The Canon PowerShot range spans from simple point and shoot devices, through to the ultimate G1 X for professionals. In this article, we look specifically at the Canon PowerShot SX420 which is a bridge camera and considered great for beginners.
The SX420 is well-made, looks fantastic, and is a dream to use. For simplicity and ease of use, there is no better choice. Moreover, the compact design means that it can be transported, and used as a travel camera.
Main Features
Let’s jump straight into the main features. What does this camera offer? Images are developed with the DIGIC 4+ processor, and a CCD 20.0MP sensor.
The DIGIC 4+ is older technology as new Canon cameras have the DIGIC 8 processor, but the image quality is still superb. Photos are sharp, with detail and clarity. Moreover, lens distortion and softening are minimal. The following are some of the basic specs of this device:
- Size: 104 x 69 x 85mm
- Weight: 325g
- Sensor: ½.3 CCD 20.0MP
- Image Processor: DIGIC 4+
- Max FPS: 7
- Max Video Resolution: 720p HD
- Connectivity: WiFI & Bluetooth
- Screen: Standard LCD
The video quality is one of the standout features of this device – at 720p, the quality is amazing. Moreover, video is easy to record via the built-in image stabilization and quick autofocus. This camera also has a focal length of 4.3mm – 180.6mm which is achieved through the 42x optical zoom.
Design
The Canon PowerShot SX420 looks fantastic – it is available in either red or black and both colors give the camera stylish feel. The body is ergonomically designed and has a large grip for your shutter hand and fingers to grasp. There is no mode dial, but the other buttons are placed in the typical Canon layout.
When using this camera, you will notice how small and compact it is. Weighing just 325g, and just 10cm long, the device is highly portable. Moreover, it can comfortably fit in a rucksack, or handbag if you need to travel. Finally, the LCD screen offers a clear picture and easy viewing for your photo previews.
Usability
As with other Canon PowerShot devices, the SX420 is brilliant for beginners. It has a myriad of point-and-shoot features and a fantastic auto mode that chooses the best camera settings for you. If you have minimal photography knowledge and want to improve your skills steadily, the Canon PowerShot SX420 is a great device to use.
It is important to understand that this device has no EVF – you must use the LCD screen to compose images and change settings. If you have never used a DSLR camera before, this shouldn’t be an issue. It does have a pop-up flashbulb that is useful for low-light shots. However, the camera can only shoot at a maximum ISO of 1600 which does limit it’s low-light shooting capabilities.
Canon PowerShot SX420 vs. Panasonic LUMIX FZ80
Now that you have a clearer understanding of this device, let’s compare it to a similar model on the market. Panasonic also creates bridge cameras like the Canon PowerShot range. One such device is the Lumix DMC-FZ80. These two cameras have similar features and a similar price tag too.
The first thing to compare with these devices is the size. The Canon PowerShot SX420 is smaller and lighter at nearly half the weight of the FZ80, and almost 1/3 smaller. While both cameras are portable, the SX420 is certainly more so.
Secondly, we can look at the video quality. The FZ80 is capable of recording in full 4K UHD which gives it the advantage. Both cameras have a decent autofocus system, and image stabilization. While the SX420 is a great device for video, the FZ80 offers better basic recording quality.
| PowerShot SX420 | LUMIX FZ80 | |
| Megapixel Count | 20.5MP | 18.0MP |
| Processor | DIGIG 4+ | Venus |
| Video Quality | 720p | 4K UHD |
| Weight | 325g | 616g |
| Dimensions | 104 x 69 x 85mm | 130 x 94 x 119mm |
| Max ISO | 1600 | 3200 |
The Canon PowerShot SX420 is the better device for beginners – it is easier to use, and easier to carry. The Panasonic FZ80 does offer better video quality, however.
Due to a higher maximum ISO of 3200, the SX420 can cope better with low-light photos. Which device you choose, would depend largely on your preference, and what you intend to use the camera for.
Should You Purchase the Canon PowerShot SX420?
This superb bridge camera is perfect for beginners and those starting out in the world of photography. The Canon PowerShot SX420 is by no means a top-range DSLR. It does, however, offer brilliant image quality, ease of use, and an excellent 42x zoom. This compact device is portable and highly connective with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. In addition to this, the SX420 is a brilliant camera for recording video – the autofocus and zoom offer great flexibility.
For beginners, the multitude of point-and-shoot options allow creativity, but with a small learning curve. Furthermore, the SX420 even has a range of built-in filters and shooting modes that give the user greater creative freedom. This is an excellent starting device that will ease the user into the world of photography.
