Cameras Of The Week

PANASONIC GF1 PANASONIC GF1

12.1 Mega Pixels Sensor Resolution, LiveMOS

£112 - £158

Sony Alpha DSLRA - 230L

Sony Alpha DSLRA - 230L

Sony DSLRA - 230L Specification: Sensor Resolution 10 Mega Pixels, 2.7 inches LCD Screen, Red Eye

Sony Alpha 230 l Review: Review Digital Camera Review

The Sony Alpha 230 L is designed for entry level users to the SLR world, it has all the features you would expect from an SLR but allows users with little SLR experience to achieve great shots easily. The Alpha 230 falls in the lower price bracket of the SLR market but functions effectively and has numerous great features which makes this a real bargin buy. The performance of the camera is generally very good and fast, especially the auto focus which responds quickly. You can power the camera on and shoot a photo in around 0.4 seconds in good light conditions and 0.6 seconds in low light conditions which will suit the point and shoot photographer.

The cameras body design is a vast improvement on previous models and is the first in Sony's DSLR range which didn't have any design input from KonicaMinolta. It has a smooth curvy body and does not feature rigid edges as in previous modals, it is also 9% smaller than the previous A200 model which is always a bonus. Although we feel they should have kept the 9% and increased the camera grip as it felt slightly small and was difficult to grip for those of us with large hands.

As we mentioned the camera is ideal for users who have not used a SLR previously, the user interface (controls) is very simple and easy to use. In addition to a great user interface a help window is provided on the LCD screen, explaining modes and features for every setting and step. It even provides examples of which setting will work best in certain conditions, the help setting can be turned off for users who do not need additional information.

Another important feature that the 230L features is image stabilization provided by Sony's SteadyShot which is prefect for freehand shots when a tripod is not available. We found that the image stabilization performed well even in low light conditions and helped maintain image quality, as we have all experienced shaking of the camera can dramatically reduce image quality.

Verdict:

This is a great entry level Digital SLR Camera that provides great value for money along with some great features, find the best price sony alpha 230l here.

  • Fast Auto Focus
  • User Friendly
  • Built in Wireless Flash
  • Image Stabilization SteadyShot
  • Good Noise Performance
  • Value For Money

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZX1 Cons

  • Relatively small grip
  • Default settings aren't brilliant takes a little tinkering
  • LCD does not support Live View

Buyers Guide

Which Digital Camera is Right for You ?

Use our Digital Camera Buying Guide to find the perfect camera for your needs.

Advertisement