Canon PowerShot A3100 IS vs. Canon PowerShot D20: A Hands-On Comparison for Every Photographer

When digging in the archives of Canon's compact camera history, the PowerShot A3100 IS and the PowerShot D20 stand out for their respective niches. Announced three years apart, these two models represent distinct approaches Canon took in the early 2010s: the A3100 IS playing it safe as a budget-friendly, straightforward compact; the D20 bravely taking on the elements as a rugged, waterproof shooter aimed at outdoor enthusiasts.

Having personally tested thousands of cameras over the last decade and a half, I find this pair particularly intriguing because, despite their similarities - like sensor size and resolution - they target fundamentally different users. Today, let's jump into an in-depth comparison of the Canon A3100 IS and Canon D20 across key photography disciplines and technical aspects, drawing conclusions that will help you pick your ideal companion, whether it’s for casual snaps, adventure photography, or more demanding shooting scenarios.

Getting a Feel for It: Size, Ergonomics, and Build

First impressions matter. Just holding a camera often tells you a lot about how it will perform and whether it suits your shooting style.

The Canon A3100 IS tips the scales at a feather-light 165 grams with compact dimensions of 97 x 58 x 28 mm. Its petite form factor nests nicely in the hand or pocket, designed primarily for portability and ease of use in everyday casual shooting. The straightforward compact body, however, lacks ruggedness - no seals, no weatherproofing. So if you’re prone to shooting at family picnics or city strolls under decent weather only, its svelte frame will appeal.

Conversely, the Canon D20 is a chunkier 228 grams with measurements of 112 x 71 x 28 mm. The bulk isn't just extra material - it’s well-engineered protective casing, giving the D20 weather sealing, waterproofing up to 10 meters, dust resistance, shockproofing, and freeze-proofing down to -10°C. This body clearly targets outdoor adventurers, snorkelers, hikers, and anyone who demands durability more than pocket-friendliness.

Ergonomically, the D20 has a firmer rubber grip and more substantial controls - crucial when operating in wet or gloved hands. The A3100 IS, while comfortable for everyday use, feels a bit fragile in comparison and is better suited for calm, controlled environments.

Command Centers: Top Controls and Interface

The physical layout of buttons and dials can profoundly affect shooting comfort, especially when speed or subtlety matters.

Taking a peek at the top panels, the A3100 IS has a bare-bones, minimalist design - just a power button, shutter release, and a zoom rocker. With no dedicated control dials or mode rings, this camera is clearly designed for snapshot shooting. Its simplicity is both a boon and a limitation - great for beginners or travelers who want easy point-and-shoot operation, but confining if you crave manual hands-on control.

The D20 adds a bit more heft: buttons for exposure compensation and toggling shooting modes are present, but true manual controls are still absent. The inclusion of manual focus, surprisingly, gives it a bird’s-eye edge for users who want more precise control in tricky focusing situations (think macro or underwater close-ups). The bigger buttons and textured surfaces make it much easier to operate in adverse conditions.

Neither camera offers illuminated buttons, which is slightly inconvenient for low-light shooting, but the D20’s brighter screen (we’ll get there) often makes up for it.

Peering Into the Heart: Sensor and Image Quality

At the core, both cameras use the same 1/2.3" sensor size (6.17 x 4.55 mm) with 12-megapixel resolution, which was quite common for compact cameras of that era. However, the technology inside and resultant image quality show meaningful differences.

The A3100 IS employs an older CCD sensor, which tends to deliver smoother color reproduction but struggles more in low light compared to CMOS sensors. The A3100’s maximum ISO caps at 1600 but real-world usable range maxes out around ISO 400-800 before noise becomes cumbersome. Dynamic range is limited, typical of older small-sensor CCDs, so highlight blowouts and crushed shadows occur frequently - especially in contrast-rich scenarios like landscapes or street scenes.

The D20 benefits from Canon’s DIGIC 4 processor paired with a 12MP CMOS sensor, which improve both image processing speed and noise performance significantly. It pushes max ISO to 3200, and while images do get grainy at the high end, the usable range distinctively outperforms the A3100 IS. Dynamic range is also broader, giving you more breathing room in tricky lighting - bright skies or deep shadowed forests. The addition of multiple aspect ratios (including 1:1 and 3:2) adds framing flexibility.

Overall, when it comes to sheer image quality, the D20 has the upper hand, especially if you often shoot outdoors in mixed light or low light.

Seeing the World: Screen and Viewfinder Experience

Compact cameras often leave out electronic or optical viewfinders, and our models follow suit.

The Canon A3100 IS features a 2.7-inch fixed LCD screen with a modest 230k-dot resolution. It’s decent for composing shots in good light but noticeably dim and low resolution by today’s standards. Direct sunlight, for example, washes out details, making framing and focus confirmation a challenge.

The Canon D20 steps up here with a 3-inch fixed screen boasting a 461k-dot PureColor II TFT LCD. The difference is palpable - the D20’s screen is brighter, clearer, and more detailed, allowing more precise composition and review. Even in bright conditions, the display remains usable, a boon for outdoor shooting which the D20 is designed for.

