4While a competent camera, the Nikon Coolpix P90 doesn't distinguish itself from the ultrazoom competition, and has a disappointing video mode. Though the 24x lens is impressive, other cameras have better features and performance.
The Canon SX1 is a hell of a camera. It's well designed, tough, easy to grip, and scored very well on every test we could throw at it. It thrashed the Nikon in every facet of our review except noise levels. Additionally, it shoots HD video, where the Nikon P90 is mired in the increasingly backwards world of standard definition. Of course, all these additional features come at a rather significant price boost. The Canon SX1 costs $200 more than the P90, which at $400 is hardly pocket change.
Hardware wise, the Canon is missing some of the zoom of the Nikon P90, and has a lower megapixel count. What it has in its favor is a fully pivoting screen, stereo sound, and far superior image stabilization system. If money is no object, the Canon is doubtless a better camera, but the Nikon is still perfectly respectable, shoots well, and is markedly cheaper.
