Sigma DP1 vs Sony A37

Here is a extensive analysis of the Sigma DP1 and Sony A37, former being a Large Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Sigma and Sony. There is a substantial difference between the image resolutions of the DP1 (5MP) and A37 (16MP) but they come with the same exact sensor sizes (APS-C).

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The DP1 was released 5 years before the A37 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Sigma DP1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony A37 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving through a complete comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the DP1 grades against the A37 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sigma DP1 & Sony SLT-A37. The complete galleries are viewable at Sigma DP1 Gallery & Sony A37 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera frequently, you will want to think about its weight and measurements. The Sigma DP1 features outer measurements of 113mm x 60mm x 50mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 2.0") along with a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Sony A37 has proportions of 124mm x 92mm x 85mm (4.9" x 3.6" x 3.3") having a weight of 506 grams (1.12 lbs).

See the Sigma DP1 and Sony A37 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have at that moment. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the DP1 and the A37.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the DP1 and A37 is 87 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizing merely by going over specs. The graphic here may give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the DP1 and A37.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You can anticipate the Sony A37 to offer greater detail as a result of its extra 11MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images far more aggressively. The older DP1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.