Canon SX170 IS vs Pentax W80

In this article, we are reviewing the Canon SX170 IS vs Pentax W80, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Canon and Pentax. There exists a big gap among the sensor resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and W80 (12MP) but they come with the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SX170 IS was announced 4 years after the W80 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the SX170 IS grades against the W80 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Pentax Optio W80. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and volume. The Canon SX170 IS offers outside dimensions 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 Pentax W80 has sizing of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Look at the Canon SX170 IS vs Pentax W80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the SX170 IS versus the W80.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and W80 is 88 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to imagine the difference in sensor dimensions merely by seeing a spec sheet. The picture here will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX170 IS and W80.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You should anticipate the Canon SX170 IS to show extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more recent SX170 IS should have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.