Canon SX120 IS vs Olympus XZ-10

Following is a thorough assessment of the Canon SX120 IS versus Olympus XZ-10, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Canon and Olympus. The image resolution of the SX120 IS (10MP) and the XZ-10 (12MP) is fairly similar but the SX120 IS (1/2.5") and XZ-10 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The SX120 IS was unveiled 4 years prior to the XZ-10 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a complete comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SX120 IS grades against the XZ-10 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX120 IS and Olympus Stylus XZ-10. The full galleries are viewable at Canon SX120 IS Gallery and Olympus XZ-10 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and volume. The Canon SX120 IS offers exterior measurements of 111mm x 71mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.8" x 1.8") along with a weight of 285 grams (0.63 lbs) while the Olympus XZ-10 has sizing of 102mm x 61mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX120 IS versus Olympus XZ-10 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilising during that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the SX120 IS and the XZ-10.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SX120 IS and XZ-10 is 87 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizes purely by going over a spec sheet. The picture below may give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SX120 IS and XZ-10.

Clearly, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SX120 IS with its tinier sensor will make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Olympus XZ-10 will offer you more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged SX120 IS is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.