amazon Canon PowerShot SX240 HS reviews
Canon PowerShot SX240 HS, with 20x optical zoom and 12.1″ CMOS sensor, is the cheap version of the PowerShot SX260 HS due to the reduced GPS positioning feature.
About the design, Canon PowerShot SX240 HS looks different from the Canon PowerShot SX260 HS. The camera has two different color options for the user to choose from black or silver. The right side of the machine is also favored by Canon add a rubber edge to bring a sense of security and comfort when users hold it.
Like the PowerShot SX260 HS, the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS is also equipped with a 20x Canon zoom lens lens (4.5 to 90mm focal length) for optical image stabilization, 12.1-megapixel resolution and DIGIC 5 high-speed image processor. The camera also features a built-in flash and pop-up flash. The PowerShot SX240 HS also supports up to 4000×3000 pixels (4: 3 aspect ratio) and full HD video recording at 24 frames per second.
where can you get a Canon PowerShot SX240 HS online
Canon Powershot SX240 HS Digital Camera – Silver (12.1 MP, 20x Optical Zoom) 3.2 Inch LCD: Buy it now
Canon Powershot SX240 HS Digital Camera – Red(12.1 MP, 20x Optical Zoom) 3.2 Inch LCD: Buy it now
The back of the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS is also designed to look exactly like the PowerShot SX260 HS brother. Still a 3-inch LCD monitor (with a wide viewing angle of 461,000 pixels) occupies almost the entire rear of the machine. The control system on the PowerShot SX240 HS also includes a function wheel, stand-alone button, image review button, navigation button cluster, on / off information display on the screen and Menu button.
On the same machine is a pop up flash, stereo microphone and built-in speaker, snapshot button with zoom ring and power button.
Canon PowerShot SX240 HS is also equipped with USB / AV Out and mini HDMI port as brother PowerShot SX260 HS.
The Canon PowerShot SX240 HS supports SD, SDHC and SDXC memory card formats. The NB-6L rechargeable battery comes with a 230-shot unit (information from the company). Other accessories included with the strap include strap, battery charger, software CD and user manual.
Key Features
One of the standout features of the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS is its 20x optical zoom lens. This lens covers a focal length range of 25-500mm (35mm equivalent), allowing users to capture everything from wide-angle landscapes to distant subjects with ease. The lens is equipped with Canon’s Intelligent IS (Image Stabilization) technology, which helps to reduce camera shake and ensures sharp images even at full zoom.
The camera is powered by a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and Canon’s DIGIC 5 image processor. This combination delivers excellent image quality, with vibrant colors, good dynamic range, and impressive low-light performance. The SX240 HS also features Canon’s HS (High Sensitivity) System, which enhances low-light performance by reducing noise and maintaining detail.
The camera offers a wide range of shooting modes to cater to different photography styles and situations. These include:
- Auto: The camera automatically selects the best settings for the scene.
- Program: Users can control various settings while the camera selects the shutter speed and aperture.
- Shutter Priority (Tv): Users set the shutter speed while the camera selects the appropriate aperture.
- Aperture Priority (Av): Users set the aperture while the camera selects the appropriate shutter speed.
- Manual: Full control over all settings.
- Scene Modes: Various presets optimized for specific scenes, such as Portrait, Landscape, and Night Scene.
Additionally, the SX240 HS features a dedicated movie button for recording Full HD 1080p videos at 24 frames per second. The optical zoom is available during video recording, and the camera’s stereo microphone ensures good audio quality.
Performance
The Canon PowerShot SX240 HS performs admirably across a range of shooting scenarios. Its autofocus system is fast and accurate, ensuring that subjects are quickly and reliably in focus. The face detection feature works well for portraits, automatically adjusting settings to ensure well-exposed and sharp images.
Image Quality
Image quality is one of the SX240 HS’s strong points. The 12.1-megapixel sensor produces detailed images with vibrant colors and good contrast. The camera’s High Sensitivity System performs admirably in low-light conditions, reducing noise and maintaining detail even at higher ISO settings. The maximum ISO range of 100-3200 provides flexibility in various lighting conditions, and the results are generally usable up to ISO 1600.
The lens’s 20x optical zoom capability is a significant advantage, allowing users to capture distant subjects with ease. The Intelligent IS technology ensures that images remain sharp, even at full zoom. The macro mode is also impressive, enabling close-up shots with a minimum focusing distance of just 5 cm.
