Canon SX530 HS vs Sony a1

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Canon SX530 HS versus Sony a1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Canon and Sony. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the SX530 HS (16MP) and a1 (50MP) and the SX530 HS (1/2.3") and a1 (Full frame) enjoy different sensor size.

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The SX530 HS was revealed 7 years earlier than the a1 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX530 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony a1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short view of how the SX530 HS grades versus the a1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX530 HS and Sony Alpha a1. The full galleries are viewable at Canon SX530 HS Gallery and Sony a1 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and volume. The Canon SX530 HS has external dimensions of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") and a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) while the Sony a1 has sizing of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX530 HS versus Sony a1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the SX530 HS and the a1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX530 HS and a1 is 69 and 61 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes merely by going over specifications. The image underneath will help offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX530 HS and a1.

To sum up, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SX530 HS having a tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Sony a1 will offer greater detail because of its extra 34MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged SX530 HS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.