Sony W550 has a
14.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized CCD sensor and features BIONZ processor. On the other hand, Sony HX90V has a
18.0MP (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized BSI-CMOS sensor and features Bionz X processor.
Below you can see the W550 and HX90V sensor size comparison.
Sensor Size and Resolution Comparison image of Sony W550 and Sony HX90V Cameras
Sony W550 and Sony HX90V have the same sensor sizes so they will provide same level of control over the depth of field when used with same focal length and aperture. On the other hand, since Sony W550 has 28% larger pixel area compared to Sony HX90V, it has potential to collect more light on pixel level hence have less noise in low light / High ISO images.
Sensor size sets the circle of confusion, so it drives how much depth of field each
of these bodies gives you at a given aperture. You can calculate it exactly for the
Sony W550
or the
Sony HX90V ,
including hyperfocal distance.
One thing to watch when comparing these two: they have different sensor sizes
(1/2.3-inch versus ),
so compare them at the same framing rather than the same focal length.
Put the same focal length on the smaller sensor and it will show less depth of
field, not more, because it also crops tighter. The calculator shows the
full frame equivalent focal length for each body so you can match the framing.
