Canon S120 vs Canon SX520 HS

Below is a in depth assessment of the Canon S120 vs Canon SX520 HS, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are sold by Canon. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the S120 (12MP) and SX520 HS (16MP) and the S120 (1/1.7") and SX520 HS (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The S120 was revealed 8 months earlier than the SX520 HS so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a thorough comparison, here is a short view of how the S120 matches up vs the SX520 HS for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot S120 and Canon PowerShot SX520 HS. The full galleries are available at Canon S120 Gallery and Canon SX520 HS Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera, you're going to have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Canon S120 has exterior measurements of 100mm x 59mm x 29mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 217 grams (0.48 lbs) whilst the Canon SX520 HS has dimensions of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") along with a weight of 441 grams (0.97 lbs).

Check the Canon S120 vs Canon SX520 HS in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at that moment. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the S120 compared to the SX520 HS.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the S120 and SX520 HS is 92 and 69 respectively.

Often, it's hard to visualise the difference in sensor measurements merely by looking through specifications. The visual below should provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the S120 and SX520 HS.

Plainly, both cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The S120 using its larger sensor will make achieving bokeh easier and the Canon SX520 HS will render more detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics way more aggressively. The older S120 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.