Nikon L840 vs Sony WX500

In this article, we will be evaluating the Nikon L840 versus Sony WX500, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Sony. The image resolution of the L840 (16MP) and the WX500 (18MP) is pretty comparable and they come with the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The L840 was manufactured 2 months before the WX500 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer different body type with the Nikon L840 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony WX500 being a Compact camera.

Before diving through a in-depth comparison, below is a brief overview of how the L840 grades versus the WX500 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix L840 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon L840 Gallery and Sony WX500 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera, you need to factor its weight and size. The Nikon L840 has physical measurements of 114mm x 89mm x 96mm (4.5" x 3.5" x 3.8") with a weight of 538 grams (1.19 lbs) whilst the Sony WX500 has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") and a weight of 236 grams (0.52 lbs).

Examine the Nikon L840 versus Sony WX500 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that time. Following is the front view size comparison of the L840 versus the WX500.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the L840 and WX500 is 67 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor measurements only by checking out technical specs. The visual below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the L840 and WX500.

As you can tell, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Sony WX500 to show greater detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs a little more aggressively.