What is Sensor size?

The size of your camera’s sensor can determine the quality of the images you are able to produce. Digital SLR cameras use sensors in three sizes: full size, APS-H size and APS-C size. Put simply, image sensors detect and convey all the information seen through the lens, so the bigger the sensor the more information you can record and the higher the quality of images you’re able to produce as a result.

The size of the sensor on a digital camera can play a huge part in determining the quality of the images you are able to produce. Generally speaking, larger imaging sensors produce better quality images at a given megapixel rating. This is because the pixels on the sensor are larger, and are therefore more effective at gathering light.

The two most common sizes of imaging sensor used in DSLRs is 35mm (also known as ‘full frame’) and APS-C. 35mm sensors are found in Canon’s higher range EOS cameras, such as the EOS 1D, 5D, and 6D series. APS-C sensors are generally found in entry level to mid range EOS DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

Compact cameras use much smaller imaging sensors than DSLRs, with high performance models using one-inch and 1.5 inch type sensors.