The Canon PowerShot SX710 HS is an improvement and development over older PowerShot models like the Canon PowerShot SX610 HS. It is still not one of the best-quality Canon point-and-shoot cameras, but it utilizes better technology and features than some of the older models.
This camera is affordable and has a good set of features. It is suitable for those who want something more than a basic camera, but don’t want the advanced features and utility of a mirrorless or DSLR camera. It sits somewhere in the mid-ground as an easy-to-use point-and-shoot camera that delivers high-quality photos and video.
Main Features
This camera is a newer model within the PowerShot range but is still not one of the latest releases. As a result, it has some improved features compared to older models like the Canon PowerShot SX610 HS. However, it doesn’t have the latest features like the Canon PowerShot G1 X MK III which has a better image processor and image sensor, for example. You can see the main technical specs of the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS below:
- Size: 112.7×65.8×34.8mm
- Weight: 269g
- Sensor: 20.3MP CMOS
- Image Processor: DIGIC 6
- Max FPS: 6
- Max Video Resolution: 1080p HD at 60p
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC
- Touchscreen: No
- Image Stabilization: Yes
As you can see, this entry-level point and shoot camera has a decent image sensor and is capable of producing 20.3MP resolution photos. This is complemented by the DIGIC 6 image processor. However, this is not the latest Canon image processor, as newer cameras feature the DIGIC 9 version or better.
It does have five-axis advanced dynamic IS, which corrects camera shake for up to 2.5 stops. This is a good feature and means you can easily use the camera handheld, even when using the optical zoom. Its lens is a 30x optical zoom and has an effective focal distance of 4.5-130mm.
This means that you can shoot ultra-wide-angle through to telephoto compositions. It also has a solid maximum aperture range of f/3.2 at 4.5mm, and f/6.9 at 135mm. The lens is made of 13 elements in 10 groups.
Design
The Canon PowerShot SX710 HS looks great and is a well-designed camera. It has an ergonomic shape with a small, textured grip on the right-hand side to help keep a firm grip. This grip is not as large as some other PowerShot models, but you can comfortably hold the camera.
The buttons have been moved slightly, compared to the standard Canon PowerShot design. For example, the program dial that allows you to change shooting mode is on the rear panel, as opposed to the top. The top is therefore less cluttered and only has the power switch, shutter release, video record button, and pop-up flash.
On the rear, there is a main control dial that features a rotating dial that allows you to easily navigate through the menus and change settings like exposure and aperture. The LCD screen is three inches but has a fixed position and does not have a touchscreen.
Overall, it is a slimline camera that weighs virtually nothing. It makes a great travel camera due to its small size, and you can easily fit it in your pocket or travel bag.
Usability
As with most PowerShot models, the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS is highly usable. It features a simple operation that anyone can quickly understand. If you have no camera knowledge, you can simply use the automatic shooting mode. This chooses the best settings for the scene and provides consistent results.
The large LCD screen means that you have an excellent preview of your photos. It does not have an EVF, but if you are not used to using an EVF, this won’t be an issue.
The video recording function is also simple. All you have to do is switch the program dial to video, and then press the record button on the top. We like the optical zoom and how easy it is to control. There is a rotating dial surrounding the shutter release that you simply push either way to extend or retract the zoom lens.
The one area this camera could be improved is the autofocusing. It has a decent autofocusing system, but it is not incredibly fast or accurate. You can focus on objects both stationary and moving, but the process is not instant. It only has a maximum ISO of 3200, therefore it is not the best for low-light photography.
Canon PowerShot SX710 HS vs. Canon PowerShot SX730 HS
The Canon PowerShot range of cameras has a large selection to choose from. It can therefore be confusing knowing which models offer the best quality, and how different models compare. A similar model to the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS is the Canon PowerShot SX730 HS.
| Canon PowerShot SX710 HS | Canon PowerShot SX730 HS | |
| Megapixel Count | 20.3MP | 20.3MP |
| Video Quality | 1080p, 60p | 1080p, 60p |
| Weight | 269g | 300g |
| Dimensions | 112.7×65.8×34.8mm | 110.1×63.8×39.9mm |
| Max ISO | 3200 | 3200 |
| Max Aperture | f/3.2 | f/3.3 |
Confused? On the surface, there is virtually no difference between these two cameras. They have the same image sensor, same ISO range, and their size and weight are not much different. The two cameras do have key differences, however.
One of the main differences is the lens. The SX730 HS has a more powerful 40x optical lens with an effective focal distance of 4.3-172mm. This gives greater coverage than the SX710 HS and means you can capture more detail from your photos.
Aside from that, there is little to choose between the two cameras and both make a solid choice for general photography.
The Canon PowerShot SX710 HS Is a Simple but Powerful Point-and-Shoot Camera
So should you purchase this Canon point-and-shoot camera? It depends on what you want from your photography. If you want to take high-quality photos and videos without the effort, the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS is a good choice. Also, it does have some advanced features and shooting modes, so you can still learn more about photography if you wish.
