Canon SX520 HS vs Nikon Z7

Following is a detailed review of the Canon SX520 HS versus Nikon Z7, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by competitors Canon and Nikon. There is a crucial difference between the image resolutions of the SX520 HS (16MP) and Z7 (46MP) and the SX520 HS (1/2.3") and Z7 (Full frame) offer different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The SX520 HS was brought out 5 years before the Z7 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Canon SX520 HS being a Compact camera and the Nikon Z7 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a in depth comparison, here is a short highlight of how the SX520 HS scores vs the Z7 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX520 HS and Nikon Z7. The entire galleries are available at Canon SX520 HS Gallery and Nikon Z7 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and volume. The Canon SX520 HS has external measurements of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 441 grams (0.97 lbs) and the Nikon Z7 has sizing of 134mm x 101mm x 68mm (5.3" x 4.0" x 2.7") accompanied by a weight of 675 grams (1.49 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX520 HS versus Nikon Z7 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the SX520 HS versus the Z7.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SX520 HS and Z7 is 69 and 62 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes just by reviewing a spec sheet. The picture below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SX520 HS and Z7.

Clearly, both of those cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SX520 HS because of its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF harder and the Nikon Z7 will deliver extra detail having its extra 30 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged SX520 HS is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.