Canon SX160 IS vs Canon SX540 HS

Here is a thorough review of the Canon SX160 IS versus Canon SX540 HS, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras and both are built by Canon. The sensor resolution of the SX160 IS (16MP) and the SX540 HS (20MP) is pretty similar and both cameras offer the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX160 IS was announced 3 years earlier than the SX540 HS and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Canon SX160 IS being a Compact camera and the Canon SX540 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go right into a full comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the SX160 IS grades versus the SX540 HS in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX160 IS & Canon PowerShot SX540 HS. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SX160 IS Gallery & Canon SX540 HS Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Canon SX160 IS has got external dimensions of 111mm x 73mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.9" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 291 grams (0.64 lbs) whilst the Canon SX540 HS has specifications of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") along with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX160 IS versus Canon SX540 HS in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the SX160 IS compared to the SX540 HS.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX160 IS and SX540 HS is 86 and 69 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to see the contrast between sensor sizing merely by going over specs. The visual underneath should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX160 IS and SX540 HS.

All in all, both cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You can expect the Canon SX540 HS to deliver greater detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older SX160 IS is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.