Canon SX20 IS vs Olympus SP-820UZ

The following is a comprehensive review of the Canon SX20 IS vs Olympus SP-820UZ, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Canon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the SX20 IS (12MP) and the SP-820UZ (14MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras provide the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX20 IS was introduced 3 years earlier than the SP-820UZ which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Canon SX20 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Olympus SP-820UZ being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a concise summation of how the SX20 IS scores against the SP-820UZ in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX20 IS & Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX20 IS Gallery & Olympus SP-820UZ Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you should think about its weight and proportions. The Canon SX20 IS has exterior dimensions of 128mm x 88mm x 87mm (5.0" x 3.5" x 3.4") and a weight of 600 grams (1.32 lbs) and the Olympus SP-820UZ has measurements of 117mm x 78mm x 93mm (4.6" x 3.1" x 3.7") along with a weight of 485 grams (1.07 lbs).

Check out the Canon SX20 IS vs Olympus SP-820UZ in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are working with at the time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the SX20 IS compared to the SP-820UZ.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the SX20 IS and SP-820UZ is 65 and 69 respectively.

Often, it is hard to picture the difference between sensor dimensions simply by reading through specifications. The image here might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SX20 IS and SP-820UZ.

To sum up, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You can expect the Olympus SP-820UZ to give you greater detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged SX20 IS is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.