Nikon P520 vs Sony RX100

On this page, we are comparing the Nikon P520 and Sony RX100, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Nikon and Sony. The image resolution of the P520 (18MP) and the RX100 (20MP) is very close but the P520 (1/2.3") and RX100 (1") provide totally different sensor sizing.

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The P520 was brought out 6 months after the RX100 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Nikon P520 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony RX100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving into a detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the P520 matches up vs the RX100 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix P520 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100. The entire galleries are available at Nikon P520 Gallery and Sony RX100 Gallery.

When you are planning to travel with your camera, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Nikon P520 features outer measurements of 125mm x 84mm x 102mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 4.0") and a weight of 550 grams (1.21 lbs) while the Sony RX100 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") with a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Check out the Nikon P520 and Sony RX100 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the P520 compared to the RX100.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the P520 and RX100 is 66 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by viewing technical specs. The pic here may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the P520 and RX100.

As you have seen, each of the cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The P520 due to its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more challenging and the Sony RX100 will result in more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop pics more aggressively.