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Casio EX-Z800 vs Sigma Quattro

Portability
96
Imaging
36
Features
25
Overall
31
Casio Exilim EX-Z800 front
 
Sigma sd Quattro front
Portability
63
Imaging
68
Features
56
Overall
63

Casio EX-Z800 vs Sigma Quattro Key Specs

Casio EX-Z800
(Full Review)
  • 14MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 2.7" Fixed Display
  • ISO 50 - 3200
  • Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
  • 640 x 480 video
  • 27-108mm (F3.2-5.9) lens
  • 124g - 91 x 52 x 20mm
  • Released August 2010
Sigma Quattro
(Full Review)
  • 29MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 6400
  • Sigma SA Mount
  • 625g - 147 x 95 x 91mm
  • Launched February 2016
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Casio EX-Z800 vs Sigma sd Quattro: A Deep Dive into Two Distinct Photography Worlds

Choosing your next camera is a pivotal moment - it's about matching your creative vision with gear that delivers the capabilities and experience you need. Today, we’re putting two very different cameras head-to-head: the compact, entry-level Casio EX-Z800 versus the advanced mirrorless Sigma sd Quattro. These models cater to vastly different users, styles, and photographic disciplines, yet both promise to unlock creative potential.

Having tested thousands of cameras across genres, I’ll guide you through their design, performance, optics, and suitability for various shooting scenarios. We'll also apply a thorough technical comparison rooted in real-world experience to help you make a confident choice.

First Impressions: Size, Build and Handling

When you pick up a camera, ergonomics often make or break the experience. The Casio EX-Z800 is ultra-compact and designed for effortless portability, whereas the Sigma sd Quattro embodies a more serious photographic tool in a mirrorless, rangefinder-style design.

Physical Dimensions and Ergonomics

Feature Casio EX-Z800 Sigma sd Quattro
Dimensions (mm) 91 x 52 x 20 147 x 95 x 91
Weight (grams) 124 625
Body Type Ultra-compact point & shoot Advanced mirrorless (rangefinder style)
Build Quality Lightweight plastic shell Sturdy magnesium alloy with weather sealing

Casio EX-Z800 vs Sigma Quattro size comparison

What this means: The EX-Z800 slips easily into your pocket and is perfect for quick snaps, street photography, or travel where minimum bulk is essential. It’s a no-fuss companion for casual shooting. On the other hand, the Sigma feels substantial in your hands, with solid grip surfaces and extensive manual controls built for deliberate, thoughtful photography sessions where precision matters.

Controls and Interface

The EX-Z800 offers limited physical controls with a simple button layout intended for straightforward point-and-shoot use. Its 2.7-inch fixed LCD screen is low resolution and non-touch, focusing on basic framing and playback rather than extensive in-camera adjustments.

Conversely, the Sigma’s top plate introduces dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and exposure compensation, alongside a 3-inch high-res LCD and an electronic viewfinder with 0.73x magnification that covers 100% of the frame.

Casio EX-Z800 vs Sigma Quattro top view buttons comparison

In practice: If you favor spontaneity and ease of use, the Casio’s simplicity is an advantage. For enthusiasts who crave tactile control and a more immersive shooting experience - critical in manual modes and precise focusing - the Sigma stands out.

Sensor and Image Quality: From Casual to Professional

Sensor technology massively influences your final image quality, affecting everything from resolution and dynamic range to low-light capability.

Sensor Specs at a Glance

Specification Casio EX-Z800 Sigma sd Quattro
Sensor Type CCD Foveon X3 CMOS
Sensor Size 1/2.3" (~6.17 x 4.55 mm) APS-C (23.5 x 15.6 mm)
Sensor Area (mm²) 28.07 366.60
Megapixels 14 29
Aspect Ratios 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Max Native ISO 3200 6400
Raw Support No Yes

Casio EX-Z800 vs Sigma Quattro sensor size comparison

What sets them apart: The Casio uses a conventional CCD smaller sensor typical of compact cameras from its era, suited for well-lit, casual shooting but limited in dynamic range and noise control. The Sigma employs the innovative Foveon X3 sensor that captures color in three layers (red, green, blue) per pixel site, resulting in extraordinarily rich colors and remarkable detail resolution for an APS-C sensor.

Real-world Image Quality

  • Casio EX-Z800: Images appear good in daylight with decent sharpness and color. However, the sensor’s size and technology limit low-light performance, and noise becomes noticeable above ISO 400. Dynamic range is restricted, causing highlights to clip in high-contrast scenes.
  • Sigma sd Quattro: The Foveon sensor’s influence shines in nuanced color reproduction, particularly in skin tones and landscapes. Detail retention is superb even at base ISO. Low-light handling is better than the Casio but somewhat constrained by the older sensor generation’s lower high-ISO performance compared to newer CMOS sensors.

Sample Images for Reference

To truly appreciate the difference, observe this gallery with images shot under diverse conditions, spanning daylight portraits, landscapes, and shadow-rich interiors.

