Sony Alpha DSLR-A550 Pro Reviews

The a550 is quite the live view photographer’s camera – it ousts competitors at a similar level with class-leading, super-fast live view autofocus and quirky modes such as Quick Tele 1.4x or 2x crop factors. However, when lined up against competitors such as the Canon 500D, the build quality feels a little plasticy, which is a let down. Thankfully the a550 adopts a proper DSLR-like grip, unlike the poor a380 and a230’s lack of any surmountable grip, so it feels good in the hand. Modes such as in-camera HDR and expanded D-Range Optimiser will afford creative photographers more possibilities, as will the addition of higher-sensitivity to ISO 12,800. However, whilst the brand has been touting this high-ISO to be groundbreaking, it’s more an improvement over Alphas of old, the upper echelons of ISO sensitivity actually proving to be too noisy for most people’s use. The tilt-angle LCD adds a new dimension to creative framing, though the continued lack of a video mode may isolate some new buyers looking for a stills and video hybrid. Give it a couple of months and the price should drop to be a touch more competitive, and then the a550’ll be quite the competitor to consider.

Seriously fast and packed with interesting features, but the lack of video is disappointing and automatic exposures could be better too.

Virtually identical to the A500 model, the Sony A550 marks a return to form for Sony in the mid-range DSLR market after the backwards step of the A330 / A380 models, offering more megapixels, faster 7fps burst shooting and a better LCD screen than its cheaper sibling.

Sony's Alpha DSLR-A550 offers beginners and advanced shooters alike an instrument that each can embrace. On the newbie end of the equation the A550 offers automatic and scene modes that require little input from the user, as well as the opportunity to explore the more advanced shooting modes and have the camera explain the nuances of each to them as they go. For those folks who are inclined to shoot at a more advanced level, the camera offers a 5 fps motor and dynamic range management tools to exert some serious creative input into the process.

There is much to like with the Sony Alpha A550. It has great autofocus, image stabilisation, quirky but effective HDR and a nice big sensor. If you want a DSLR because you are upgrading from smaller forms, this has auto modes for you to use it with confidence. Overall, it’s an extremely capable point and shoot camera with appeal for advanced users who want the functions that set it apart and for people setting off on the DSLR route, who don't want anything too daunting.

Some may find the A550 a tough sell since it doesn't capture video, when almost every other recently D-SLR does. Even so, I'm impressed by the speedy A550, with its top-notch, user-friendly interface and versatile 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. And it takes beautiful pictures, even in low light.

Sony’s Alpha DSLR-A550 may not have video recording, but becomes one of the fastest DSLRs in its class, not to mention one which delivers the most-rounded and usable Live View experience to date. The ability to capture fast action while framing with the screen sounds like a simple request, but it’s one which eludes the majority of DSLRs.

The lack of video will raise a few eyebrows given its rivals but, as a stills camera, it has many compensating features.

Sony has created yet another pleasing dSLR model that is likely to appeal to many photographers looking for a unique camera with the ability to perform well in a various shooting conditions. We were very impressed with the A550's abilities during our testing, especially when you consider the price point of this model. We have little doubt that the A550 will appeal to a wide variety of photographers (from the most experienced professionals, as well as photographers looking for their first dSLR).

If you're a Live View-oriented shooter who doesn't care about color accuracy, the Sony Alpha DSLR-A550's good performance and decent noise profile make it attractive for the money. Otherwise, you can find a better camera.

The feature-packed Sony DSLR-A550 camera makes it easier than ever to capture beautiful pictures, carefree family portraits, stunning holiday memories and action-packed scenes. The 14.2 megapixels Sony A550 is packed with advanced technology that combines the spontaneity and freedom of Live View shooting with generous possibilities to realise your creative vision.

As such the A5XX series cameras regain a couple of the features lost from the most recent 2 and 3-series models - so the 'fives' feature the larger 11.8Wh FM500H batteries used in previous Alphas and include Auto Exposure Lock buttons. There is also a wider selection of external buttons for giving fast access to a variety of shooting settings such as drive mode, ISO and D-Range, freeing up the four-way controller for AF-point selection.