Sigma DP1s vs Sony A33: Which Camera Fits Your Photography Needs?

Choosing between the Sigma DP1s and the Sony A33 might at first glance feel like comparing apples and oranges. Both hail from an era when digital photography was undergoing rapid innovation, but they cater to significantly different user priorities and shooting styles. Having personally tested thousands of cameras, including these two models, I’ll break down their performance, build, and features with practical insights that go beyond spec sheets. Ready to dig in? Let’s explore how each camera holds up across a spectrum of photography disciplines, from portraits to wildlife, and decide who wins in which arenas.

Physical Feel and Ergonomics: Size Matters (Or Does It?)

First impressions matter, and one of the first things you’ll notice looking at these cameras is their size and handling differences.

The Sigma DP1s is a compact large-sensor camera, barely larger than a traditional point-and-shoot, with a slim body at 109x60x31mm and a lightweight 270 grams. It’s designed for photographers who want high image quality in a pocketable form factor. The fixed 28mm-equivalent lens keeps things simple but is limiting if you want zoom versatility.

The Sony A33 steps into a different category - an entry-level DSLR with a larger, bulkier body at 124x92x85mm and weighing 500 grams. Its heft is partly due to the interchangeable lens system, reflex mirror mechanism (SLT – Single Lens Translucent), and the Bionz processor housed inside. For hands-on shooting, the A33 feels more substantial and has a grip designed for comfort, which is appreciated during extended shooting sessions.

Looking from the top view, the control layouts differ:

The A33 offers more physical dials and buttons, giving quick access to key parameters like ISO, exposure compensation, and drive modes. The DP1s keeps it minimal, with most settings accessed through menus or exposure modes, suitable if you prefer simplicity.

Practical takeaway: If you prioritize portability and stealth, the Sigma DP1s wins hands down. But if you want more tactile control and versatility with lenses, the Sony A33’s ergonomics are friendlier for advanced shooting.

Sensor Insights: The Heart of Image Quality

Here’s where things get fascinating. Both cameras feature APS-C sized sensors, but different designs yield vastly different image characteristics.

Sigma DP1s - The Unique Foveon X3 Sensor

The DP1s sports Sigma’s signature Foveon X3 sensor, which differs fundamentally from traditional Bayer sensors by capturing full color at each pixel location through layered photodiodes. The sensor measures 20.7 x 13.8 mm with an effective resolution of 5 megapixels. Theoretically, this layered sensor can deliver striking color fidelity and detail at low resolutions.

In practice, the DP1s produces ultra-sharp raw files with vibrant colors, particularly beneficial for portraits and still-life work where color nuance is critical. However, the 5MP output limits large print sizes and cropping flexibility.

Sony A33 - Conventional CMOS with Higher Resolution

The A33 uses a more conventional 23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS sensor, offering 14 megapixels. This resolution strikes a balance between image detail and manageable file size. The sensor also supports higher maximum ISOs (up to 12800 native), which plays into low-light versatility.

My lab testing confirms that the Sony’s sensor delivers cleaner images at higher ISO settings, better dynamic range, and finer detail than the DP1s, which is constrained by the older technology and lower resolution.

Summary: The Sigma delivers unique color rendering thanks to the Foveon sensor but lags behind in resolution and ISO performance. The Sony A33 offers more flexibility and consistently better raw image quality for most applications.

The Viewing Experience: Screen and Viewfinder Comparison

A photographer’s interface with their camera can make or break shooting flow.

The DP1s features a modest fixed 2.5-inch LCD screen with a mere 230k dot resolution, no touchscreen, and no viewfinder. In bright conditions, composing and reviewing shots becomes a challenge. There’s no articulating display, meaning awkward angles when shooting low or from above.

In contrast, the Sony A33 excels here: a fully articulated 3-inch screen at 921k dots, allowing more flexible framing. Plus, the A33 incorporates a bright electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 1150k dots resolution, offering 100% coverage and a 0.73x magnification. This EVF is a game-changer for manual focusing and action shooting in sunlight.

I found using the EVF on the A33 vastly improved accuracy, especially when focusing manually or composing in bright environments - something the DP1s can’t match due to the lack of any viewfinder.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Catching the Moment

Fast and reliable autofocus (AF) performance separates versatile cameras from frustrating ones, especially for wildlife and sports.

The Sigma DP1s has a contrast-detection AF system with no phase detection or face detection, and only single AF (no continuous tracking). The slow, sometimes hunting autofocus, combined with no burst mode, restricts this camera to deliberate, composed shots - think landscapes, portraits, and still life.

The Sony A33, however, features a 15-point phase-detection AF system including 3 cross-type points, offering quick and accurate focusing even in challenging scenes. It supports continuous AF for moving subjects and continuous shooting up to 7 fps, a strong asset for wildlife and sports photography.

From personal use and testing, the A33’s autofocus is significantly faster and more reliable, greatly improving keeper rates during action sequences compared to the DP1s.

Image Quality Performance Across Photography Types

Let’s break down how each camera’s imaging strengths and weaknesses play out across photographic disciplines.

Portrait Photography

Portrait work demands excellent skin tone reproduction, natural bokeh, and accurate eye detection.

• Sigma DP1s: Its Foveon sensor shines on skin tones, rendering them with a pleasing, painterly texture. The 28mm fixed lens can be limiting - usually too wide for flattering headshots without distortion. Manual focusing requires patience, so snapping spontaneous portraits might frustrate you here.

• Sony A33: With a compatible range of lenses, including flattering short telephoto primes, you gain more framing flexibility. The phase-detection AF includes face detection, giving you confidence in nailing sharp eyes. The A33 also delivers creamy bokeh with fast lenses.

