What To Know
- The S120 features a 24-120mm equivalent lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.
- The S95, on the other hand, has a 28-105mm equivalent lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.
- The S120 offers a larger sensor, a more versatile lens, and a more powerful flash, making it a better choice for serious photographers seeking a compact camera with advanced capabilities.
When it comes to compact cameras, Canon has consistently set the bar high with its renowned S series. Two popular models within this lineup are the S120 and S95. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, but understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision based on your photography needs.
Image Quality
Sensor
The S120 boasts a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the S95 features a 10.0-megapixel CCD sensor. While megapixels do not always equate to image quality, the S120’s larger sensor can potentially capture more detail.
Image Processor
Both cameras utilize Canon’s DIGIC 6 image processor, renowned for its fast processing speeds and noise reduction capabilities. This ensures sharp images with minimal grain, even in low-light conditions.
Lens and Focal Length
Lens
The S120 features a 24-120mm equivalent lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.8-5.9. This versatile lens provides a wide range of focal lengths for capturing everything from landscapes to portraits.
Focal Length
The S95, on the other hand, has a 28-105mm equivalent lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.0-4.9. While it offers a slightly narrower wide-angle range, the brighter maximum aperture allows for better low-light performance.
Manual Controls
Aperture Priority Mode
Both cameras offer aperture priority mode, giving you control over the depth of field. This is ideal for isolating subjects or creating blurred backgrounds.
Shutter Priority Mode
The S120 and S95 also feature shutter priority mode, allowing you to set the shutter speed manually. This is useful for capturing fast-moving subjects or creating intentional motion blur.
Additional Features
Built-in Flash
The S120 and S95 both have built-in pop-up flashes for low-light photography. The S120’s flash is slightly more powerful, with a maximum guide number of 10m compared to the S95’s 8m.
LCD Screen
The S120 sports a 3.0-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 922k dots. The S95 has a slightly smaller 2.8-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 461k dots.
Key Points: Choosing the Right Camera
Deciding between the Canon S120 and S95 depends on your individual photography needs. The S120 offers a larger sensor, a more versatile lens, and a more powerful flash, making it a better choice for serious photographers seeking a compact camera with advanced capabilities. However, the S95’s brighter maximum aperture and smaller size may be more suitable for casual photographers who prioritize low-light performance and portability.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: The S120 has a larger sensor, which can potentially capture more detail. However, both cameras utilize the same image processor, resulting in similar noise reduction capabilities.
Q: Which camera has a wider zoom range?
A: The S120 has a wider zoom range of 24-120mm equivalent, compared to the S95’s 28-105mm equivalent.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The S95 has a brighter maximum aperture of f/2.0, making it better suited for capturing images in low-light conditions.
