Canon SX700 HS vs Sigma DP1x: An Expert Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

When faced with selecting a compact camera for serious photography, the choices often lie between versatile superzooms and large-sensor compacts. The Canon PowerShot SX700 HS and the Sigma DP1x represent two distinct design philosophies from the mid-2010s - one prioritizing reach and convenience, the other focusing on sensor quality and image fidelity.

With over 15 years of personal experience testing cameras across genres, I’ve put these two models through their paces. While the SX700 HS and DP1x differ radically - both in sensor technology and usage focus - this head-to-head comparison aims to clarify who each is truly for, and where their strengths and compromises lie.

Let’s dive into everything from build and handling, through image quality and performance in key photography scenarios, finishing with a practical user recommendation. Along the way, you'll find reference images and annotated performance breakdowns to ground this discussion in real-world context.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics, and Controls

Before any pixel peeping begins, the physical presence and handling of a camera play a foundational role in your shooting experience.

The Canon SX700 HS measures 113 x 66 x 35 mm and weighs 269g, boasting a compact yet user-friendly superzoom form factor. Its relatively slim body and comfortable grip make it easy to carry for extended travel or street photography sessions.

The Sigma DP1x, though almost identical in length (113mm), is notably thicker at 50mm but slightly lighter at 250g. The increased depth accommodates its large APS-C sensor and fixed 28mm equivalent prime lens. The chunkier body lends a more deliberate handling style, reminiscent of classic rangefinder cameras but without the viewfinder.

Both cameras lack viewfinders entirely, relying on LCD screens for composition. The SX700's 3-inch PureColor II G TFT screen offers 922k-dot resolution - crisp and sufficient for most framing needs. Sigma’s DP1x has a smaller 2.5-inch screen with just 230k dots - far less detailed and less friendly in bright daylight.

Ergonomics favor the Canon heavily for casual, grab-and-go use, while the Sigma’s deeper body provides a heft and steadiness better suited to controlled use.

Looking from above, Canon places its controls with intuitive access: a mode dial offering manual shutter/aperture priority modes, zoom lever around the shutter for quick framing, and a hot shoe-less compact flash system. Sigma’s minimalistic layout emphasizes simplicity and manual operation but at the cost of fewer direct controls and no zoom mechanism.

If you prefer a lean interface with more zoom capability and comfortable placement - even for small hands - the Canon SX700 HS wins ergonomics hands down.

Sensor and Image Quality: Small Sensor Superzoom vs APS-C Large Sensor

The heart of any camera comparison is image quality. Here we confront one of the starkest differences: the Canon’s 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor versus the Sigma’s much larger APS-C Foveon X3 sensor.

Canon SX700 HS’s sensor is 6.17 x 4.55mm with a 16MP effective resolution, while the Sigma DP1x packs a 20.7 x 13.8mm APS-C sensor but with just 5MP effective resolution (Foveon layers count as 15MP in total, but output image resolution remains 2640 x 1760).

From technical testing, beyond raw megapixels, the Sigma’s sensor area of nearly 286 mm² greatly outperforms Canon’s meager 28 mm² in light gathering. This generally translates to superior dynamic range, noise control at higher ISOs, and richer color fidelity.

But the Foveon sensor introduces quirks: images have a distinctive look with excellent tonal transitions but at the cost of slower output, limited continuous shooting, and significantly longer processing times.

ISO range tops at 3200 for both, but keep in mind the SX700’s small sensor will produce noticeably more noise in shadows and low light.

Also, the SX700 uses an anti-alias filter and achieves a 4608 x 3456 maximum image size, fitting for prints and cropping flexibility, while the Sigma’s true resolution feels more analog - sharp and textured but best for moderate enlargements.

For practical use, the Sigma DP1x shines in scenarios demanding pristine image quality and natural color rendering - think portraiture or controlled landscape shots. The Canon excels when convenience, reach, and speed matter more.

LCDs and Interfaces: A Window to Your Composition

Every shot counts when you rely solely on LCD composition, so display quality and interface responsiveness matter.

As mentioned, the SX700 HS’s 3-inch screen with 922k-dot resolution vastly outclasses the DP1x’s 2.5-inch 230k-dot display in clarity and color accuracy. Touchscreen? Neither has one.

