Table of Contents
amazon Canon SX50 HS reviews
Design, structure
In terms of design, the Canon PowerShot SX50 looks cleaner and more contemporary than the Canon PowerShot SX40 with some contemporary styling. The machine has a very lightweight, monolithic plastic structure, which can hold one hand easily.
The 24-20000mm lens is the biggest improvement with the f / 3.4-6.5 aperture range from the wide angle to the maximum zoom. The lens uses 13 lenses and is grouped into 10 groups, including 3 low scattering lenses for optimum optical quality. Accompanying it is the 4.5-stop Intelligent IS image stabilization technology. According to Canon, the SX50 also uses the Voice Coil stabilizer similar to the SX40 for quiet focus.
Mostly on the front, the handle is well-designed with a fair cut. The flash is located at the familiar location above, eliminating the overlay which is not very useful at the SX40, the light is mechanized. The flash button next to the lamp is not used to turn on the lights, only to support the flash compensation and avoid red-eye.
The upper part of the camera has a shutter release button and a mode dial that allows quick access to shooting modes such as P / A / S / M. C1, C2 (user self-set) and Adv are where users can use special features such as panorama shooting, continuous mode low light or using filters. image processing.
The back panel is equipped with a 2.8-inch, 12-megapixel LCD display that displays all the specifications, aperture or filter, and other controls. Are arranged reasonably.
The SX50’s connectivity lies under a small cap on the side of the camera’s handlebar with HDMI, USB / AV.
where can you get a Canon SX50 HS online
Canon PowerShot SX50 HS 12MP Digital Camera with 2.8-Inch LCD (Black): Buy it now
Canon PowerShot SX50 HS 12MP Digital Camera with 2.8-Inch LCD (Black) – International Version (No Warranty): Buy it now
Canon PowerShot SX50 HS Digital Camera: Buy it now
Features and image quality
DSRL midrange users will find it difficult to buy a super-zoom lens for thousands of dollars, so SX-50’s built-in lens is one of the most exciting things Canon has to offer.
At maximum zoom, the aperture reaches f / 6.5, but at wide angle, f / 3.4 may not be as expected. Limitations also appear when the zoom at 1200 mm, the anti-vibration is not good, difficult to keep the machine fixed because the machine slightly light.
It takes about a second to start the zoom function. The focus time depends on the zoom level, the average zoom takes about 2 to 4 seconds. The speed of focus is quite fast, averaging from 0.5 seconds to 1 second in good lighting conditions. Actually, the zoom speed is somewhat slower than the SX40, which affects the shooting in low light conditions. Time to take a JPEG image is from 2 to 2.5 seconds and averaged 3.5 seconds for the RAW format.
ISO range runs from 80 to 6400, brightness compensation is +/- 3E, shutter speed is highest at 1 / 2,000s, maximum opening time is 15s, it is very convenient to capture interesting moments like the sun Dive, twilight, or the city lights up with vehicles on the road.
The Enhanced Zoom Framing Assist feature on the SX50 allows users to lock the subject at the longest focal length. This is a superior feature compared to the SX40 sibling when supported with two Seek and Lock functions to frame and lock the subject. The Seek button on the lens rim allows the lens to move and align the subject to fit the preset frame. The Lock button is used to activate special image stabilization, in which the subject is fixed in the center of the frame.
High-resolution, color-saturated color images. At ISO 400 has appeared noisy but not really noticeable.
Image quality at ISO range: 800-1600
The noise appears quite a lot from ISO 800 and to ISO 1600 the color saturation begins to drastically decrease. At ISO 3200 and 6400 the image is colorless and sharply reduced. However, if users use RAW format and edit through Photoshop, the image quality obtained at ISO 3200 is still acceptable.
The machine supports the Movie Menu with many customizations. The easy-to-see Movie button on the back of the unit allows for easy shooting of movie recording. Full HD image, 1,920 x 1,080 pixels, clear in low light conditions. Users can zoom in right at the time of shooting with clear, quick compensation for impressive results.
Key Features
The Canon SX50 HS boasts an array of features that cater to both amateur and experienced photographers. Here are some of the standout features:
50x Optical Zoom Lens
The 50x optical zoom lens is undoubtedly the highlight of the SX50 HS. This lens offers an impressive focal range of 24-1200mm (35mm equivalent), allowing photographers to capture a wide variety of subjects, from sweeping landscapes to distant wildlife. The lens is equipped with optical image stabilization (IS), which helps to reduce camera shake, particularly at longer focal lengths.
12.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
The SX50 HS is equipped with a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, which works in tandem with the DIGIC 5 image processor to deliver high-quality images. While the resolution might seem modest compared to some modern cameras, it strikes a good balance between image quality and low-light performance.
Full HD Video Recording
For videographers, the SX50 HS offers Full HD 1080p video recording at 24 frames per second (fps). The camera also includes a dedicated movie button, making it easy to switch between stills and video. The 50x zoom lens is fully functional during video recording, and the built-in stereo microphone captures decent audio quality.
High-Speed Burst HQ
The High-Speed Burst HQ mode allows the SX50 HS to shoot at a rapid 13 frames per second (fps) at full resolution. This feature is particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports events or wildlife.
Intelligent IS
The Intelligent IS system automatically selects the most appropriate image stabilization mode based on the shooting conditions. This ensures that images and videos remain sharp and stable, whether you’re shooting handheld or using a tripod.
