Sony Alpha A200
Review Date : Wed, 2 Apr 2008
Author : Matt Galowczynski
The 10.2-megapixel Sony Alpha A200 replaces the two-year-old A100 with a number of subtle improvements including a larger LCD screen and increased sensitivity range.
| Pros: | Quick AF, new Fn button, noise control improvements over A100 |
|---|---|
| Cons: | Handling quirks, no major upgrades, anti-dust could be more effective |
When Sony adopted Konica Minolta’s photography arm in 2006, it pledged to continue what Konica Minolta had started. At the time, this consisted of just two DSLRs – the Dynax 5D and 7D. Nonetheless they gave Sony an ideal platform for future developments. Launching soon after the acquisition, the Sony A100 marked the beginning of the Sony Alpha range.
Designed to be faster, lighter and easier to use the Sony A200 replaces the Sony A100. Although the new model shares many similarities with its predecessor, it is said to have been influenced by its elder sibling, the Sony A700. Indeed, the design of the entire Alpha line varies in only a few areas, and as such, still bears many of the hallmarks of the original KM models from which it stems.
Arguably, the entry-level market is just as important for Sony to crack (to encourage people to buy into the Alpha system from the beginning), and with a lineage of compatible Minolta A-mount lenses, Sony is in a strong position to do so. Furthermore, the company has continued to develop its own range of lenses, as well as partnering with Carl Zeiss to produce professional-grade optics. So, what does the Sony A200 bring to the table?
Next page: Sony Alpha A200 features review
More Sony Alpha A200 on What Digital Camera.com
Verdict
The A200 is further confirmation that Sony deserves its slice of the DSLR market. Admittedly, there’s nothing here that is particularly revolutionary, and the upgraded features don’t make a world of difference, but the focus with this model is on providing a good, entry-level DSLR at a very reasonable price. There isn't quite enough here for A100 users to justify an upgrade, but existing Minolta users still using film, for example, couldn’t really ask for a better introductory DSLR. Anyone looking to purchase an entry-level DSLR will find themselves tempted by what the A200 has to offer. <br><br> <a href="http://www.sony.co.uk" target="_blank">www.sony.co.uk</a>
Have your say!
Latest comments
January 08 16:26
Jim Webster
My first DSLR and I love it. It has full photo control as I had with my pro SLR and is only missing liveview to make it a perfect DSLR. The fact that I can use my Minolta AF lenses made it a no brainer choice and with the motor in the body any lenses are cheaper.
January 09 17:48
shabir hussain
I think this is a fantastic site, and as i'm a beginner it's really easy to understand. Many Thanks.