Canon PowerShot previews: SX510 and SX170 cameras get evolutionary upgrades, PowerShot N a Facebook tweak
posted Thursday, August 22, 2013 at 12:01 AM EDT
Canon launched a total of five new PowerShot models today, including the Canon G16 and Canon S120 enthusiast compact digital cameras. But the manufacturer made sure it also had something for consumer photographers, announcing evolutionary upgrades to two SX-series long zoom cameras, and making a Facebook-friendly tweak to the PowerShot N. Here's the skinny:
Canon SX510 HS
The Canon SX500 IS stands as one of the most popular compact digital cameras on the planet today, as of press time ranking 4th on Amazon's list of best selling point-and-shoots. And why not? Consumers love getting a 30x optical zoom and decent low ISO image quality at a relatively inexpensive price point.
If that formula holds true, its successor, the Canon SX510 HS, should be even more in demand since it trades in the SX500's less-powerful CCD sensor for a CMOS sensor designed to deliver better image quality and 1080p video. The new superzoom also adds Wi-Fi technology for sharing photos and movies instantly. And at a manufacturer suggested retail price of US$250, it's also $80 cheaper at launch than its predecessor. That's something we think consumer photographers will be excited about.
Read more in our Canon SX510 preview.
Canon SX170 IS
Canon's latest entry-level model in its PowerShot SX-line of compact digital cameras is the 16-megapixel, 16x optical zoom Canon SX170 IS. At least on paper, the biggest difference compared to its predecessor appears to be the price. The SX170 comes in at US$180, some $50 cheaper than the SX160 IS was at launch almost exactly a year ago. Additionally, the new model boasts a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery rather than relying on AA batteries for power.
As far as imaging technology goes, the SX170 is built upon the same 16-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor as the SX160. The new model also borrows the 16x optical zoom lens, which features a 35mm equivalent range of 28-448mm and aperture range of f/3.5 at wide angle to f/5.9 at tele.
Read more in our Canon SX170 preview.
Canon PowerShot N Facebook Ready version
Canon has released a special version of the PowerShot N with one notable change -- a Facebook Connect button for uploading your photos and video directly to your Facebook account. Canon has done away with the one-press "Mobile Device Connect" button in favor of this dedicated Facebook button. The Mobile Device Connect features are still included to allow you to connect directly with your smartphone or tablet, or to other wireless devices like printers or computers.
Spec-wise, the PowerShot N Facebook Ready version is otherwise identical to the original model. However, it is a Canon Direct exclusive, and it can only be purchased from Canon's online store. It will be available in September 2013 in the white color only for US$300 (the same price as the original PowerShot N).
Read more in our Canon PowerShot N preview.