Canon N2 Review

Overview

The Canon N2 is closely related to its predecessor, the PowerShot N, but features some significant and fun upgrades.

The PowerShot N2 uses the same 8x optical zoom lens with 28-224mm equivalent focal length, f/3.0 - f/5.9 maximum aperture across the zoom range, and Intelligent IS image stabilization, but the lens is now coupled to a 16.1-megapixel 1/2.3" sensor as opposed to the 12.1-megapixel sensor of the same size found in the N.

The processing power behind that sensor has also been upgraded, to a DIGIC 6 image processor versus the N's DIGIC 5, which should lead to faster overall performance, improved burst speed (2.7 fps vs 2.3) and higher frame rate Full HD video (1080p video is now recorded at 30 frames per second instead of 24).

The camera's Wi-Fi features have also been enhanced, now including NFC (Near Field Communication) for easy setup with Android devices, and images uploaded to the cloud via Canon's iMAGE GATEWAY can be shared easily on multiple social media platforms. The PowerShot N2 now also supports remote shooting from a smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android), using Canon's CameraWindow app.

The Canon N2 still uses a 2.8-inch 460K-dot touch panel LCD for framing and reviewing images as did its predecessor, but the screen is now able to tilt all the way up to 180 degrees to face the front of the camera, making the N2 "selfie friendly". Canon has also added a new Self-Portrait mode with the ability to adjust face brightness, skin smoothness and background defocus, all from the touchscreen interface.

The PowerShot N's unique shutter ring has also been enhanced on the N2, as it now can be pressed anywhere to release the shutter, instead just the top or bottom of the ring, allowing greater flexibility in how the camera is held and operated. And like the PowerShot N, you operate the N2's zoom by rotating the ring. Also like the N, the PowerShot N2's "flash" is actually a bright LED similar to most smartphone cameras, which means it has very limited range.

Power comes from a proprietary NB-9L lithium-ion battery rated at 200 shots per charge, plus there's an Eco mode that increases battery life to about 270 shots, and the PowerShot N2 features in-camera USB charging. Images and videos are stored on microSD cards, including microSDHC and microSDXC types, with no built-in memory usable for storage.

Available from December 2014, the Canon PowerShot N2 is priced at US$300, the same as the N. Two body color options will be available: white or black.