Canon PowerShot SX720 HS
A pocket-sized, connected travel zoom camera for those who want a versatile lens and powerful features to take on every trip
This connected and pocketable travel zoom camera is packed with powerful imaging technology and a massive 40x zoom lens for capturing distant detail – so you can travel light and capture stunning images and movies wherever you go.
Auto Focus Technology Contrast Detection Aspect Ratio 16:9 Display Resolution Maximum 5184 x 3888 Photo Sensor Size 1/2.3-inch Photo Sensor Technology CMOS Effective Still Resolution 20.3 Maximum Webcam Image Resolution 20.3 MP Frame Rate 60 FPS White balance settings Auto Self Timer Duration 10 seconds JPEG quality level Fine, Normal Camera Flash Integrated Flash Image Stabilization Optical Flash Modes Description Automatic Supported Image Format JPEG Video Capture Format MP4 Video Capture Resolution HD 720p Video Standard MPEG-4 Video Output Interface HDMI, USB
Batteries Required? Yes Number of Batteries 1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included) Are Batteries Included Yes Rechargeable Battery Included No Battery Cell Composition Lithium Ion Battery Description NB-13L Battery Weight 45.36 Grams Target Gender Unisex Compatible Devices Canon EF mount devices Connectivity Technology USB, HDMI Continuous Shooting Speed 5.9 Controller Type Remote Wireless Communication Standard 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g Wireless Communication Technology BuiltIn; 802.11b/g/n with NFC Flash Memory Type SDXC Memory Slots Available 1 Special Feature Waterproof Water Resistance Level Not Water Resistant Skill Level Professional Shock Resistant FALSE Form Factor Compact Hardware Interface AV Port Audio Recording Yes Photo Sensor Technology CMOS
Lens Type Wide Angle Optical Zoom 40 x Digital Zoom 4 x Maximum Aperture 3.5 Millimeters Zoom Type Optical Zoom Camera Lens Description Wide Angle Compatible Mountings Canon EF Focus Type Auto Focus Maximum Focal Length 960 Millimeters
Max Shutter Speed 15 seconds Min Shutter Speed 15 seconds Exposure Control Type manual /automatic Shooting Modes M, Av, Tv, P, Live View Control, Hybrid Auto, Auto, Creative, Sports, Portrait, Smile, Wink and Face Self-Timer, Handheld Night Scene, Low Light, Fish-eye Effect, Miniature, Toy Camera, Soft Focus, B&W, Super Vivid, Poster, Fireworks, Movie modes
Viewfinder Magnification Optical Viewfinder Type fixed LCD Screen Size 3 Inches Display Type LCD Dots per screen area 5184 x 3888 dots
Auto Focus Technology Contrast Detection
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Display Resolution Maximum 5184 x 3888
Photo Sensor Size 1/2.3-inch
Photo Sensor Technology CMOS
Effective Still Resolution 20.3
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution 20.3 MP
Frame Rate 60 FPS
White balance settings Auto
Self Timer Duration 10 seconds
JPEG quality level Fine, Normal
Camera Flash Integrated Flash
Image Stabilization Optical
Flash Modes Description Automatic
Supported Image Format JPEG
Video Capture Format MP4
Video Capture Resolution HD 720p
Video Standard MPEG-4
Video Output Interface HDMI, USB
Batteries Required? Yes
Number of Batteries 1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included)
Are Batteries Included Yes
Rechargeable Battery Included No
Battery Cell Composition Lithium Ion
Battery Description NB-13L
Battery Weight 45.36 Grams
Target Gender Unisex
Compatible Devices Canon EF mount devices
Connectivity Technology USB, HDMI
Continuous Shooting Speed 5.9
Controller Type Remote
Wireless Communication Standard 802.11n, 802.11b, 802.11g
Wireless Communication Technology BuiltIn; 802.11b/g/n with NFC
Flash Memory Type SDXC
Memory Slots Available 1
Special Feature Waterproof
Water Resistance Level Not Water Resistant
Skill Level Professional
Shock Resistant FALSE
Form Factor Compact
Hardware Interface AV Port
Audio Recording Yes
Photo Sensor Technology CMOS
Lens Type Wide Angle
Optical Zoom 40 x
Digital Zoom 4 x
