The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a compact digital camera that packs a powerful zoom and a host of features into a small package, making it a popular choice for travel photography and everyday snapshots. This review will explore the camera’s key features, performance, and how it stacks up against competitors, providing a comprehensive guide to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Key Features of the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS
The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS boasts a range of impressive features that cater to both casual users and photography enthusiasts. Let’s break down the most notable aspects:
- 40x Optical Zoom: The standout feature is undoubtedly the 40x optical zoom lens, which allows you to get incredibly close to your subject without sacrificing image quality. This is particularly useful for capturing distant landscapes, wildlife, or sporting events.
- 20.3 Megapixel CMOS Sensor: The camera utilizes a 20.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, which provides detailed and sharp images. This sensor is paired with Canon’s DIGIC 6 image processor for excellent performance, particularly in low light.
- Full HD Video Recording: You can record videos in Full HD (1080p) at 60 frames per second, capturing smooth and clear footage. The camera also includes built-in image stabilization to reduce camera shake when filming.
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC: Sharing your photos is a breeze with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity. You can instantly transfer images to your smartphone or tablet, or use your smart device as a remote control.
- Creative Shot Mode: This mode automatically creates a series of artistic variations of a single photo, offering a fun way to explore different styles.
- User-Friendly Interface: The camera features an intuitive menu system and a variety of shooting modes, making it easy to use for beginners while still providing advanced options for experienced photographers.
Performance and Image Quality
How does the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS perform in real-world scenarios? Let’s delve into its image quality and overall user experience.
Image Quality in Various Conditions
The 20.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, paired with the DIGIC 6 image processor, delivers impressive results in various lighting conditions.
- Daylight: In bright daylight, the camera produces sharp, detailed images with vibrant colors. The autofocus is quick and accurate, allowing you to capture fleeting moments with ease.
- Low Light: In low-light environments, the camera performs admirably, although some noise may be noticeable at higher ISO settings. The image stabilization helps to minimize blur, and the f/3.3-6.9 aperture lens can still gather enough light for decent shots.
- Zoom Capability: The 40x optical zoom is a game changer, allowing you to frame distant subjects with precision. While some loss of image quality can occur at the maximum zoom range, the overall performance is still commendable.
Video Recording
The SX720 HS is also a capable video recorder, capturing Full HD 1080p videos at 60fps, resulting in smooth and detailed videos.
- Smooth Footage: The built-in image stabilization is effective in reducing camera shake, making it easier to record stable footage, even when walking or panning.
- Audio Quality: The camera’s built-in stereo microphone does an adequate job of capturing audio, although you may want to consider using an external microphone for better sound quality in noisy environments.
- Video Formats: The camera records video in the MP4 format, which is widely supported and easy to edit.
Comparison with Competitors
The compact camera market is highly competitive. Let’s compare the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS with a couple of similar models to see where it stands.
| Feature | Canon PowerShot SX720 HS | Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX60V | Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ70 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Optical Zoom | 40x | 30x | 30x |
| Megapixels | 20.3 | 20.4 | 12.1 |
| Video Recording | 1080p 60fps | 1080p 60fps | 1080p 60fps |
| Wi-Fi/NFC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | No | No | No |
| Viewfinder | No | No | Yes |
As we see in the table, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS has the advantage in optical zoom range with 40x compared to the 30x of its competitors. It also has a better resolution sensor than the Lumix. While the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX60V offers very similar features and performance, the Canon pulls ahead due to its slightly superior zoom range. The Panasonic Lumix DC-TZ70, although it offers a viewfinder, has a sensor with lower resolution and is therefore not the best for low-light photography.
Expert Insight: “The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a well-rounded performer, especially given its compact size,” says Dr. Emily Carter, a photography technology specialist. “Its 40x zoom is excellent for capturing distant subjects, and the overall image quality is impressive, particularly in bright daylight. It’s a solid choice for everyday photographers.”
Pros and Cons of the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS
Like any camera, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS has its strengths and weaknesses. Here are the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- Exceptional 40x optical zoom.
- High-resolution 20.3 megapixel sensor.
- Full HD 1080p video recording at 60fps.
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability.
- User-friendly interface, suitable for both beginners and enthusiasts.
- Good image quality in various lighting conditions.
Cons:
- No touchscreen interface
- No viewfinder.
- Can struggle in very low-light environments.
- Maximum aperture is relatively small, not the best for bokeh effects.
Who is the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS For?
This camera is a versatile option suitable for a variety of users:
- Travelers: The compact design and powerful zoom make it an excellent travel companion.
- Everyday Photographers: The easy-to-use interface and robust feature set make it perfect for daily snapshots.
- Wildlife Enthusiasts: The 40x optical zoom is ideal for capturing birds and other wildlife from a distance.
- Families: It’s great for capturing family events and everyday moments.
- Budget-conscious photographers: The camera offers a good balance of price and performance.
Common Questions About the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS
Here are some common questions that users often have about the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS:
Q: How does the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS perform in low light?
A: The camera performs reasonably well in low light conditions, but you may notice some noise at higher ISO settings. The image stabilization helps reduce blur, but it’s not a dedicated low-light camera.
Q: What is the battery life like?
A: The battery life is decent for a camera in this class, allowing you to take several hundred photos on a full charge. It’s always a good idea to have a spare battery for longer trips.
Q: Does it have a touchscreen?
A: No, the SX720 HS does not have a touchscreen interface. It uses traditional buttons and menus.
Q: Can I use an external microphone with it?
A: No, the camera does not have an external microphone jack, but the built in one works adequately for most needs.
Q: How easy is it to transfer photos?
A: With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, it’s easy to transfer photos to your smartphone or tablet using the Canon Camera Connect app.
Final Thoughts
The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a great all-around compact camera that offers a powerful zoom, good image quality, and a user-friendly interface. While it’s not without its limitations, the camera excels in many areas, making it a solid choice for a variety of users, especially those looking for a versatile camera for travel and everyday photography. Its standout features include the 40x optical zoom, 20.3-megapixel sensor, and built-in Wi-Fi, ensuring you are ready to capture and share your moments quickly and efficiently.
Additional Resources
- The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Camera for Your Needs
- Understanding Digital Camera Sensors
- Top Travel Camera Accessories
The Evolution of Imaging Technology and Its Impact
The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a product of decades of innovation in imaging technology. The journey began with the early days of film cameras, evolving through the digital revolution to the sophisticated compact cameras we see today. The industry has consistently pushed the boundaries of image quality, zoom capability, and user convenience. The integration of AI, previously limited to high-end professional equipment, is now finding its way into consumer devices, enhancing image processing and creating user-friendly experiences. The development of more robust and affordable processors has been crucial, allowing for high-resolution imaging and rapid capture speeds. The proliferation of smartphones, with their increasingly capable cameras, has influenced the development of compact cameras, forcing manufacturers to innovate to maintain a niche market. Flycam Review is at the forefront of this technology evolution, providing detailed analyses and comprehensive reviews of these advancements. As the technology continues to progress, we look forward to seeing what exciting developments lie ahead.
Flycam Review is dedicated to providing the latest information on digital cameras, flycams, and the historical development of computer games and smartphones. We offer expert advice and resources to help you make informed decisions about the tech you need.
