Canon G12 vs Panasonic S2

Lets take a more detailed look at the Canon G12 and Panasonic S2, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Canon and Panasonic. There is a crucial difference between the image resolutions of the G12 (10MP) and S2 (14MP) and the G12 (1/1.7") and S2 (1/2.3") provide different sensor dimensions.

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The G12 was brought out 11 months before the S2 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a short view of how the G12 scores versus the S2 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot G12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon G12 Gallery and Panasonic S2 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera frequently, you should think about its weight and dimensions. The Canon G12 offers exterior dimensions of 112mm x 76mm x 48mm (4.4" x 3.0" x 1.9") having a weight of 401 grams (0.88 lbs) while the Panasonic S2 has dimensions of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs).

Check the Canon G12 and Panasonic S2 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the G12 vs the S2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the G12 and S2 is 83 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing simply by reading a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the G12 and S2.

Clearly, each of the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The G12 featuring a bigger sensor is going to make shooting bokeh simpler and the Panasonic S2 will offer you extra detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures way more aggressively. The older G12 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.