Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Nikon P1000 and Canon SD970 IS side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon P1000 has external dimensions of 146 x 119 x 181 mm (5.75 x 4.69 x 7.13″) and weighs 1415 g (3.12 lb / 49.91 oz) (including batteries). Canon SD970 IS has external dimensions of 96 x 57 x 26 mm (3.78 x 2.24 x 1.02″) and weighs 160 g (0.35 lb / 5.64 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Nikon P1000 and the Canon SD970 IS. Canon SD970 IS is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 50mm narrower, 62mm shorter and 155mm thinner than Nikon P1000.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Canon SD970 IS is significantly lighter (1255g ) than the Nikon P1000 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Nikon Coolpix P1000 nor Canon PowerShot SD970 IS / Digital IXUS 990 IS provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Bridge Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Nikon P1000's 3.20" LCD screen is slightly larger than Canon SD970 IS's 3" screen.
Moreover, Nikon P1000 sports a
Fully Articulated screen which you can change the angle and position of the screen almost freely, making it possible to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels, and especially very useful for shooting selfies and video. On the other hand, Canon SD970 IS has a fixed type screen which provides almost no flexibility in shooting positions compared to P1000.