The Canon PowerShot range of cameras is diverse and features two main styles. Firstly, we have the traditional point-and-shoot cameras with compact designs like the PowerShot SX740 HS. Secondly, we have bridge cameras like the Canon PowerShot SX530 that feature a DSLR-like design, with point-and-shoot usability.
The Canon PowerShot SX530 is a decent, basic camera. It is not the most powerful in terms of raw image quality, but it does have a strong 50x optical zoom and a host of other useful features. For beginners that want to get used to how a DSLR or mirrorless camera works without the complexity, this is a decent choice.
Features
The Canon PowerShot SX530 is one of the lowest-spec PowerShot cameras and it is a relatively older model, too. It offers better quality than the Canon IXUS range, however, it is not as powerful as PowerShot products like the Canon PowerShot SX730 HS. You can see its main technical specifications below:
- Size: 120×81.7×91.9mm
- Weight: 442g
- Sensor: 16.8MP CMOS
- Image Processor: DIGIC 4+
- Max FPS: 5.9 fps
- Max Video Resolution: 1080p HD at 30p
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC
- Touchscreen: No
- Image Stabilization: Yes
One of the best aspects of this camera is its powerful 50x optical lens. This translates to a focal length of 4.3-215.0mm or a 35mm equivalent of 24-1200mm. As a result, you have coverage for ultra-wide angle, through to super-telephoto. You can also boost the optical zoom using the 100x ZoomPlus feature. However, remember that the ZoomPlus feature reduces the overall resolution of the image.
The Canon PowerShot SX530 has built-in image stabilization, which helps when using the camera handheld. It corrects for up to 2.5 stops of camera shake and utilizes five-axis enhanced dynamic IS. This means you can use the zoom comfortably and still achieve clear end results.
Compared to some other compact point-and-shoot cameras, the PowerShot SX530 is not the smallest. This is due to its design and the weight of the lens.
Design
Although the Canon PowerShot SX530 is not the smallest of cameras, it still has an ergonomic design. It is modeled like a traditional DSLR with a chunky lens, and a large handgrip on the right-hand side. This makes it easy to hold and you can support the lens underneath for additional stability.
It also features a high-quality LCD screen, however, it does not have a touchscreen. The screen is fixed in place and cannot be adjusted at all. It doesn’t have an EVF either, therefore, you must use the LCD screen and rear controls to compose images.
The rear control panel follows a traditional Canon design and has a main control dial where you can change the ISO and focusing mode. The top panel is also relatively simple and has a program dial, power switch, and shutter release. The shutter release is surrounded by the zoom control dial.
For beginners, the PowerShot SX530 has a simple design and controls that are easy to grasp. It should be comfortable to use without feeling overwhelming.
Usability
In terms of raw quality, the Canon PowerShot SX530 performs well enough. It only has a 16MP sensor and therefore does not provide a comparable resolution to cameras like the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS. However, when combined with the optical zoom and decent aperture range, you can still create high-quality photos with great sharpness and contrast.
The autofocusing system is also usable, but not the best. You can easily focus on objects, but the focusing can be inaccurate and it is not the fastest. It has an AiAF autofocus system with face detection and nine detection points. You can also switch to manual focus if you wish.
We like the connectivity and the fact that it has built-in Wi-Fi. This means that you can easily sync and download photos to your smartphone or other external devices. Also, it has a range of automatic program modes and advanced shooting modes.
This means that beginners can easily take high-quality photos. However, they can also use shooting modes like aperture priority and shutter priority to learn more about advanced photography.
Canon PowerShot SX530 vs. Nikon COOLPIX B500
So how does the Canon PowerShot SX530 compare to other point-and-shoot cameras? Nikon has an excellent range of COOLPIX point-and-shoot models. Like Canon, this includes basic models like the COOLPIX W150 and advanced models like the Nikon COOLPIX P950. A decent mid-range model that compares to the SX530 is the Nikon COOLPIX B500.
| Canon PowerShot SX530 | Nikon COOLPIX B500 | |
| Megapixel Count | 16.0MP | 16.0MP |
| Video Quality | 1080p, 30p | 108p, 30p |
| Weight | 442g | 542g |
| Dimensions | 120.0×81.7×91.9mm | 113.5×78.3×94.mm |
| Max ISO | 3200 | 6400 |
| Max Aperture | f/3.4 | f/3 |
As you can see, these cameras have the same image resolution and recording capabilities. However, the SX530 is the lighter model by 100g and this does make a considerable difference.
On the flip side, however, the Nikon COOLPIX B500 has a greater ISO range and should therefore offer greater control for low-light compositions. Also, the B500 has a slightly larger maximum aperture range which provides better control over depth of field.
In terms of raw quality and performance, there is not much to choose between the two cameras. They both have a similar design and set of basic features. Finally, the cameras are both similarly priced. It could therefore be a simple choice of which manufacturer you prefer!
The Canon PowerShot SX730 Is a Decent Camera for Beginners
If you are just entering the world of digital photography, the Canon PowerShot SX530 is a solid starting point. It offers decent quality and is still highly usable. Beginners will quickly be able to use this camera without feeling overwhelmed.
As your skill progresses, you can start using the advanced shooting modes and features. It will provide a good learning curve and allow you to improve your photography skills with relative ease. It is also an affordable camera compared to some other point-and-shoot models.