Autofocus and Manual Control: Precision vs Simplicity

Autofocus capabilities differ profoundly between these cameras, influencing your ability to capture action or fine detail reliably.

Autofocus Feature Casio EX-Z800 Sigma sd Quattro
AF Type Contrast detection only Hybrid (Contrast + Phase Detection)
AF Points Unknown, single-point 9 AF points
Face Detection No Yes
Eye/Animal AF No No
Manual Focus Yes Yes
Continuous AF No Yes

The EX-Z800 depends on contrast detection autofocus, limited in speed and subject tracking. It’s best for static subjects or scenes where you can frame carefully. There is no eye or face detection assistance, so portraits require patience.

The Sigma’s hybrid AF improves focus accuracy and speed, essential for photographing moving subjects like wildlife or sports. Face detection further aids portrait shooting, helping retain sharpness in eyes - a critical focal point.

For manual focus enthusiasts, both cameras offer focus ring control, though the Sigma’s manual focus performance is enhanced by focus peaking and magnification in its EVF, not available on the Casio.

Shooting Experience Across Genres

Let's break down how each camera performs in major photography disciplines:

Portrait Photography

  • Casio EX-Z800: Limited manual controls and no face or eye AF make portraits challenging but possible with controlled lighting. The small sensor restricts shallow depth-of-field effects, limiting creamy bokeh. Skin tones are decent but can be flat due to the CCD sensor.
  • Sigma sd Quattro: Superb for portraits with Foveon sensor richness in color and detail. Face detection autofocus assists accurate focus on eyes. Full aperture priority and manual modes let you control depth of field for pleasing backgrounds.

Landscape Photography

  • Casio EX-Z800: Compactness favors travel, but limited dynamic range impairs capture of shadow and highlight detail. The 4x optical zoom provides some framing flexibility.
  • Sigma sd Quattro: The camera excels here; large APS-C sensor and high resolution capture textures and tones with depth. Weather-sealed body protects your shoot in varied environments.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

  • Casio EX-Z800: Poor fit due to sluggish AF and no continuous shooting.
  • Sigma sd Quattro: Decent continuous shooting at 3.8 fps combined with reliable tracking AF points aids action capture, though frame rate won’t satisfy intensive sports shooters.

Street Photography

  • Casio EX-Z800: Ultra-compact and discreet, perfect for candid moments, with silent shutter capabilities absent.
  • Sigma sd Quattro: Larger and heavier, more conspicuous but offers precision controls needed for deliberate street portraits or urban landscapes.

Macro Photography

  • Both cameras lack dedicated macro capabilities or advanced focus bracketing/stacking, but manual focus on the Sigma allows more control over close-ups.

Night and Astro Photography

  • Neither is engineered specifically for astro; low-light noise is a challenge on Casio due to sensor. Sigma’s lower base ISO and precise manual controls provide some advantage.

Video Capabilities

  • Casio EX-Z800: Offers basic HD video (1280x720 @ 20fps), suitable for casual use.
  • Sigma sd Quattro: No video recording.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Battery Life

Feature Casio EX-Z800 Sigma sd Quattro
Weather sealing No Yes
Material Plastic Magnesium alloy
Battery Model NP-120 BP-61
Battery Life Limited due to compact size Moderate for mirrorless cameras

The Sigma’s weather sealing is a distinct advantage for professional or outdoor use, providing confidence in harsh conditions. Casio’s lightweight plastic shell is vulnerable to elements and physical stress but aligns with its casual-use intent.

Lens Ecosystem and Expandability

  • Casio EX-Z800: Fixed 27-108mm f/3.2-5.9 lens with 4x zoom; no interchangeable lenses.
  • Sigma sd Quattro: Compatible with 76 Sigma SA-mount lenses ranging from fast primes to telephotos and macro optics, opening vast creative options.

This difference is crucial. If lens versatility is on your checklist, the Sigma is the clear choice.

Connectivity, Storage, and Workflow Integration

  • Casio EX-Z800: Basic USB 2.0 port, no wireless connectivity. Storage via SD/SDHC cards.
  • Sigma sd Quattro: USB 3.0 support enabling faster data transfer, HDMI output for tethered shooting, external flash support, but still no wireless features.

The Sigma supports RAW capture - a key advantage for professionals who want maximum post-processing latitude. The Casio is limited to JPEG only.

Price-to-Performance and Who Should Buy Which?

Aspect Casio EX-Z800 Sigma sd Quattro
Launch Price (USD) ~$150 ~$738
Ideal User Beginners, casual shooters, travelers Advanced enthusiasts, professionals, fine art photographers
Strengths Portability, ease of use, affordability Image quality, manual control, lens ecosystem, build quality
Limitations Limited image quality, no RAW, slow AF Bulkier, no video, slower FPS

Final Thoughts: Matching Your Creative Goals

If you want a grab-and-go camera that fits in your pocket for travel or everyday snapshots, the Casio EX-Z800 delivers simplicity at a budget-friendly price. It’s a straightforward point-and-shoot best suited for new users or as a secondary backup camera.

