Canon SX20 IS vs Nikon S9700

Below, we are looking at the Canon SX20 IS and Nikon S9700, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Canon and Nikon. There is a sizable difference among the resolutions of the SX20 IS (12MP) and S9700 (16MP) but they feature the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The SX20 IS was manufactured 4 years earlier than the S9700 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Canon SX20 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Nikon S9700 being a Compact camera.

Before we go through a full comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SX20 IS scores against the S9700 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX20 IS & Nikon Coolpix S9700. The entire galleries are viewable at Canon SX20 IS Gallery & Nikon S9700 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Canon SX20 IS comes with exterior measurements of 128mm x 88mm x 87mm (5.0" x 3.5" x 3.4") accompanied by a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) whilst the Nikon S9700 has proportions of 110mm x 64mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") and a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX20 IS and Nikon S9700 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use during that time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the SX20 IS compared to the S9700.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SX20 IS and S9700 is 65 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing purely by viewing specs. The photograph below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SX20 IS and S9700.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but different megapixels. You can anticipate the Nikon S9700 to provide you with extra detail due to its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The older SX20 IS will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.