Samsung PL120 vs Sony S980

Here is a extensive analysis of the Samsung PL120 and Sony S980, one being a Ultracompact and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Samsung and Sony. The resolution of the PL120 (14MP) and the S980 (12MP) is very similar and both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The PL120 was launched 23 months later than the S980 making them a generation apart from one another. Both the cameras have different body design with the Samsung PL120 being a Ultracompact camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief overview of how the PL120 scores against the S980 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Samsung PL120 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The complete galleries are provided at Samsung PL120 Gallery and Sony S980 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera often, you'll have to think about its weight and measurements. The Samsung PL120 offers outer measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") with a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs) and the Sony S980 has proportions of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Analyze the Samsung PL120 and Sony S980 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the PL120 versus the S980.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the PL120 and S980 is 99 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to visualize the difference between sensor sizing just by going over technical specs. The graphic here will give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the PL120 and S980.

As you have seen, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should expect to see the Samsung PL120 to offer extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics more aggressively. The newer PL120 should have an edge in sensor tech.