Canon’s Dueling Compacts: Sx740 Vs Ixus 285 – Which Reigns Supreme?

When it comes to compact cameras, Canon’s SX740 and IXUS 285 are two popular choices for photography enthusiasts. Both offer a range of features and capabilities, but which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Canon SX740 and IXUS 285, helping you make an informed decision.

Image Quality and Lens

The Canon SX740 boasts a 20.3MP CMOS sensor, while the IXUS 285 has a 16MP CMOS sensor. While both cameras offer sharp and detailed images, the SX740 has a slight edge in terms of resolution and low-light performance.

The SX740 features a versatile 24-960mm zoom lens, providing an impressive range for capturing wide-angle landscapes to distant subjects. On the other hand, the IXUS 285 has a more compact 28-112mm zoom lens, suitable for everyday photography and portraits.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting

The Canon SX740 incorporates a Hybrid CMOS AF III system with 9-point autofocus, ensuring fast and accurate focusing. It can capture up to 10 frames per second (fps) in burst mode, ideal for capturing moving subjects.

The IXUS 285 employs a simpler Contrast AF system with 1-point autofocus. While it’s less responsive than the SX740’s autofocus, it’s still capable of capturing clear images in most situations. The IXUS 285 can shoot up to 5 fps in burst mode.

Connectivity and Sharing

Both the Canon SX740 and IXUS 285 offer built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The SX740 has the added benefit of NFC (Near Field Communication), making it easier to connect to compatible devices.

Through the Canon Camera Connect app, you can remotely control the camera, transfer images wirelessly, and share them on social media.

Physical Design and Handling

The Canon SX740 has a larger and more ergonomic body compared to the IXUS 285. It features a comfortable grip and dedicated dials for quick adjustments. The IXUS 285 is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry around.

Battery Life and Storage

The Canon SX740 is powered by a rechargeable NB-13L battery that provides up to 265 shots per charge. The IXUS 285 uses a smaller NB-11LH battery that lasts for approximately 210 shots.

Both cameras support microSD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards for expandable storage.

Additional Features

The Canon SX740 offers several additional features that enhance its versatility, including:

• Optical Image Stabilizer (OIS): Minimizes camera shake for sharper images.
• Time-Lapse Movie: Creates time-lapse videos from a series of still images.
• Creative Filters: Adds artistic effects to images.

The IXUS 285 has fewer additional features, but it does include:

• Selfie Mode: Optimizes settings for self-portraits.
• Scene Modes: Pre-defined settings for different shooting scenarios.

In a nutshell: The Best Choice for Your Needs

Ultimately, the best choice between the Canon SX740 and IXUS 285 depends on your specific photography needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, zoom range, and fast autofocus, the SX740 is the superior option. If you prefer a compact and lightweight camera with basic functionality, the IXUS 285 is a suitable choice.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Which camera has better image quality?
A: The Canon SX740 has a higher resolution sensor and better low-light performance.

Q: Which camera has a longer zoom range?
A: The Canon SX740 has a 24-960mm zoom lens, while the IXUS 285 has a 28-112mm zoom lens.

Q: Which camera has faster autofocus?
A: The Canon SX740 has a faster and more accurate Hybrid CMOS AF III system.

Q: Which camera has better connectivity options?
A: Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, but the SX740 has the added benefit of NFC.

Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Canon SX740 has a longer battery life, providing up to 265 shots per charge.