Panasonic XS1 vs Sony A33

Lets look a bit more closely at the Panasonic XS1 versus Sony A33, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Panasonic and Sony. The resolution of the XS1 (16MP) and the A33 (14MP) is pretty similar but the XS1 (1/2.3") and A33 (APS-C) offer different sensor sizing.

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The XS1 was manufactured 2 years after the A33 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera and the Sony A33 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going straight to a in depth comparison, here is a short overview of how the XS1 scores against the A33 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1 and Sony SLT-A33. The entire galleries are viewable at Panasonic XS1 Gallery and Sony A33 Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and measurements. The Panasonic XS1 enjoys exterior dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") accompanied by a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs) while the Sony A33 has proportions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") with a weight of 500 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Panasonic XS1 versus Sony A33 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the XS1 and the A33.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the XS1 and A33 is 97 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to imagine the difference between sensor dimensions just by reading technical specs. The image here should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the XS1 and A33.

As you have seen, each of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The XS1 featuring a tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field tougher and the Panasonic XS1 will deliver more detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The newer XS1 should have an edge in sensor technology.