Landscape Photography

High resolution and dynamic range are critical to capturing expansive scenes.

• Sigma DP1s: Despite the lower pixel count, the DP1s’s sensor produces immensely detailed color information, especially when shooting in RAW. However, limited ISO range and lack of weather sealing reduce versatility outdoors.

• Sony A33: Better pixel density and dynamic range help capture landscapes with fine detail and highlight/shadow retention. Lens options include specialized wide-angle glass and weather-resistant bodies from third-party manufacturers, though the A33 itself lacks robust sealing.

Wildlife and Sports

You want rapid autofocus, high burst speeds, and long telephoto compatibility.

• Sigma DP1s: Not built for this - fixed lens, slow AF, and no burst functionality make it untenable for action or wildlife.

• Sony A33: Eagerly welcome. Combined with tele-zoom lenses and 7 fps shooting, the A33 is a dependable tool for casual wildlife and sports enthusiasts.

Street Photography

Discretion, quick operation, and portability win the day.

• Sigma DP1s: Its compact size, silent leaf shutter, and unobtrusive presence favor street shooting, though slow autofocus can mean missed moments.

• Sony A33: Bulkier and noisier due to the mirror mechanism and larger lenses; less discreet but faster AF can help.

Macro Photography

Focus precision and stabilization matter.

• Sigma DP1s: Fixed lens with no image stabilization and limited manual focus aids make macro shots tricky.

• Sony A33: Supports compatible macro lenses and benefits from sensor-shift stabilization for sharper close-ups.

Night and Astro Photography

Low noise and excellent ISO performance are essential.

• Sigma DP1s: ISO maxes at 800, and increased noise at higher ISOs restrict astro usage.

• Sony A33: Boasts native ISO up to 12800 with better noise control making it a contributor to nighttime photography.

Video Capabilities

Neither camera is a modern video powerhouse but the Sony offers more.

• Sigma DP1s: No video recording capability.

• Sony A33: Full HD video at 60 fps, built-in sensor stabilization, and microphone input allow decent video shooting.

Travel Photography and General Versatility

• Sigma DP1s: Great for ultra-light travel when image quality is more important than zoom flexibility or speed.

• Sony A33: More versatile kit system, longer battery life (340 shots), and wireless transfer options.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera sports professional-level environmental sealing, but build quality perceptions differ.

Sigma’s DP1s feels solid, but utilitarian and minimal, with fewer physical controls and a fixed lens limiting dust entry options (though no sealing).

The Sony A33’s body has a more robust, molded plastic chassis typical of DSLRs of its class. However, it has no dust or weather sealing, meaning you should still protect it in challenging conditions.

Battery Life and Storage

Here the Sony leads comfortably.

• Sigma DP1s: No official battery life published, but smaller sensors and compact design usually mean modest endurance. Uses a rechargeable proprietary battery.

• Sony A33: Rated at 340 shots per charge - respectable for DSLRs of the era. Uses NP-FW50 battery, widely available.

Both cameras support a single SD card slot, but Sony also includes compatibility with Memory Stick formats, giving you flexibility.

Connectivity and Extras

• Sigma DP1s: No wireless connectivity, USB 1.0 only.

• Sony A33: USB 2.0, HDMI out, and Eye-Fi wireless support make image transfer and tethering easier.

Price and Value Considerations

While the Sigma DP1s is discontinued and generally only available secondhand, it remains a niche item prized by enthusiasts for its unique sensor and image quality in a pocketable form. Expect to pay a premium for rarity.

The Sony A33, often found for under $300 used, offers a more generalist platform with interchangeable lenses, video, and better autofocus. Its price-to-performance ratio is attractive to beginner and intermediate shooters on a budget.

Overall Performance and Scoring

Here is a visual summary comparing scores and strengths across attributes from my testing and aggregated reviews:

And narrowing it down to different photography types:

Sample Images: Seeing Is Believing

Images from both cameras tell the clearest story about their potential:

Sigma DP1s screen back Sony A33 screen back

Notice the DP1s excels in smooth, natural colors and fine detail at low ISO, while the Sony A33 images show greater versatility and cleaner high ISO performance.

Recommendations for Different Users

• If you value unique color rendition and ultra-portability for landscapes, studio, or travel where speed is not critical, the Sigma DP1s is a creative tool worth exploring.

• If you want a versatile DSLR-style camera with interchangeable lenses, fast autofocus for action, video capabilities, and overall better performance in diverse conditions, the Sony A33 is a better buy.

• Budget shoppers or beginners wanting to step up from compact cameras will find more practical longevity and adaptability in the Sony’s system.

• For street photographers who want compactness with great color and no fuss, the DP1s offers something special - but be prepared for its slow operation and limitations.

Final Thoughts: Two Different Eras, Two Different Minds

The Sigma DP1s represents a fascinating snapshot of high-quality large sensor compacts with unconventional technology. Its Foveon sensor is beloved by color purists but hampered by slow performance and low resolution. Meanwhile, the Sony A33 marks a transitional hybrid DSLR with many modern features for its time, aimed at flexibility and speed.

Which would I pick today? For any serious photography work - portraits, wildlife, sports, or video - the Sony A33 proves to be the more pragmatic and capable choice. The DP1s remains a niche classic, ideal for those who appreciate image fidelity over speed and versatility.

Either way, both cameras have earned their place in photographic history and users should choose based on their shooting priorities.

If this deep dive has helped clarify your decision, great! Remember, the best camera is ultimately the one that suits your style and inspires you to shoot more. Happy clicking!