Canon SX170 IS vs Sony TX5

In this article, we are comparing the Canon SX170 IS and Sony TX5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Canon and Sony. There is a huge difference among the sensor resolutions of the SX170 IS (16MP) and TX5 (10MP) and the SX170 IS (1/2.3") and TX5 (1/2.4") use different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SX170 IS was revealed 3 years later than the TX5 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX170 IS being a Compact camera and the Sony TX5 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the SX170 IS scores vs the TX5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX170 IS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX5. The full galleries are provided at Canon SX170 IS Gallery and Sony TX5 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera regularly, you have to factor in its weight and size. The Canon SX170 IS enjoys exterior dimensions of 108mm x 71mm x 44mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 251 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Sony TX5 has specifications of 94mm x 57mm x 18mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 148 grams (0.33 lbs).

Analyze the Canon SX170 IS and Sony TX5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the SX170 IS vs the TX5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SX170 IS and TX5 is 88 and 96 respectively.

Usually, its tough to picture the contrast in sensor sizing merely by checking out specs. The photograph here will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SX170 IS and TX5.

All in all, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The SX170 IS with its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Canon SX170 IS will show greater detail because of its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The fresher SX170 IS provides a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.