Canon SX280 HS vs Pentax VS20

Let's look a bit more in depth at the Canon SX280 HS and Pentax VS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Canon and Pentax. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the SX280 HS (12MP) and VS20 (16MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX280 HS was unveiled 15 months later than the VS20 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a in depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SX280 HS matches up vs the VS20 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX280 HS and Pentax Optio VS20. The full galleries are available at Canon SX280 HS Gallery and Pentax VS20 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to lug around your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and volume. The Canon SX280 HS provides outside measurements of 106mm x 63mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 233 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Pentax VS20 has sizing of 111mm x 61mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.4" x 1.5") having a weight of 235 grams (0.52 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX280 HS and Pentax VS20 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the SX280 HS and the VS20.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SX280 HS and VS20 is 91 and 90 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to visualize the difference in sensor measurements purely by viewing specs. The visual underneath should offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SX280 HS and VS20.

All in all, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You should count on the Pentax VS20 to provide you with greater detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs more aggressively. The more recent SX280 HS should have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.