Introduction
Photography can be something of great passion and dedication. There are many factors that determine how your photo will come out. The megapixel count is one of them. A very frequent concern is how much megapixel is good and why.
So, what about 18 megapixel vs 24 megapixel?
24 megapixel generates a larger image than 18 megapixel. As a result, the optimal printing size of 24 megapixel is significantly bigger than 18 megapixel. More megapixel also means more noise so 24 megapixel can be noisier than 18 megapixel. Lastly, 24 megapixel consumes more space.
Not satisfied? Don’t worry! Because we have a complete guide explaining the differences in detail.
Ready to check it out? Let’s go!
18 Megapixel vs 24 Megapixel-A Short Comparison
The difference between 18 megapixels and 24 megapixels is very insignificant in most cases. But it can matter a lot to a photographer or in a specific situation. The core difference in different megapixels is the number of pixels present in the photo.
The higher the pixel number the better. Now, let’s check out the differentiating factors of 18 vs 24 megapixels. Below is a short table comparing these two.
| Parameter | 18 Megapixel | 24 Megapixel |
| Pixels (Wide x High) | 5184×3456 | 6000×4000 |
| Optimal Printing Size | Upto 12″ x 16″ | Upto 20″ x 30″ |
| Noise | Less | More |
| Raw File Size | Around 25 mb | Around 48 mb |
So these are the key differences between 18 megapixel and 24 megapixels. Not enough information? Don’t you worry! Because we have a complete guide on the differences mentioned here.
Or if you’re looking for a decision right away, check the final verdict section. Now let’s dive into the details of the in-depth comparison.
18 Megapixel vs 24 Megapixel-Detailed Comparison
As we have talked about the key differences in brief we will discuss them in detail now.
Pixels (Wide x High)
Typically we have an idea that more megapixels mean better quality. But in reality that is not the case. More pixels simply mean there will be more pixels in the photo. As a result the image will be larger.
So a higher megapixel will generate a bigger image. The 18 megapixel has a width of 5184 pixels and a height of 3456 pixels.
On the other hand 24 megapixel has a width of 6000 pixels. And a height of 4000 pixels. So as obvious as it is, 24 megapixel is larger. You may also check out comparisons of Zwo cameras for a better idea.
It also means that a 24 megapixel will give better quality photos if cropped in. Since it has more pixels the cropped in the photo will not get pixelated. While a 18 megapixel photo can get pixelated relatively earlier.
So if you’re intending to have a bigger print out then 24 megapixel is better. But for general use 18 megapixel can be fine too.
Winner: 24 Megapixel
Optimal Printing Size
We have already talked about how the number of pixels can be significant. It’s more prominent in terms of getting printouts. A higher megapixel will be better for printing a larger photo. While a lower megapixel might cause issues. Such as pixelated or blurry photos can be some of them.
A 24 megapixel photo can be printed in a size of upto 20″ x 30″. If it’s printed out in this size the photo won’t get blurred or lose detail. On the other hand, an 18 megapixel photo will get pixelated at this size.
Though you can try some hacks to prevent distortion or pixelation of your image.
A 18 megapixel photo supports upto 12″ x 16″ size of a print out. This is the optimal size for a print out. So that it won’t lose detail or get distorted after the print out.
Here, clearly a 24 megapixel will have an edge if we consider printing out. If you’re intending to print a large poster then 24 megapixel will be better. But, for regular use or for smaller screen or prints 18 megapixel is fine.
Winner: 24 Megapixel
Noise
Noise is a very important factor for any kind of photography. But especially for astrography, noise plays a very significant part. Since a higher megapixel means higher numbers of pixels, it can also be disadvantageous.
As a result, it captures more noise than a camera with a lesser megapixel. This is why most astrography cameras have a low megapixel.
So 18 megapixel can be a better option if you’re intending to do astrography. On the other hand, 24 megapixel can also be good if you have the right equipment.
Thinking of using your camera with a telescope? You may check out their aperture comparison for better-quality photographs.
The quality of the photo depends more on the lens and camera quality rather than megapixel. So if you have good gear then 24 megapixel can also do the job.
In case you’re looking for some good gear for astrography, here are some recommended ones:
| Product 1 | |
| Product 2 |
But assuming everything is the same, a 18 megapixel camera does have an edge. It can produce a less noisy photo when capturing the night.
Winner: 18 Megapixel
Raw File Size
It’s quite obvious that more pixels will lead to bigger raw image size. A 18 megapixel photo typically consumed 25 mb of space. On the other hand, a 24 megapixel image can consume around 48 mb.
The great difference of size for each file can add up. And later lead to higher requirements of space in your storage. This can be quite inconvenient in many cases. If you don’t need higher pixels and lack storage space, it can be problematic.
But the above mentioned differences do make up for the higher file size. Still, 18 megapixel stays ahead in terms of space consumption.
Winner: 18 Megapixel.
Final Verdict
So, 18 megapixel and 24 megapixel are quite similar in terms of many things. Even though they are very close to each other there are some significant differences.
24 megapixel simply means it will have more pixels so you can have a larger photo. It will support a larger printable image without image distortion of pixelation. But it will also create larger raw files and might be noisier in certain cases. So if those are not a concern for you then 24 megapixel is the way to go.
On the other hand, 18 megapixel will give you a smaller image relative to 24 megapixel. It will consume less space in and for astrography. Plus it’ll have less noise. It’s also good enough to be seen on small screens without a worry. So consider factors and then decide if 18 megapixel is good for you.
FAQs
Question: How much megapixel is good for a phone camera?
Answer: Anything equal or more than 12 megapixel is good enough. For viewing in the phone screen, 12 megapixel is more than enough.
Question: Does more megapixel mean better quality?
Answer: No, megapixel only represents the size of the image you’re going to capture. Image quality significantly depends on the sensor quality.
Question: How much megapixel does a DSLR camera have?
Answer: A DSLR camera typically has a megapixel of 25 megapixel. A higher megapixel is often needed for professional photography.
Conclusion
That’s a wrap for this guide. We hope that you don’t have any confusion left regarding 18 megapixel vs 24 megapixel.
And remember that a megapixel is just a representation of your image size. The image quality depends on many other factors rather than the megapixel alone.
Good luck and see you in the next one!
