Canon SX500 IS vs Pentax P80

Below, we will be analyzing the Canon SX500 IS and Pentax P80, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Canon and Pentax. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the SX500 IS (16MP) and P80 (12MP) but they feature the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SX500 IS was brought out 3 years later than the P80 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SX500 IS matches up against the P80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX500 IS and Pentax Optio P80. The entire galleries are provided at Canon SX500 IS Gallery and Pentax P80 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and size. The Canon SX500 IS comes with physical measurements of 104mm x 70mm x 80mm (4.1" x 2.8" x 3.1") having a weight of 341 grams (0.75 lbs) whilst the Pentax P80 has specifications of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX500 IS and Pentax P80 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have at that moment. The following is the front view overall size comparison of the SX500 IS and the P80.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX500 IS and P80 is 80 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizing simply by checking technical specs. The graphic underneath might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX500 IS and P80.

As you have seen, both cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Canon SX500 IS to resolve extra detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots much more aggressively. The newer SX500 IS is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.