Chipworks has published a free analysis of full frame image sensors from Canon and Nikon:

http://www.chipworks.com/blog/techno...nikon-vs-sony/

http://www.chipworks.com/blog/technologyblog/2012/10/24/full-frame-dslr-cameras-canon-stays-the-course/

There are lots of interesting bits in there for the technically-minded among us. One thing I read that I did not expect is that Nikon is still using a very old process technology, 180nm (which was first used back in 2000 or so). Even more surprising is that Canon is still on 500nm (think 1996). No doubt these are cost saving measures.

For comparison, Intel is currently on 22nm, and other image sensors fabs (e.g. TSMC) are selling tons of 28nm. My guess is that the new technology is only being used for small chips right now (digicams, mobile phones, cars, security, etc.) because they need it more and are more cost effective (higher yield, higher volume, lower overhead). I can't wait for it to trickle down into full frame DSLR.