Canon SX520 HS vs Sony W290

On this page, we will be analyzing the Canon SX520 HS versus Sony W290, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Canon and Sony. There is a large difference among the sensor resolutions of the SX520 HS (16MP) and W290 (12MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX520 HS was manufactured 5 years later than the W290 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick overview of how the SX520 HS scores against the W290 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX520 HS & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290. The entire galleries are available at Canon SX520 HS Gallery & Sony W290 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and volume. The Canon SX520 HS provides outer measurements of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") with a weight of 441 grams (0.97 lbs) while the Sony W290 has sizing of 98mm x 57mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Check out the Canon SX520 HS versus Sony W290 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have at that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the SX520 HS vs the W290.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the SX520 HS and W290 is 69 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualize the gap in sensor sizing simply by going through a spec sheet. The photograph here should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SX520 HS and W290.

Clearly, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can expect the Canon SX520 HS to show more detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures more aggressively. The newer SX520 HS provides an edge when it comes to sensor technology.