Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 Digital Camera – Entry-Level DSLR, Midrange Performance

Even Digital SLR cameras have entry-level models with most of them offering basic features and functions while delivering just enough performance to qualify. Thankfully, this is not the case with the entry-level Sony Alpha DSLR-A500. It surprisingly offers better performance in terms of color accuracy than the more expensive A550. This JPEG color accuracy is enough to outmatch most consumer-level DSLRs, however its images do tend to get a bit noisy past ISO 1600. Performance-wise the DSLR is still better than higher-end consumer-level DSLRs with a fast power-on and shoot time of 0.3 second and a sequential shot time of 0.9 second. Burst shot performance is outstanding with a time of 4.8 frames per second.

Powered by a 12.3-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, the Sony Alpha DSLR-A500, has rather standard features. While it does pack in the ability to do wireless flash this is a feature that has become somewhat common amongst DSLRs. Its rotating 3-inch color LCD is quite adjustable for odd-angled shots but its battery life is quite good with a rating of 1000 shots per charge. It has an ISO range of ISO 200 to ISO 12800 with auto focus features and raw or JPEG shots, however it does not offer the ability to take video.

Design-wise the Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 goes for a bulkier and larger body, but also goes for a plastic chassis which makes it feel a bit cheaper compared to more solidly built models. Despite the large amount of space, there are numerous controls all over the area. Suffice to say, this can be rather confusing and takes some time to get used to. While the camera does have a viewfinder it is rather small with a low magnification factor with the eye-cup a bit past the LCD screen, which makes it a bit difficult to use. LCD controls are much better though and should serve you well.

All in all, the Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 is a very good entry-level DSLR with excellent mid-range level performance. While its performance alone outmatches most other entry-level DSLRs its design lacks that intuitive feel that other entry-level DSLRs have. It does mean that you have to take a bit longer getting used to it, but once you do, you should be able to get some really awesome performance from the camera, making it an excellent value DSLR for the entry-level market.