Canon SX120 IS vs Canon SX40 HS

Here, we will be contrasting the Canon SX120 IS vs Canon SX40 HS, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are manufactured by Canon. The image resolution of the SX120 IS (10MP) and the SX40 HS (12MP) is relatively close but the SX120 IS (1/2.5") and SX40 HS (1/2.3") provide different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SX120 IS was brought out 3 years before the SX40 HS which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Canon SX120 IS being a Compact camera and the Canon SX40 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the SX120 IS scores against the SX40 HS when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX120 IS & Canon PowerShot SX40 HS. The entire galleries are available at Canon SX120 IS Gallery & Canon SX40 HS Gallery.

For anyone who is going to travel with your camera often, you should take into account its weight and measurements. The Canon SX120 IS features physical dimensions of 111mm x 71mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.8" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 285 grams (0.63 lbs) whilst the Canon SX40 HS has proportions of 123mm x 92mm x 108mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 4.3") having a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs).

Check out the Canon SX120 IS vs Canon SX40 HS in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the SX120 IS compared to the SX40 HS.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the SX120 IS and SX40 HS is 87 and 64 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's difficult to imagine the difference in sensor dimensions simply by viewing technical specs. The pic below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SX120 IS and SX40 HS.

As you can tell, both of the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The SX120 IS featuring a smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the Canon SX40 HS will result in greater detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged SX120 IS will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.