Canon 170 IS vs Nikon S4000

Here is a in-depth overview of the Canon 170 IS vs Nikon S4000, both Ultracompact digital cameras by manufacturers Canon and Nikon. There is a considerable difference between the image resolutions of the 170 IS (20MP) and S4000 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The 170 IS was announced 4 years later than the S4000 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Ultracompact).

Before diving through a complete comparison, below is a concise view of how the 170 IS grades against the S4000 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS & Nikon Coolpix S4000. The whole galleries are provided at Canon 170 IS Gallery & Nikon S4000 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and proportions. The Canon 170 IS comes with outside dimensions of 100mm x 58mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.9") having a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Nikon S4000 has measurements of 95mm x 57mm x 20mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon 170 IS vs Nikon S4000 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at the time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the 170 IS and the S4000.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the 170 IS and S4000 is 95 and 96 respectively.

Generally, it is tough to envision the gap between sensor sizing simply by reviewing a spec sheet. The visual below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the 170 IS and S4000.

Clearly, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Canon 170 IS to deliver more detail with its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The more recent 170 IS is going to have an edge in sensor technology.