Canon SD970 IS vs Olympus 8000

Below is a complete review of the Canon SD970 IS and Olympus 8000, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by manufacturers Canon and Olympus. The resolution of the SD970 IS (12MP) and the 8000 (12MP) is fairly comparable and both cameras have the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SD970 IS was unveiled 4 months prior to the 8000 so they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a complete comparison, here is a short highlight of how the SD970 IS scores against the 8000 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SD970 IS and Olympus Stylus Tough 8000. The full galleries are available at Canon SD970 IS Gallery and Olympus 8000 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Canon SD970 IS has external dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 26mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 160 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Olympus 8000 has proportions of 95mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 182 grams (0.40 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SD970 IS and Olympus 8000 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at the time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the SD970 IS versus the 8000.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SD970 IS and 8000 is 94 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to visualize the difference in sensor measurements simply by seeing a spec sheet. The visual below will give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SD970 IS and 8000.

As you can see, both cameras feature the identical sensor size and the same exact resolution so you should expect comparable quality of files although you have to factor the release date of the cameras into account.