Maximum Aperture 3.5 Millimeters
Zoom Type Optical Zoom
Camera Lens Description Wide Angle
Compatible Mountings Canon EF
Focus Type Auto Focus
Maximum Focal Length 960 Millimeters
Max Shutter Speed 15 seconds
Min Shutter Speed 15 seconds
Exposure Control Type manual /automatic
Shooting Modes M, Av, Tv, P, Live View Control, Hybrid Auto, Auto, Creative, Sports, Portrait, Smile, Wink and Face Self-Timer, Handheld Night Scene, Low Light, Fish-eye Effect, Miniature, Toy Camera, Soft Focus, B&W, Super Vivid, Poster, Fireworks, Movie modes
Viewfinder Magnification Optical
Viewfinder Type fixed LCD
Screen Size 3 Inches
Display Type LCD
Dots per screen area 5184 x 3888 dots
Warranty Type 12
Mfg Warranty Description Labor 1 year
Manufacturer Warranty Description Parts 1 year
Model Name Canon PowerShot SX720 HS
Brand Canon
Model Number PowerShot SX720 HS Black
Best Sellers Rank #38,474 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #257 in Digital Point & Shoot Cameras
ASIN B01BV14I40
Number of Items 1
Color Black
Included Components PowerShot SX720 HS^Wrist Strap WS-800^Battery Pack NB-13L^Battery Charger CB-2LH^Printed Matter Unit
Item Dimensions LxWxH 2.51 x 1.41 x 4.32 inches
Item Weight 0.25 Kilograms
Compatible Mountings Canon EF
Aspect Ratio 16:9
Photo Sensor Technology CMOS
Supported File Format MPEG-4
Image Stabilization Optical
Maximum Focal Length 960 Millimeters
Optical Zoom 40 x
Maximum Aperture 3.5 Millimeters
Brand Canon
Model Name Canon PowerShot SX720 HS
Powerful 40x Optical Zoom with Intelligent IS helps optimize image stabilization for virtually shake-free images. Built-in Wi-Fi * and NFC** allows for easy sharing and transferring of images and videos. 20.3 Megapixel*** CMOS sensor with DIGIC 6 Image Processor helps deliver stunning image quality even in low light. Capture spectacular 1080p Full HD video at 60p with stereo sound. Large 3.0-inch LCD (approx. 922,000 dots) allows easy viewing even from a wide angle.
Product Description
Description to come at a later date. Current estimated date to receive content is Thursday, February 11, 2016
From the Manufacturer
Compact in Size. Long in Possibilities.
Family vacations, parties, and special moments – the PowerShot SX720 HS camera is ready for it all. Its fantastically versatile 40x Optical Zoom (24–960mm) means you can capture close-up portraits of your family, landmarks in the distance and virtually everything in between.
While you’re away, keep those at home updated on your travels by sharing your shots with the PowerShot SX720 HS’s built-in Wi-Fi* and NFC** connectivity. Your memories are precious, so whether you’re snapping a picture of the sunset, capturing fun outings with friends or shooting a home movie to treasure for a lifetime, a 20.3 Megapixel◊ CMOS sensor and the DIGIC 6 Image Processor combine to bring you stunning images and spectacular 1080p Full HD video. At the end of each day, you can enjoy your Story Highlights as the PowerShot SX720 HS automatically compiles your images and video◊◊ into a mini highlight reel complete with music and effects. All these features and more are beautifully packaged in a slim design, resulting in a camera ideal for travelers, families and anyone who wants to capture the important moments in life.
* Compatible with iOS versions 7.1/8.4/9.0, Android smartphone and tablet versions 4.0/4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon Camera Connect app. This app helps enable you to upload images to social media services. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has no responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app.
** Compatible with Android smartphone and tablet versions 4.0/4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1.
◊ Image processing may cause a decrease in the number of pixels.
◊◊ Videos must be shot in Hybrid Auto or Short Clip.
Powerful 40x Optical Zoom with Intelligent IS helps optimize image stabilization for virtually shake-free images.
