Canon SX540 HS vs Samsung MV800

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Canon SX540 HS and Samsung MV800, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Canon and Samsung. There exists a sizable gap between the image resolutions of the SX540 HS (20MP) and MV800 (16MP) but they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SX540 HS was launched 4 years later than the MV800 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Canon SX540 HS being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Samsung MV800 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a full comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the SX540 HS grades versus the MV800 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX540 HS & Samsung MV800. The complete galleries are provided at Canon SX540 HS Gallery & Samsung MV800 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you will want to take into account its weight and measurements. The Canon SX540 HS comes with external dimensions of 120mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.2" x 3.6") along with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs) while the Samsung MV800 has proportions of 92mm x 56mm x 10mm (3.6" x 2.2" x 0.4") along with a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Examine the Canon SX540 HS and Samsung MV800 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that time. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the SX540 HS against the MV800.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SX540 HS and MV800 is 69 and 97 respectively.

Typically, it can be tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing just by going over a spec sheet. The visual underneath may give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX540 HS and MV800.

Clearly, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You can expect the Canon SX540 HS to offer greater detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The fresher SX540 HS should have an advantage in sensor innovation.