Canon SX230 HS vs Nikon L840

On this page, we will be analyzing the Canon SX230 HS and Nikon L840, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Canon and Nikon. There is a substantial difference among the image resolutions of the SX230 HS (12MP) and L840 (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SX230 HS was revealed 4 years earlier than the L840 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Canon SX230 HS being a Compact camera and the Nikon L840 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the SX230 HS scores against the L840 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX230 HS & Nikon Coolpix L840. The full galleries are provided at Canon SX230 HS Gallery & Nikon L840 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and volume. The Canon SX230 HS enjoys outer dimensions of 106mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 223 grams (0.49 lbs) whilst the Nikon L840 has sizing of 114mm x 89mm x 96mm (4.5" x 3.5" x 3.8") accompanied by a weight of 538 grams (1.19 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX230 HS and Nikon L840 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are employing at that time. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the SX230 HS and the L840.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SX230 HS and L840 is 91 and 67 respectively.

Generally, it is very difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizing purely by going through specs. The visual underneath will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX230 HS and L840.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You can count on the Nikon L840 to provide more detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs more aggressively. The older SX230 HS will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.