Does (cropped sensor) DSLR offer better image than 1/3" chip camcorder, in general?

Hi folks,
I recently stepped up to DSLR shooting from consumer level camcorder (i.e. Canon T3i vs HF M400). My ultimate goal was to achieve more bokeh and better low light shooting. This, I achieved.
However, I did expect that, in viewing side-by-side footage from both cameras that I'd see a huge difference in the image quality. On the contrary, they look almost identical (color balance issues aside).
On the one hand, this is good for combining the footage into a final production. On the other hand, I am kinda' disappointed that I haven't upped my game, "technical quality-wise" (or, so it seems).
Am I wrong in expecting a better image simply by virtue of the larger sensor?
(Note: by "better" image, I just mean that I'd easily notice the difference on the timeline of my NLE.)
Any thoughts you have would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks,
Vic