Canon G16 vs Nikon D5000

In this article, we are looking at the Canon G16 versus Nikon D5000, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Canon and Nikon. The image resolution of the G16 (12MP) and the D5000 (12MP) is fairly close but the G16 (1/1.7") and D5000 (APS-C) come with different sensor sizes.

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The G16 was launched 4 years later than the D5000 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Canon G16 being a Compact camera and the Nikon D5000 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting straight into a complete comparison, below is a short view of how the G16 matches up against the D5000 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot G16 & Nikon D5000. The complete galleries are available at Canon G16 Gallery & Nikon D5000 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Canon G16 offers physical measurements of 109mm x 76mm x 40mm (4.3" x 3.0" x 1.6") having a weight of 356 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Nikon D5000 has measurements of 127mm x 104mm x 80mm (5.0" x 4.1" x 3.1") having a weight of 590 grams (1.30 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon G16 versus Nikon D5000 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using during that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the G16 vs the D5000.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the G16 and D5000 is 85 and 65 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to picture the contrast in sensor measurements only by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic here might provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the G16 and D5000.

Clearly, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels but different sensor measurements. The G16 contains the smaller sensor which should make obtaining shallow DOF harder. The fresher G16 provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.