Canon SX160 IS vs Sony a1

Following is a in-depth comparison of the Canon SX160 IS and Sony a1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Canon and Sony. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the SX160 IS (16MP) and a1 (50MP) and the SX160 IS (1/2.3") and a1 (Full frame) provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The SX160 IS was announced 8 years before the a1 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Canon SX160 IS being a Compact camera and the Sony a1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summary of how the SX160 IS matches up against the a1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX160 IS and Sony Alpha a1. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SX160 IS Gallery and Sony a1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you're going to have to think about its weight and measurements. The Canon SX160 IS features exterior dimensions of 111mm x 73mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.9" x 1.7") having a weight of 291 grams (0.64 lbs) while the Sony a1 has proportions of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Check the Canon SX160 IS and Sony a1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the SX160 IS against the a1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SX160 IS and a1 is 86 and 61 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to envision the gap between sensor sizes only by reviewing a spec sheet. The image below will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SX160 IS and a1.

As you can see, each of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SX160 IS with its tinier sensor will make getting shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony a1 will offer you more detail with its extra 34MP. Greater resolution will let you crop pics more aggressively. The more aged SX160 IS is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.