Sony A380 vs Zeiss ZX1

In this article, we will be analyzing the Sony A380 and Zeiss ZX1, former is a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Sony and Zeiss. There exists a noticeable gap among the image resolutions of the A380 (14MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the A380 (APS-C) and ZX1 (Full frame) enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The A380 was unveiled 10 years earlier than the ZX1 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Sony A380 being a Compact SLR camera and the Zeiss ZX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise summary of how the A380 grades versus the ZX1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Sony Alpha DSLR-A380 & Zeiss ZX1. The full galleries are available at Sony A380 Gallery & Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

In case you're intending to travel with your camera frequently, you will have to take into account its weight and volume. The Sony A380 has got physical measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 519 grams (1.14 lbs) while the Zeiss ZX1 has sizing of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Contrast the Sony A380 and Zeiss ZX1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the A380 vs the ZX1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the A380 and ZX1 is 68 and 67 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to see the gap in sensor dimensions simply by going through a spec sheet. The image below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the A380 and ZX1.

As you can see, both the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The A380 with its smaller sensor will make getting shallow DOF tougher and the Zeiss ZX1 will produce extra detail having an extra 23 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged A380 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.