Canon SD1200 IS vs Pentax RS1500

In this write-up, we are looking at the Canon SD1200 IS and Pentax RS1500, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Canon and Pentax. There is a huge difference between the image resolutions of the SD1200 IS (10MP) and RS1500 (14MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SD1200 IS was launched 3 years earlier than the RS1500 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a full comparison, below is a brief view of how the SD1200 IS scores against the RS1500 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS and Pentax Optio RS1500. The complete galleries are viewable at Canon SD1200 IS Gallery and Pentax RS1500 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you have to factor its weight and proportions. The Canon SD1200 IS features outer dimensions of 86mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.4" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Pentax RS1500 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Analyze the Canon SD1200 IS and Pentax RS1500 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the SD1200 IS against the RS1500.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the SD1200 IS and RS1500 is 95 and 93 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to see the contrast between sensor sizing simply by reading a spec sheet. The photograph here will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SD1200 IS and RS1500.

As you can see, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Pentax RS1500 to offer more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images a little more aggressively. The older SD1200 IS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.