Canon SX270 HS vs Sony NEX-3N

In this article, we are comparing the Canon SX270 HS versus Sony NEX-3N, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Canon and Sony. There exists a significant gap among the resolutions of the SX270 HS (12MP) and NEX-3N (16MP) and the SX270 HS (1/2.3") and NEX-3N (APS-C) use different sensor sizing.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The SX270 HS was launched at a similar time to the NEX-3N which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX270 HS being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3N being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the SX270 HS matches up vs the NEX-3N with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX270 HS and Sony Alpha NEX-3N. The complete galleries are viewable at Canon SX270 HS Gallery and Sony NEX-3N Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera, you'll have to think about its weight and size. The Canon SX270 HS provides external measurements of 106mm x 63mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 233 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Sony NEX-3N has specifications of 110mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.4") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX270 HS versus Sony NEX-3N in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the SX270 HS versus the NEX-3N.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX270 HS and NEX-3N is 91 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to imagine the difference in sensor measurements merely by checking out technical specs. The graphic here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX270 HS and NEX-3N.

As you have seen, both cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The SX270 HS featuring a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF harder and the Sony NEX-3N will provide more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images a little more aggressively.