Canon SX720 HS vs Nikon S8000

Here is a detailed analysis of the Canon SX720 HS and Nikon S8000, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Canon and Nikon. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the SX720 HS (20.3MP) and S8000 (14MP) but they possess the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SX720 HS was introduced 5 years later than the S8000 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the SX720 HS grades versus the S8000 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX720 HS and Nikon Coolpix S8000. The whole galleries are viewable at Canon SX720 HS Gallery and Nikon S8000 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Canon SX720 HS features outside dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") along with a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Nikon S8000 has dimensions of 103mm x 57mm x 27mm (4.1" x 2.2" x 1.1") with a weight of 183 grams (0.40 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon SX720 HS and Nikon S8000 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use during that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the SX720 HS compared to the S8000.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SX720 HS and S8000 is 89 and 93 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizing simply by going over a spec sheet. The visual underneath may give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SX720 HS and S8000.

As you can see, both cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should expect the Canon SX720 HS to deliver greater detail using its extra 6.3 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The fresher SX720 HS provides an advantage in sensor innovation.