Canon SX540 HS vs Sigma DP1

Below, we will be analyzing the Canon SX540 HS and Sigma DP1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Canon and Sigma. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the SX540 HS (20MP) and DP1 (5MP) and the SX540 HS (1/2.3") and DP1 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The SX540 HS was unveiled 7 years later than the DP1 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Canon SX540 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sigma DP1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the SX540 HS grades versus the DP1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS and Sigma DP1. The full galleries are available at Canon SX540 HS Gallery and Sigma DP1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera often, you need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX540 HS has got physical dimensions of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") having a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP1 has dimensions of 113mm x 60mm x 50mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 2.0") accompanied by a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX540 HS and Sigma DP1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are using during that time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the SX540 HS vs the DP1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SX540 HS and DP1 is 69 and 87 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to envision the contrast in sensor measurements just by viewing a spec sheet. The photograph here will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SX540 HS and DP1.

As you can see, the 2 cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The SX540 HS using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Canon SX540 HS will provide you with greater detail having an extra 15 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots much more aggressively. The younger SX540 HS is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.