Canon SX40 HS vs Sigma SD1

On this page, we will be evaluating the Canon SX40 HS vs Sigma SD1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Canon and Sigma. The sensor resolution of the SX40 HS (12MP) and the SD1 (15MP) is pretty comparable but the SX40 HS (1/2.3") and SD1 (APS-C) have totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SX40 HS was released 12 months after the SD1 and they are of a similar age. The two cameras have different body design with the Canon SX40 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sigma SD1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SX40 HS grades vs the SD1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX40 HS & Sigma SD1. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SX40 HS Gallery & Sigma SD1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Canon SX40 HS has physical dimensions of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") and a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Sigma SD1 has specifications of 146mm x 113mm x 80mm (5.7" x 4.4" x 3.1") and a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX40 HS vs Sigma SD1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the SX40 HS and the SD1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SX40 HS and SD1 is 64 and 77 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizes only by seeing specs. The picture below might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX40 HS and SD1.

All in all, both of these cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SX40 HS because of its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Sigma SD1 will produce more detail as a result of its extra 3MP. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs more aggressively. The newer SX40 HS is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.