Canon SD970 IS vs Canon SX600 HS

Following is a in-depth overview of the Canon SD970 IS and Canon SX600 HS, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are created by Canon. There is a noticeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the SD970 IS (12MP) and SX600 HS (16MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SD970 IS was revealed 5 years before the SX600 HS which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple view of how the SD970 IS matches up against the SX600 HS for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SD970 IS & Canon PowerShot SX600 HS. The full galleries are available at Canon SD970 IS Gallery & Canon SX600 HS Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor its weight and measurements. The Canon SD970 IS features external dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 26mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Canon SX600 HS has proportions of 104mm x 61mm x 26mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.0") and a weight of 188 grams (0.41 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SD970 IS and Canon SX600 HS in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at the time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the SD970 IS and the SX600 HS.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SD970 IS and SX600 HS is 94 and 93 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to see the contrast between sensor sizes just by looking at technical specs. The picture underneath may offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SD970 IS and SX600 HS.

As you can tell, the two cameras feature the identical sensor size but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Canon SX600 HS to give extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos way more aggressively. The more aged SD970 IS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.