Canon SX170 IS vs Panasonic SZ7

Let's examine more in depth at the Canon SX170 IS and Panasonic SZ7, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Canon and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SX170 IS (16MP) and the SZ7 (14MP) is fairly comparable and they come with the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was announced 20 months after the SZ7 making the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a thorough comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SX170 IS scores against the SZ7 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Panasonic SZ7 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and size. The Canon SX170 IS has got exterior measurements of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ7 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs).

Check the Canon SX170 IS and Panasonic SZ7 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at the time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the SX170 IS versus the SZ7.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and SZ7 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizes purely by checking out a spec sheet. The pic below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SX170 IS and SZ7.

Clearly, each of the cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Canon SX170 IS to provide greater detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos much more aggressively. The more modern SX170 IS is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.