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 S9100 and Canon ELPH 520 HS side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon S9100 has external dimensions of 105 x 62 x 35 mm (4.13 x 2.44 x 1.38″) and weighs 214 g (0.47 lb / 7.55 oz) (including batteries). Canon ELPH 520 HS has external dimensions of 87 x 54 x 19 mm (3.43 x 2.13 x 0.75″) and weighs 155 g (0.34 lb / 5.47 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Nikon S9100 and the Canon ELPH 520 HS. Canon ELPH 520 HS is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 18mm narrower, 8mm shorter and 16mm thinner than Nikon S9100.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Nikon S9100 and Canon ELPH 520 HS.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Nikon S9100 and Canon ELPH 520 HS.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Canon ELPH 520 HS is significantly lighter (59g ) than the Nikon S9100 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Nikon Coolpix S9100 nor Canon ELPH 520 HS (IXUS 500 HS) 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 Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Nikon S9100 and Canon ELPH 520 HS's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.