Canon PowerShot SX720 HS

amazon Canon PowerShot SX720 HS reviews

Exterior design

Of course, the compact and lightweight 270-gram built with a measurement of very small 110x64x36 mm is one of the many benefits of the Canon SX720 HS. Apparently, the manufacturer offers various color options from which the user can select. Another merit for the Canon SX720 HS is the thoughtfulness in design with a very comfortable rubberized knuckle grip handle for better hold, adding flexibility and confidence in use.

Salient features

The Canon SX720 HS is a compact model with a BSI CMOS sensor of 20.3 MP resolution to render good image quality. Thus the image quality of the Canon SX720 HS is again very good while printing in large size or size.

On the other hand, the DIGIC 6 processor is responsible for excellent processing speed, well-defined details, and true contrast. It, therefore, allows for better performance during low-light shooting in conjunction with ISO 100 – 3200.

For being a lesser-priced proposition, the zoom capabilities are also commendable. The 40X zoom provides a focal range equivalent to 24-960mm on the 35mm film scale from telephoto to wide-angle shooting. To add even more value to the whole setup, the Canon SX720 HS features an Intelligent IS image stabilization system to reduce any blurry images.

The Canon SX720 HS offers all of these features, including a 3.0-inch LCD display with 922,000 pixels, Wi-Fi connectivity, photo sharing via NFC, and remote control through Canon Camera Connect.

Its built-in flash and full HD 1080 / 60p recording capacity are just a few of the capabilities that the SX720 HS provides. On top of this, with the camera’s Lithium-ion NB-13L battery type, users can enjoy a battery life (CIPA) of about 250 shots.

Digital

At the end of the day, the Canon SX720 HS stands firm in the compact class, with many outstanding specifications.

CMOS 20.3MP 1 / 2.3 ” image sensor

DIGIC 6

4.3-172.0mm f / 3.3-6.9 (24-960mm)

ISO 80-3200

Shutter speed at 1 / 3,200 seconds and continuous shooting up to 5.9 fps

3 “LCD display with 922,000 pixels

Recording ,Full HD 1080p @ 60fps

Built-in Wi-Fi, NFC

Connect microHDMI, microUSB

1.250 mAh battery (NB-13L)

Dimensions: 109.7 x 63.8 x 35.7 mm

270 g (with battery and memory card) just 270 g.

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Canon PowerShot SX720 HS 20.3MP Digital Camera 40x Optical Zoom – Black: Buy it now

Canon PowerShot SX720 HS Digital Camera w/ 32GB SD Card & Accessory Bundle: Buy it now

Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black): Buy it now

Canon PowerShot SX720 HS Digital Camera (Red): Buy it now

Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black) Camera, Camera Case, Lexar 16GB UHS, Memory Card Wallet, Ritz Gear Tripod, Cleaning Kit, Card Reader / Writer, Polaroid Screen Protector & Accessory Bundle: Buy it now

Packing Lens and Zoom Capacities

40x Optical Zoom

The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS features one of the most outstanding lenses, a 40x optical zoom lens with an ample focal length range of 24-960mm (35mm equivalent). Such a long zoom can be utilized by the photographer for photographing various angles of scenes, be it wide-angle landscapes or distant wildlife and everything in between. Hence, the versatile zoom is the best for the travelers, for whom a camera alone is needed to meet all their photography needs.

Optical Image Stabilization

To complement the long zoom range, the SX720 HS has Canon’s Intelligent IS optical image stabilization system. With automatic adjustments to different shooting conditions, this system reduces camera shake and helps ensure sharp images, even at traveling culture zoom. In addition, stabilization is equally quite good in the still photographs taken and the video recording, enabling the clear and blur-free results to be achieved in various situations.

Sensor and Image Quality

20.3-Megapixel CMOS Sensor

Offering 20.3-megapixels, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS packs in a CMOS sensor along with a DIGIC 6 image processor for high-quality images. Brilliant colors and decent detail are then produced. Though smaller for a DSLR or mirrorless camera, this sensor does well-resolve for compact cameras, especially in good lighting conditions.

Image Quality

With daylight and when exposed to light, sharp images with little detail create colors that show with accurate reproduction. The automatic white balance feature works for most occasions, providing colors that look natural. The camera establishes a very reliable metering system for great exposure even in difficult lighting situations.

However, in low light, the performance of the camera is not very great. While the photographs shot under low light are never of terrible quality, they generally show a very high increase in noise as the ISO goes higher. For an ISO maximum of 3200, there is a little bit of flexibility for low-light shooting, but really it would be best to have some lighting or use the built-in flash.

Give Dynamic Range

For a compact camera with a tiny sensor, the dynamic range of the SX720 HS is normal. While it might not be able to perform like larger-sensor cameras, it manages to deal with most cases very well. Most often, highlights and shadows usually retain their detail, and the automatic HDR mode of the camera also fosters a better dynamic range in high-contrast scenes.

Autofocus and Performance

Autofocus System

The autofocus system in the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is quick and reliable in most circumstances. Although it has a contrast-detection AF system that comprises nine autofocus points, the camera would not be at par with the more advanced phase-detection systems in higher-end cameras; the performance is apt for a compact camera, however. In the best lighting, the autofocus works fast and accurately; the camera also does fairly well in tracking moving subjects.

Continuous Shooting

The SX720 HS offers continuous shooting at a maximum speed of about 5.9 frames per second (fps). With this rate of speed, it can capture action shots and fast moving objects. It, therefore, provides enough versatility for different scenes. It also has a buffer capacity that allows for capture up to a decent number of shots without slowing down, making sure critical moments capture appropriately.

