Canon SX160 IS vs Sigma DP1x

Following is a in depth review of the Canon SX160 IS versus Sigma DP1x, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Canon and Sigma. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the SX160 IS (16MP) and DP1x (5MP) and the SX160 IS (1/2.3") and DP1x (APS-C) offer totally different sensor dimensions.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The SX160 IS was introduced 3 years after the DP1x which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Canon SX160 IS being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP1x being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise summation of how the SX160 IS matches up vs the DP1x with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX160 IS and Sigma DP1x. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SX160 IS Gallery and Sigma DP1x Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and proportions. The Canon SX160 IS provides outer dimensions of 111mm x 73mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.9" x 1.7") with a weight of 291 grams (0.64 lbs) while the Sigma DP1x has measurements of 113mm x 60mm x 50mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 2.0") and a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs).

Check out the Canon SX160 IS versus Sigma DP1x in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at the time. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the SX160 IS compared to the DP1x.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SX160 IS and DP1x is 86 and 88 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to envision the contrast in sensor sizes simply by viewing specs. The image underneath might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SX160 IS and DP1x.

All in all, both the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The SX160 IS with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Canon SX160 IS will provide you with greater detail using its extra 11 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more modern SX160 IS will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.