The Sony A380 is a 14.2 megapixel DSLR, which replaced the Sony A350. Unlike the A350 though, the Sony A380 kit lens is an 18-55mm lens rather than the 18-70mm range provided by the A350’s kit lens. While the A380 carries an initial retail price of $850 with the kit lens, lower prices will likely be found shortly after the camera’s release in July 2009.
Sony A380 Key Features
- 14.2 megapixel CCD sensor (1.5x crop)
- 2.7″ articulating LCD
- SteadyShot sensor-based image stabilization
- 9-point AF (center cross-type)
- Fast Live View AF
- ISO 100-3200 sensitivity
- 2.5 fps shooting speed
- HDMI output
- Dual slot SD Card and Memory Stick compatibility
Sony A380 Availability
The Sony A380 can be found at the following trusted online retailers:
Sony A380 Reviews
A well-priced, fine camera, capable of excellent work. But no video shooting capability!
The Sony Alpha DSLR-A380’s pictures and specs are decent, but, apart from its better kit lens, it doesn’t improve significantly on the DSLR-A350.
An entry-level DSLR with features that can help novice photographers to discover the benefits of SLR photography.
From a technical viewpoint and for image quality, there is a slight overall improvement compared to its predecessor.
In terms of image quality the Sony Alpha 380 is a mixed bag. First impressions are encouraging, and straight out of the camera, images taken in decent light look great, – really punchy, with plenty of contrast.
Cnet Asia (hands-on preview)
In the entry-level dSLR category, the A380’s specifications are not impressive. The deal-breaker for most consumers would be the lack of a video-recording mode which Canon and Nikon offer.
It is neither upgrade nor downgrade.
Unnecessarilly released.
Happy to say my refund for this camera is processing from the Laredo, TX help center. I’ll present what happened as fact even though I am very upset with the outcome.
* Bought camera with high hopes. Loved the price, and the movable LCD.
* Arrived with strange blue, flickering spots in the LCD. Like “snow” on a bad TV signal. I immediately called Sony expecting exceptional service since this is a fairly new product… and because it’s Sony, a brand I USED TO trust.
* Took pics and was fairly happy with results. I was still learning. Then shipped camera back after I insisted they pay for shipping.
* Sony held my camera for 3 weeks, then finally returned it without any repair and without calling me for some explanation of the issue.
* Received camera and obviously found the same problem. Called and emailed Sony. “Can you send us some sample images?” they said. They didn’t even understand, after repeated attempts to explain, what my issue was.
* I asked for a refund or a new camera immediately. I used this camera for my work, I explained, I NEED a camera. I had to return the camera before any action could be taken. They received the camera Nov. 4th 2009.
* On Nov 20th, I called. They had no update for me. 3 weeks and NOTHING! I demanded a refund and they did start the process, but could not tell me when the check would arrive.
* I called Sony’s National Customer Relations line and spoke to Margret, ID CJD9. She was the worst of all. No compassion, barely any courtesy at all!
* She started with, “We don’t do refunds, only exchanges. Before she had heard ANYTHING about my troubles with my camera.
* When I asked about the other equipment I bought for the camera, she sarcastically said, “We can’t refund for Optional equipment. That’s why they call it optional.” She was worthless.
* I called back to Larado and they promised a call by the end of the day to tell me when I’d get my check. Nothing. Called Monday, it’s being processed. Finally.
I hope this helps you with your decision. I’m not sure if I’ll ever buy a Sony product again.