Nikon S4000 has a
12.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized CCD sensor and features Expeed C2 processor. On the other hand, Nikon S9700 has a
16.0MP 1/2.3-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm ) sized BSI-CMOS sensor .
Below you can see the S4000 and S9700 sensor size comparison.
Sensor Size and Resolution Comparison image of Nikon S4000 and Nikon S9700 Cameras
Nikon S4000 and Nikon S9700 have the same sensor sizes so they will provide same level of control over the depth of field when used with same focal length and aperture. On the other hand, since Nikon S4000 has 32% larger pixel area compared to Nikon S9700, it has potential to collect more light on pixel level hence have less noise in low light / High ISO images.
Sensor size sets the circle of confusion, so it drives how much depth of field each
of these bodies gives you at a given aperture. You can calculate it exactly for the
Nikon S4000
or the
Nikon S9700 ,
including hyperfocal distance.
