Canon ELPH 510 HS vs Canon SX120 IS

Here, we are reviewing the Canon ELPH 510 HS and Canon SX120 IS, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are created by Canon. The image resolution of the ELPH 510 HS (12MP) and the SX120 IS (10MP) is fairly comparable but the ELPH 510 HS (1/2.3") and SX120 IS (1/2.5") offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The ELPH 510 HS was revealed 2 years later than the SX120 IS and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the ELPH 510 HS scores versus the SX120 IS in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon ELPH 510 HS and Canon PowerShot SX120 IS. The full galleries are provided at Canon ELPH 510 HS Gallery and Canon SX120 IS Gallery.

If you are looking to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to consider its weight and size. The Canon ELPH 510 HS provides physical dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.9") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Canon SX120 IS has specifications of 111mm x 71mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.8" x 1.8") with a weight of 285 grams (0.63 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon ELPH 510 HS and Canon SX120 IS in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at that time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the ELPH 510 HS versus the SX120 IS.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the ELPH 510 HS and SX120 IS is 93 and 87 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to see the difference in sensor measurements just by seeing a spec sheet. The visual underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the ELPH 510 HS and SX120 IS.

As you can see, the two cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The ELPH 510 HS having a larger sensor will make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Canon ELPH 510 HS will produce greater detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images a good deal more aggressively. The newer ELPH 510 HS is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.