Canon SX160 IS vs Sony HX99

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Canon SX160 IS versus Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Canon and Sony. The resolution of the SX160 IS (16MP) and the HX99 (18MP) is relatively well matched but the SX160 IS (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The SX160 IS was manufactured 6 years before the HX99 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the SX160 IS matches up against the HX99 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX160 IS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The entire galleries are available at Canon SX160 IS Gallery and Sony HX99 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and size. The Canon SX160 IS offers external dimensions of 111mm x 73mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.9" x 1.7") with a weight of 291 grams (0.64 lbs) and the Sony HX99 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") and a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX160 IS versus Sony HX99 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the SX160 IS vs the HX99.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SX160 IS and HX99 is 86 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualise the difference between sensor sizes simply by reading through specs. The image here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SX160 IS and HX99.

All in all, the two cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The SX160 IS due to its bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF easier and the Sony HX99 will resolve greater detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged SX160 IS is going to be behind in sensor technology.