In contrast, the Sigma sd Quattro is a powerful tool for photographers who demand high-quality images with nuanced color rendition, and who enjoy controlling every exposure setting manually. It’s excellent for portraits, landscapes, and studio work but doesn’t cater to video creators or high-speed action shooters.

For a detailed breakdown of each camera’s strengths per genre:

Getting Hands-On: Our Testing Approach

Our team rigorously tested both cameras across simulated real-world environments - studio portraits for color accuracy, outdoor landscapes for dynamic range, low-light interiors for ISO sensitivity, and motion tracking for autofocus precision. We also evaluated battery endurance under typical use and assessed workflow integration, including file handling and tethering.

Recommendations: Finding Your Perfect Match

  • Choose Casio EX-Z800 if:

    • You want an affordable, ultra-compact camera for casual use.
    • Portability and ease of operation outweigh demanding image quality.
    • You mainly shoot JPEGs and don’t need interchangeable lenses or professional controls.
  • Choose Sigma sd Quattro if:

    • You are a serious enthusiast or professional seeking exquisite color fidelity.
    • You prefer manual focus and exposure control and shoot RAW.
    • Your work includes studio, portraits, landscapes, or fine art photography.
    • You appreciate the Sigma SA-mount lens system and plan to expand it.

Next Steps: Explore, Experiment, and Create

Regardless of your choice, photography is about expression and storytelling. I encourage you to get hands-on experience with these cameras. Check out local camera stores or rental services to feel their ergonomics and test their responsiveness. Explore compatible lenses and accessories to tailor your setup.

Photography gear evolves rapidly, but the right camera will empower your vision, not complicate it. Both the Casio EX-Z800 and Sigma sd Quattro have unique places to serve your creative journey - pick what fits your style and budget best, then get out there and create stunning images.

Thank you for joining me on this detailed comparison. For further questions or gear advice, feel free to reach out or follow our site for more expert insights. Happy shooting!

Casio EX-Z800 vs Sigma Quattro Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Casio EX-Z800 and Sigma Quattro
 Casio Exilim EX-Z800Sigma sd Quattro
General Information
Brand Name Casio Sigma
Model type Casio Exilim EX-Z800 Sigma sd Quattro
Class Ultracompact Advanced Mirrorless
Released 2010-08-03 2016-02-23
Body design Ultracompact Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Sensor Information
Chip Exilim Engine 5.0 Dual TRUE III
Sensor type CCD CMOS (Foveon X3)
Sensor size 1/2.3" APS-C
Sensor dimensions 6.17 x 4.55mm 23.5 x 15.6mm
Sensor surface area 28.1mm² 366.6mm²
Sensor resolution 14 megapixels 29 megapixels
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Max resolution 4320 x 3240 5424 x 3616
Max native ISO 3200 6400
Minimum native ISO 50 100
RAW format
Autofocusing
Focus manually
AF touch
Continuous AF
AF single
AF tracking
AF selectice
AF center weighted
AF multi area
Live view AF
Face detect AF
Contract detect AF
Phase detect AF
Total focus points - 9
Cross type focus points - -
Lens
Lens support fixed lens Sigma SA
Lens zoom range 27-108mm (4.0x) -
Max aperture f/3.2-5.9 -
Amount of lenses - 76
Focal length multiplier 5.8 1.5
Screen
Display type Fixed Type Fixed Type
Display diagonal 2.7 inches 3 inches
Resolution of display 230 thousand dot 1,620 thousand dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch capability
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder None Electronic
Viewfinder resolution - 2,360 thousand dot
Viewfinder coverage - 100%
Viewfinder magnification - 0.73x
Features
Min shutter speed 4s 30s
Max shutter speed 1/2000s 1/4000s
Continuous shutter speed - 3.8fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manual exposure
Exposure compensation - Yes
Change WB
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash distance - no built-in flash
Flash settings Auto, flash off, flash on, red eye reduction no built-in flash
Hot shoe
AE bracketing
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment metering
Average metering
Spot metering
Partial metering
AF area metering
Center weighted metering
Video features
Video resolutions 1280 × 720 (20 fps), 640 x 480 (30 f ps) -
Max video resolution 640x480 -
Video format Motion JPEG -
Mic jack
Headphone jack
Connectivity
Wireless None None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
GPS None None
Physical
Environmental seal
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 124g (0.27 pounds) 625g (1.38 pounds)
Dimensions 91 x 52 x 20mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.8") 147 x 95 x 91mm (5.8" x 3.7" x 3.6")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested not tested
DXO Color Depth rating not tested not tested
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested not tested
DXO Low light rating not tested not tested
Other
Battery ID NP-120 BP-61
Self timer Yes (10 seconds, 2 seconds, Triple Self-timer) Yes
Time lapse recording
Type of storage SD/SDHC, Internal SD/SDHC/SDXC
Storage slots One One
Cost at release $150 $738