Face-off: Canon Powershot Sx740 Hs Vs Sony Cyber-shot Hx99 – The Ultimate Compact Zoom Comparison

In the world of photography, compact cameras with impressive zoom capabilities hold a special place. Two such powerhouses are the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99. These ultra-compact cameras pack a punch with their extended zoom ranges, making them ideal for capturing distant subjects or wildlife. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key features, performance, and advantages of both cameras to help you make an informed decision.

Sensor and Image Quality

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS boasts a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 features a 18.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor. Both sensors offer excellent image quality, producing sharp and detailed images with accurate colors. However, the SX740 HS has a slight edge in resolution, resulting in larger and more detailed images.

Zoom Range and Lens

The main attraction of these cameras lies in their impressive zoom capabilities. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS features a 40x optical zoom lens, covering a focal length range of 24-960mm (equivalent). On the other hand, the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 boasts an even more impressive 30x optical zoom lens, covering a focal length range of 24-720mm (equivalent). While the SX740 HS offers a wider maximum zoom range, the HX99’s shorter minimum focal length allows for wider-angle shots.

Image Stabilization

Both cameras incorporate effective image stabilization systems to minimize camera shake and ensure sharp images even at high zoom levels. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS utilizes a 5-axis Dynamic IS system, while the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 employs a 4-axis Optical SteadyShot system. Both systems effectively compensate for camera shake, allowing for handheld shots with minimal blur.

Connectivity and Features

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 offer a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. This enables easy sharing of images and remote control of the camera via a smartphone or tablet. Additionally, both cameras feature built-in pop-up flashes for low-light photography and a variety of shooting modes to cater to different scenarios.

Design and Ergonomics

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 are both compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry around. The SX740 HS features a traditional SLR-like design with a large handgrip, while the HX99 has a more streamlined and pocketable design. Both cameras offer a comfortable grip, ensuring steady handling during shooting.

Battery Life and Charging

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is powered by a rechargeable NB-13L battery, which provides up to 265 shots on a single charge. The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99, on the other hand, utilizes a rechargeable NP-BX1 battery, which offers up to 360 shots per charge. Both cameras support USB charging, allowing for convenient charging on the go.

Pros and Cons

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS:

• Pros:
• Wider zoom range (40x optical)
• Higher resolution (20.3 megapixels)
• Traditional SLR-like design with large handgrip
• Cons:
• Smaller battery life (265 shots)

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99:

• Pros:
• More compact and pocketable design
• Longer battery life (360 shots)
• Wider-angle lens (24mm minimum focal length)
• Cons:
• Narrower zoom range (30x optical)
• Lower resolution (18.2 megapixels)

Which Camera is Right for You?

The choice between the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize maximum zoom range and higher resolution, the SX740 HS is the better option. However, if you prefer a more compact design, longer battery life, and a wider-angle lens, the HX99 is the ideal choice.

Beyond the Comparison

In addition to the key differences outlined above, here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99:

• Video Quality: Both cameras offer Full HD video recording at 60p, but the SX740 HS has a slight edge in video stabilization.
• Burst Shooting: The SX740 HS offers a faster burst shooting speed (10 fps) compared to the HX99 (8 fps).
• Autofocus: The HX99 features a more advanced autofocus system with 315 focus points, while the SX740 HS has 99 focus points.
• Price: The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 are priced similarly, making the choice based on features and performance rather than cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which camera has a better image quality?
A: Both cameras offer excellent image quality, but the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS has a slight edge due to its higher resolution.

Q: Which camera is more compact?
A: The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 is more compact and pocketable than the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS.

Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX99 has a longer battery life (360 shots) compared to the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS (265 shots).