Canon S90 vs Sony S980

Here is a extended analysis of the Canon S90 and Sony S980, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by manufacturers Canon and Sony. The image resolution of the S90 (10MP) and the S980 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the S90 (1/1.7") and S980 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor dimensions.

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The S90 was brought out 14 months later than the S980 making them a generation apart from one another. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the S90 matches up against the S980 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot S90 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The entire galleries are available at Canon S90 Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera frequently, you should take into account its weight and proportions. The Canon S90 features outer measurements of 100mm x 58mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 1.2") and a weight of 195 grams (0.43 lbs) and the Sony S980 has measurements of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Contrast the Canon S90 and Sony S980 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the S90 and the S980.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S90 and S980 is 92 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to envision the gap between sensor sizing merely by checking technical specs. The graphic here may give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the S90 and S980.

As you have seen, both of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The S90 because of its larger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Sony S980 will give you extra detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos more aggressively. The newer S90 will have a benefit in sensor tech.