Sony A850 vs Sony HX1

On this page, we are comparing the Sony A850 versus Sony HX1, one being a Advanced DSLR and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are designed by Sony. There is a crucial difference among the resolutions of the A850 (25MP) and HX1 (9MP) and the A850 (Full frame) and HX1 (1/2.4") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The A850 was revealed 12 months later than the HX1 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Sony A850 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go into a full comparison, here is a brief summary of how the A850 scores versus the HX1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha DSLR-A850 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The full galleries are viewable at Sony A850 Gallery and Sony HX1 Gallery.

If you're looking to lug around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and proportions. The Sony A850 enjoys outer dimensions of 156mm x 117mm x 82mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 895 grams (1.97 lbs) while the Sony HX1 has measurements of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") with a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

Examine the Sony A850 versus Sony HX1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the A850 vs the HX1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the A850 and HX1 is 54 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to envision the difference in sensor measurements purely by going through specs. The photograph below will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the A850 and HX1.

All in all, both cameras have different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The A850 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Sony A850 will produce greater detail because of its extra 16 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The newer A850 will have an edge in sensor tech.