Canon 50D vs Sony A850

Here is a in depth analysis of the Canon 50D vs Sony A850, both Advanced DSLR cameras by companies Canon and Sony. There is a noticeable difference among the resolutions of the 50D (15MP) and A850 (25MP) and the 50D (APS-C) and A850 (Full frame) provide totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The 50D was revealed 17 months prior to the A850 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple overview of how the 50D scores versus the A850 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon EOS 50D & Sony Alpha DSLR-A850. The full galleries are available at Canon 50D Gallery & Sony A850 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera often, you should take into account its weight and size. The Canon 50D features outside dimensions of 146mm x 108mm x 74mm (5.7" x 4.3" x 2.9") and a weight of 822 grams (1.81 lbs) whilst the Sony A850 has specifications of 156mm x 117mm x 82mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 3.2") along with a weight of 895 grams (1.97 lbs).

Compare the Canon 50D vs Sony A850 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the 50D compared to the A850.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the 50D and A850 is 57 and 54 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to envision the gap in sensor sizing just by going through technical specs. The graphic here should give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the 50D and A850.

As you have seen, the two cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The 50D with its smaller sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field harder and the Sony A850 will produce more detail because of its extra 10 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The older 50D will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.