REVIEW: THE CANON POWERSHOT SX220 HS

I often get asked the question: "If you were buying a camera, which one would you have?" Honestly, if i was looking for small digital compact- the Canon Powershot SX220 HS would be my choice! For them occasion's where the bulky DSLR is too much, i feel that the incredibly versatile compact Canon Powershot SX220 HS would satisfy my demands from it. Just outlining its key specifications you can understand why:

• 12.1 Megapixel high sensitivity CMOS
• 14x Optical Zoom (28-392mm) with dynamic IS
• Canon DIGIC 4 processor
• Smart Auto Mode (intelligent 32 scenes detection) with advanced subject detection
• Manual Exposure Modes (P,S,A,M)
• Full HD movie
• Super Slow Motion Movie (240fps @ 320pixels or 120fps @ 640pixels)
• Creative auto scenes (Fish eye, Miniature, Toy Camera, Super Vivid & Poster effects)

Pros:


For me the Canon Powershot SX220 HS size and housing such a versatile 14x zoom is what impresses me most, covering such a large range from wide-angle to telephoto with a good image stabilizer is invaluable. Also, i find the image quality very good in detail and very accurate in colour rendition. It's ability to record in low light conditions & general response is improved due to its new CMOS sensor & DIGIC 4 processor. The Menu's are very easy to navigate and the Mode Wheel makes it quick & easy to operate. Canon have also improved the zoom operation from a rocker switch on the Canon Powershot SX210 IS to a toggle switch on the SX220 HS. The movie function is very easy to use with its instant record button, and i also enjoyed using the super slow motion movie (at 120fps@640 pixels). I also like the fact that Canon have not incorporated a GPS system into the SX220 HS (haven't found a vital application where GPS is necessary in photography). 


Cons:


Two very minor things actually, it would be nice if the in-built flash had a button to open it instead of popping up each time you turn the camera on, something like what the Panasonic Lumix LX5 has. It would also greatly improve the cameras demand amongst enthusiasts/ professionals looking for a small digital compact, if it had the ability to take pictures in RAW file format.


Our Verdict:

4.8 out of 5 


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