Samsung PL170 vs Sigma SD9

Here, we are evaluating the Samsung PL170 versus Sigma SD9, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by companies Samsung and Sigma. There is a sizeable difference between the resolutions of the PL170 (16MP) and SD9 (3MP) and the PL170 (1/2.3") and SD9 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The PL170 was revealed 8 years later than the SD9 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sigma SD9 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the PL170 grades against the SD9 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Samsung PL170 and Sigma SD9. The full galleries are viewable at Samsung PL170 Gallery and Sigma SD9 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera often, you'll need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Samsung PL170 has exterior dimensions of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) and the Sigma SD9 has dimensions of 152mm x 120mm x 79mm (6.0" x 4.7" x 3.1") having a weight of 950 grams (2.09 lbs).

Examine the Samsung PL170 versus Sigma SD9 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the PL170 and the SD9.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the PL170 and SD9 is 99 and 54 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to see the difference between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specifications. The graphic below should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the PL170 and SD9.

To sum up, the 2 cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The PL170 with its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF harder and the Samsung PL170 will offer you extra detail because of its extra 13 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics way more aggressively. The younger PL170 will have an edge with regard to sensor tech.