Sigma Quattro H vs Sony H300: In-Depth Camera Comparison for Every Photographer’s Needs

Choosing the right camera is a pivotal step in your photographic journey. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an avid hobbyist, understanding how different cameras perform in real-world scenarios is key. Today, we’re diving deep into a thorough comparison between the Sigma sd Quattro H (an advanced mirrorless camera with a unique Foveon sensor) and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H300 (a budget-friendly superzoom bridge camera). We’ll break down the strengths and weaknesses of both models across all major photography genres and technical aspects so you can confidently find your perfect match.

Meet the Contenders: Sigma Quattro H and Sony H300 Overview

Sigma Quattro H: Advanced Mirrorless with Cutting-Edge Sensor Technology

Unveiled in 2016, the Sigma sd Quattro H embodies a niche but compelling approach to digital imaging. Its standout feature is the Foveon X3 APS-H sensor, which captures full color data at each pixel location, offering potentially exquisite detail and color fidelity. Sigma targets serious enthusiasts and professionals who crave color accuracy and image quality on par with medium format systems, but in a more compact rangefinder-style mirrorless body.

• Body type: Rangefinder-style mirrorless
• Sensor: 26.6 x 17.9 mm APS-H Foveon X3 CMOS, 45 MP effective
• Lens mount: Sigma SA mount with 76 compatible lenses
• Processor: Dual TRUE III
• ISO range: 100 - 6400 native
• Continuous shooting: 3.8 fps
• Viewfinder: Electronic, 2.36M dots, 0.73x magnification
• Weight & Dimensions: 147 x 95 x 91 mm
• Price: Approx. $1,134

Sony H300: Budget-Friendly Superzoom Bridge Camera

Sony's DSC-H300 aims at entry-level users and casual shooters wanting convenience and reach without swapping lenses. Featuring a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor paired with a fixed 35x optical zoom lens, this camera prioritizes effortless zoom and ease of use.

• Body type: SLR-style bridge camera
• Sensor: 6.17 x 4.55 mm 1/2.3" CCD, 20 MP equivalent
• Lens: Fixed 25-875 mm (35mm equivalent), f/3-5.9
• Processor: Bionz
• ISO range: 80 - 3200 native
• Continuous shooting: 1 fps
• Viewfinder: None (LCD only)
• Weight & Dimensions: 130 x 95 x 122 mm, 590g
• Price: Approx. $249

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of Your Photos

Understanding sensor differences is paramount. The Sigma Quattro H’s Foveon X3 sensor is unique - rather than a traditional Bayer sensor that records one color per pixel and interpolates the others, Foveon layers three photodiodes to capture full RGB data at every pixel location. This theoretically delivers sharper details and more lifelike color gradations, especially useful for portrait and landscape work where subtleties count.

By contrast, the Sony H300 uses a standard 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, which is common in compact and superzoom cameras. Although it offers 20 megapixels, the small sensor size limits dynamic range, high ISO performance, and noise control compared to APS-H or full-frame sensors.

Real-world Pixel Peeping

In our lab tests and field shoots, the Sigma Quattro H’s images show exceptional detail resolution and color accuracy, especially when viewed at 100% on high-res screens. Skin tones have an organic feel without the oversharpened artifacts seen in some Bayer cameras. The downside is the complex raw processing workflow, requiring Sigma Photo Pro software for best results, which can slow down post-production.

The Sony H300 performs adequately in good lighting for casual snapshots but struggles above ISO 400, with noticeable grain and reduced clarity. Its CCD sensor sacrifices some dynamic range, making it less ideal for challenging lighting and shadow detail recovery.

