Canon SX220 HS vs Sony a1

Below, we will be looking at the Canon SX220 HS and Sony a1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Canon and Sony. There is a substantial difference between the resolutions of the SX220 HS (12MP) and a1 (50MP) and the SX220 HS (1/2.3") and a1 (Full frame) possess different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SX220 HS was brought out 11 years prior to the a1 which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Canon SX220 HS being a Compact camera and the Sony a1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the SX220 HS matches up vs the a1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon SX220 HS & Sony Alpha a1. The entire galleries are available at Canon SX220 HS Gallery & Sony a1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Canon SX220 HS has got outer measurements of 106mm x 59mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) and the Sony a1 has specifications of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") having a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX220 HS and Sony a1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the SX220 HS and the a1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SX220 HS and a1 is 96 and 61 respectively.

In many cases, it is tough to visualize the difference between sensor sizes purely by looking at technical specs. The picture below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SX220 HS and a1.

As you can tell, each of the cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SX220 HS featuring a tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field more challenging and the Sony a1 will give extra detail having its extra 38 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SX220 HS is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.