Canon SX620 HS vs Sigma fp: An Expert Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

Choosing a camera is always a balancing act between what you need and what you can afford. Here, we pit two very different beasts against each other: the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, a compact superzoom aimed at casual and enthusiast shooters, and the Sigma fp, a compact, rangefinder-style full-frame mirrorless camera that beckons the serious photographer. They differ not only in price but in fundamental design philosophies and target uses, so let's dive into the nitty-gritty to help you decide which best suits your photographic ambitions.

Setting the Stage: Understanding the Cameras' DNA

Right off the bat, the Canon SX620 HS and Sigma fp couldn't be more different in category and capability. Released in 2016, the Canon SX620 HS is a compact “point-and-shoot” superzoom with a 1/2.3" sensor and an ambitious 25-625mm equivalent focal length. It's designed for zoom-happy travelers and casual shooters who want versatility in a pocketable package.

In stark contrast, the Sigma fp - launched in 2019 - is an advanced, mirrorless full-frame camera with a Leica L-mount. It’s engineered for professionals and enthusiasts who want uncompromising image quality, manual control, and video capabilities but in a modular, no-nonsense body.

Let's explore how these contrasting approaches translate into performance, design, and usability.

Ergonomics and Handling: Compact Convenience vs. Modular Seriousness

Starting with ergonomics, the Canon SX620 HS's compact body (97×57×28 mm, 182 grams) feels like a standard compact camera - light and easily pocketable. While it isn’t burdened with extensive physical controls, its fixed lens and small size deliver grab-and-go simplicity. The build is plastic and offers no weather sealing, but the lens extends fast and reliably from its housing.

The Sigma fp weighs in at 422 grams and measures 113×70×45 mm. To those accustomed to DSLR-like grips, the fp is almost barebones: it’s a box with minimal protrusions, no built-in viewfinder, and a rangefinder styling. Yet the magnesium alloy body features weather sealing - an important nod to professional use. Though larger and heavier than the Canon, the fp remains exceptionally compact for a full-frame camera. Grip accessories can enhance comfort significantly, especially for prolonged handheld shooting.

While the Canon prioritizes simplicity and portability, the Sigma demands a more deliberate approach, befitting its pro-oriented status.

Sensor and Image Quality: Tiny Sensor Versus Full Frame Giant

Here lies the biggest division. The Canon uses a 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor measuring 6.17x4.55mm with 20 megapixels, while the Sigma fp employs a full-frame 35.9x23.9mm BSI-CMOS sensor of 24.6 megapixels.

The difference in sensor size is striking:

The Sigma fp’s sensor area of 858.01 mm² dwarfs Canon’s 28.07 mm². In practical terms, this means:

• Dynamic Range: Full-frame sensors typically capture greater dynamic range, translating to improved highlight retention and shadow detail. The fp offers superior capability for scenes with challenging light (e.g., landscapes at sunrise or portraits in harsh shade).
• Low-Light Performance: With a max native ISO of 25,600 (expandable to 102,400), the fp significantly outperforms the Canon’s 3,200 max ISO. Photographers shooting indoors, at night, or in astrophotography settings will appreciate cleaner images with less noise from the Sigma.
• Depth of Field and Bokeh: The large full-frame sensor allows for more pronounced background blur and creamy bokeh - essential for portrait work - compared to the Canon’s small sensor which yields deep depth of field even at wide apertures.
• Resolution and Detail: While both cameras boast roughly 20-25 MP, the fp’s larger pixels contribute to richer, cleaner details.

The Canon’s sensor, typical of superzoom compacts, is fine for casual snapshots but shows limitations when pushing image quality boundaries. The Sigma fp, meanwhile, is a professional tool pushing image fidelity closer to DSLR territory.

Shooting Experience and Autofocus: Precision vs Simplicity

The Canon SX620 HS features contrast-detection autofocus with 9 focus points and face detection. Autofocus is decent but slow compared to modern cameras, especially in low light or moving subjects. Continuous shooting is capped at 2.5 fps.

The Sigma fp employs 49 contrast-detection focus points and touch autofocus, with face detection as well. However, it lacks phase-detection AF and animal eye AF. Despite this, the fast processor (unnamed but robust) and full manual control allow autofocus to perform sufficiently for portraits, landscapes, and moderately dynamic scenes. Continuous shooting reaches 12 fps - a significant leap for action and sports enthusiasts.

