Canon SX1 IS vs Sony RX100 VA

Following is a comprehensive assessment of the Canon SX1 IS versus Sony RX100 VA, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Canon and Sony. There exists a sizable gap among the image resolutions of the SX1 IS (10MP) and RX100 VA (20MP) and the SX1 IS (1/2.3") and RX100 VA (1") use different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SX1 IS was introduced 10 years before the RX100 VA which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Canon SX1 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony RX100 VA being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a quick overview of how the SX1 IS scores versus the RX100 VA in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX1 IS & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V(A). The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SX1 IS Gallery & Sony RX100 VA Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and size. The Canon SX1 IS enjoys exterior measurements of 128mm x 88mm x 88mm (5.0" x 3.5" x 3.5") along with a weight of 615 grams (1.36 lbs) and the Sony RX100 VA has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") along with a weight of 299 grams (0.66 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX1 IS versus Sony RX100 VA in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use during that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the SX1 IS compared to the RX100 VA.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX1 IS and RX100 VA is 64 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to picture the contrast in sensor sizes just by seeing specs. The pic here will help provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SX1 IS and RX100 VA.

All in all, both of these cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SX1 IS using its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony RX100 VA will produce greater detail using its extra 10 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SX1 IS will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.