Canon S90 vs Panasonic SZ1

Here, we are reviewing the Canon S90 vs Panasonic SZ1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Canon and Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the S90 (10MP) and SZ1 (16MP) and the S90 (1/1.7") and SZ1 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor dimensions.

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The S90 was introduced 21 months prior to the SZ1 making them a generation away from one another. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the S90 scores against the SZ1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot S90 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The whole galleries are provided at Canon S90 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Canon S90 features outside measurements of 100mm x 58mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 1.2") with a weight of 195 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ1 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Check the Canon S90 vs Panasonic SZ1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have at the time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the S90 and the SZ1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S90 and SZ1 is 92 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizes purely by researching a spec sheet. The pic underneath should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the S90 and SZ1.

Clearly, the two cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The S90 having a larger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field simpler and the Panasonic SZ1 will render more detail using its extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged S90 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.