Nikon S9100 vs Nikon Z9

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Nikon S9100 versus Nikon Z9, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Pro Mirrorless and both are built by Nikon. There exists a huge gap between the image resolutions of the S9100 (12MP) and Z9 (46MP) and the S9100 (1/2.3") and Z9 (Full frame) feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The S9100 was brought out 11 years earlier than the Z9 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Nikon S9100 being a Compact camera and the Nikon Z9 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short view of how the S9100 scores versus the Z9 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix S9100 and Nikon Z9. The entire galleries are provided at Nikon S9100 Gallery and Nikon Z9 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera, you need to factor in its weight and size. The Nikon S9100 provides physical measurements of 105mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.4") along with a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Nikon Z9 has specifications of 149mm x 150mm x 91mm (5.9" x 5.9" x 3.6") along with a weight of 1340 grams (2.95 lbs).

Examine the Nikon S9100 versus Nikon Z9 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have at that moment. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the S9100 compared to the Z9.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the S9100 and Z9 is 91 and 51 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very tough to envision the difference between sensor sizing purely by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph below should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the S9100 and Z9.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The S9100 because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more difficult and the Nikon Z9 will resolve greater detail having its extra 34MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The older S9100 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.