Neither offers a viewfinder, nor do either have touchscreen controls - a reminder of their entry-level/enthusiast target and the technology of the early 2010s.

Autofocus and Focusing Precision

Focusing speed and accuracy can make or break the moment, especially with moving subjects or macro close-ups.

The A3100 IS relies on a basic contrast detection autofocus system with 9 focus points but lacks advanced features. Its autofocus is single-shot only; there is no continuous or tracking AF, and no face/eye detection. This means it’s fine for static subjects or landscapes but quite underwhelming when trying to freeze motion or capture candid portraits where the subject moves unpredictably.

Conversely, the D20 improves autofocus performance with continuous autofocus mode and face detection capability, increasing chances of sharp portraits or action shots. It retains 9-point AF coverage and uses contrast detection, so it’s not blazing fast or reliable in dim light, but the continuous mode helps with burst capture attempts. Manual focus is also available, which is a pleasant surprise in this segment, enabling precise control in macro or underwater shooting.

Neither offers phase detection AF typical of modern cameras, so fast sports or wildlife tracking is out of the question for both.

Lens Craft: Versatility and Imaging Characteristics

Both cameras feature fixed zoom lenses, which means you cannot swap glass for specialized tasks. Let’s break down their offerings:

• Canon A3100 IS: 35-140 mm (35mm equivalent), with a wide aperture range of f/2.7-5.6. The wider aperture at the short end is useful for casual low-light shots or portrait-like bokeh, but telephoto is rather slow at f/5.6, affecting sharpness and noise at longer focal lengths.

• Canon D20: A slightly wider zoom, 28-140 mm (35mm equivalent) with apertures f/3.9-4.8. The max aperture is narrower upfront but faster at the tele end, potentially delivering better sharpness and exposure at full zoom.

In practical terms, the D20’s lens offers more framing flexibility starting wider for landscapes and street, and extends similarly telephoto as the A3100 IS. Both provide reasonable macro focusing capabilities: the D20 can focus as close as 1 cm, notably closer than the A3100 IS’s 3 cm, aiding fine detail shots like flowers or coins.

Neither delivers outstanding optical quality by modern standards - they exhibit softness in corners, moderate chromatic aberration, and noticeable barrel distortion at wide angles. However, the lenses are optimized for their rugged or casual use cases rather than professional-grade optics.

Shooting Modes, Customization, and Video Capabilities

In terms of photographic controls, both cameras shy away from manual exposure modes such as aperture or shutter priority.

• The A3100 IS offers very basic automation, with no manual exposure modes, shutter priority, or aperture priority. Exposure compensation and custom white balance are available but minimal.

• The D20, while similarly lacking in manual exposure controls, adds custom white balance, manual focus, and multiple aspect ratios. Both cameras include scene modes tailored to various scenarios, but these are more “point-and-shoot” style presets.

Video recording is where the D20 eclipses the older A3100 IS:

• Canon A3100 IS: Records 640x480 video at 30 fps using Motion JPEG format - a relic of early 2010s pocket cams that results in bulky files and low resolution videos.

• Canon D20: Offers Full HD 1920x1080 video at 24 fps with H.264 compression, as well as 720p at 30 fps and impressive slow-motion modes (640x480 at 120 fps and 320x240 at 240 fps). It also has HDMI output for easy playback.

This enhanced video capability makes the D20 a more versatile hybrid shooter for casual videography, especially in adventurous settings.

Stabilization, Flash, and Low-Light Performance

Both cameras provide optical image stabilization (OIS), a welcome inclusion to help reduce blur at longer focal lengths or in dim lighting.

• The A3100 IS’s OIS helps with general shake but is older tech and less effective at very slow shutter speeds.

• The D20 benefits from Canon’s more modern OIS approach combined with DIGIC 4 processing, yielding better stabilization in handheld shots.

Built-in flash systems on both cameras are comparable, offering basic fill-in lighting and red-eye reduction with similar ranges (3m for A3100 IS, 3.5m for D20). Neither supports external flash units, so flash enthusiasts will find this limiting.

When it comes to low light, the D20’s CMOS sensor and higher ISO ceiling provide cleaner images under dim conditions, particularly assisted by OIS and a slightly faster lens at telephoto. The A3100 IS struggles here, with visible noise and weaker autofocus performance.

Connectivity, Battery, and Storage

Regarding convenience features, the D20 again shows its modernity:

• The D20 includes Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless image transfer - a unique feature in this comparison - along with built-in GPS for geotagging, a desirable tool for travel and outdoor photographers.

• The A3100 IS lacks wireless connectivity and GPS, marking it firmly as a basic beginner compact.

Both cameras store images on SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with a single card slot each. Battery types differ with the A3100 IS using the NB-8L and the D20 the smaller NB-6L rechargeable lithium-ion packs.

Battery life statistics are not specified for either, but in hands-on experience, the D20’s battery tends to last longer given its more modern electronics and power management. The A3100 IS, given its light processing needs, also performs adequately but may require more frequent replacements under heavy use.

Performance in Different Photography Genres

Now, putting all these specs and capabilities together, how would these cameras fare in various photography fields?