Built-in Hot Shoe
The inclusion of a hot shoe allows users to attach external accessories, such as a flash or microphone, expanding the camera’s versatility.
Performance
Autofocus and Speed
The Canon SX50 HS features a high-speed autofocus (AF) system that performs well in various lighting conditions. The camera utilizes a contrast-detection AF system with 9 focus points, which ensures accurate and reliable focusing. In good lighting, the autofocus is quick and responsive, allowing photographers to capture fleeting moments with ease. However, in low-light conditions, the autofocus speed can slow down, but it remains reasonably accurate.
The camera’s overall speed is commendable. It powers on quickly and is ready to shoot in just over a second. The shot-to-shot time is also impressive, especially in High-Speed Burst HQ mode, where the camera can capture a rapid sequence of images without significant lag.
Image Quality
The image quality produced by the Canon SX50 HS is impressive, especially considering its superzoom capabilities. The 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, combined with the DIGIC 5 image processor, ensures that images are sharp, vibrant, and detailed.
Low-Light Performance
In low-light conditions, the SX50 HS performs admirably. The camera’s sensor and processor work together to minimize noise while preserving detail, even at higher ISO settings. The maximum ISO sensitivity of 6400 allows for decent low-light shots, although noise does become more noticeable at this level. The camera’s optical image stabilization is particularly useful in low-light situations, enabling slower shutter speeds without significant blur.
Color Reproduction
Color reproduction is another strong suit of the SX50 HS. Images have vibrant and accurate colors, with a good balance between saturation and realism. The camera’s white balance system is reliable, producing consistent results across various lighting conditions.
Video Quality
The SX50 HS’s video capabilities are impressive for a camera in its class. The Full HD 1080p video recording produces sharp and detailed footage, with smooth motion and accurate colors. The camera’s 50x zoom lens is fully functional during video recording, allowing for a wide range of creative possibilities.
The built-in stereo microphone captures decent audio quality, although it is susceptible to picking up ambient noise and wind. For more professional audio, users can attach an external microphone to the hot shoe, although it requires an adapter for the microphone input.
User Experience
Interface and Controls
The user interface of the Canon SX50 HS is intuitive and user-friendly. The camera features a clear and well-organized menu system, with easy-to-navigate options and settings. The mode dial provides quick access to various shooting modes, including Manual, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Program modes.
The camera’s physical controls are well-placed and responsive. The zoom lever is conveniently located around the shutter button, allowing for easy zoom adjustments while composing shots. The vari-angle LCD screen is a valuable addition, providing flexibility for shooting from different angles and making it easier to frame shots in challenging positions.
Battery Life
The battery life of the SX50 HS is respectable, with a CIPA rating of approximately 315 shots per charge. This is sufficient for a day of casual shooting, but for extended outings or heavy use, carrying a spare battery is advisable.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Zoom Range: The 50x optical zoom lens is the standout feature of the SX50 HS, offering incredible versatility for capturing a wide range of subjects.
- High-Quality Images: The 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor deliver impressive image quality, with sharp details, vibrant colors, and good low-light performance.
- Full HD Video: The camera’s Full HD 1080p video recording capability, combined with the functional zoom lens, makes it a strong choice for videographers.
- User-Friendly Design: The ergonomic design, intuitive controls, and vari-angle LCD screen enhance the overall user experience.
- Intelligent IS: The Intelligent IS system ensures sharp and stable images and videos, even in challenging shooting conditions.
Cons
- Low-Light Autofocus: While the autofocus system performs well in good lighting, it can struggle in low-light conditions.
- Audio Quality: The built-in stereo microphone captures decent audio, but it is susceptible to ambient noise and wind. An external microphone option would be beneficial.
- Battery Life: The battery life, while decent, may require carrying a spare battery for extended use or heavy shooting.
Comparison with Competitors
When compared to its competitors in the superzoom category, the Canon SX50 HS holds its own. The 50x optical zoom lens sets it apart from many other models, offering a significant advantage for photographers who need a versatile zoom range.
In terms of image quality, the SX50 HS performs on par with other superzoom cameras, delivering sharp and vibrant images. Its low-light performance is also commendable, thanks to the combination of the CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor.
The Full HD video recording capability is another strength of the SX50 HS, providing videographers with high-quality footage and the flexibility of the 50x zoom lens. However, some competitors offer more advanced video features, such as 4K recording and external microphone inputs.
Conclusion
The Canon SX50 HS is a highly capable superzoom camera that offers an impressive combination of features, performance, and image quality. Its standout 50x optical zoom lens provides exceptional versatility, allowing photographers to capture a wide range of subjects with ease. The camera’s 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor ensure high-quality images, with vibrant colors and good low-light performance.
The user-friendly design, intuitive controls, and vari-angle LCD screen enhance the overall shooting experience, making the SX50 HS a pleasure to use. While the autofocus system can struggle in low-light conditions, and the audio quality could be improved, these are relatively minor drawbacks in an otherwise excellent camera.
Overall, the Canon SX50 HS is a compelling choice for photographers seeking a powerful and versatile superzoom camera. Whether you’re a travel enthusiast, wildlife photographer, or simply someone who wants a reliable and high-quality camera for everyday use, the SX50 HS delivers impressive results and stands out as a top contender in its class.