Canon PowerShot SX710 HS Pro Reviews

The PowerShot SX710 HS is a perfectly capable camera for those who just want a point and shoot with a long zoom range, but it can't shoot raw files, which will limit its appeal for enthusiasts.

The Canon PowerShot SX710 HS is a speedy superzoom with a sharp lens, but image quality is an issue at even moderate ISO sensitivities.

Canon has increased the number of megapixels in this model to 20 megapixels, perhaps to "beat" the 18 megapixel TZ60 and match the 20 megapixel HX60, whilst other companies have reduced from 18 to 12 megapixels (TZ70), as an increase in megapixels may look good on paper, but can reduce image quality, particularly with an increase in noise. You also end up with larger file sizes, which can result in slower operation. The camera also has reduced battery life compared to the previous model, and loses the high speed video modes, so overall there is little reason to choose this over the SX700, which is cheaper, has better battery life and high speed video. Perhaps in a shop a 20 megapixel camera looks better than a 16 megapixel camera, and whilst there is little additional noise from the 20 megapixel sensor, there is also very little compelling reason to buy this over a 16 megapixel camera, in fact we'd recommend you buy the SX700 while still available instead. However, saying all of this, the SX710 provides decent quality images and a range of features that will appeal to both advanced photographers and happy snappers alike. Image quality is good for a camera of this type, although corners can be a little soft at the wide-angle end of the zoom. The image stabilisation works well and video quality is very good also. Wireless connectivity features make sharing images on the go a pleasure and the remote control feature is ideal.