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Newbie moving up to an SX520HX

Started Apr 28, 2016 | Discussions thread
rpm40
rpm40 Senior Member • Posts: 2,411
Re: Newbie moving up to an SX520HX

While you are seeing the benefits of the longer zoom reach, you have also noticed that the two cameras will produce pretty similar image quality. The biggest factor for image quality is the size of the image sensor in the camera. Both of your cameras have pretty standard sensors for compact cameras, slightly bigger than those in most cell phones for a little better image quality, but not a huge difference.

The typical DSLR has an aps-c sized sensor which is about 13 times larger than the sensor in your compact cameras, so can produce higher quality images. You would especially notice the difference if you shoot in low light, crop your photos, or print/view them at large sizes.

Here is a chart that illustrates the sensor sizes you find in various cameras:

As you have found out, Canon has some pretty good deals occasionally on refurbished models. Currently you can get into a DSLR for $309, including 2 lenses (one standard like your Nikon, one zoom more like your Canon though does not reach as far)-

http://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/eos-rebel-t5-ef-s-18-55mm-is-ii-kit---ef-75-300mm-f-4-56-iii-usm-refurbished

Hope that helps!

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