Last update 09 October’09 – As compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 @ Neutralday
Canon Powershot SX20 IS announced on August 19, 2009 is an optically image stabilized 12.1 megapixel compact digital camera that features a 2.5-inch Vari-Angle LCD, HD movie capture, 20x optical zoom lens (35mm equivalent: 28-560mm), ISO range from 80 to 1600, face detection, motion detection, camera dimensions are (WxHxD) 4.88 x 3.48 x 3.42 in./124.0 x 88.3 x 86.9mm and it weighs 19.8 oz./560g.
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Review Index – (updated 09 October’09)
Neutralday (As compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35)
“Clearly the SX20’s articulating LCD is a huge difference for those so inclined (including me), and there is the advantage of using external flash, and the slight reach advantage of the 20x zoom. For the FZ35, the RAW files may be a real advantage for some, the smaller stature will appeal to others, and not having to use 4 AA batteries will be a plus for others.”
DPInterface
“If you’d like to take pictures, plus record high resolution video now and then without buying a separate camcorder, then the PowerShot SX20 offers possibly the best bang-for-buck for a HD-hybrid camera. If your focus is on slightly faster still picture shooting or lower price, then consider the old PowerShot SX10.”
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Steve’s Digicams
“I was a bit upset that the camera has slower burst speeds. The SX20 is a worthy competitor in the ultra-zoom/prosumer/enthusiast category, and is sure to be a very popular model in the years to come. If you are one who is not quite sure if you want to make the jump into the dSLR world, take a close look at this camera. The SX20 offers almost as much functionality as a consumer-level dSLR, great image quality, good performance, and loads of high-end features, all for about half the price.”
Computer Labs
“Ultimately our final words are the same as those on our Panasonic review: like its predecessor, the SX20 IS it delivers a compelling array of features for the money and easily comes Highly Recommended. Just ensure you compare it very closely with its arch rival.”
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PCAdvisor
“If you want an advanced compact camera that can do just about anything then the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS digital camera is the one to shortlist! It’s great for macros. it takes excellent night time photography, it has a huge zoom and built-in optical stabilization, and it even does a good job of capturing HD video.”
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GoodGearGuide
“Its image quality is superb, the controls and menu are easy to use, and its video mode is almost good enough to make you leave your dedicated camcorder at home when you go on holidays. We also liked that it uses disposable or rechargeable AA batteries (again, this comes in handy while travelling) and you’ll only run through batteries if you regularly shoot videos.”
Rating:
DigitalCameraReview
“ISO noise performance is almost too close to call versus the SX10 IS, but the SX20 IS has an additional 2 megapixels on the sensor, so that’s a net gain (and performance compares favorably with the competition). The 720p HD video quality is one of the better ones I’ve come across in compact digitals, and you can zoom while shooting. The SX10 IS was/is a good camera – this one’s better.”
PhotographyBlog
“Despite the less than stellar still images, lack of RAW, slight price increase and few real upgrades over the previous model, the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS remains a likeable and easy-to-use camera. It’s still a solid and reliable option for both the uninitiated moving up to a bridge model for the first time, and those stepping down momentarily from a DSLR who are looking for a model as a back up.”
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]Sample Photos
[Sample Photos @ DPInterface]
[Sample Photos @ Steve's Digicams]
[Sample Photos @ Camera Labs]
[High ISO noise as compared to the Panasonic FZ35 and EOS 450D @ Camera Labs]
[Sample Photos @ DigitalCameraReview]
[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Sample Photos @ Canon]
Press Release
London, UK 19th August 2009: Canon today announces the new PowerShot SX20 IS – a digital compact camera with a 20x wide-angle super zoom lens – enabling photo enthusiasts to get closer to their chosen subject.
The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS’s 2.5 inch vari-angle PureColor LCD display coupled with the full manual controls will allow photographers an even greater range of creative options. The versatile camera, a successor to the SX10 IS, now features HD video (720p) to ensure you capture video in the sharpest detail.
The PowerShot SX20 IS has a 20x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom which zooms from 28mm to 560mm giving excellent flexibility with composition. The lens features both an Ultrasonic Motor (USM) and a Voice Coil Motor (VCM) for fast, silent focus and zooming – making the camera unobtrusive and easy-to-use, whether shooting stills or video footage. Combined with a wide-angle view the camera is ideal for shooting wildlife photography or sports events.
A 12.1 Megapixel image sensor is capable of capturing each moment in incredible detail, with DIGIC 4 image processing for high image quality, responsive operation and advanced noise reduction. Shots are enhanced by optical Image Stabiliser (IS) technology, which helps reduce camera shake and image blur. This gives users a 4-stop advantage when it comes to shooting in low-light conditions – making the camera easy to use indoors or at night without resorting to flash.
Creative freedom meets high definition video
To help users make the most of these creative possibilities, the PowerShot SX20 IS includes a vari-angle 2.5 inch PureColor VA LCD display, which can be used in a wide variety of shooting situations from macro level to street photography – giving photographers maximum flexibility when framing their shots.
The LCD display is useful when shooting high definition video too. The PowerShot SX20 IS can record HD video at 720p resolution and includes a dedicated movie button for instant access to movies in still mode and instant stills shooting during movie recording. The inclusion of an HDMI mini port makes it easy to playback footage on compatible TVs. The all-digital HDMI connection offers numerous benefits, including an incredible level of picture detail and reproduction of the PowerShot SX20 IS’s CD-quality stereo sound.
Advanced features, maximum ease of use
More experienced users can also choose to use their own preferred presets or even opt for full manual control, making the PowerShot SX20 IS an excellent all-rounder for all levels of photography experience.
To make the PowerShot SX20 IS as easy-to-use as possible, it features an enhanced version of Canon’s Smart Auto Mode with Scene Detection Technology. This automatically detects faces, distance, motion, colour and brightness in the frame, with the camera selecting from one of 22 scene variables to optimise settings for the best results.
Face Detection, Face Self-Timer and Auto Red-Eye Correction make shooting even easier. Additionally, the PowerShot SX20 IS combats blur with Motion Detection Technology and Servo AF/AE, which enables users to select a subject in the frame while the camera continually adjusts focus and exposure. Continuous Shooting AF adjusts auto focus between shots – so users can capture action with clarity – ideal for shooting birds in flight, or high-octane sporting action.
Users will also benefit from helpful Hints & Tips incorporated within the user interface. Short descriptions of functions simplify the interaction with the camera and encourage the user to explore the features – thereby taking better shots.
In addition, the PowerShot SX20 IS includes an enhanced version of i-Contrast: Canon’s Intelligent Contrast Correction technology, which is ideal for shooting in difficult lighting situations. i-Contrast optimises the dynamic range to prevent highlight blowout, while retaining shadow detail. This makes it ideal for use with outdoor portraits, for example, where extremes of shadow and sun can make creating balanced images difficult.
The PowerShot SX20 IS has a built-in hot shoe that enables it to be used with a range of optional accessories including Speedlite EX flashes (including 270EX, 220EX, 430EX II, 580EX II) as well as the Speedlite Transmitter ST-E2 and Off-Camera Shoe Cord OC-E3.
