Canon 550D vs Canon SX20 IS

In this article, we are looking at the Canon 550D vs Canon SX20 IS, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are produced by Canon. There is a noticeable difference among the image resolutions of the 550D (18MP) and SX20 IS (12MP) and the 550D (APS-C) and SX20 IS (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The 550D was released 3 months prior to the SX20 IS which means that they are both of a similar age. The two cameras offer different body type with the Canon 550D being a Compact SLR camera and the Canon SX20 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting through a detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the 550D grades vs the SX20 IS with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon EOS 550D & Canon PowerShot SX20 IS. The complete galleries are available at Canon 550D Gallery & Canon SX20 IS Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Canon 550D comes with outer measurements of 129mm x 98mm x 62mm (5.1" x 3.9" x 2.4") and a weight of 530 grams (1.17 lbs) whilst the Canon SX20 IS has measurements of 128mm x 88mm x 87mm (5.0" x 3.5" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs).

Look at the Canon 550D vs Canon SX20 IS in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the 550D versus the SX20 IS.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the 550D and SX20 IS is 70 and 65 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizing simply by checking out technical specs. The photograph here will help give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the 550D and SX20 IS.

As you have seen, both of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The 550D because of its larger sensor will make getting bokeh easier and the Canon 550D will show more detail as a result of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos a little more aggressively.