Sigma DP1s vs Sony S980

Here is a in depth overview of the Sigma DP1s vs Sony S980, one being a Large Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Sigma and Sony. There is a significant difference among the resolutions of the DP1s (5MP) and S980 (12MP) and the DP1s (APS-C) and S980 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The DP1s was introduced 8 months later than the S980 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Sigma DP1s being a Large Sensor Compact camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the DP1s grades against the S980 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Sigma DP1s and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The whole galleries are provided at Sigma DP1s Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Sigma DP1s offers outside measurements of 109mm x 60mm x 31mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Sony S980 has dimensions of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Check the Sigma DP1s vs Sony S980 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with during that time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the DP1s compared to the S980.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the DP1s and S980 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be hard to envision the difference in sensor sizing purely by seeing technical specs. The graphic below should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the DP1s and S980.

As you can tell, both of the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The DP1s using its bigger sensor will make getting bokeh easier and the Sony S980 will provide extra detail using its extra 7 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The younger DP1s will have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.