Canon SX170 IS vs Sony A7

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Canon SX170 IS vs Sony A7, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Pro Mirrorless by rivals Canon and Sony. There is a huge difference between the resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and A7 (24MP) and the SX170 IS (1/2.3") and A7 (Full frame) feature different sensor dimensions.

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The SX170 IS was manufactured 5 months before the A7 which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Sony A7 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a in depth comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the SX170 IS scores versus the A7 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Sony Alpha A7. The entire galleries are provided at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Sony A7 Gallery.

In case you're going to travel with your camera frequently, you have to think about its weight and proportions. The Canon SX170 IS offers outer measurements of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Sony A7 has measurements of 127mm x 94mm x 48mm (5.0" x 3.7" x 1.9") and a weight of 474 grams (1.04 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX170 IS vs Sony A7 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the SX170 IS vs the A7.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and A7 is 88 and 78 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to imagine the gap between sensor dimensions purely by checking a spec sheet. The pic here may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SX170 IS and A7.

As you can see, each of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The SX170 IS because of its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Sony A7 will give greater detail due to its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a little more aggressively.