Sony A290 and A390 Now on Sale

Sony A290 + 18-55 mm Lens Kit Find the best price

So far, 2010 has been something of a D-SLR desert. Now Sony is here to save the day with the Alpha 290 and A390, two entry-level SLRs to add to its Alpha range. Both models are in shops now.

Unlike previous low-spec models such as the A200 and A230, both of these new entry-level SLRs feature the same sensor as the A350 and A380 (but not the same as the 300 and 330). Resolution is therefore upped to 14 Megapixels, but be warned, it's still a CCD, and is a far cry from the 10-Megapixel CMOS sensor found in the A450 and A550.

In theory, then, picture quality should be very similar to that of Sony's A350 series D-SLRs, with use pretty much limited to 1600 ISO. In contrast, the brand's 4- and 5-series cameras take decent-quality pictures up to 3200 ISO. The two new models are very similar, but unlike the A290, the A390 has a tilting LCD with Live View capability, bringing it much closer to the older A330.

So should you rush out and buy one of these new SLRs? We're not sure. The new design with improved grip handle is certainly more comfortable, but the A330, complete with swivel screen and Live View, is currently available for a similar price to the A290 (sometimes even less) and for less than the A390! It may only have 10 Megapixels, but that's more than adequate for most types of use, and the photos will take up less room on memory cards. Unless the price of these two new Alphas drops over the next few weeks, then we reckon you could be better off with the older model ...

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