Canon SX230 HS vs Sony W290

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Canon SX230 HS and Sony W290, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Canon and Sony. The image resolution of the SX230 HS (12MP) and the W290 (12MP) is fairly similar and they enjoy the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX230 HS was introduced 2 years after the W290 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a detailed comparison, below is a concise summation of how the SX230 HS matches up versus the W290 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX230 HS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290. The whole galleries are available at Canon SX230 HS Gallery and Sony W290 Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera regularly, you will need 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") with a weight of 223 grams (0.49 lbs) while the Sony W290 has sizing of 98mm x 57mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Analyze the Canon SX230 HS and Sony W290 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the SX230 HS versus the W290.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SX230 HS and W290 is 91 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to envision the difference between sensor dimensions simply by reading a spec sheet. The pic below will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX230 HS and W290.

As you can see, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact resolution and you should expect similar quality of pictures but you will want to take the release date of the products into consideration. The more recent SX230 HS is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.