Startup and Operating Speed

The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS isn’t very quick out of the box, needing just over one second to prep for immediate shoot capability. The over-all operational speed is smooth, also having minimal blade shutter lag and fast image processing. The camera’s controls have a very easy way of approach, while menu navigation is very responsive on the unit.

Video Capabilities

Full HD Video

The SX720 HS is capable of recording Full HD videos at a resolution of 1080 pixels and up to 60 frames per second. It may not really do full justice to, but a very obliging compact camera will be sharp, color-accurate and put down nothing. The optical zoom is operational within the recording process, while image stabilization helps even out shake and achieves a smooth pan.

Manual Controls & Functions

While the SX720 HS has not much manual control when recording videos, there are several nifty features, like manual focus, EV compensation, and options for white balance and ISO adjustments. The camera also supports times-lapse recording and the short clip modes, which provide more creative options for videographers.

Audio

The camera is provided with a built-in stereo microphone that records clear sounds which can go well with ordinary casual video recording. However, this camera lacks an external microphone input for professional-quality audio recording. This is so typical for compact cameras, but worth noting for people who are really picky when it comes to audio quality.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Wi-Fi and NFC

With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS fully supports transferring photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet. Canon’s Camera Connect app adds the ability to shoot remotely and control the camera, making for excellent group shots or self-portraits. The wireless connectivity of this camera is reliable and really user friendly, enhancing its versatility.

GPS

Although built-in GPS is not available with the SX720 HS, the camera can make use of your smartphone’s GPS via the Canon Camera Connect app to geotag images. This would help travelers much in keeping track of the places where their pictures are taken.

Internal Flash

Pop-up flash is built in the camera, useful for fill light and low-light situations. Provided illumination is somewhat decent for casual photography purposes in that it provides relatively even lighting with soft shadows. The flash can also be fired manually or in the automatic mode, where the camera decides when it is needed.

Creative Modes and Filters

Another creative aspect of the SX720 HS is that it has a wide range of creative shooting modes and filters that photographers can play with. These modes include Creative Shot, which applies artistic effects automatically to your photos, and Hybrid Auto, which records a few seconds of video just before the photo it took, compiling it all into a highlight reel. All of these features increase the stitch for fun in the entire photo-taking experience with the camera.

Battery Life

Canon PowerShot SX720 HS runs with the NB-13L rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The battery life lasts for about 250 shots on a single charge, which is acceptable for a compact camera. A spare battery is advisable for long shooting sessions. Another interesting option is that the camera can charge via USB, hence making it quite convenient for travelers who might not always find a power outlet.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Impressive 40x Optical Zoom: The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS offers a remarkable zoom range, allowing photographers to capture subjects from a wide variety of distances.
Effective Image Stabilization: The Intelligent IS system ensures sharp and blur-free images, even at full zoom or in low-light conditions.
Compact and Portable Design: The small size and lightweight build make it an ideal camera for travel and everyday use.
Good Image Quality: The 20.3-megapixel sensor and DIGIC 6 processor deliver vibrant and detailed images in good lighting conditions.
User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive button layout and menu system make it easy to use, even for beginners.
Full HD Video Recording: The camera can record high-quality 1080p video at 60 fps, suitable for most casual video needs.
Wi-Fi and NFC Connectivity: Built-in wireless features make it easy to transfer images and control the camera remotely using a smartphone or tablet.
Decent Battery Life: The battery life of approximately 250 shots per charge is sufficient for most day trips and casual photography sessions.

Cons

Absence of 4k Video Recording: The unavailability of a 4K video will not be a great advantage to users who look for high-definition video.
No Viewfinder: The camera uses an LCD screen for composing shots, making it difficult to take shots in bright sunlight..
Fixed LCD Screen: Nonarticulating, limitations developed by this screen when attempting to take photos from various angles or shoot selfies.
Lacks Touchscreen: Menus are not very easy to manipulate without a simple touch interface, and focus selection may be a little more difficult.
Limited Low-light Performance: Though decent, it cannot be compared with larger-sensor cameras because it shows noise with higher ISO settings.
No External Microphone Input: Thus, the audio quality for video recording is loss-compromised, rendering it unsuitable for pro video work.

Conclusion

Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a very capable compact camera and does quite well in the portable travel zoom segment. The key feature of this camera is a fabulous 40x optical zoom lens, which has a very versatile focal range covering pretty much everything from a vast landscape to the most hardened of wildlife, coupled with a good image stabilization system that produces sharp, clear pictures even at full zoom or in challenging lighting conditions.

In fact, for design, it has a superb compact and ergonomic profile that resulted from good design practices for travelers and everyday photographers. There is sturdy build quality, intuitive controls, and in general usability experience. Besides this, the 3-inch LCD screen is pretty bright and clear, but unfortunately lacks touch functionality, nor can it be tilted or swiveled.

Image quality will usually be very good, thanks to the 20.3-megapixel sensor and DIGIC 6 processor, which should provide hearty, colorful, detailed images in well-lit situations. As most compacters, the SX720 HS also suffers from limited low-light performance characterized by increased noise at higher ISO settings. Full HD recording of the camera is just for most casual users but might draw some disapproval from users looking for 4K video.

Other than that, the SX720 HS has a wide range of built-in features that increase its versatility, including built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing and remote control, creative shooting modes, and filters. Battery consumption is acceptable with this camera, considering its size; hence one can take very good shots throughout the day.

Comparatively speaking, in terms of sheer zoom range and solid performance for the class, the SX720 HS stands firm to any competitor. It is not devoid of many features that can be found in other models, such as a viewfinder and 4K video recording, but it still ranks in the top tier for zoom factor and compactness.