Canon SX420 IS vs Nikon S9900

Here, we will be evaluating the Canon SX420 IS and Nikon S9900, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Canon and Nikon. There exists a big gap between the sensor resolutions of the SX420 IS (20MP) and S9900 (16MP) but both cameras offer the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX420 IS was released 11 months later than the S9900 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Canon SX420 IS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Nikon S9900 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short introduction of how the SX420 IS grades vs the S9900 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon PowerShot SX420 IS and Nikon Coolpix S9900. The complete galleries are available at Canon SX420 IS Gallery and Nikon S9900 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you will need to think about its weight and proportions. The Canon SX420 IS provides external dimensions of 104mm x 69mm x 85mm (4.1" x 2.7" x 3.3") and a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs) and the Nikon S9900 has measurements of 112mm x 66mm x 40mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.6") having a weight of 289 grams (0.64 lbs).

Check the Canon SX420 IS and Nikon S9900 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the SX420 IS against the S9900.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX420 IS and S9900 is 80 and 88 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to imagine the gap between sensor sizing only by looking at technical specs. The graphic here might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SX420 IS and S9900.

As you can tell, both of these cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You should count on the Canon SX420 IS to resolve more detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The fresher SX420 IS provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.