Canon SX170 IS vs Nikon L820

On this page, we will be matching up the Canon SX170 IS versus Nikon L820, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by companies Canon and Nikon. The resolution of the SX170 IS (16MP) and the L820 (16MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras posses the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was unveiled 7 months later than the L820 and they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Nikon L820 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short summation of how the SX170 IS scores versus the L820 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS & Nikon Coolpix L820. The full galleries are provided at Canon SX170 IS Gallery & Nikon L820 Gallery.

For those who are looking to lug around your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and size. The Canon SX170 IS features external measurements of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Nikon L820 has specifications of 111mm x 76mm x 85mm (4.4" x 3.0" x 3.3") accompanied by a weight of 470 grams (1.04 lbs).

See the Canon SX170 IS versus Nikon L820 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the SX170 IS and the L820.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and L820 is 88 and 72 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to visualize the gap between sensor measurements purely by checking a spec sheet. The graphic here will help give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SX170 IS and L820.

Clearly, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the exact same MP and you can expect similar quality of photos although you may want to consider the age of the products into consideration. The more modern SX170 IS should have an advantage in sensor tech.