Canon SX520 HS vs Nikon B500

Here is a extensive review of the Canon SX520 HS and Nikon B500, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Canon and Nikon. The image resolution of the SX520 HS (16MP) and the B500 (16MP) is fairly comparable and they enjoy the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SX520 HS was released 19 months earlier than the B500 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras come with different body type with the Canon SX520 HS being a Compact camera and the Nikon B500 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the SX520 HS scores against the B500 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX520 HS & Nikon Coolpix B500. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SX520 HS Gallery & Nikon B500 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera, you are going to need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX520 HS features outside dimensions of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") along with a weight of 441 grams (0.97 lbs) while the Nikon B500 has dimensions of 114mm x 78mm x 95mm (4.5" x 3.1" x 3.7") accompanied by a weight of 541 grams (1.19 lbs).

Contrast the Canon SX520 HS and Nikon B500 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at that moment. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the SX520 HS compared to the B500.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SX520 HS and B500 is 69 and 68 respectively.

Often, it's tough to picture the gap in sensor sizing only by going through a spec sheet. The visual here might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX520 HS and B500.

Clearly, each of the cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements and the exact same resolution so you can expect comparable quality of photos though you should always factor the launch date of the cameras into account. The older SX520 HS will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.