Canon A490 vs Canon SD1200 IS

Here, we will be reviewing the Canon A490 vs Canon SD1200 IS, both Small Sensor Compact cameras and both are manufactured by Canon. The sensor resolution of the A490 (10MP) and the SD1200 IS (10MP) is relatively close and both cameras offer the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The A490 was released 11 months later than the SD1200 IS so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short view of how the A490 matches up vs the SD1200 IS in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot A490 and Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS. The complete galleries are available at Canon A490 Gallery and Canon SD1200 IS Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to lug around your camera, you should take into account its weight and size. The Canon A490 offers physical measurements of 94mm x 62mm x 31mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 175 grams (0.39 lbs) while the Canon SD1200 IS has specifications of 86mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.4" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon A490 vs Canon SD1200 IS in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select during that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the A490 compared to the SD1200 IS.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the A490 and SD1200 IS is 93 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to envision the difference in sensor measurements merely by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the A490 and SD1200 IS.

As you can see, the two cameras feature the identical sensor size and the identical megapixels so you should expect comparable quality of photographs though you should always take the production date of the cameras into account. The fresher A490 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.