Canon SX120 IS vs Pentax RZ18

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Canon SX120 IS vs Pentax RZ18, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Canon and Pentax. There exists a sizeable gap between the image resolutions of the SX120 IS (10MP) and RZ18 (16MP) and the SX120 IS (1/2.5") and RZ18 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SX120 IS was introduced 3 years earlier than the RZ18 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go in to a complete comparison, below is a quick view of how the SX120 IS scores vs the RZ18 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX120 IS and Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX120 IS Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera often, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Canon SX120 IS offers exterior measurements of 111mm x 71mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.8" x 1.8") and a weight of 285 grams (0.63 lbs) whilst the Pentax RZ18 has measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX120 IS vs Pentax RZ18 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at the time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the SX120 IS versus the RZ18.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX120 IS and RZ18 is 87 and 92 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizing purely by reading through technical specs. The graphic below should provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SX120 IS and RZ18.

As you can tell, both of the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SX120 IS having a tinier sensor will make getting bokeh trickier and the Pentax RZ18 will give extra detail using its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The older SX120 IS is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.