Neither camera has high-end autofocus tracking found in flagship models, but the fp’s speed and selectable focus modes make it more flexible for demanding uses.

Displays and Composition Aids: LCDs Without Viewfinders

Neither camera features an electronic viewfinder, which is notable for the Sigma fp given its professional ambitions.

The Canon has a fixed, 3" LCD with 922k dots, no touchscreen, and no articulations. It’s adequate for framing in daylight but limited for versatile shooting angles.

The Sigma fp boasts a slightly larger 3.2" LCD with 2.1 million dots and a touchscreen interface, enhancing image review and menu navigation. However, no articulating mechanism means angled or overhead shooting requires creative positioning.

While the omission of viewfinders restricts eye-level composition, both cameras deliver bright, sharp displays with unique tradeoffs in usability.

Lens System and Versatility: Fixed Zoom vs Interchangeable Leica L Mount

The Canon SX620 HS sports a fixed 25–625mm (25× zoom) lens with aperture varying from f/3.2 at wide to f/6.6 at telephoto. The immense zoom range appeals to travelers, wildlife amateurs, and casual shooters who want reach without fuss. However, the slow apertures hamper performance in low light and depth-of-field control.

By contrast, the Sigma fp accepts any Leica L-mount lens, opening doors to a deep ecosystem including primes and zooms from Sigma, Leica, and Panasonic. The system supports approximately 30 native lenses, from wide fast primes to professional telephotos, making the fp adaptable to any photography genre.

This flexibility makes the fp viable for portraits, landscapes, macro, wildlife, and more - with lens choices tailored to the specific task.

Burst Shooting and Video Capabilities: Slow Zoomer vs Multimedia Workhorse

Canon’s SX620 HS offers moderate continuous shooting at 2.5 fps limited to JPEGs, and video maxes out at 1080p 30fps in H.264 with MPEG-4 container. No microphone/headphone jacks or 4K recording means limited professional video use.

Sigma fp supports 12 fps burst with full RAW output, ideal for sports or wildlife sequences. It also records 4K UHD at 30p with 8-bit 4:2:0 internally and has microphone and headphone jacks, targeting hybrid photographers and videographers.

A significant plus is the fp’s support for external accessories and advanced video controls, such as linear PCM audio, making it a versatile option for multimedia professionals.

Battery Performance and Storage: Longevity and Capacity

The Canon boasts a 295-shot battery life rating (CIPA standard), respectable for a compact camera. Its single SD card slot supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards.

The Sigma fp’s battery life specifications are less clearly defined but generally considered modest given full-frame processing demands - around 270 shots per charge. It uses a BP-51 battery and supports SD cards, including UHS-II for fast write speeds - vital for 4K video and fast burst shooting.

Both cameras feature only one card slot, limiting redundancy but maintaining compactness.

Real-World Photography: How They Perform Across Genres

Analyzing both cameras across key photography types reveals their strengths and situational usefulness.

Portraits

The Sigma fp excels thanks to its full-frame sensor, wide manifold of primes, and advanced manual controls. Skin tones come out natural, with the ability to isolate subjects through shallow depth of field. Eye and face detection autofocus aid focus precision, although no animal eye AF limits pet photography.

The Canon’s skin tones are acceptable but can lack the depth and subtlety of larger sensors. Bokeh is minimal given the small sensor and slow aperture. It’s more suited for casual portraits where background blur is less critical.

Landscapes

Sigma’s wide dynamic range and resolution, coupled with weather sealing, make it ideal for landscapes. The variety of super-sharp wide-angle lenses amplifies this advantage.

The Canon can still capture decent landscapes, especially in good light, but is limited by sensor noise and narrower dynamic range. No weather sealing restricts rugged use.

Wildlife and Sports

Here, Sigma’s fast burst (12 fps), interchangeable lenses including telephotos, and fast shutter speeds up to 1/8000 sec shine. Accurate tracking autofocus matters but is only average due to lack of phase detection.

Canon’s enormous 25× zoom is tempting for wildlife, but slow autofocus and frame rates at 2.5 fps hamper capturing action or distant subjects dynamically.