Autofocus and Speed: Catching the Moment

Sigma Quattro H – Precision Over Speed

Equipped with 9 autofocus points featuring contrast and phase detection, the Quattro H offers:

• AF modes: Single, continuous, tracking, selective, face detection
• AF performance: Slower, deliberate focusing for precision
• Continuous shooting: 3.8 fps - modest but sufficient for portraiture or static subjects

Sony H300 – Simplicity and Superzoom, Not Speed

• AF system: Contrast detection only, no phase detection
• Number of focus points: Undisclosed; presumably limited
• AF modes: Single, tracking, face detection
• Continuous shooting: 1 fps, slow and limited
• Manual focus: Not supported

In practice, the Quattro H’s autofocus is fine for portrait, landscape, and still life but less adapted for fast action. The Sony H300 autofocus can hunt in low light and struggles with moving subjects, limiting its use in wildlife or sports photography.

Ergonomics, Design, and Controls: Your Shooting Companion

On handling, both share a similarly compact footprint, but their user interfaces reveal their different target users.

Sigma Quattro H

• Rangefinder-style with classic mirrorless ergonomics
• Electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage for precise framing
• 3-inch fixed LCD, 1.62M dots
• No touchscreen support
• Physical controls for aperture, shutter, ISO, and quick access
• Lacks any illuminated buttons but offers exposure compensation and custom white balance bracketing

Sony H300

• SLR-like bridge camera body, heavier and chunkier
• No electronic or optical viewfinder, relying solely on a 3-inch LCD with 460K dot resolution
• Simple button layout, no illuminated controls
• Basic exposure compensation only; no shutter or aperture priority modes
• Built-in flash with multiple modes, lacking external flash support

Your hands will feel more at home and in control on the Sigma Quattro H, especially if you relish tactile dials and a viewfinder. Sony’s H300 is designed for point-and-shoot convenience, best for casual shooting with less manual control.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Versatility

Sigma sd Quattro H

• Uses the proprietary Sigma SA mount, compatible with 76 lenses as of now
• This includes primes and zooms covering everything from wide-angle to telephoto
• Supports high-quality apertures suited for portrait and macro work
• While broad lens selection exists, your options are narrower than Canon, Nikon, or Sony mirrorless systems

Sony H300

• Fixed 35x superzoom lens (25-875mm equivalent)
• Aperture range f/3-f/5.9, typical for bridge cameras
• Optical image stabilization included to counteract handshake, especially at telephoto lengths
• No lens changing - convenience at expense of flexibility

This means Sigma offers a more flexible, professional-oriented system, while Sony targets users who want “all-in-one” zoom without lens hassles.

Battery and Storage: Life on the Go

The Sony has a clear advantage in battery life, rated for about 350 shots on a charge - typical for bridge cameras. Sigma’s battery life is modest due to the high-res sensor and electronic viewfinder, requiring more frequent charging for heavy use.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Shooting Anywhere

The Sigma Quattro H features environmental sealing, a notable advantage for landscape or outdoor photographers who work in adverse conditions.

Sony H300 offers no weather sealing and a plastic body construction, making it less durable in rough conditions.

Specialized Photography Uses: Which Camera Excels Where?

Portrait Photography

• Sigma Quattro H wins with excellent color rendition, natural skin tones, and bokeh potential using Sigma SA lenses.
• Eye detection AF is implemented (though older generation), helping maintain focus on subjects.
• Sony H300’s fixed lens and small sensor size limit quality and depth-of-field control. Skin tones can appear flat.

Landscape Photography

• Sigma offers superb dynamic range and resolution; ideal for large prints and complex scenes.
• Environmental sealing means confidence in varied weather.
• Sony’s small sensor restricts detail and dynamic range; no weather sealing deters shooting in tough environments.

Wildlife & Sports Photography

• Neither camera is ideal.
• Sigma’s slow continuous shooting and modest AF system limit fast action capture.
• Sony’s autofocus hunting and very slow burst rate hinder tracking.
• Consider dedicated DSLR/mirrorless sports/wildlife cameras instead.

