Nikon AW120 vs Nikon S31

In this article, we will be analyzing the Nikon AW120 vs Nikon S31, both Waterproof cameras and both of them are built by Nikon. There is a significant difference among the resolutions of the AW120 (16MP) and S31 (10MP) and the AW120 (1/2.3") and S31 (1/2.9") use different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The AW120 was announced 8 months later than the S31 and they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a detailed comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the AW120 scores against the S31 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix AW120 and Nikon Coolpix S31. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon AW120 Gallery and Nikon S31 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera, you should factor in its weight and size. The Nikon AW120 has exterior measurements of 110mm x 66mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.0") along with a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Nikon S31 has specifications of 105mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.1" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs).

Check out the Nikon AW120 vs Nikon S31 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use at the time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the AW120 and the S31.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the AW120 and S31 is 92 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizing simply by seeing technical specs. The graphic underneath may offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the AW120 and S31.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The AW120 having a bigger sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF simpler and the Nikon AW120 will show more detail with its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The newer AW120 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.