Sony A850 vs Sony RX1R

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Sony A850 and Sony RX1R, one being a Advanced DSLR and the other is a Large Sensor Compact and both are created by Sony. The sensor resolution of the A850 (25MP) and the RX1R (24MP) is fairly similar and they feature the same exact sensor size (Full frame).

Photography Glossary

The A850 was announced 4 years before the RX1R and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Sony A850 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony RX1R being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before getting in to a in-depth comparison, below is a brief view of how the A850 scores vs the RX1R with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Sony Alpha DSLR-A850 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R. The whole galleries are available at Sony A850 Gallery and Sony RX1R Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera often, you need to think about its weight and proportions. The Sony A850 provides outside measurements of 156mm x 117mm x 82mm (6.1" x 4.6" x 3.2") and a weight of 895 grams (1.97 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1R has measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") with a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Take a look at the Sony A850 and Sony RX1R in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you use during that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the A850 vs the RX1R.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the A850 and RX1R is 54 and 79 respectively.

Usually, its tough to see the gap between sensor sizing merely by going over specifications. The photograph below may give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the A850 and RX1R.

Plainly, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Sony A850 to deliver more detail with its extra 1MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The older A850 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.