Sony HX1 vs Sony S980

Its time to look more in depth at the Sony HX1 and Sony S980, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are produced by Sony. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the HX1 (9MP) and S980 (12MP) and the HX1 (1/2.4") and S980 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The HX1 was announced 3 months later than the S980 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before going right into a detailed comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the HX1 matches up versus the S980 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The whole galleries are viewable at Sony HX1 Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera, you have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Sony HX1 enjoys exterior measurements of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") with a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs) while the Sony S980 has measurements of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Check the Sony HX1 and Sony S980 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the HX1 compared to the S980.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the HX1 and S980 is 67 and 94 respectively.

Normally, its difficult to envision the contrast in sensor measurements only by seeing specs. The graphic underneath will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the HX1 and S980.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras have different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The HX1 having a bigger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Sony S980 will provide extra detail with its extra 3MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a bit more aggressively.