Canon SX280 HS vs Sony HX400V

Following is a in depth overview of the Canon SX280 HS and Sony HX400V, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Canon and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the SX280 HS (12MP) and HX400V (20MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX280 HS was announced 10 months prior to the HX400V which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Canon SX280 HS being a Compact camera and the Sony HX400V being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving into a complete comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the SX280 HS grades vs the HX400V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX280 HS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX400V. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SX280 HS Gallery and Sony HX400V Gallery.

In case you're going to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and size. The Canon SX280 HS has exterior measurements of 106mm x 63mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 233 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Sony HX400V has specifications of 130mm x 93mm x 103mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.1") and a weight of 660 grams (1.46 lbs).

Look at the Canon SX280 HS and Sony HX400V in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the SX280 HS and the HX400V.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SX280 HS and HX400V is 91 and 62 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to see the difference between sensor sizes just by reading through a spec sheet. The pic below may give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SX280 HS and HX400V.

As you can see, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Sony HX400V to give extra detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged SX280 HS is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.