Canon SX520 HS vs Olympus SP-100

Below is a comprehensive review of the Canon SX520 HS versus Olympus SP-100, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Canon and Olympus. The image resolution of the SX520 HS (16MP) and the SP-100 (16MP) is fairly similar and both cameras posses the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX520 HS was introduced 7 months later than the SP-100 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Canon SX520 HS being a Compact camera and the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a concise view of how the SX520 HS scores against the SP-100 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX520 HS and Olympus Stylus SP-100. The whole galleries are provided at Canon SX520 HS Gallery and Olympus SP-100 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Canon SX520 HS provides physical measurements of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") having a weight of 441 grams (0.97 lbs) whilst the Olympus SP-100 has sizing of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") having a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs).

Check the Canon SX520 HS versus Olympus SP-100 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the SX520 HS vs the SP-100.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX520 HS and SP-100 is 69 and 63 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements merely by reading specs. The photograph below might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SX520 HS and SP-100.

All in all, each of these cameras come with the identical sensor size and the same MP so you should expect similar quality of photographs but you would want to consider the release date of the products into consideration. The younger SX520 HS provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.