Canon SD970 IS vs Leica D-Lux 6

Here, we will be contrasting the Canon SD970 IS versus Leica D-Lux 6, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Canon and Leica. The sensor resolution of the SD970 IS (12MP) and the D-Lux 6 (10MP) is relatively comparable but the SD970 IS (1/2.3") and D-Lux 6 (1/1.7") posses totally different sensor size.

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The SD970 IS was revealed 4 years prior to the D-Lux 6 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a detailed comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SD970 IS grades vs the D-Lux 6 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SD970 IS & Leica D-Lux 6. The full galleries are viewable at Canon SD970 IS Gallery & Leica D-Lux 6 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you have to think about its weight and volume. The Canon SD970 IS provides exterior measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 26mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Leica D-Lux 6 has sizing of 111mm x 68mm x 46mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.8") with a weight of 298 grams (0.66 lbs).

Check the Canon SD970 IS versus Leica D-Lux 6 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using during that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the SD970 IS compared to the D-Lux 6.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the SD970 IS and D-Lux 6 is 94 and 86 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to envision the difference in sensor sizes merely by seeing a spec sheet. The pic below will provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SD970 IS and D-Lux 6.

Clearly, both of these cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SD970 IS with its smaller sensor will make getting shallow depth of field harder and the Canon SD970 IS will provide greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more aged SD970 IS will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.