How did Dido and Atlanta compare in combat power?

How good were Dido and Atlanta against surface targets, and how did the two classes compare?

Both were strong against destroyers and adequate against light cruisers. Dido probably had the slight surface advantage, while Atlanta probably had the stronger anti-aircraft battery.

Both designs were strong against destroyers and acceptable against light cruisers. The comparison gives Dido a probable slight advantage against surface ships, supported by somewhat greater range. Atlanta probably had the stronger anti-aircraft battery because it carried more guns, although Dido again had a range advantage. The classes were closely matched solutions shaped by different national requirements.