Canon S120 vs Nikon AW120

Below is a in depth overview of the Canon S120 versus Nikon AW120, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Waterproof by companies Canon and Nikon. There is a sizable difference between the image resolutions of the S120 (12MP) and AW120 (16MP) and the S120 (1/1.7") and AW120 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The S120 was unveiled 2 months prior to the AW120 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a in depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the S120 scores versus the AW120 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot S120 & Nikon Coolpix AW120. The full galleries are available at Canon S120 Gallery & Nikon AW120 Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera often, you should consider its weight and size. The Canon S120 has got exterior dimensions of 100mm x 59mm x 29mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 217 grams (0.48 lbs) while the Nikon AW120 has specifications of 110mm x 66mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.0") along with a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon S120 versus Nikon AW120 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the S120 vs the AW120.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the S120 and AW120 is 92 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it is very hard to see the gap between sensor measurements simply by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic below will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the S120 and AW120.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The S120 with its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Nikon AW120 will resolve more detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs a bit more aggressively.