When shooting outdoors in bright conditions, Canon’s brighter, more contrast-rich screen is easier to judge focus and framing, especially given its 30x zoom lens.

The Sigma’s dimmer screen hampers quick review and precise focusing, demanding you to review images carefully post-shoot or use histogram tools.

Navigating menus and settings also favors Canon’s DIGIC 6 processor-driven system with smoother responsiveness. Sigma’s True II processor is slower and less fluid.

For photography involving movement or quick framing, the SX700 HS’s interface is better suited. For deliberate, contemplative shooting, the DP1x’s interface, while lacking speed, is workable.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed vs Precision

Let’s talk AF systems, since they indicate how well a camera captures decisive moments.

The Canon SX700 HS utilizes 9 autofocus points with contrast-detection AF plus face detection. It supports both continuous and single AF modes but lacks animal eye detection or advanced tracking.

Autofocus speed in good light is quick and reliable given the processor and lens range, enabling burst shooting up to 9 fps - impressive for this class.

Conversely, the Sigma DP1x offers single-point contrast-detection AF only, with no continuous AF or tracking. It’s aimed at slower shooting, focusing on accuracy for static subjects.

The maximum continuous burst capability on the DP1x is effectively negligible.

For wildlife, sports, or street photography where speed and tracking count, Canon clearly has the edge. Sigma is better suited to studio, landscape, and street scenes where time and precision matter more than speed.

Versatility of Lens and Zoom: Reach vs Prime Quality

A huge factor is lens design: Canon offers a 30x optical zoom spanning 25–750mm equivalent (f/3.2-f/6.9), while Sigma locks in a 28mm fixed prime at f/4.

Canon’s massive zoom range alone is a selling point for travel and wildlife users who want flexibility without swapping lenses.

Optical image stabilization (OIS) on Canon helps maintain sharpness, especially at long telephoto reaches.

Sigma’s prime lens cannot compete on versatility, demanding the photographer move physically to frame. Yet, its fixed wide angle often produces images with well-controlled distortion and higher sharpness at the focal plane.

Therefore, if you crave all-in-one capability and reach, Canon SX700 HS is superior. If optical excellence and large sensor synergy dominate your priorities, Sigma DP1x delivers.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Durability Considerations

Neither camera is weather sealed or ruggedized. Both are compact, plastic-bodied cameras designed for casual use rather than professional field abuse.

The Canon feels a bit more solid and compact while having better sealed zoom and lens assemblies.

The Sigma’s relatively thick body helps with sturdiness but lacks environmental sealing and is more at risk for lens damage given the fixed prime’s exposed elements.

If you anticipate rough outdoor or inclement weather environments, neither camera is ideal. Choose carefully based on how far you protect your gear.

Real-World Performance in Photography Genres

To understand how these cameras stand in practice, I tested them across popular genres.

Portrait Photography

Canon’s face detection autofocus helps nail focus on eyes, a big plus for portraits. The 16MP sensor’s small size limits ultimate tonal gradation, but careful exposure yields pleasing skin tones.

Depth of field is relatively deep given the sensor size and aperture range - soft bokeh is limited especially at longer focal lengths.

Sigma’s DP1x with a large sensor produces richer tones, natural colors, and smoother out-of-focus rendering even at f/4. However, slower AF and fixed 28mm focal length make conventional flattering portraits tougher without cropping or lens proximity.

Landscape Photography

Sigma DP1x excels with superior dynamic range and sharpness, capturing nuanced skies and textures often lost by small sensors.

Canon’s smaller sensor limits its dynamic range, and noise control at shadows is weaker. However, the wide zoom’s 25mm setting and portability make it nice for varied landscape framing.

Sigma’s fixed lens and slower operation demand tripod use and patience, but reward with detailed, gallery-worthy shots.

Wildlife Photography

Canon’s 30x zoom and 9 fps burst mode are functional for beginner wildlife shooters who want reach without heavy gear.

The small sensor limits low-light passable shots at dawn or dusk.

Sigma is unsuitable for wildlife due to fixed focal length, lack of continuous AF, and slower performance.

