Canon G16 vs Panasonic S2

Here is a extended comparison of the Canon G16 versus Panasonic S2, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Canon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the G16 (12MP) and the S2 (14MP) is relatively similar but the G16 (1/1.7") and S2 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The G16 was brought out 23 months later than the S2 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick summary of how the G16 grades vs the S2 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot G16 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2. The entire galleries are available at Canon G16 Gallery & Panasonic S2 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and proportions. The Canon G16 has got external measurements of 109mm x 76mm x 40mm (4.3" x 3.0" x 1.6") with a weight of 356 grams (0.78 lbs) and the Panasonic S2 has measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs).

See the Canon G16 versus Panasonic S2 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the G16 and the S2.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the G16 and S2 is 85 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, its difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing just by going over technical specs. The graphic below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the G16 and S2.

As you have seen, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The G16 because of its bigger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic S2 will offer greater detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots far more aggressively. The younger G16 will have a benefit in sensor innovation.