Canon SX160 IS vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1: A Practical Comparison for Enthusiast Photographers

When you’re in the market for a compact camera, the choices can seem endless. Today, I’m diving deep into two intriguing models from a few years back - the Canon PowerShot SX160 IS and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1. Both cameras might not be fresh arrivals in 2024’s market, yet they represent distinct design philosophies and attract different enthusiasts. After personally testing thousands of cameras, here’s my hands-on, technical, and practical comparison that will help you decide if either of these suits your photography needs.

First Impressions: Form and Feel Matter More Than You Think

Right from the start, size, weight, and ergonomics define how a camera fits into your shooting style. The Canon SX160 IS projects as a superzoom compact, boasting a long focal range and traditional controls. The Panasonic TS1 is a rugged waterproof camera that emphasizes durability and portability over zoom range.

Compare their bodies in the image below:

The Canon feels sturdier with its thicker grip and a more pronounced lens barrel. Weighing 291 grams and measuring 111x73x44 mm, it’s bulkier but offers better in-hand stability for long zoom shooting. The Panasonic TS1, compact at 98x63x23 mm and just 189 grams, fits snugly in smaller hands or outdoor pockets - perfect for travelers or adventurers wanting to travel light.

Ergonomically, the SX160 presents more conventional command dials. The TS1’s simplified button layout prioritizes ease under harsh conditions, sacrificing manual handling depth (more on that when we look at controls). For me, the SX160’s heft encourages steady shooting, especially when zoomed in, while TS1’s diminutive frame feels free and flexible but less secure for precise framing.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality That Shape Your Images

At the heart of any camera is the sensor. Both models use a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, a popular choice in compact cameras for their balance of cost and decent image quality in good lighting. But their specs reveal key differences.

• Canon SX160 IS: 16 megapixels, max ISO 1600, native ISO 100, 6.17x4.55 mm sensor size
• Panasonic TS1: 12 megapixels, max ISO 6400, native ISO 80, 6.08x4.56 mm sensor size

The Canon’s higher resolution means slightly more detail potential, important for prints or cropping. However, the Panasonic’s sensor maxes out at ISO 6400, suggesting better low-light flexibility despite fewer pixels. In day-to-day shooting, this means:

• The SX160 produces sharper images with richer details in good light.
• The TS1 struggles a bit more on resolution but can shoot in darker environments with higher ISO settings, albeit with more noise.

Neither supports RAW, limiting post-processing flexibility. For those who want to squeeze every bit from RAW files, these models fall short, but for JPEG shooters, they do competent jobs.

Seeing Clearly: LCDs and Control Layouts That Encourage Creative Expression

Since neither camera has an electronic viewfinder, their rear LCD and control ergonomics become crucial for composition, especially in bright outdoor scenarios.

Here is a direct look at their top controls:

• Canon SX160 IS: Larger 3-inch TFT LCD with 230k resolution; no touchscreen; dedicated manual dials including exposure controls.
• Panasonic TS1: Smaller 2.7-inch screen, also 230k resolution; no touchscreen; simplified button layout optimized for quick access.

And from the back:

I appreciate the SX160’s larger display for framing and menu navigation. The absence of a viewfinder is less painful here thanks to the larger LCD. The TS1’s smaller screen is more washed out in direct sunlight, a challenge when shooting outdoors. Plus, the lack of dedicated manual exposure options on the TS1 limits creative control - you’re mostly stuck shooting in auto or scene modes. The SX160, on the other hand, has shutter and aperture priority modes, offering a photographer much more latitude.

The Panasonic’s rugged buttons are excellent when you’re wearing gloves or under wet conditions - a thoughtful design for adventure shooters.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting: Capturing the Decisive Moment

Autofocus performance is an often-overlooked spec that I’ve tested extensively, because it makes or breaks fast and clear shots in many genres like wildlife and sports.

• Canon SX160 IS uses contrast-detection autofocus with face detection, but no continuous autofocus. Only single AF mode is available with focus tracking.
• Panasonic TS1 offers contrast-detection AF with 11 focus points but no face detection or continuous AF.

Continuous autofocus is vital for tracking moving subjects. The Canon’s face detection is handy for portraits and street photography. The TS1’s multiple AF points provide some framing flexibility, but lack of face detection and continuous AF reduces effectiveness.

Burst shooting is slow on both: 1 fps for Canon, 2 fps for Panasonic. So neither camera is ideal for fast action or sports where frame rate and continuous tracking are critical.

From my tests, you’ll find the SX160 better for portraiture and casual street shots thanks to face detection, while the TS1 will occasionally miss focus on fast-moving subjects.

Zoom and Lens Capabilities: Reach or Rugged Reliability?

The Canon SX160 IS is a superzoom champion with a 28-448 mm (16x) optical zoom, great for wildlife or travel when you want to get close without lugging multiple lenses. Meanwhile, the Panasonic TS1 offers a more conservative 28-128 mm (4.6x) zoom range, better suited for general outdoor snapshots.

Both lenses suffer from slower apertures at telephoto ends (f/5.9), limiting low-light telephoto use. The SX160 also supports close-up shooting to just 1 cm, whereas the TS1’s macro capability starts at 5 cm, making the Canon better for flower and detail shots.

