Nikon Coolpix B500 Vs Canon Powershot Sx420: Battle Of The Zoom Lenses

In the realm of photography, superzoom cameras have carved a niche for themselves, offering unparalleled versatility and convenience. Two prominent players in this category are the Nikon Coolpix B500 and the Canon Powershot SX420. Both cameras boast impressive optical zoom capabilities and a range of features. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences and similarities between these two superzoom powerhouses, helping you make an informed decision.

Sensor and Image Quality

The Nikon Coolpix B500 features a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Canon Powershot SX420 sports a 20-megapixel CCD sensor. While the higher megapixel count of the SX420 suggests greater image resolution, sensor size and type also play a significant role in image quality.

In terms of low-light performance, the Coolpix B500’s larger sensor size (1/2.3 inches) provides an advantage over the SX420’s smaller sensor (1/2.9 inches). This means the B500 can capture images with less noise and better clarity in dimly lit conditions.

Optical Zoom Range

Both the Coolpix B500 and the Powershot SX420 offer exceptional optical zoom capabilities. The Coolpix B500 boasts a 40x optical zoom, equivalent to a 22.5-900mm focal length. The Powershot SX420, on the other hand, has a slightly shorter 42x optical zoom, translating to a 24-1008mm focal length.

While the difference in zoom range is minimal, the SX420’s slightly wider range at the telephoto end may provide a slight edge for capturing distant subjects. However, the Coolpix B500’s wider range at the wide-angle end allows for more flexibility in capturing landscapes or group shots.

Lens Quality

The quality of the lens is crucial in determining image sharpness and overall image quality. Both the Coolpix B500 and the Powershot SX420 utilize non-interchangeable lenses, which means you cannot swap them out for different lenses.

The Coolpix B500’s lens has a maximum aperture of f/3.0-6.5, while the Powershot SX420’s lens has a slightly wider maximum aperture of f/2.7-6.9. A wider maximum aperture allows for faster shutter speeds and better low-light performance.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting

Autofocus speed and accuracy are essential for capturing sharp images, especially in fast-paced situations. The Coolpix B500 utilizes a contrast-detect autofocus system, while the Powershot SX420 employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines contrast-detect and phase-detect autofocus.

In general, phase-detect autofocus is considered faster and more accurate than contrast-detect autofocus. This may give the SX420 an advantage in capturing moving subjects.

In terms of burst shooting, the Coolpix B500 can capture up to 7 frames per second (fps), while the Powershot SX420 can shoot at a slightly faster 10 fps. However, the SX420 has a smaller buffer size, limiting the number of consecutive shots you can take before the camera slows down.

Features and Handling

Both the Coolpix B500 and the Powershot SX420 offer a range of features to enhance your photography experience. The Coolpix B500 features a built-in pop-up flash, while the Powershot SX420 has a hot shoe for attaching an external flash.

The Coolpix B500 also has a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), which can be useful for composing shots in bright sunlight or when the LCD screen is difficult to see. The Powershot SX420 does not have an EVF, but it does have a fully articulating LCD screen that allows for more creative angles.

Both cameras offer a variety of shooting modes, including manual, aperture priority, shutter priority, and scene modes. They also have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily share your images with others.

Image Stabilization

Image stabilization is crucial for reducing camera shake and capturing sharp images, especially when using longer focal lengths. The Coolpix B500 features a hybrid image stabilization system that combines optical and electronic stabilization. The Powershot SX420, on the other hand, utilizes solely optical image stabilization.

In general, hybrid image stabilization systems are considered more effective than optical-only systems, as they can compensate for both camera shake and lens movement.

Battery Life

Battery life is an important consideration when choosing a camera, especially if you plan on taking it on extended trips. The Coolpix B500 is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides a battery life of approximately 210 shots per charge. The Powershot SX420 has a slightly shorter battery life of approximately 190 shots per charge.

Verdict: Nikon Coolpix B500 vs Canon Powershot SX420

The Nikon Coolpix B500 and Canon Powershot SX420 are both excellent superzoom cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Coolpix B500 offers a larger sensor, better low-light performance, and a built-in EVF. The Powershot SX420 has a slightly wider zoom range, faster autofocus, and a fully articulating LCD screen.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality and low-light performance, the Nikon Coolpix B500 is the better option. If you value a wider zoom range, faster autofocus, and a more versatile LCD screen, the Canon Powershot SX420 is a solid choice.

What You Need to Learn

Q1: Which camera has a better zoom range?

A1: The Canon Powershot SX420 has a slightly wider zoom range (24-1008mm) compared to the Nikon Coolpix B500 (22.5-900mm).

Q2: Which camera has better image quality?

A2: The Nikon Coolpix B500 has a larger sensor and better low-light performance, resulting in slightly better image quality.

Q3: Which camera has faster autofocus?

A3: The Canon Powershot SX420 has a hybrid autofocus system that combines contrast-detect and phase-detect autofocus, resulting in faster and more accurate autofocus.

Q4: Which camera has longer battery life?

A4: The Nikon Coolpix B500 has a slightly longer battery life (210 shots per charge) compared to the Canon Powershot SX420 (190 shots per charge).

Q5: Which camera is better for low-light photography?

A5: The Nikon Coolpix B500 has a larger sensor and better low-light performance, making it a better choice for low-light photography.