Canon SX170 IS vs Sony H20

Here is a extensive analysis of the Canon SX170 IS versus Sony H20, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Canon and Sony. There is a significant difference among the resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and H20 (10MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX170 IS was released 4 years later than the H20 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the SX170 IS grades against the H20 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H20. The complete galleries are available at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Sony H20 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and volume. The Canon SX170 IS features physical 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) while the Sony H20 has sizing of 107mm x 69mm x 47mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.9") accompanied by a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs).

Analyze the Canon SX170 IS versus Sony H20 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the SX170 IS compared to the H20.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SX170 IS and H20 is 88 and 87 respectively.

In many cases, its hard to visualize the difference in sensor sizing merely by looking through technical specs. The visual below may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SX170 IS and H20.

As you can tell, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Canon SX170 IS to render more detail as a result of its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The younger SX170 IS should have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.