Nikon AW120 vs Panasonic S2

On this page, we will be contrasting the Nikon AW120 vs Panasonic S2, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Nikon and Panasonic. The resolution of the AW120 (16MP) and the S2 (14MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The AW120 was announced 2 years later than the S2 and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going straight to a detailed comparison, here is a quick summary of how the AW120 matches up against the S2 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix AW120 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon AW120 Gallery and Panasonic S2 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera frequently, you'll need to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon AW120 offers exterior dimensions of 110mm x 66mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.0") and a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Panasonic S2 has specifications of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs).

Compare the Nikon AW120 vs Panasonic S2 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use during that time. The following is a front view over all size comparison of the AW120 versus the S2.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the AW120 and S2 is 92 and 96 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to visualize the contrast between sensor measurements just by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph here may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the AW120 and S2.

As you can see, each of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You should expect the Nikon AW120 to give greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more modern AW120 provides an advantage in sensor innovation.