Canon SX540 HS vs Nikon P500

On this page, we are looking at the Canon SX540 HS versus Nikon P500, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Canon and Nikon. There is a noticeable difference among the image resolutions of the SX540 HS (20MP) and P500 (12MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SX540 HS was introduced 4 years later than the P500 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SX540 HS scores vs the P500 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS & Nikon Coolpix P500. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SX540 HS Gallery & Nikon P500 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor its weight and volume. The Canon SX540 HS provides outside measurements of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") having a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) whilst the Nikon P500 has sizing of 116mm x 84mm x 103mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 4.1") with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs).

Compare the Canon SX540 HS versus Nikon P500 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the SX540 HS versus the P500.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SX540 HS and P500 is 69 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, its hard to see the difference in sensor measurements purely by looking through a spec sheet. The visual below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SX540 HS and P500.

Clearly, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You can anticipate the Canon SX540 HS to result in greater detail using its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The newer SX540 HS will have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.