Samsung ST80 vs Sony a1

Below, we will be evaluating the Samsung ST80 and Sony a1, former being a Ultracompact while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Samsung and Sony. There is a sizable difference among the image resolutions of the ST80 (14MP) and a1 (50MP) and the ST80 (1/2.3") and a1 (Full frame) enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The ST80 was announced 12 years before the a1 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Samsung ST80 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony a1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the ST80 grades vs the a1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Samsung ST80 & Sony Alpha a1. The whole galleries are provided at Samsung ST80 Gallery & Sony a1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and size. The Samsung ST80 offers physical measurements of 92mm x 55mm x 19mm (3.6" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of 118 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Sony a1 has specifications of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Examine the Samsung ST80 and Sony a1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have at that moment. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the ST80 against the a1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the ST80 and a1 is 96 and 61 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to envision the contrast in sensor measurements just by seeing specs. The photograph here might provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the ST80 and a1.

All in all, both of these cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The ST80 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony a1 will produce extra detail with its extra 36 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop photographs much more aggressively. The older ST80 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.