Nikon L20 vs Sony HX50V

On this page, we will be evaluating the Nikon L20 and Sony HX50V, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Nikon and Sony. There is a large difference between the resolutions of the L20 (10MP) and HX50V (20MP) but both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The L20 was announced 5 years earlier than the HX50V and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief view of how the L20 matches up versus the HX50V in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix L20 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50V. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon L20 Gallery & Sony HX50V Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to think about its weight and measurements. The Nikon L20 has outer measurements of 97mm x 61mm x 29mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 135 grams (0.30 lbs) while the Sony HX50V has proportions of 108mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") along with a weight of 272 grams (0.60 lbs).

Compare the Nikon L20 and Sony HX50V in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using during that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the L20 versus the HX50V.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the L20 and HX50V is 94 and 89 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing just by going over specs. The photograph here will help give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the L20 and HX50V.

All in all, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Sony HX50V to offer you more detail with its extra 10MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures more aggressively. The older L20 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.