Canon SX170 IS vs Nikon P300

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Canon SX170 IS vs Nikon P300, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Canon and Nikon. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and P300 (12MP) but they use the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was manufactured 2 years after the P300 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick overview of how the SX170 IS matches up versus the P300 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Nikon Coolpix P300. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Nikon P300 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and size. The Canon SX170 IS offers physical dimensions of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Nikon P300 has specifications of 103mm x 58mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 189 grams (0.42 lbs).

Check out the Canon SX170 IS vs Nikon P300 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at the time. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the SX170 IS vs the P300.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and P300 is 88 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, it can be hard to visualise the contrast between sensor dimensions just by reading specifications. The picture underneath may offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX170 IS and P300.

Plainly, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Canon SX170 IS to offer greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs far more aggressively. The more recent SX170 IS will have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.