Sony S980 vs Sony A77

Following is a extended review of the Sony S980 vs Sony A77, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced DSLR and both are manufactured by Sony. There is a large difference between the sensor resolutions of the S980 (12MP) and A77 (24MP) and the S980 (1/2.3") and A77 (APS-C) use totally different sensor sizing.

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The S980 was brought out 3 years earlier than the A77 which is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Sony S980 being a Compact camera and the Sony A77 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the S980 matches up against the A77 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980 & Sony SLT-A77. The entire galleries are viewable at Sony S980 Gallery & Sony A77 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera often, you need to take into account its weight and volume. The Sony S980 comes with exterior measurements of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Sony A77 has sizing of 143mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") with a weight of 732 grams (1.61 lbs).

Look at the Sony S980 vs Sony A77 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the S980 compared to the A77.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the S980 and A77 is 94 and 59 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizes only by reviewing specs. The image here may offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the S980 and A77.

All in all, both of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The S980 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony A77 will offer greater detail having its extra 12 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged S980 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.