DSLRs in speed at its price point. Key benefits include the 16.2-megapixel sensor, integrated GPS, SteadyShot image stabilization, and effective, fast-focusing AVCHD video capability....Read more

S
sonyalphalab.com
Hands On & Real World")

The Sony Alpha 55 (A55) is an innovative camera praised for its competitive $799.99 retail price and its unique Translucent Mirror Technology, which uses a fixed, semi-translucent mirror to project a Live View feed onto an electronic viewfinder or its 3-inch tiltable LCD screen. This architecture allows for exceptional autofocus speed and performance while recording Full HD 1080/60i...Read more

I
imaging-resource.com
24/08/2010

Sony A55 Video Review Summary The Sony Alpha SLT-A55V breaks new ground in interchangeable-lens cameras by using a radical Translucent Mirror design to achieve full-time phase detection autofocus (AF) during video recording. This design continuously redirects a portion of incoming light to a dedicated AF sensor, allowing for fast, direct focusing with minimal hunting compared to...Read more

E
ephotozine.com
13/12/2010

ePHOTOzine characterizes the Sony Alpha a55 as a highly responsive, innovative camera featuring a lightweight design with logically placed, accessible controls. The review highlights the exceptional electronic viewfinder (EVF) and the versatile rear screen for composition, alongside a superb electronic level indicator. ePHOTOzine Conversely, the review notes a "con" in the camera's...Read more

W
whatdigitalcamera.com
17/01/2011

The What Digital Camera review gives the Sony Alpha A55 a 91% score, highlighting its innovative SLT technology, 10fps continuous shooting, and effective 1080i HD movie autofocus. Pros include built-in GPS and smooth tracking capabilities, though the 10fps speed priority mode suffers from a 45-second buffer clearing time. Cons include limited manual control in video mode, requiring...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
17/01/2011

The Trusted Reviews analysis highlights the Sony Alpha SLT-A55 as an innovative, feature-rich alternative to traditional DSLRs, utilizing Translucent Mirror Technology to deliver a blistering 10fps continuous burst mode with exceptional tracking. Key strengths include integrated image stabilization, built-in GPS, and highly responsive 1080i HD video autofocus, making it a...Read more

P
photographybay.com
26/04/2011

The Sony A55 is reviewed as a highly capable, compact, entry-level camera that introduces an innovative translucent mirror design. Key pros highlighted in the review include its ultra-fast live view autofocus system for stills and its 16.2MP CMOS sensor, which delivers solid image quality that stands up well against key competitors like the Canon 60D and Nikon D7000. Additionally,...Read more

D
dkamera.de
02/04/2011

The Sony Alpha 55, reviewed on dkamera.de, utilizes innovative SLT technology with a fixed, translucent mirror, enabling a rapid 10-frames-per-second continuous shooting rate with real-time phase-detection autofocus. Key strengths include a 16.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, a fully articulated LCD screen for flexible framing, and in-body Super SteadyShot stabilization. However, the...Read more

D
digicam-beratung.de
16/03/2011

The Sony Alpha SLT-A55V introduces an innovative Single Lens Translucent (SLT) mirror concept that delivers a highly responsive shooting experience in a remarkably compact, lightweight body. Its standout features include a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) that provides a real-time exposure preview and helpful overlays like a digital level gauge, a fully articulating...Read more

C
computerbild.de
18/11/2010

The COMPUTER BILD review of the Sony SLT-A55V highlights the camera's groundbreaking Single-Lens Translucent (SLT) technology, which replaces the traditional moving DSLR mirror with a fixed, semi-translucent one. This design innovation allows the camera to deliver exceptional performance, particularly regarding focus speed and continuous shooting. According to the reviewer, the...Read more

N
netzwelt.de
28/10/2010

The Sony Alpha SLT-A55 is an innovative interchangeable-lens camera that utilizes a fixed translucent mirror design to separate itself from traditional DSLRs. According to the Netzwelt review, this stationary mirror design is the camera's standout feature, engineered specifically to enable a faster autofocus mechanism and support a higher rate of continuous burst shots per minute....Read more

E
effendibikes.de
12/12/2010

Based on the comprehensive review, the Sony SLT A55 represents a major technological shift from traditional DSLRs like the Nikon D90, excelling exceptionally well in video performance and innovative features. Its standout advantages include a fast phase-detection autofocus in LiveView and video modes, 10 frames-per-second burst shooting, an articulate 16:9 flip screen, and a highly...Read more

C
chip.de
17/09/2010

The Sony Alpha 55 breaks traditional DSLR ground by using an innovative, stationary translucent mirror combined with an electronic viewfinder (EVF). This design allows the camera to shoot continuously in Live-View mode while utilizing a fast phase-detection autofocus system. It features a 16-megapixel sensor that delivers high resolution and an excellent dynamic range of up to 11...Read more

