Sony A200 Digital Camera Review

Sony A200

Digital Camera Review

Jul 01, 2008 - By Steve Morgenstern
3.6   Many features of Sony's A200 are identical to its predecessor, the A100: 10.2-megapixel resolution, an image stabilization system built into the camera body, and an automatic dust removal system. The price, though, is significantly different. The A100 originally sold for $999 with the kit lens. The A200 is now selling for just $500 with an 18-70mm kit lens, a bargain price in anyone's book. But does a low price mean low quality? We were pleased to discover that it doesn't, at least in this case. The A200 stands out as a solid, non-fussy piece of gear at a reasonable price, The hands-on testing results that led us to this conclusion follow.
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Sony A200 Review

Conclusion
This is a basic camera that opens up the world of SLR photography to users with more enthuasiasm than cash. The A200 does have some significant limitations: manual controls are difficult to access, and its lab performance wasn't terrific. But those test results weren't terrible either – not by a long shot. The camera is responsive, feels good in your hand and lets you take very nice pictures. What's more, it comes with a lens with a wider zoom range than more expensive models, plus in-camera image stabilization that means you can benefit from anti-shake technology without investing in pricey stabilized lenses.

All things considered, we feel good about recommending the Sony A200 to the cost-conscious consumer who's ready to step up from a point-and-shoot, but isn't likely to push the boundaries of creative expression too far beyond fun family photography.


Likes 

- Low price
- Reasonable performance
- Extensive controls

Dislikes

- Single, poorly designed control dial
- Noisy auto focus
- No in-camera editing

Overall Impressions Page 11 of 13 Sample Photos
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