Canon SX170 IS vs Canon SX200 IS

In this write-up, we are matching up the Canon SX170 IS and Canon SX200 IS, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras and both are created by Canon. There is a huge difference between the resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and SX200 IS (12MP) but they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was brought out 4 years later than the SX200 IS and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a short overview of how the SX170 IS scores versus the SX200 IS with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Canon PowerShot SX200 IS. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Canon SX200 IS Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to factor its weight and measurements. The Canon SX170 IS provides outer measurements of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Canon SX200 IS has proportions of 103mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.5") with a weight of 247 grams (0.54 lbs).

See the Canon SX170 IS and Canon SX200 IS in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the SX170 IS versus the SX200 IS.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and SX200 IS is 88 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to see the difference between sensor sizing merely by looking at specs. The graphic below will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX170 IS and SX200 IS.

All in all, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Canon SX170 IS to give you extra detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images a little more aggressively. The more recent SX170 IS will have a benefit in sensor technology.