Sports Photography

Canon again is better placed thanks to fast AF, continuous modes, and high frame rates. Though modest by DSLR standards, it’s good for casual sports snapshots.

Sigma cannot keep pace with moving subjects given slow AF and no burst.

Street Photography

This one’s interesting - Sigma’s minimalism and fixed 28mm lens lend a discreet and contemplative approach to street shooting.

Canon’s zoom and quick AF might help capture candid moments but at the expense of size and noisier operation.

Macro Photography

Canon offers a 1cm minimum focusing distance at wide angles, and optical IS aids handheld shots. Good enough for casual macro, but limited by sensor size.

Sigma lacks macro focus range and image stabilization, making it less practical.

Night and Astro Photography

Neither camera was designed for astrophotography, but the Sigma’s cleaner shadows and better dynamic range offer some advantage if used with low ISO and tripod.

Canon can struggle in dark due to noise but optical IS helps handheld low light.

Video Capabilities

The Canon SX700 HS supports full HD at up to 60p with built-in stereo mic (no external mic input). It also includes Wifi and NFC for easy media transfer.

Sigma’s video capabilities are very limited - 320x240 resolution at best - and no modern connectivity.

If video is in your plans, Canon is the clear winner.

Travel Photography

Canon’s ultra-zoom and lightweight compact form are ideal for travel, all without lens swapping.

Sigma’s image quality is tempting for key scenic captures but lack of zoom and video features limit versatility on the go.

Professional Workflows

Sigma supports raw image recording, critical for professional retouching, but slow file write speeds impede workflows.

Canon has no raw support, relying on jpeg optimization.

Sigma’s APS-C sensor and raw files attract professionals craving ultimate image control despite ergonomic limitations.

Connectivity, Storage, and Battery Life

Canon SX700 HS supports built-in WiFi and NFC for smartphone connection, HDMI output, and uses the NB-6LH battery rated around 250 shots per charge.

Sigma DP1x has no wireless features, USB 1.0 interface, no HDMI, and battery life specs are vague but generally poor by modern standards given its older design.

Both take single SD card slots; Canon supports SDXC with more flexible options.

For modern convenience, Canon again leads.

Price-to-Performance and Overall Value

At $349, the Canon SX700 HS offers exceptional value for casual users wanting zoom versatility, ease of use, and modern features.

Sigma’s DP1x, priced higher at $574, targets the niche enthusiast seeking large sensor quality in a compact body, accepting limitations in speed and flexibility.

The real value depends on your priorities: convenience and zoom, or sensor excellence and prime quality.

Technical Summary in Photography Disciplines

Sample Image Comparisons: Real Results Speak Louder

Canon SX700 HS screen back Sigma DP1x screen back

Examining side-by-side photos, you can observe Canon’s color tends to be punchy but sometimes oversharpened, while Sigma yields softer yet more natural tones with markedly better shadow detail.

Canon’s images excel at telephoto reach photos of distant subjects, whereas Sigma images show superior microcontrast and highlight management on wide-angle scenes.

In Conclusion: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Here’s my takeaway after extensive testing:

• Choose Canon SX700 HS if you want a lightweight, budget-friendly travel or generalist camera with extensive zoom, decent autofocus, and video capabilities. It’s particularly suited for casual wildlife photographers, street photographers craving flexibility, and videographers on a budget.

• Choose Sigma DP1x if you prioritize ultimate image quality from a large APS-C sensor in a compact form, focus mostly on portraits, landscapes, and deliberate still photography, and you don’t mind slower operation or lack of zoom. Professionals who demand raw capture and natural tone reproduction will find this appealing.

Dear Canon, please consider marrying the SX700’s zoom versatility with a larger sensor and raw support in the future. Sigma, reckon adding faster AF and higher-res video would unlock the DP1x’s potential for more users.

Both cameras remain relevant for niche users today despite their age, reflecting two philosophies of compact camera design.

I hope this deep dive helps you clarify the real-world differences and guides your next camera choice. Feel free to reach out with your specific shooting needs for tailored advice!

Happy shooting!

– Your trusted photography gear tester

Appendices and References

For those interested, I recommend checking my full DXOMark-inspired tests and comparison videos available in my site’s archives.

All specifications current as of the time of analysis.