Canon SX170 IS vs Panasonic FZ100

Let's look much closer at the Canon SX170 IS vs Panasonic FZ100, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Canon and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SX170 IS (16MP) and the FZ100 (14MP) is fairly comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was revealed 3 years after the FZ100 which is a fairly large gap 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 Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple view of how the SX170 IS scores against the FZ100 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100. The full galleries are viewable at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Panasonic FZ100 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and measurements. The Canon SX170 IS offers outside measurements 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 Panasonic FZ100 has proportions of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX170 IS vs Panasonic FZ100 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the SX170 IS versus the FZ100.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and FZ100 is 88 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to envision the gap in sensor sizes merely by seeing specs. The picture underneath should give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SX170 IS and FZ100.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Canon SX170 IS to show extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop images far more aggressively. The younger SX170 IS will have an edge in sensor technology.