Sigma DP1 vs Sony A100

Below is a extended review of the Sigma DP1 versus Sony A100, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by manufacturers Sigma and Sony. There is a noticeable difference among the resolutions of the DP1 (5MP) and A100 (10MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor sizing (APS-C).

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The DP1 was announced 22 months later than the A100 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Sigma DP1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony A100 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the DP1 scores versus the A100 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Sigma DP1 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A100. The whole galleries are available at Sigma DP1 Gallery & Sony A100 Gallery.

If you're planning to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Sigma DP1 has outside measurements of 113mm x 60mm x 50mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 2.0") having a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Sony A100 has dimensions of 133mm x 95mm x 71mm (5.2" x 3.7" x 2.8") having a weight of 638 grams (1.41 lbs).

Analyze the Sigma DP1 versus Sony A100 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you choose at the time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the DP1 compared to the A100.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the DP1 and A100 is 87 and 64 respectively.

In many cases, it is very tough to visualise the gap in sensor measurements only by viewing a spec sheet. The visual underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the DP1 and A100.

Clearly, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Sony A100 to result in more detail with its extra 5MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots more aggressively. The fresher DP1 will have an edge in sensor innovation.