Video Quality
The SX240 HS’s video capabilities are also noteworthy. The camera can record Full HD 1080p videos at 24 frames per second, with optical zoom available during recording. The video quality is excellent, with smooth motion and good detail. The stereo microphone captures clear audio, making the camera suitable for recording a variety of scenes, from travel vlogs to family events.
Speed and Responsiveness
The camera’s overall speed and responsiveness are commendable. It powers on quickly and is ready to shoot within seconds. The continuous shooting mode allows for capturing up to 10.3 frames per second, making it suitable for action photography. However, this burst mode is limited to a maximum of 10 shots, after which the camera needs a brief pause to process the images.
User Experience
Using the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS is a pleasant experience, thanks to its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. The camera’s menu system is well-organized, with clearly labeled options that are easy to navigate. The mode dial and dedicated buttons for frequently used functions make it simple to switch between shooting modes and adjust settings on the fly.
LCD Screen
The 3-inch LCD screen is a highlight, providing a bright and clear display for composing shots and reviewing images. The screen’s resolution of 460,000 dots ensures that images appear sharp and detailed, making it easier to assess focus and composition. The lack of a touchscreen may be a drawback for some users, but the physical controls are responsive and easy to use.
Battery Life
Battery life is another important aspect of the user experience. The SX240 HS is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (NB-6L), which provides enough power for approximately 230 shots on a single charge. This is fairly standard for a camera of this type, but it may be worth investing in a spare battery if you plan on using the camera extensively throughout the day.
Connectivity and Additional Features
The Canon PowerShot SX240 HS offers a range of connectivity options to enhance the user experience. For transferring images and videos to a computer or other devices, the camera includes a USB 2.0 port and an HDMI output. The USB port allows for direct connection to a computer, while the HDMI output enables playback of photos and videos on a compatible TV or monitor.
Unfortunately, the SX240 HS lacks built-in Wi-Fi, which is a common feature in more recent models. However, this can be mitigated by using an external Wi-Fi SD card if wireless transfer is essential.
The camera also features a built-in flash with several modes, including Auto, On, Slow Sync, and Off. The flash performs well, providing adequate illumination for low-light scenes and reducing the risk of red-eye.
Comparison with Competitors
When comparing the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS to its competitors in the compact superzoom category, several aspects stand out. The 20x optical zoom lens is a key advantage, offering greater zoom range than many other cameras in its class. The image quality is also impressive, with the HS System providing excellent low-light performance.
However, there are some areas where the SX240 HS falls short. The absence of built-in Wi-Fi is a notable drawback, especially considering that many modern cameras offer wireless connectivity as a standard feature. Additionally, the battery life, while adequate, could be improved to match some of its competitors.
Cameras like the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V offer similar features, including high zoom capabilities and good image quality. The Panasonic ZS20, for example, provides a 20x zoom lens and built-in Wi-Fi, making it a strong contender. The Sony HX20V also offers excellent image quality and fast performance, with the added benefit of 3D shooting modes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 20x Optical Zoom Lens: The extensive zoom range allows for versatile shooting, from wide-angle landscapes to distant subjects.
- High Image Quality: The 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 processor deliver vibrant, detailed images.
- Low-Light Performance: The HS System reduces noise and maintains detail in low-light conditions.
- Full HD Video Recording: The camera records 1080p videos with stereo sound, and the optical zoom is available during recording.
- Compact and Portable: The sleek design and lightweight build make it easy to carry around.
- User-Friendly Interface: Intuitive controls and a well-organized menu system enhance the shooting experience.
Cons:
- No Built-in Wi-Fi: The absence of wireless connectivity is a significant drawback in today’s market.
- Limited Battery Life: Approximately 230 shots per charge may require carrying a spare battery for extended use.
- No Touchscreen: While the LCD screen is bright and clear, a touchscreen would enhance usability.
- Limited Burst Mode: The continuous shooting mode is capped at 10 shots, which may be restrictive for action photography.
Conclusion
The Canon PowerShot SX240 HS is a solid performer in the compact superzoom category, offering a combination of impressive zoom capabilities, high image quality, and a range of useful features. Its 20x optical zoom lens, excellent low-light performance, and compact design make it a versatile choice for travelers and photography enthusiasts.
While the camera lacks built-in Wi-Fi and could benefit from improved battery life, its overall performance and ease of use make it a compelling option. The intuitive controls, bright LCD screen, and robust build quality contribute to a positive user experience.