Canon SD970 IS vs Nikon S8100

Here, we are analyzing the Canon SD970 IS and Nikon S8100, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by competitors Canon and Nikon. The sensor resolution of the SD970 IS (12MP) and the S8100 (12MP) is very well matched and both cameras offer the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SD970 IS was introduced 18 months prior to the S8100 making them a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the SD970 IS grades against the S8100 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SD970 IS and Nikon Coolpix S8100. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SD970 IS Gallery and Nikon S8100 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Canon SD970 IS offers outer measurements 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 Nikon S8100 has measurements of 104mm x 60mm x 30mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.2") with a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SD970 IS and Nikon S8100 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the SD970 IS versus the S8100.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SD970 IS and S8100 is 94 and 93 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to picture the difference between sensor measurements simply by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph underneath will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SD970 IS and S8100.

Clearly, both of these cameras come with the identical sensor size and the identical megapixels and you should expect similar quality of photographs but you really should factor the production date of the products into consideration. The older SD970 IS is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.