Canon SX230 HS vs Sigma DP2

Here, we will be contrasting the Canon SX230 HS versus Sigma DP2, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Canon and Sigma. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the SX230 HS (12MP) and DP2 (5MP) and the SX230 HS (1/2.3") and DP2 (APS-C) posses different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SX230 HS was revealed 23 months after the DP2 which makes them a generation away from each other. The two cameras feature different body design with the Canon SX230 HS being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP2 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise summation of how the SX230 HS scores versus the DP2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX230 HS and Sigma DP2. The full galleries are available at Canon SX230 HS Gallery and Sigma DP2 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to travel with your camera, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Canon SX230 HS has got exterior measurements of 106mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 223 grams (0.49 lbs) and the Sigma DP2 has specifications of 113mm x 60mm x 56mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 2.2") along with a weight of 280 grams (0.62 lbs).

See the Canon SX230 HS versus Sigma DP2 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the SX230 HS compared to the DP2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SX230 HS and DP2 is 91 and 86 respectively.

Oftentimes, its hard to visualize the gap in sensor dimensions purely by checking out specs. The picture here should offer you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the SX230 HS and DP2.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The SX230 HS with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field more challenging and the Canon SX230 HS will produce more detail because of its extra 7MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots way more aggressively. The fresher SX230 HS provides an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.