Canon A3100 IS front Canon A3100 IS screen back Canon D20 front Canon D20 screen back

Portrait Photography

Skin tone rendition in both models is generally pleasant, typical of Canon’s color science, but the D20’s improved sensor and face detection make it easier to capture sharp, well-exposed portraits. The A3100 IS’s slower lens at telephoto and lack of continuous AF mean portraits can be hit-or-miss if subjects move.

Bokeh is limited in both given sensor size, but the A3100 IS’s f/2.7 aperture at the wide end might produce marginally softer backgrounds in close-ups. Eye detection autofocus is only present in the D20, improving portrait composition accuracy.

Landscape Photography

Wide-angle coverage from 28mm on the D20 beats the A3100’s 35mm start, granting a broader field of view. Dynamic range superiority of the D20’s CMOS sensor shines here - richer shadow detail, better highlight handling, and overall cleaner files allow for beautiful landscapes.

Both cameras lack weather sealing except the D20, so the rugged D20 is the better choice for adventurous landscape shooters who might face rain or dust.

Wildlife Photography

Neither camera is engineered for wildlife or long telephoto zooms. The maximum 140mm equivalent focal length is modest, and neither offers fast continuous AF or rapid burst rates (A3100 IS tops out at 1 fps, D20’s specs don’t specify high continuous frame rate).

Still, the D20’s continuous AF mode and faster lens aperture at telephoto lend it some slight advantage for casual wildlife shooting.

Sports Photography

Sports demand fast autofocus, high burst rates, and solid low light performance. Both cameras are under-equipped here: the A3100 IS only has single AF and 1 fps continuous, while the D20 lacks a specified burst rate and cannot reliably track fast subjects.

Sports photographers should look elsewhere for cameras purpose-built with phase detection AF and rapid capture.

Street Photography

The A3100 IS’s ultra-small size and quiet operation give it an advantage in stealth and portability, useful for candid street photography. The D20, while still compact, draws more attention due to bulkier waterproof casing and louder buttons.

Low-light capability, however, favors the D20 thanks to higher ISO and face detection, helping street shooters in dim urban light.

Macro Photography

The D20 shines here with a macro focusing distance down to 1 cm and manual focus control, enabling fine composition close-ups. The A3100 IS is adequate but less precise with a minimum of 3 cm focus distance.

No focus bracketing or stacking is supported on either, limiting professional macro flexibility.

Night and Astrophotography

Small sensors and absence of long exposure manual modes limit the appeal of both cameras for astrophotography. The max 15-sec shutter is okay, but noise and dynamic range constraints restrict usable results.

Between them, the D20’s higher ISO ceiling and better noise handling hold a slight edge for nighttime shooting.

Video Capabilities

Here, the D20 pulls ahead decisively. Full HD recording at 24 fps with H.264 compression provides decent-quality clips, including slow-motion modes for creativity. HDMI output facilitates easy playback on TVs.

The A3100 IS’s VGA 640x480 video at 30 fps is an obvious relic and hardly usable beyond social media snippets or snapshots.

Overall Ratings and Summaries

I compiled objective performance ratings and usage notes across criteria we’ve discussed.

The Canon D20 rates consistently higher in image quality, durability, video capability, focusing, and connectivity. The A3100 IS holds ground mainly in portability and simplicity.

For genre-specific performance:

• Portrait: D20 leads thanks to face detection and better AF
• Landscape: D20 wins on dynamic range and build
• Wildlife: Tie, limited by zoom and AF speed
• Sports: Both insufficient for serious use
• Street: A3100 IS edges for stealth; D20 stronger in low light
• Macro: D20 preferred for closer minimum focus and manual options
• Night: D20 marginally better for noise performance
• Video: Clear advantage D20
• Travel: Balanced; A3100 IS smaller, D20 tougher and more versatile
• Professional: Neither ideal; D20 more flexible for adventurous pros

Final Thoughts: Which Canon Fits Your Photography Life?

Canon PowerShot A3100 IS

• Best for beginner photographers or casual users looking for a pocket-friendly, no-fuss compact camera.
• Great for everyday snapshots, family events, and street photography where size and discretion are paramount.
• Not suitable for advanced users who want manual control, video, or ruggedness.

Canon PowerShot D20

• A bona fide tough companion for outdoor adventures, rugged travel, and casual underwater photography.
• Superior image and video quality, enhanced autofocus, and valuable connectivity features make it versatile despite its compactness.
• Not a professional-grade camera but a solid choice for enthusiasts needing durability without sacrificing decent image quality.

If your photography journeys often lead you near water, mud, or harsh environments - or you want to record Full HD video - the D20 is the clear pick. For simple, lightweight, reliable point-and-shoot functionality where extreme conditions are rare, the A3100 IS holds decent value at a budget-friendly price.

This comparison underscores how two cameras, similar on paper, diverge based on intended use and context. My experience testing them in various scenarios reveals the importance of matching camera capabilities to photographic ambition - a lesson as valid today as ever.

Happy shooting, whether at the serene park or rugged shore!