Canon SX20 IS vs Canon SX280 HS

Below is a extensive analysis of the Canon SX20 IS vs Canon SX280 HS, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras and both are produced by Canon. The resolution of the SX20 IS (12MP) and the SX280 HS (12MP) is fairly comparable and both cameras provide the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX20 IS was unveiled 3 years earlier than the SX280 HS and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Canon SX20 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Canon SX280 HS being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a thorough comparison, here is a short introduction of how the SX20 IS scores versus the SX280 HS when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX20 IS & Canon PowerShot SX280 HS. The full galleries are provided at Canon SX20 IS Gallery & Canon SX280 HS Gallery.

If you are intending to lug around your camera, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Canon SX20 IS provides exterior measurements of 128mm x 88mm x 87mm (5.0" x 3.5" x 3.4") and a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) whilst the Canon SX280 HS has proportions of 106mm x 63mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 233 grams (0.51 lbs).

Analyze the Canon SX20 IS vs Canon SX280 HS in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the SX20 IS vs the SX280 HS.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SX20 IS and SX280 HS is 65 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to imagine the gap in sensor measurements simply by seeing technical specs. The visual below should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX20 IS and SX280 HS.

As you can tell, each of these cameras come with the identical sensor size and the exact same resolution so you can expect comparable quality of images although you really should factor the age of the cameras into account. The older SX20 IS will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.