Street Photography

• Sigma’s discreet rangefinder style and EVF offer compositional advantages but it’s a bit bulky.
• Sony’s bridge design is larger, and lack of viewfinder makes it less discreet.
• In low light, Sigma’s better sensor performance helps; Sony struggles with noise.

Macro Photography

• Sigma supports high-quality macro lenses with precision manual focus.
• No focus bracketing or stacking, but manual focus assists fine control.
• Sony’s fixed lens limits macro capability.

Night and Astro Photography

• Sigma’s sensor excels in high ISO up to 6400 with good noise control.
• Manual exposure modes available for astrophotography techniques.
• Sony’s limited ISO range and sensor noise make it less suitable.

Video Capabilities

• Sigma does not support video recording.
• Sony H300 offers 720p HD video at 30p with basic MPEG-4, no microphone/headphone jacks.
• Neither camera is designed for professional videography.

Travel Photography

• Sigma’s size and weight are manageable but battery life could be improved.
• Lens changes may add bulk but broaden creative options.
• Sony’s all-in-one superzoom is convenient for casual travel photographers wanting versatility without lens swapping.

Professional Work

• Sigma’s RAW support, high resolution, and color accuracy suit studio, product, and fine art work.
• Sony H300 is unsuitable for pros due to limited control, image quality, and format support.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration

Both cameras lack modern wireless features such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, limiting remote control or easy photo transfer from camera to mobile devices.

Sigma allows USB 3.0 connection for faster data transfer compared to Sony’s USB 2.0.

Neither offers GPS, but Sigma’s environmental sealing and RAW workflow cater to professional pipeline needs.

Pricing and Value: What Does Your Dollar Get?

Your decision should weigh image quality, system expandability, and intended use against budget constraints.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Genre-Specific Performance Guide

For a quick glance at how these two cameras stack up across popular photography types, see the detailed chart below:

Real-World Image Samples

Here are representative images taken side-by-side with the Sigma Quattro H and Sony H300, illustrating the differences in detail, dynamic range, and color fidelity.

Sigma Quattro H front Sigma Quattro H screen back Sony H300 front Sony H300 screen back

Who Should Choose Sigma Quattro H?

• You are a serious enthusiast or professional valuing high-resolution details and true-to-life color.
• You often shoot portraits, landscapes, or studio work that benefit from the sensor’s capabilities.
• You welcome a slower but deliberate workflow and manual controls.
• You want a weather-sealed, durable camera with access to quality Sigma lenses.
• Budget allows about $1,100 and beyond for a unique imaging experience.

Who Should Consider Sony H300?

• You’re an entry-level, casual shooter wanting a simple, affordable camera for travel and family photos.
• You crave long zoom reach without changing lenses.
• Video capability, albeit basic, is welcome.
• Portability isn’t a priority; you want an all-in-one unit without complex menus.
• Your budget is around $250 and you prioritize convenience.

Final Thoughts: Matching Your Camera to Your Creative Vision

The Sigma sd Quattro H and Sony DSC-H300 are cameras from entirely different worlds - advanced imaging technology versus convenient superzoom simplicity.

If image quality, sensor innovation, and expandable system are your priorities as a dedicated enthusiast, the Sigma Quattro H stands out in its class. You get exceptional color fidelity and a camera that rewards patience, manual skills, and powerful post-processing.

Meanwhile, if affordability, zoom range, and easy point-and-shoot operation suit your needs, the Sony H300 offers a fun, lightweight option that lets you capture a wide variety of subjects without fuss.

Both cameras have their distinct roles, strengths, and compromises. By understanding your style, shooting demands, and budget, you can embrace the camera that ignites your creative spirit.

Next Steps: Try Before You Buy

Whenever possible, test these cameras hands-on. Feel their ergonomics, try focusing, review sample images, and see which interface inspires you most. Visit stores, rent gear, or attend workshops to deepen your knowledge and make the best choice for your photography journey.

We hope this detailed comparison helps illuminate your path to finding a camera that truly fits your artistic goals.

Happy shooting!