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APS-C

Sensor Formats

A sensor format smaller than full frame but larger than Micro Four Thirds, typical of Canon and Nikon starter systems. A capable general-purpose amateur format, but rarely the one professionals choose for the highest quality work, and rarely a system you can grow upward inside.

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Related Terms

Full Frame

The sensor format matching a 35 mm film frame. For low light and the night sky it is the practical minimum: bigger pixels keep the signal above the noise. Notice that the finest low-light bodies carry only 20 to 25 megapixels rather than 60 or more. Fewer, larger pixels are the point, not a compromise.