Nikon S31 vs Sony S980

Its time to look a bit more closely at the Nikon S31 versus Sony S980, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Nikon and Sony. The resolution of the S31 (10MP) and the S980 (12MP) is pretty similar but the S31 (1/2.9") and S980 (1/2.3") provide different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The S31 was released 4 years later than the S980 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple overview of how the S31 scores versus the S980 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon Coolpix S31 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The complete galleries are available at Nikon S31 Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera, you'll have to factor its weight and measurements. The Nikon S31 comes with physical dimensions of 105mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.1" x 2.6" x 1.7") along with a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs) while the Sony S980 has proportions of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Compare the Nikon S31 versus Sony S980 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view size comparison of the S31 and the S980.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S31 and S980 is 90 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to picture the gap between sensor sizing only by reviewing technical specs. The graphic underneath might offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the S31 and S980.

As you can tell, each of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The S31 because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF tougher and the Sony S980 will offer you greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more recent S31 should have an edge in sensor technology.