Canon SX30 IS vs Sigma DP1

In this article, we will be evaluating the Canon SX30 IS and Sigma DP1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by brands Canon and Sigma. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the SX30 IS (14MP) and DP1 (5MP) and the SX30 IS (1/2.3") and DP1 (APS-C) use different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SX30 IS was released 2 years after the DP1 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX30 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sigma DP1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go in to a full comparison, below is a short introduction of how the SX30 IS matches up against the DP1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX30 IS & Sigma DP1. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SX30 IS Gallery & Sigma DP1 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Canon SX30 IS has outside dimensions of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") along with a weight of 601 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Sigma DP1 has measurements of 113mm x 60mm x 50mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 2.0") and a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX30 IS and Sigma DP1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the SX30 IS against the DP1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX30 IS and DP1 is 64 and 87 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to imagine the gap in sensor dimensions merely by going through technical specs. The image below will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX30 IS and DP1.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The SX30 IS because of its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field tougher and the Canon SX30 IS will produce greater detail as a result of its extra 9MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The fresher SX30 IS should have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.