Canon SX720 HS vs Olympus SH-2

Following is a comprehensive analysis of the Canon SX720 HS and Olympus SH-2, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by companies Canon and Olympus. There is a significant difference between the image resolutions of the SX720 HS (20.3MP) and SH-2 (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SX720 HS was brought out 12 months after the SH-2 and they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a thorough comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the SX720 HS grades vs the SH-2 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Canon PowerShot SX720 HS and Olympus Stylus SH-2. The entire galleries are provided at Canon SX720 HS Gallery and Olympus SH-2 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Canon SX720 HS features outer dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 270 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Olympus SH-2 has specifications of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs).

Check the Canon SX720 HS and Olympus SH-2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Here is a front view size comparison of the SX720 HS and the SH-2.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SX720 HS and SH-2 is 89 and 88 respectively.

Usually, its hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes merely by reviewing a spec sheet. The image here will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the SX720 HS and SH-2.

Clearly, each of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Canon SX720 HS to deliver more detail having its extra 4.3 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more recent SX720 HS provides an edge when it comes to sensor technology.