Nikon S9700 vs Sony HX300

Below is a thorough assessment of the Nikon S9700 and Sony HX300, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Nikon and Sony. The image resolution of the S9700 (16MP) and the HX300 (20MP) is relatively comparable and both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The S9700 was introduced 12 months later than the HX300 so they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Nikon S9700 being a Compact camera and the Sony HX300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick overview of how the S9700 grades vs the HX300 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon Coolpix S9700 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX300. The whole galleries are available at Nikon S9700 Gallery & Sony HX300 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to lug around your camera often, you will need to consider its weight and measurements. The Nikon S9700 comes with external 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 Sony HX300 has proportions of 130mm x 103mm x 93mm (5.1" x 4.1" x 3.7") and a weight of 623 grams (1.37 lbs).

Examine the Nikon S9700 and Sony HX300 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select at the time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the S9700 and the HX300.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the S9700 and HX300 is 90 and 63 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to envision the difference in sensor measurements merely by checking out specifications. The photograph here should give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the S9700 and HX300.

To sum up, each of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You can count on the Sony HX300 to provide greater detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more modern S9700 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.