Canon S120 vs Sony W550

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Canon S120 and Sony W550, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Canon and Sony. The sensor resolution of the S120 (12MP) and the W550 (14MP) is pretty similar but the S120 (1/1.7") and W550 (1/2.3") possess different sensor dimensions.

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The S120 was unveiled 2 years after the W550 which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Canon S120 being a Compact camera and the Sony W550 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before going in to a complete comparison, below is a simple view of how the S120 scores vs the W550 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot S120 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W550. The full galleries are viewable at Canon S120 Gallery and Sony W550 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you need to factor its weight and proportions. The Canon S120 comes with 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) and the Sony W550 has measurements of 94mm x 56mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of 110 grams (0.24 lbs).

Compare the Canon S120 and Sony W550 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the S120 versus the W550.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S120 and W550 is 92 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to picture the contrast between sensor sizes simply by going over specifications. The picture underneath will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S120 and W550.

To sum up, both the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The S120 with its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field easier and the Sony W550 will offer extra detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs far more aggressively. The more modern S120 should have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.