Canon Sx60hs Vs Sx70hs: The Ultimate Zoom Battle For Wildlife Photography

Overview

The SX60 HS and SX70 HS both feature impressive zoom ranges, but the SX70 HS offers a slightly wider focal length.
The SX60 HS has a 65x optical zoom lens, equivalent to a 21-1365mm range, while the SX70 HS has a 60x optical zoom lens, equivalent to a 21-1200mm range.
The SX70 HS has a slightly longer battery life, with a CIPA rating of 305 shots per charge compared to the SX60 HS’s 250 shots per charge.

The Canon PowerShot SX60 HS and SX70 HS are two popular superzoom cameras that have been highly regarded for their versatility, portability, and ease of use. However, discerning photographers often face the dilemma of which model to choose. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Canon SX60 HS and SX70 HS, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific photography needs.

Image Quality

The Canon SX60 HS features a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the SX70 HS boasts a slightly higher resolution of 20.3 megapixels. In most situations, the difference in resolution is negligible, and both cameras produce sharp and detailed images. However, the SX70 HS may have a slight edge in low-light conditions due to its improved image processing capabilities.

Zoom Range

The SX60 HS and SX70 HS both feature impressive zoom ranges, but the SX70 HS offers a slightly wider focal length. The SX60 HS has a 65x optical zoom lens, equivalent to a 21-1365mm range, while the SX70 HS has a 60x optical zoom lens, equivalent to a 21-1200mm range. This difference may not be significant for most users, but it can be advantageous for wildlife or sports photography, where capturing distant subjects is crucial.

Autofocus and Performance

The Canon SX60 HS and SX70 HS both utilize hybrid autofocus systems that combine contrast detection and phase detection for fast and accurate focusing. However, the SX70 HS benefits from improved autofocus algorithms, which result in quicker and more reliable focusing, especially in low-light conditions. Additionally, the SX70 HS has a higher continuous shooting rate of 10 frames per second compared to the SX60 HS’s 6.4 frames per second, making it more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.

Viewfinder and LCD Screen

Both the SX60 HS and SX70 HS feature an electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a vari-angle LCD screen. The EVF on the SX70 HS has a higher resolution of 2.36 million dots compared to the SX60 HS’s 922,000 dots, providing a clearer and more detailed view of the scene. The LCD screens on both cameras are 3 inches in size, but the SX70 HS has a slightly higher resolution of 1.04 million dots.

Video Capabilities

The Canon SX60 HS and SX70 HS both support full HD video recording at 1080p resolution. However, the SX70 HS offers a higher frame rate of 60 frames per second compared to the SX60 HS’s 30 frames per second. This higher frame rate allows for smoother and more natural-looking videos, especially when capturing fast-paced action.

Battery Life

The Canon SX60 HS uses a BP-511A battery, while the SX70 HS uses a newer BP-740 battery. The SX70 HS has a slightly longer battery life, with a CIPA rating of 305 shots per charge compared to the SX60 HS’s 250 shots per charge. However, both cameras can be used for extended periods without needing to recharge.

Other Features and Connectivity

The Canon SX60 HS and SX70 HS share several other features, including built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, allowing for easy sharing of photos and videos. Both cameras also have dedicated mode dials for quick and easy access to various shooting modes. The SX70 HS, however, has a newer DIGIC 8 image processor, which provides improved noise reduction and image quality.

Making the Right Choice

The choice between the Canon SX60 HS and SX70 HS ultimately depends on your specific photography needs and preferences. If you prioritize zoom range and low-light performance, the SX70 HS is the better option. If you prefer a slightly higher resolution sensor and a more affordable price point, the SX60 HS may be a better fit.

The Verdict

Both the Canon SX60 HS and SX70 HS are excellent superzoom cameras that offer versatility, portability, and ease of use. The SX70 HS has a slight edge in terms of image quality, autofocus performance, video capabilities, and battery life. However, the SX60 HS remains a capable and affordable option for those who do not require the most advanced features.