Highlights
- The S80 has a dedicated exposure compensation dial, while the S90 has a more intuitive control ring.
- The S80 is slightly larger and heavier than the S90, but both cameras offer a comfortable grip and well-placed controls.
- The S80 offers a slightly faster shutter speed and a dedicated exposure compensation dial, while the S90 has a higher resolution sensor and a more intuitive control ring.
In the realm of compact cameras, the Canon S-series has long been a force to be reckoned with. Two of its most popular models, the S80 and S90, offer a range of impressive features and capabilities. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the Canon S80 vs S90 debate, examining their key features, performance, and overall value for money.
Image Quality: A Close Call
Both the Canon S80 and S90 boast excellent image quality for their size. The S80 features a 10.0-megapixel CCD sensor, while the S90 has a slightly higher resolution 10.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. In practice, the difference in image quality is negligible, with both cameras producing sharp, detailed images with accurate colors.
Lens: Wide-Angle Versatility
The Canon S80 and S90 share the same 28-105mm equivalent lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8-5.6. This versatile lens provides a wide range of focal lengths, from wide-angle to telephoto, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. The f/2.8 aperture allows for some background blur in low-light conditions, adding depth to your images.
Performance: Speed and Responsiveness
The Canon S80 and S90 are both fast and responsive cameras. The S80 has a slightly faster shutter speed of 1/2000s compared to the S90’s 1/1600s. However, in real-world shooting, the difference is unlikely to be noticeable. Both cameras offer quick autofocus and a burst shooting mode of up to 3.7 frames per second.
Features: Advanced Control
The Canon S80 and S90 offer a range of advanced features for creative photography. Both cameras have manual exposure modes, allowing you to control aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. The S80 has a dedicated exposure compensation dial, while the S90 has a more intuitive control ring. Both cameras also feature built-in flash, self-timer, and a variety of scene modes for different shooting situations.
Connectivity: Wireless Options
The Canon S80 and S90 both support Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to transfer images wirelessly to your smartphone or computer. The S90 has the added advantage of NFC (Near Field Communication), making it even easier to connect to compatible devices.
Design and Ergonomics: Compact and Portable
The Canon S80 and S90 are both compact and portable cameras, making them easy to carry around. The S80 is slightly larger and heavier than the S90, but both cameras offer a comfortable grip and well-placed controls. The S90’s sleek metal body gives it a premium feel.
In a nutshell: The Verdict
The Canon S80 and S90 are both excellent compact cameras with a lot to offer. The S80 offers a slightly faster shutter speed and a dedicated exposure compensation dial, while the S90 has a higher resolution sensor and a more intuitive control ring. Both cameras produce high-quality images, are fast and responsive, and offer a range of advanced features. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which camera has better low-light performance?
Both cameras have similar low-light performance, with the S90 having a slight advantage due to its higher resolution sensor.
2. Can I use interchangeable lenses with these cameras?
No, the Canon S80 and S90 have fixed lenses and cannot be used with interchangeable lenses.
3. Which camera has a longer battery life?
The Canon S80 has a slightly longer battery life than the S90, with up to 260 shots per charge compared to 220 shots.
4. Do these cameras support video recording?
Yes, both the S80 and S90 can record videos at 720p resolution.
5. Which camera is more suitable for beginners?
Both cameras are easy to use for beginners, but the S90’s more intuitive controls and simplified menu system may make it slightly easier for first-time users.