Canon SD970 IS vs Canon SX170 IS

Following is a comprehensive comparison of the Canon SD970 IS and Canon SX170 IS, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are sold by Canon. There exists a sizable gap between the resolutions of the SD970 IS (12MP) and SX170 IS (16MP) but they use the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SD970 IS was revealed 5 years prior to the SX170 IS which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the SD970 IS grades against the SX170 IS when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SD970 IS & Canon PowerShot SX170 IS. The full galleries are available at Canon SD970 IS Gallery & Canon SX170 IS Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Canon SD970 IS enjoys physical dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 26mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Canon SX170 IS has measurements of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs).

Check the Canon SD970 IS and Canon SX170 IS in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the SD970 IS against the SX170 IS.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SD970 IS and SX170 IS is 94 and 88 respectively.

Typically, it is very tough to imagine the gap between sensor sizes purely by looking at specifications. The image here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SD970 IS and SX170 IS.

Plainly, each of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit different MP. You can expect the Canon SX170 IS to resolve greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SD970 IS is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.