Olympus 8000 vs Sigma DP2

Below, we will be analyzing the Olympus 8000 and Sigma DP2, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Sigma. There is a sizable difference between the resolutions of the 8000 (12MP) and DP2 (5MP) and the 8000 (1/2.3") and DP2 (APS-C) feature different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The 8000 was unveiled 2 months prior to the DP2 so they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus 8000 being a Compact camera and the Sigma DP2 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go through a more detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the 8000 grades versus the DP2 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough 8000 & Sigma DP2. The full galleries are provided at Olympus 8000 Gallery & Sigma DP2 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus 8000 has got outside measurements of 95mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 182 grams (0.40 lbs) whilst the Sigma DP2 has specifications of 113mm x 60mm x 56mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 2.2") having a weight of 280 grams (0.62 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 8000 and Sigma DP2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are employing at the time. Here is the front view size comparison of the 8000 compared to the DP2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the 8000 and DP2 is 94 and 86 respectively.

Often, it's tough to imagine the difference between sensor measurements merely by looking at specifications. The graphic here may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the 8000 and DP2.

Plainly, both of the cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The 8000 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF trickier and the Olympus 8000 will resolve greater detail having an extra 7 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively.