Canon SX170 IS vs Sigma DP1s

Following is a in-depth overview of the Canon SX170 IS vs Sigma DP1s, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Canon and Sigma. There exists a huge gap between the image resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and DP1s (5MP) and the SX170 IS (1/2.3") and DP1s (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The SX170 IS was introduced 3 years after the DP1s which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP1s being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before diving in to a thorough comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the SX170 IS scores vs the DP1s when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Sigma DP1s. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Sigma DP1s Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX170 IS provides exterior measurements of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP1s has dimensions of 109mm x 60mm x 31mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.2") with a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs).

Check the Canon SX170 IS vs Sigma DP1s in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the SX170 IS vs the DP1s.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and DP1s is 88 and 90 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to see the contrast between sensor sizes simply by reading through a spec sheet. The picture underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SX170 IS and DP1s.

As you can see, the two cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The SX170 IS using its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Canon SX170 IS will give extra detail using its extra 11MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images much more aggressively. The more modern SX170 IS is going to have an edge with regard to sensor technology.