D
digitalkamera.de
24/11/2010

The digitalkamera.de review highlights the Sony Alpha 55V's innovative SLT technology, featuring a 16.2-megapixel sensor and a fixed, semi-transparent mirror for high-speed performance, including 10 frames per second burst shooting and constant phase-detection autofocus. The camera offers excellent resolution, efficient noise control up to ISO 1,600, a built-in GPS, and a detailed...Read more

D
dkamera.de
16/02/2011

The Sony Alpha 55 introduces a novel translucent mirror design that bridges the gap between digital SLRs and mirrorless cameras, earning a "very good" rating from dkamera.de for its overall agility and value. Built around a 16.0-megapixel APS-C sensor, the camera delivers sharp RAW images up to ISO 3,200 and pairs this with impressive burst shooting performance reaching nearly 10...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
26/10/2010

The Sony Alpha 55 is a highly versatile and lightweight translucent mirror camera that blurs the lines between traditional DSLRs and electronic viewfinders, earning a 5 out of 5 rating from the editors. Built around a 16-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, it captures high-quality images with excellent color and accurate multizone exposure, managing digital noise exceptionally well up to...Read more

0
01net.com
22/11/2010

The Sony Alpha A55 is a mid-range translucent mirror camera that offers performance reminiscent of professional bodies, particularly noted for its ability to shoot an impressive 10 frames per second in JPEG mode. Driven by a 16-megapixel sensor and a highly capable image processor, the camera handles high ISO levels remarkably well, delivering clean images up to ISO 1,600 and...Read more

A
alpha-numerique.fr
18/02/2011

The review evaluates the Sony Alpha 55 translucent mirror camera under the challenging, low-light environments of theatre and dance photography, where it served as a companion to the Alpha 900 and Alpha 550. A standout feature of the camera is its outstanding autofocus module, which the reviewer notes as the most effective across all Sony Alpha bodies at the time, offering...Read more

A
alpha-numerique.fr
02/01/2013

The Sony Alpha 55 review highlights the camera's real-world efficiency during a high-speed motocross race. The reviewer praises its smart ergonomics, which provide a very secure, slip-free grip despite the camera's small size. The major pros include its highly reliable autofocus (AF) tracking system, which delivered an impressive number of sharp action shots, and an effective...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
24/08/2010

Here is a specific summary of the Sony Alpha 33 and Alpha 55 review: Review Summary The Sony Alpha 33 and Alpha 55 introduce a unique fixed-mirror architecture that brings high-speed phase-detection autofocus to electronic-viewfinder cameras, bridging the gap between traditional DSLRs and mirrorless models. A major pro of this design is its exceptional continuous autofocus...Read more

F
fotosix.wordpress.com
07/05/2020

The Sony Alpha 55 (α55) marks a technological milestone as an interchangeable-lens camera powered by a fixed, semi-translucent mirror system instead of a traditional swinging mirror mechanism. According to reviews from Focus Numérique and Imaging Resource, this design enables continuous, lightning-fast phase-detection autofocus in both live view and video recording, eliminating the...Read more

T
tecnologia21.com
14/02/2011

The Tecnología 21 review highlights the Sony SLT Alpha A55V as a highly innovative, semi-professional camera that significantly elevates DSLR standards using a fixed, single-lens translucent (SLT) mirror. The core pros of this device center on its elite performance metrics, including a remarkably fast continuous shooting speed of 10 frames per second at 16MP resolution and an...Read more

X
xatakafoto.com
24/11/2010

The Sony Alpha A55 has been highlighted as a revolutionary release in the photography market, earning recognition from TIME Magazine as one of the best inventions of the year. The review from Xataka Foto emphasizes its innovative semi-translucent mirror technology, which completely removes the need for a moving mechanical mirror mechanism. This major design choice delivers several...Read more

X
xataka.com
09/09/2010

The Sony SLT-A33 and SLT-A55 cameras introduce an innovative fixed translucent mirror design that splits incoming light between the image sensor and the autofocus system, allowing for a significantly smaller and lighter camera body compared to traditional DSLRs. Tested at the IFA 2010 trade show, these models stand out for their highly ergonomic grips and intuitive button placement,...Read more

S
saggiamente.com
02/05/2011

The Sony a55, reviewed on SaggiaMente, is a Single-Lens Translucent (SLT) camera that challenges traditional DSLRs with its compact form factor, featuring a highly versatile, multi-angle articulated display and user-friendly modes like sweep panorama. Key pros include ultra-fast continuous shooting, responsive autofocus in both photo and video modes, and a compact design suitable...Read more

T
tweakers.net
10/05/2011

The Tweakers user reviews highlight the Sony A SLT-A55 as an innovative and high-performing camera that excels due to its unique fixed translucent mirror design. Users praise its exceptionally fast phase-detection autofocus and its blistering continuous shooting speed of 10 frames per second, which easily outperforms traditional DSLRs in its class. Additional major advantages...Read more

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