bettis1 Loc: Texas

In reading a recent article on DSLR sensors the author used the phrase that sensors are "extremely expensive to manufacture". That is a pretty subjective description with no finite parameters. I would assume that the cost of a sensor is related to the size (DX vs FX) and density (number) of the pixels per square millimeter. I also assume that, with the improvements in technology and mass production that the per unit cost diminishes over time. Perhaps the cost info is proprietary with the various manufacturers but does anyone have any finite information on the actual manufacturing cost of a sensor?

Bob

LFingar Loc: Claverack, NY

A quick Google search shows a number of sources for a Canon 5DIII replacement sensor in the price range of $300-$350. I wouldn't call that extremely expensive. Makes me wonder how accurate the other info from the author you quoted is.

Brent Rowlett Loc: Atlanta, GA

In that Sony produces most of the camera censors used out there I also question your article source.

bettis1 Loc: Texas

Photography Life:
https://photographylife.com/nikon-dx-vs-fx/amp

rook2c4 Loc: Philadelphia, PA USA

Maybe this is can give you a rough idea:
http://www.digikey.com/products/en/sensors-transducers/image-sensors-camera/532
Of course this won't tell you much about the manufacturing costs (materials, labor). Manufacturing costs are mostly irrelevant unless you are planning to produce your own sensors. It's the market that determines the actual price of sensors.

jerryc41 Loc: Catskill Mts of NY

That's a numbers game played by the bean counters. We initially got crop sensors because they were smaller and cheaper. They were very expensive to manufacture in the beginning, and they're still probably relatively expensive. $300 for a sensor is comparable to the price of a functional laptop computer, camcorder, P&S camera, etc. Of course, parts purchased separately are always much more expensive than parts on the assembly line. At every step of the process, someone has to make a profit on the raw materials and individual components.

How much does it actually cost to make a $100,000 car? That depends what you want to include in the cost. Materials alone would cost a fraction of that, but you need a factory, workers, etc. Pricing is a delicate balance between maximum profit and reasonable sales.

Tet68survivor Loc: Pomfret Center CT

I would look at it this way, if I have a $600 camera body and need a $300-400 dollar sensor, it might be better to buy a new body because most likely something else is going to go soon! But if I have a $3000 body, then the $300-400 for a new sensor makes a lot of sense to me!