Canon SX20 IS vs Nikon L840

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Canon SX20 IS and Nikon L840, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by companies Canon and Nikon. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the SX20 IS (12MP) and L840 (16MP) but they come with the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SX20 IS was brought out 5 years prior to the L840 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before delving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short introduction of how the SX20 IS grades vs the L840 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX20 IS and Nikon Coolpix L840. The entire galleries are available at Canon SX20 IS Gallery and Nikon L840 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Canon SX20 IS has external dimensions of 128mm x 88mm x 87mm (5.0" x 3.5" x 3.4") along with a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) while the Nikon L840 has specifications of 114mm x 89mm x 96mm (4.5" x 3.5" x 3.8") having a weight of 538 grams (1.19 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX20 IS and Nikon L840 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Here is the front view size comparison of the SX20 IS compared to the L840.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SX20 IS and L840 is 65 and 67 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes just by looking at specs. The pic here may offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX20 IS and L840.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Nikon L840 to resolve greater detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots far more aggressively. The more aged SX20 IS is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.