Canon S120 vs Panasonic SZ7

Let's examine more in depth at the Canon S120 versus Panasonic SZ7, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by companies Canon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the S120 (12MP) and the SZ7 (14MP) is very comparable but the S120 (1/1.7") and SZ7 (1/2.3") use different sensor sizes.

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The S120 was released 23 months later than the SZ7 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the S120 matches up versus the SZ7 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot S120 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7. The complete galleries are provided at Canon S120 Gallery & Panasonic SZ7 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and proportions. The Canon S120 provides exterior measurements of 100mm x 59mm x 29mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 217 grams (0.48 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ7 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs).

Compare the Canon S120 versus Panasonic SZ7 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the S120 against the SZ7.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S120 and SZ7 is 92 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it can be tough to visualize the difference in sensor measurements purely by seeing technical specs. The graphic below should provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the S120 and SZ7.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The S120 due to its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic SZ7 will provide extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more modern S120 provides an edge in sensor innovation.