Canon SD990 IS vs Nikon S3100

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Canon SD990 IS versus Nikon S3100, both Ultracompact digital cameras by brands Canon and Nikon. The image resolution of the SD990 IS (15MP) and the S3100 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the SD990 IS (1/1.7") and S3100 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SD990 IS was launched 3 years earlier than the S3100 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Ultracompact).

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summation of how the SD990 IS grades versus the S3100 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SD990 IS & Nikon Coolpix S3100. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SD990 IS Gallery & Nikon S3100 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you should take into account its weight and proportions. The Canon SD990 IS comes with exterior measurements of 98mm x 62mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 205 grams (0.45 lbs) whilst the Nikon S3100 has measurements of 94mm x 58mm x 18mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.7") with a weight of 118 grams (0.26 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SD990 IS versus Nikon S3100 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select at the time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the SD990 IS versus the S3100.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SD990 IS and S3100 is 92 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to see the gap between sensor sizing simply by checking technical specs. The graphic below will give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SD990 IS and S3100.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SD990 IS due to its bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Canon SD990 IS will resolve greater detail utilizing its extra 1MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older SD990 IS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.