Canon S90 Vs S120: The Ultimate Compact Camera Showdown

Quick Overview

The S90 and S120 share a similar compact and lightweight design, making them easy to carry and use on the go.
The S90 has a more classic and understated look, while the S120 features a more modern and sleek design.
The S90 has a dedicated control dial for quick and easy adjustment of key settings, while the S120 has a touchscreen interface that provides intuitive access to various functions.

The Canon S90 and S120 are two renowned compact cameras that have left an enduring legacy in the world of photography. Both cameras offer exceptional image quality and portability, making them popular choices for enthusiasts and casual users alike. However, they also have their unique strengths and weaknesses. In this blog post, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Canon S90 vs S120, examining their key features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Image Quality

At the heart of both the S90 and S120 lies a 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, known for delivering sharp and detailed images. However, the S120 has a slight edge due to its newer Digic 6 processor, which reduces noise and improves image quality, especially in low-light conditions.

Lens and Zoom

The Canon S90 features a fixed 28mm wide-angle lens, while the S120 offers a slightly wider 24mm lens. Both lenses have a maximum aperture of f/2.0, allowing for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field control. The S120 has a 5x optical zoom, providing greater flexibility for framing shots, but the S90’s fixed lens is known for its exceptional sharpness and consistency.

Design and Build Quality

The S90 and S120 share a similar compact and lightweight design, making them easy to carry and use on the go. The S90 has a more classic and understated look, while the S120 features a more modern and sleek design. Both cameras are built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.

Controls and Interface

The S90 and S120 offer a comprehensive set of manual controls, allowing photographers to fine-tune their shots. The S90 has a dedicated control dial for quick and easy adjustment of key settings, while the S120 has a touchscreen interface that provides intuitive access to various functions. Both cameras have a customizable function button that can be assigned to frequently used settings for added convenience.

Autofocus and Performance

Both the S90 and S120 feature fast and accurate autofocus systems, ensuring sharp images even in challenging lighting conditions. The S120 boasts a slightly faster autofocus speed, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects. In terms of overall performance, the S120 has a slight advantage due to its newer processor, which provides faster image processing and reduced shutter lag.

Additional Features

The Canon S90 and S120 offer a range of additional features to enhance the user experience. The S90 has a built-in flash, while the S120 has a hot shoe for attaching an external flash. The S120 also features Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for easy image sharing and remote camera control.

Which Camera is Right for You?

The choice between the Canon S90 and S120 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality and a compact design, the S90 remains an excellent choice. However, if you value a wider zoom range, faster autofocus, and additional features like Wi-Fi connectivity, the S120 is the better option.

Final Thoughts

Both the Canon S90 and S120 are exceptional compact cameras that have earned a reputation for their image quality, portability, and versatility. While the S90 excels in image quality and classic design, the S120 offers a wider zoom range, faster performance, and more advanced features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual requirements and budget.