Canon SX400 IS vs Nikon P520

Lets take a deeper look at the Canon SX400 IS and Nikon P520, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Canon and Nikon. The image resolution of the SX400 IS (16MP) and the P520 (18MP) is very similar and both cameras boast the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX400 IS was introduced 19 months after the P520 making them a generation away from one another. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Canon SX400 IS being a Compact camera and the Nikon P520 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summary of how the SX400 IS grades against the P520 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX400 IS and Nikon Coolpix P520. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SX400 IS Gallery and Nikon P520 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and measurements. The Canon SX400 IS features outer dimensions of 104mm x 69mm x 80mm (4.1" x 2.7" x 3.1") and a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) whilst the Nikon P520 has proportions of 125mm x 84mm x 102mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.0") along with a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs).

Analyze the Canon SX400 IS and Nikon P520 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the SX400 IS vs the P520.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SX400 IS and P520 is 81 and 66 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizes purely by going over specs. The picture here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SX400 IS and P520.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same MP. You should expect to see the Nikon P520 to offer you greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The younger SX400 IS is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.