Posted to Digital Cameras 2009-11-12
The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS digital camera is Canon's latest entry into the digital super zoom category. With SLR-like styling, 12.1 megapixel resolution and a 20X optical zoom, this "bridge" camera is perfect for the photographer who wants more creative control, but is not quite ready to make the step up to a digital SLR. The SX20 IS features a 35mm equivalent zoom range of 28-560mm, optical image stabilization, HD video capture (1280x720p), and an improved Smart Auto mode based on 22 pre-defined shooting situations. Other features include an improved Digic 4 image processor, a 2.5 inch fully-articulating LCD screen and AA battery power for convenience. The camera also features a macro mode which allows focusing down to 0 inches, a maximum aperture range of f/2.8-5.7 and shutter speeds ranging from 15-1/3200 seconds.
ValueThe PowerShot SX20 IS represents a good value when compared to the price of an entry-level Digital SLR. It offers most of the features and creative control of an entry-level DSLR, but lacks the image quality afforded by the larger sensors found in a digital SLR. One thing to consider however, is the cost of an equivalent zoom range in the SLR world - you would spend a lot of money on a 560mm zoom lens for an SLR. For those ready to take the step up from a point and shoot digital camera to one that offers more creative control and features, the PowerShot SX20 IS is an excellent choice for the money. FeaturesThe SX20 IS is strong on features. The 20X zoom range, electronic viewfinder and manual control of most settings make for a very versatile camera. And while it's not quite small enough for a coat pocket, it's compact enough that it won't weigh you down. The SX20 IS is a handsome camera that looks much like a digital SLR. Other features include a built-in pop-up flash with a hot-shoe for compatibility with Canon's SpeedLite series of flash units, automatic blink detection and an HDMI output for viewing videos and images on an HDTV. SummaryIf you have a craving for something with more power than your compact point and shoot digital camera, the SX20 IS makes a very good choice. It has most of the features you'll find on an entry-level SLR, yet is priced considerably less. Image quality is excellent, except at high ISO's due to the small sensor size. The LCD display is a little smaller than most of the competition, however and has less resolution (230,00 dots). A very good electronic viewfinder helps make up for this, though. All in all a very good offering from Canon. Pros
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