Nikon L840 vs Sony HX30V

Here is a in depth analysis of the Nikon L840 and Sony HX30V, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Nikon and Sony. The resolution of the L840 (16MP) and the HX30V (18MP) is fairly close and they use the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The L840 was released 2 years later than the HX30V and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Nikon L840 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony HX30V being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the L840 grades against the HX30V in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix L840 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V. The complete galleries are available at Nikon L840 Gallery and Sony HX30V Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera frequently, you have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Nikon L840 features external dimensions of 114mm x 89mm x 96mm (4.5" x 3.5" x 3.8") and a weight of 538 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Sony HX30V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check out the Nikon L840 and Sony HX30V in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilising at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the L840 versus the HX30V.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the L840 and HX30V is 67 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing simply by looking through technical specs. The graphic underneath will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the L840 and HX30V.

As you can tell, each of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Sony HX30V to render extra detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The younger L840 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.