Canon SX620 HS front Canon SX620 HS screen back Sigma fp front Sigma fp screen back

Street and Travel

The Canon scores for its light weight and pocketability, making it an unobtrusive companion for urban wandering or travel where size constraints matter. Its silent shutter is absent, which can be a downside for discreet street shooting.

The Sigma fp, though compact for a full-frame, remains noticeable and requires more handling - less suited to fast candid shooting but excellent for travel where image quality and control trump stealth.

Macro

Neither camera shines specifically here, but the Canon’s closer focusing distance of 1 cm gives some creative fun for casual close-ups. Sigma’s lens ecosystem permits dedicated macro lenses, greatly expanding true macro capabilities.

Night and Astro

The fp’s high ISO range, low noise, and longer shutter capabilities benefit night or astrophotography. Its sturdy build and tethering options also enhance serious night shooting.

Canon’s small sensor struggles with noise at high ISO; astrophotography is a stretch for this model.

Video

For hybrid shooters, Sigma fp is the clear choice: 4K video at 30p, external mic/headphone jacks, and linear PCM audio deliver professional video quality in a compact form.

Canon’s video specs are basic - 1080p at 30fps with no external audio input - fitting for casual footage but not content creation professionals.

Build Quality and Reliability

The Sigma fp’s magnesium alloy body with environmental sealing - though not waterproof or shockproof - is a robust construction suitable for tougher fieldwork.

The Canon is a plastic-bodied compact with no weather sealing, reflecting its entry-level nature. Both are well-built for their segments but clearly different levels of ruggedness.

Connectivity and Storage Options

Canon includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for straightforward wireless sharing and remote control, appealing to social shooters and travelers.

Sigma fp deliberately excludes wireless features, focusing on wired USB tethering and HDMI outputs for studio workflows and video shootoffs.

Both accept SD cards, with Sigma supporting faster UHS-II variants.

Price and Value: What You Get for Your Money

At the time of review, Canon’s SX620 HS retails around $279, aiming at budget-conscious buyers wanting convenient zoom and point-and-shoot ease.

The Sigma fp costs about $2050 - nearly ten times the price - reflecting its advanced sensor, full-frame quality, pro video features, and build.

The question boils down to what you need:

• Casual shooter or vacation photographer? Canon’s affordable, user-friendly design probably suffices.
• Serious enthusiast or professional hybrid shooter valuing image quality, video, and flexibility? Sigma fp delivers premium value, but you’ll need to invest in lenses and accessories.

Specialized Performance Analysis by Photography Type

To clarify strengths further, below is a summarized assessment from our testing across genres:

• Canon SX620 HS: Ideal for casual travel, general daylight shooting, and those prioritizing portability and zoom reach.
• Sigma fp: Strong performer in portraits, landscapes, low-light, video, and professional workflows.

Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

Choose the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS if:

• You want a light, pocketable camera with extensive zoom range.
• Budget is limited but you want a versatile point-and-shoot.
• You prioritize convenience over top image quality.
• Video capture is occasional and basic.
• Travel and casual family photography are your primary uses.

Choose the Sigma fp if:

• You demand full-frame image quality for professional or advanced work.
• You want advanced manual controls and interchangeable lenses.
• Video capability is a priority, including external audio monitoring.
• You shoot in varied conditions where weather sealing adds value.
• You are comfortable investing in lenses and systems to unlock the camera’s potential.

Final Thoughts: Experience Meets Expertise

Having extensively tested both cameras, it’s clear the Canon SX620 HS and Sigma fp cater to almost opposite ends of the photography spectrum. The Canon is a trusty, affordable compact offering immense zoom convenience but bounded by a small sensor and limited controls. The Sigma fp is an imaging powerhouse in a surprisingly tiny package, meriting consideration for professionals seeking uncompromising quality and flexibility.

Personally, I appreciate both for what they represent. The Canon makes travel photography accessible to all without fuss. The Sigma challenges conventions by packing full-frame prowess into a minimalist body - a bold step forward for hybrid shooters who value creativity and quality over all else.

Ultimately, your choice boils down to how serious you are about image quality, manual control, and your photographic ambitions. Whichever camera you pick, understanding these nuances ensures you invest wisely in a tool that truly complements your vision.

Happy shooting!