Canon SX170 IS vs Canon SX70 HS

In this article, we will be matching up the Canon SX170 IS versus Canon SX70 HS, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras and they are both built by Canon. The resolution of the SX170 IS (16MP) and the SX70 HS (20MP) is relatively close and they feature the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was launched 6 years prior to the SX70 HS and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Canon SX70 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a short view of how the SX170 IS matches up vs the SX70 HS when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS & Canon PowerShot SX70 HS. The complete galleries are available at Canon SX170 IS Gallery & Canon SX70 HS Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX170 IS offers external 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 SX70 HS has dimensions of 127mm x 91mm x 117mm (5.0" x 3.6" x 4.6") with a weight of 608 grams (1.34 lbs).

Look at the Canon SX170 IS versus Canon SX70 HS in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Following is the front view size comparison of the SX170 IS versus the SX70 HS.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SX170 IS and SX70 HS is 88 and 63 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to envision the difference in sensor sizing simply by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic here may provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SX170 IS and SX70 HS.

As you can see, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Canon SX70 HS to result in more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The older SX170 IS will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.