Canon SD1200 IS vs Nikon S5100

Let's look more closely at the Canon SD1200 IS versus Nikon S5100, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Canon and Nikon. The sensor resolution of the SD1200 IS (10MP) and the S5100 (12MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras boast the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SD1200 IS was brought out 18 months earlier than the S5100 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the SD1200 IS matches up versus the S5100 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS and Nikon Coolpix S5100. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon SD1200 IS Gallery and Nikon S5100 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Canon SD1200 IS has got external dimensions of 86mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.4" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Nikon S5100 has proportions of 97mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SD1200 IS versus Nikon S5100 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the SD1200 IS against the S5100.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SD1200 IS and S5100 is 95 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to see the contrast in sensor measurements purely by going through specs. The graphic here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SD1200 IS and S5100.

All in all, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Nikon S5100 to produce more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older SD1200 IS will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.