Canon G12 vs Nikon AW120

Let's look a bit more closely at the Canon G12 and Nikon AW120, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Waterproof by rivals Canon and Nikon. There is a huge difference between the resolutions of the G12 (10MP) and AW120 (16MP) and the G12 (1/1.7") and AW120 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The G12 was announced 4 years prior to the AW120 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a full comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the G12 grades vs the AW120 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot G12 and Nikon Coolpix AW120. The whole galleries are provided at Canon G12 Gallery and Nikon AW120 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Canon G12 has got outside dimensions of 112mm x 76mm x 48mm (4.4" x 3.0" x 1.9") along with a weight of 401 grams (0.88 lbs) and the Nikon AW120 has measurements of 110mm x 66mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.0") and a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon G12 and Nikon AW120 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have during that time. Following is the front view size comparison of the G12 compared to the AW120.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the G12 and AW120 is 83 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it can be difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizing purely by going over technical specs. The graphic below will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the G12 and AW120.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The G12 using its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Nikon AW120 will offer greater detail with its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The older G12 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.