Sony Alpha 550 DSLR Camera
The Sony a550 is a 14MP APS-C DSLR camera — known for its 14MP APS-C CMOS Sensor and Sensor-Shift Stabilization. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Sony Alpha 550 DSLR Camera
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Overview — Sony a550
Key Features — Sony a550
14MP APS-C CMOS Sensor: Delivers a maximum resolution of 4592x3056 pixels, suitable for large prints and detailed cropping.
Sensor-Shift Stabilization: In-body image stabilization compensates for camera shake with any compatible A-mount lens, regardless of whether the lens has built-in stabilization.
7fps Burst Shooting: Captures up to 7 frames per second, making it a practical choice for sports and fast-moving subjects.
Dual Autofocus System: Combines 9-point phase detection and contrast detection for flexible focusing across different shooting situations.
ISO 200–12800 Range: Provides usable sensitivity options in a range of lighting conditions, from bright daylight to dimmer indoor environments.
Tilting 3.0-Inch LCD: The 921,600-dot screen tilts to allow comfortable composing from high or low angles without crouching to eye level.
Specifications — Sony a550
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel |
| Type | DSLR |
| Sensor | APS-C |
| Resolution | 14MP |
| Processor | Bionz |
| ISO Range | 200 – 12800 |
| AF System | Phase Detection, Contrast Detection |
| AF Points | 9 points |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4592x3056 |
| Burst Rate | 7 fps |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-Shift (IBIS) |
| Display | 3.0 inches Tilting LCD |
Description — Sony a550
The Sony Alpha 550 is a 14MP APS-C DSLR powered by Sony's Bionz image processor, producing stills at a maximum resolution of 4592x3056 pixels. The ISO range spans 200 to 12800, and the camera's sensor-shift in-body image stabilization provides shake reduction regardless of which lens is attached. The autofocus system uses both phase detection and contrast detection across 9 focus points, and burst shooting tops out at 7 frames per second for action-ready performance.
The 3.0-inch tilting LCD with 921,600-dot resolution makes it easy to compose shots at unconventional angles, complemented by an optical pentamirror viewfinder. Storage is handled via SD, SDHC, and Memory Stick PRO Duo cards. The body is built from polycarbonate with a metal chassis, weighs 632g, and measures 137 x 104 x 84mm.
A built-in pop-up flash with guide number 12 and external flash support are included. Connectivity includes USB and Mini HDMI output. Color profile options include Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Sunset, and B&W.
Pros — Sony a550
- ✓In-body sensor-shift image stabilization works with any mounted lens
- ✓7fps burst shooting rate for capturing fast action sequences
- ✓Tilting 3.0-inch LCD at 921,600 dots enables flexible shooting angles
Cons — Sony a550
- ✗No video recording capability (maxResolution and maxFrameRate are null)
- ✗No weather sealing on the body
- ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity
Reviews — Sony a550
Videos — Sony a550
Sony Alpha DSLR A500 / A550 review — Gordon Laing