Canon SX540 HS vs Leica V-Lux 3

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Canon SX540 HS vs Leica V-Lux 3, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Canon and Leica. There is a crucial difference between the image resolutions of the SX540 HS (20MP) and V-Lux 3 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SX540 HS was unveiled 4 years after the V-Lux 3 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before diving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise overview of how the SX540 HS grades against the V-Lux 3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS and Leica V-Lux 3. The full galleries are available at Canon SX540 HS Gallery and Leica V-Lux 3 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and volume. The Canon SX540 HS features outside dimensions of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) and the Leica V-Lux 3 has sizing of 124mm x 81mm x 95mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.7") along with a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX540 HS vs Leica V-Lux 3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the SX540 HS compared to the V-Lux 3.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SX540 HS and V-Lux 3 is 69 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes purely by reading through specs. The image below should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX540 HS and V-Lux 3.

All in all, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Canon SX540 HS to give extra detail having an extra 8MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more modern SX540 HS will have a benefit in sensor innovation.