Canon SX120 IS vs Samsung SL820

In this article, we will be contrasting the Canon SX120 IS vs Samsung SL820, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by manufacturers Canon and Samsung. The image resolution of the SX120 IS (10MP) and the SL820 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the SX120 IS (1/2.5") and SL820 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizes.

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The SX120 IS was announced 7 months later than the SL820 which means that they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the SX120 IS grades against the SL820 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX120 IS and Samsung SL820. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SX120 IS Gallery and Samsung SL820 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Canon SX120 IS offers exterior 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) and the Samsung SL820 has measurements of 95mm x 59mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") having a weight of 168 grams (0.37 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX120 IS vs Samsung SL820 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the SX120 IS versus the SL820.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SX120 IS and SL820 is 87 and 94 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by going through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX120 IS and SL820.

As you can see, both of those cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The SX120 IS having a smaller sensor will make getting shallow DOF more difficult and the Samsung SL820 will produce greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The more recent SX120 IS will have a benefit in sensor tech.