If versatility and zoom reach are your priority, Canon wins here. But if you plan outdoor adventures where lens protection matters more than reach, Panasonic’s sealed, waterproof lens offers peace of mind many cameras can’t match.

Toughness Under Fire: Environmental Sealing and Durability

Speaking of protection, let me highlight a major dividing line: the Panasonic TS1 is rugged. It boasts waterproof (up to 10 meters), dustproof, and shockproof designs. The Canon SX160 IS, however, has no weather sealing. Use the SX160 carefully outdoors during poor weather.

If you shoot outdoors or in challenging weather, Panasonic’s TS1 stands out as a reliable companion you won’t give a second thought to dropping or getting wet.

Video Capabilities: How Do They Stack Up?

For casual videographers, here’s a quick look:

• Canon shoots HD 720p (1280x720) video at 30 fps, using H.264 codec.
• Panasonic also supports HD 720p video at 30 fps and uses AVCHD Lite, a slightly higher-quality format.

Neither camera offers 1080p or 4K recording, reflecting their age. Both lack microphones and headphone jacks, limiting audio capture options. Image stabilization on both models helps smooth shaky handheld footage.

The Panasonic’s AVCHD Lite format gives slightly better video compression quality, but neither camera excels for serious filmmakers.

Battery and Storage: Practical Considerations for Longer Shoots

The Canon SX160 uses two AA batteries, which can be an advantage - grab spares anywhere, no charging needed. It runs about 380 shots per battery set according to CIPA standards. The Panasonic TS1 doesn’t specify battery life openly, but uses an internal rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery, streamlining power but requiring access to charging.

Both use SD card storage: SX160 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC; TS1 accepts SD/SDHC/MMC plus internal storage (a bonus for emergency shots).

If you prioritize convenience for remote travel with no charger access, SX160’s AA battery system will appeal.

Putting It All Together: Strengths and Weaknesses at a Glance

A visual summary of the overall and genre-specific performance (drawn from hands-on shooting and lab notes):

Canon SX160 IS

• Strengths:
• Impressive 16x zoom with manual controls (aperture and shutter priority)
• Higher resolution sensor (16MP) for detailed images
• Face detection autofocus improves portraits and casual street photography
• Uses AA batteries for easy replacement
• Larger rear LCD for composing shots

– Weaknesses:

• No environmental sealing
• Slower burst rate (1fps) and no continuous autofocus
• No raw support limits advanced editing
• Limited video resolution and audio features

Panasonic TS1

• Strengths:
• Durable waterproof, dustproof, shockproof design for rugged use
• Higher max ISO (6400) for low-light flexibility
• Smaller, lighter, perfect travel and adventure compaction
• Slightly better video compression (AVCHD Lite)
• Internal storage as backup

– Weaknesses:

• Lower resolution (12MP) and smaller zoom range
• No manual exposure modes, limited creative control
• Slower shutter speeds range (min shutter 1/60s), restricting action shots
• No face detection autofocus
• No wireless connectivity, HDMI but no microphone input

Sample Photos: Real-World Shooting Results

Look at these sample crops from both cameras under typical daylight conditions:

Canon SX160 IS front Canon SX160 IS screen back Panasonic TS1 front Panasonic TS1 screen back

The Canon’s images display sharper textures and cleaner details thanks to 16MP resolution. The Panasonic’s images show slightly softer details, with a warmer tonality that some may prefer for outdoor scenes. Dynamic range is modest on both, but the Canon allows you to nudge exposure manually for better highlight and shadow control.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Choose Canon SX160 IS if:

• You want a versatile superzoom compact with manual exposure control
• Portrait, travel, and casual wildlife shooting top your list
• Ease of battery replacement via AA cells is critical
• You prefer a larger rear screen for composition and playback
• You are budget conscious (currently around $199 new or used)

Choose Panasonic Lumix TS1 if:

• You need an ultra-durable, waterproof camera for hiking, snorkeling, or rough terrain
• You prioritize portability and robust weather sealing over zoom reach
• Low-light shooting with higher ISO capability is important for your style
• You want simple, point-and-shoot reliability in challenging environments
• Price point is less a concern (around $380 new given specs and rarity)

Final Thoughts: Two Cameras, Two Worlds

Both the Canon SX160 IS and Panasonic TS1 serve distinct audiences. The Canon edges out on creative flexibility, higher detailed images, and zoom reach suitable for hobbyist photographers willing to learn controls. The Panasonic rewards adventurers needing an indestructible companion - a point-and-shoot that doesn’t flinch at rain or dust.

For enthusiasts looking to maximize image quality and photographic technique, the SX160’s manual exposure, larger sensor resolution, and longer zoom spell better value, especially at its lower price. For those who want a camera that withstands harsh conditions while remaining pocketable, the TS1 shines.

Remember, each camera’s best use case will depend on your lifestyle and shooting habits. And while these two may be “older” models, understanding their design and performance ethos offers insight into what to look for in your next compact shooter.

Happy shooting - and don’t forget to pack those AA batteries if you choose the Canon!

Note: For a deeper dive and side-by-side video sample comparison, you can check my in-depth video review linked above.