Sony A500 vs Sony RX1R

On this page, we are evaluating the Sony A500 vs Sony RX1R, former is a Entry-Level DSLR while the other is a Large Sensor Compact and they are both built by Sony. There exists a considerable gap between the sensor resolutions of the A500 (12MP) and RX1R (24MP) and the A500 (APS-C) and RX1R (Full frame) posses totally different sensor sizing.

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

The A500 was manufactured 4 years before the RX1R which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Sony A500 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony RX1R being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short overview of how the A500 grades vs the RX1R in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R. The entire galleries are viewable at Sony A500 Gallery & Sony RX1R Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Sony A500 has external dimensions of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") and a weight of 630 grams (1.39 lbs) and the Sony RX1R has proportions of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") having a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Take a look at the Sony A500 vs Sony RX1R in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that moment. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the A500 and the RX1R.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the A500 and RX1R is 63 and 79 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes merely by going over a spec sheet. The image underneath should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the A500 and RX1R.

As you can see, both cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The A500 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Sony RX1R will offer extra detail due to its extra 12 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics more aggressively. The more aged A500 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.