 Canon EOS Rebel XTi - The 10-megapixel Canon Rebel XTi costs about $900, about $50 more than the A100, and lacks stabilization (although Canon lenses offer image stabilization – at a big price). Still, the XTi has better color and noise performance. Both cameras could be better-built; they're lightweight and lack the fit and finish of a truly durable camera. Both the A100 and the XTi have dust-removal systems. The XTi's controls are laid out better for quick use, and the Canon lenses offer more and better alternatives than Sony and the old Konica-Minolta line. For that matter, Canon offers an upgrade path for users who plan to buy a better camera.
 Nikon D80 - The D80 costs about $1,100, about $250 more than the A100, and it lacks both stabilization and dust control. Still, the D80 beats out the A100 on overall image quality. Both are 10-megapixel cameras. The D80 is sturdier and has more ergonomic controls. The D80 offers in-camera image editing options, though it's not clear how useful they are. Like Canon, Nikon offers a better range of lenses and camera upgrades than Sony.
 Pentax K100D - At about $700, the K100D beats the A100 on price, but offers only 6-megapixel resolution. On the other hand, it offers both of the A100's other major features: stabilization and dust control. Equally important, the K100D seems to have a far-superior auto focus system, featuring 11-focusing points. The K100D has an ISO 3200 setting as well. Pentax's K10D, at $1300, has all the features of the K100D, but matches the 10-megapixel resolution of the A100.
The Sony alpha A100 combines a range of important and exciting features with an aggressive price. The A100 is unique among current cameras because image stabilization is built into the DSLR body rather than into individual lenses. The A100's system is effective with the kit lens at least, and a big advantage for users who plan to buy more than a couple of lenses, or who already have compatible glass. Pentax offers a lower-resolution camera with similar features for a little bit less. For users who are content with the A100's image performance, it's a good deal. For Konica-Minolta owners who want a new DSLR body, it's the only choice, but it's also an attractive one.
Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters -The Sony alpha A100 is aimed squarely at point-and-shooters who want a DSLR. Most of them don't need one, though, and would be just as happy with the images they'd shoot with an image-stabilized Panasonic compact.
Budget Consumers -The Sony A100 is a viable budget choice for DSLR shoppers, especially if image stabilization is a priority.
Gadget Freaks -The α (alpha) A100 isn't really cutting-edge. It simply combines several existing features in a competitive package. The fact that it's an update of the Konica-Minolta line – which was bought up by Sony – diminishes lust for the A100.
Manual Control Freaks - Shooting the A100 manually is not as convenient as its competitors. Its image quality is less than killer, and quality is key for most manual users. Also, the control layout and lack of two jog dials is not conducive to quick adjustments. This is not the A100's demographic.
Pros / Serious Hobbyists - The A100 isn't durable enough for pro shooting, and its image quality doesn't help. Pros looking for an inexpensive DSLR will buy the low-end camera in whatever line they already use, and that's not Konica-Minolta. If it were, the company would still be selling cameras.
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Click here to view our full Sony A100 vs. Nikon D80 vs. Canon XTi Head-to-Head-to-Head review.