Canon SD970 IS vs Panasonic FX700

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Canon SD970 IS versus Panasonic FX700, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by companies Canon and Panasonic. The resolution of the SD970 IS (12MP) and the FX700 (14MP) is fairly well matched and they use the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SD970 IS was revealed 17 months earlier than the FX700 making the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a thorough comparison, below is a quick view of how the SD970 IS grades against the FX700 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SD970 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX700. The full galleries are provided at Canon SD970 IS Gallery and Panasonic FX700 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera, you're going to have to factor its weight and volume. The Canon SD970 IS features physical 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) whilst the Panasonic FX700 has sizing of 104mm x 56mm x 25mm (4.1" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 176 grams (0.39 lbs).

Look at the Canon SD970 IS versus Panasonic FX700 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the SD970 IS compared to the FX700.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SD970 IS and FX700 is 94 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes purely by looking at technical specs. The pic below might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SD970 IS and FX700.

As you have seen, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Panasonic FX700 to give you extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics far more aggressively. The more aged SD970 IS is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.