You think we'll see a 36MP APS-C sensor?

5 years 1 month ago #636474 by Owen
Most APS-C cameras have been hovering around 24MP for a long time.  Full frame crossed the 36MP line nearly 10 years ago.  With larger APS-C sensor, that would mean a larger image, more detail to be cropped.  And when you consider that most lenses are their sharpest in the center, that would mean sharper images.


Photo Comments
,
5 years 1 month ago #636477 by Troponin

Owen wrote: Most APS-C cameras have been hovering around 24MP for a long time.  Full frame crossed the 36MP line nearly 10 years ago.  With larger APS-C sensor, that would mean a larger image, more detail to be cropped.  And when you consider that most lenses are their sharpest in the center, that would mean sharper images.


I have wondered this myself, but a few things that come to mind. It's a topic I don't completely understand either, but...

1. Size-These sensors are designed for small cameras. If you go full frame, is there a reason to even buy them at that point? 

2. Pixel size-something to keep in mind is that a full frame sensor and 24mp sensors are very different. One aspect is pixel size. This could also play a role. A larger sensor might not necessarily give you "better" photos as a result. 

3. Phase detection points-Another area where these sensors differ. 


Photo Comments
,
5 years 1 month ago #636481 by garyrhook
If you take the pixel count of the D850 sensor and do the math, cropping would produce a sensor of just under 30MP.

Or, put another way, a 36MP crop sensor would have the same pixel density as a 57MP fullframe sensor.

Does that seem reasonable? Possibly. But at some point you really want a larger sensor with that larger count. Or mayhaps it's just me.


Photo Comments
,
5 years 1 month ago #636517 by J Photo Man

garyrhook wrote: If you take the pixel count of the D850 sensor and do the math, cropping would produce a sensor of just under 30MP.

Or, put another way, a 36MP crop sensor would have the same pixel density as a 57MP fullframe sensor.

Does that seem reasonable? Possibly. But at some point you really want a larger sensor with that larger count. Or mayhaps it's just me.



I bet you this year we'll see both Nikon and Canon jumping over the 50MP sensor size.  :beerbang:


Photo Comments
,
5 years 1 month ago #636603 by Owen
OK, so perhaps when we see the next big step for the full frame cameras we'll likely see a push forward with the APS-C  sensors as well. 

But are you saying the pixel size in a APS-C is smaller than the full frame pixel size?  


Photo Comments
,
5 years 1 month ago #636636 by garyrhook

Owen wrote: But are you saying the pixel size in a APS-C is smaller than the full frame pixel size?  


I can't comment on that. I was only discussing pixel density. Which does, of course, impact maximum pixel size.

I can say that the pixel density of my D5100 (16MP) was about the same as that of my D750 (24MP). The later D5xxx bodies went to 24MP, which means that the pixels got smaller, and more capable.

Just making observations.


Photo Comments
,
5 years 1 month ago #636656 by fmw
Small pixels don't perform as well as large ones.  Increasing pixel density is fine until you reach a point where the pixels are so small that they reduce performance in other ways - stability, low light performance etc.  Given current technology, I think we have found that point.  I say that because I have a small sensor point and shoot camera that makes stunning images with front lit sunny outdoor images and falls apart with any other subject.  It has 18mp - 1more than my 16 mp APS-c cameras.

Pixel density is a factor in overall image quality but certainly not the only one or even the main one.


Photo Comments
,
5 years 1 month ago #636762 by Rudy Silvo
I'm not a betting man, but I would guess (and it's only a guess) that we will see that before spring 2020. 


Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

The Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II is Sony’s flagship mirrorless zoom lens. As such, it’s loaded with features and has a top-shelf build quality that makes it a top pick!

Mar 27, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Are you ready to upgrade your camera? Before buying new, you might consider the value of purchasing used gear to save money.

Apr 18, 2024

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a micro four thirds camera released in 2020. It’s an entry-level system along with the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Use this guide to determine which one is best for you!

Apr 17, 2024

Blue hour photography might not be as well known as golden hour photography, but it is every bit as good a time to create epic images of landscapes. Learn how in this quick tutorial!

Apr 17, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

Moving from taking snapshots of your dog to creating beautiful images doesn’t have to be that difficult! Use the tips outlined in this dog photography guide, and you’ll get better results in no time.

Apr 15, 2024