Canon SX160 IS vs Pentax RZ18

Its time to look more closely at the Canon SX160 IS versus Pentax RZ18, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Canon and Pentax. The resolution of the SX160 IS (16MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras offer the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SX160 IS was announced 22 months after the RZ18 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a in-depth comparison, here is a short summation of how the SX160 IS scores versus the RZ18 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX160 IS and Pentax Optio RZ18. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX160 IS Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera often, you should take into account its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX160 IS enjoys external measurements of 111mm x 73mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.9" x 1.7") along with a weight of 291 grams (0.64 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has dimensions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX160 IS versus Pentax RZ18 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the SX160 IS versus the RZ18.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SX160 IS and RZ18 is 86 and 92 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizes only by looking at specs. The pic below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SX160 IS and RZ18.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras come with the identical sensor size and the same exact megapixels so you should expect similar quality of images but you will need to take the production date of the products into consideration. The fresher SX160 IS is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.