Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Nikon L31 and Sony A450 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon L31 has external dimensions of 96 x 59 x 29 mm (3.78 x 2.32 x 1.14″) and weighs 160 g (0.35 lb / 5.64 oz) (including batteries). Sony A450 has external dimensions of 137 x 104 x 81 mm (5.39 x 4.09 x 3.19″) and weighs 560 g (1.23 lb / 19.75 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Nikon L31 and the Sony A450. Nikon L31 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 41mm narrower, 45mm shorter and 52mm thinner than Sony A450. As you can tell, actually this is not a fair size comparison since Nikon L31 has a built-in lens but Sony A450 doesn't. Once you put a lens on A450, its thickness will increase significantly.
Comparison image of the Nikon L31 and the Sony A450 Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Nikon L31 and Sony A450.
Top View Comparison image of the Nikon L31 and the the Sony A450 Size
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Nikon L31 is significantly lighter (400g ) than the Sony A450 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Again, this comparison may not be very useful in real life as we are comparing the weight of a camera with a built-in lens to the body-only weight of an interchangeable lens camera. Once you put a lens on A450, the total kit will weigh much higher.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Nikon Coolpix L31 nor Sony Alpha DSLR-A450 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing Top DSLR Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Nikon L31 and Sony A450's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 2.70 inches.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.