What the format defines
APS-C names a sensor size, not a technology. Sony, Nikon and Fujifilm use sensors around 23.5 × 15.6 mm; Canon’s are about 22.3 × 14.9 mm. The name comes from the type-C frame of the old Advanced Photo System film format.
What it does not promise
The format says nothing about resolution, autofocus or video. Two APS-C cameras can differ greatly: the Canon EOS R50 and the Sony a6700 share the format and little else.
Field of view and lenses
An equivalent focal length is a calculation: it describes the field of view a lens gives on a full-frame camera. The focal length engraved on the lens never changes. A 50 mm lens on Sony APS-C frames like about 75 mm on full frame. Lenses made for APS-C, such as the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8, are smaller because they cover only the smaller sensor.
Where it turns up
The Canon EOS R50 and Rebel T7, the Sony a6700 and the Fujifilm X-M5 on this site all use APS-C sensors.
How to check before buying
Read the sensor format on the listing, then check that the lenses you want are made for that format and mount.
What people ask before they commit
What is the crop factor of APS-C?
About 1.5 for Sony, Nikon and Fujifilm, and about 1.6 for Canon. An equivalent focal length is a calculation: it describes the field of view a lens gives on a full-frame camera. The focal length engraved on the lens never changes.
Is APS-C worse than full frame?
It gathers less total light, so at the same exposure it shows a little more noise. For most photography it is more than enough, and it keeps kits lighter.
Can I use full-frame lenses on APS-C?
Yes, on the same mount. The camera uses the central part of the image, so the field of view narrows.
Last reviewed November 2, 2026