Canon SD3500 IS vs Canon SX160 IS

Below is a complete assessment of the Canon SD3500 IS vs Canon SX160 IS, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are sold by Canon. The image resolution of the SD3500 IS (14MP) and the SX160 IS (16MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SD3500 IS was brought out 4 years earlier than the SX160 IS and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the SD3500 IS grades against the SX160 IS in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SD3500 IS and Canon PowerShot SX160 IS. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon SD3500 IS Gallery and Canon SX160 IS Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and size. The Canon SD3500 IS has got exterior dimensions of 99mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Canon SX160 IS has specifications of 111mm x 73mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.9" x 1.7") along with a weight of 291 grams (0.64 lbs).

Check out the Canon SD3500 IS vs Canon SX160 IS in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you select during that time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the SD3500 IS against the SX160 IS.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SD3500 IS and SX160 IS is 95 and 86 respectively.

Generally, it can be tough to picture the gap between sensor measurements simply by checking specifications. The visual below will give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SD3500 IS and SX160 IS.

To sum up, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You should count on the Canon SX160 IS to give you extra detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older SD3500 IS is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.