Nikon S9700 vs Panasonic FX90

In this article, we will be evaluating the Nikon S9700 versus Panasonic FX90, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Nikon and Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the image resolutions of the S9700 (16MP) and FX90 (12MP) but they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The S9700 was released 2 years later than the FX90 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple summary of how the S9700 scores vs the FX90 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S9700 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX90. The complete galleries are provided at Nikon S9700 Gallery & Panasonic FX90 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry your camera often, you are going to need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Nikon S9700 comes with physical dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 35mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") with a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Panasonic FX90 has dimensions of 102mm x 56mm x 22mm (4.0" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 149 grams (0.33 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon S9700 versus Panasonic FX90 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the S9700 vs the FX90.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S9700 and FX90 is 90 and 95 respectively.

Normally, its hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizing purely by viewing technical specs. The photograph below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the S9700 and FX90.

As you have seen, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You can count on the Nikon S9700 to provide you with greater detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The newer S9700 provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.