Canon SX170 IS vs Olympus SZ-16 iHS

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Canon SX170 IS and Olympus SZ-16 iHS, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Canon and Olympus. The resolution of the SX170 IS (16MP) and the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) is pretty similar and they feature the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was announced 8 months after the SZ-16 iHS and they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a complete comparison, below is a concise summation of how the SX170 IS matches up vs the SZ-16 iHS in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Olympus SZ-16 iHS. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery.

If you're aiming to travel with your camera often, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Canon SX170 IS has outside dimensions of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Olympus SZ-16 iHS has proportions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs).

See the Canon SX170 IS and Olympus SZ-16 iHS in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the SX170 IS against the SZ-16 iHS.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and SZ-16 iHS is 88 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions simply by reading technical specs. The image underneath will provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX170 IS and SZ-16 iHS.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact resolution and you should expect similar quality of photos but you will need to factor the production date of the products into consideration. The newer SX170 IS is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.