40x Optical Zoom (24–960mm)
With the PowerShot SX720 HS camera in hand, you’ll be impressed at the zooming capabilities of this slim, compact digital camera. The amazing 40x Optical Zoom lens is newly designed, packing high zoom power into a slim design to get you down on the field, high atop a skyscraper, deep into a landscape and much more. The camera’s advanced technology helps ensure that images and videos are captured in outstanding quality, with Intelligent IS that chooses the stabilization method that matches the shooting conditions, so images are virtually shake-free in a wide variety of situations.
Intelligent IS
Intelligent IS analyzes camera movement and applies a suitable shake correction method for the shooting situation. For stills, the system selects from Normal IS, Panning IS, Macro (Hybrid) IS and Tripod modes. When shooting video, the system selects from Dynamic IS, Powered IS, Macro (Hybrid) IS and Active Tripod IS modes. With Intelligent IS, you can concentrate on image capture, letting the camera make effective IS settings to help capture a steady image.
Still Image Shooting Normal IS Corrects for a wide range of camera movement when shooting stills. Panning IS Panning motion is detected so that IS does not interfere with desired camera movement. Macro (Hybrid) IS Corrects for shift-type camera shake, which typically occurs in macro (close-up) shooting. Tripod When tripod use is detected, the Image Stabilizer is stopped because it is not needed. Video Recording Dynamic IS Effective for video shooting at wide-angle focal lengths, eliminating the unwanted shaking that typically occurs while walking. Powered IS Compensates for hand movement when shooting video at the telephoto end of the zoom range, where camera shake is magnified. Macro (Hybrid) IS Corrects for motion blur that is likely to occur when shooting video while walking. Also compensates for the shift-type camera shake common in macro shooting. Active Tripod IS When shooting video while using a tripod, the image stabilization is active to compensate for slight camera shake.
Built-in Wi-Fi** and NFC◊ allows for easy sharing and transferring of images and videos.
Built-in Wi-Fi** Technology Makes Sharing Quick and Easy
Built-in Wi-Fi technology allows for on-the-go convenience when you want to share your photos and videos with friends and family. Easily post your images to select social networking and media sites – Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, and Google Drive – through CANON iMAGE GATEWAY* directly from your PowerShot SX720 HS camera, or save them to the online photo album to share anytime, anywhere. The camera can also connect directly to both compatible iOS and Android devices**, and upload images via the free Canon Camera Connect app** without a computer. You can control the destination of your uploads to share with everyone or to select groups, and even add comments. Sharing video is also easy with Wi-Fi equipped PowerShot cameras, which record video using the easy-to-share MP4 format. Wi-Fi capability makes posting in real time possible, so you can keep everyone up to date with photos and video even as events unfold. Wi-Fi technology also allows you to transfer images to other Wi-Fi equipped PowerShot cameras or print your photos directly to a PictBridge (Wireless LAN) certified printer. Thanks to the newly added Wi-Fi Button, you can now connect in both Shooting mode and Playback mode for quick and easy operation. You can even turn on the camera and connect at the same time with just one press of the button, helping you get right to sharing and managing your files when you like.
Built-in NFC◊ (Near Field Communication) Technology
PowerShot digital cameras with built-in NFC (Near Field Communication) technology provide fast connectivity with a single tap. Simply touch the NFC icon on your camera to your compatible Android™ device◊, and the Camera Connect app will launch automatically for quick, easy sharing of your images. Built-in NFC technology also makes it simpler to install the app. If the app hasn’t been installed yet, once you touch the devices together for the first time, the download screen will display automatically. Simply touch the camera against an NFC-equipped device with the Canon Camera Connect app** installed, and a Wi-Fi connection is established – no camera operations required. Even if your camera is off, NFC turns the camera on and establishes the connection (confirming the camera’s nickname and privacy settings before the first connection is required).
Image Sync Function
In addition to wirelessly transferring photos and videos through CANON iMAGE GATEWAY* to your computer, you can now view and download them from your compatible smartphone.# Take them where you like, when you like, and use your familiar smartphone operations to view and share them.
Remote Shooting with the Camera Connect App**
With the built-in Wi-Fi on the PowerShot SX720 HS camera, you can use your compatible smartphone or tablet** to remotely control the camera. Simply connect wirelessly to your device and access the free Canon Camera Connect app**. Your device will show a live image of the camera’s capture – ideal for a commemorative group photo, wildlife shots and all kinds of situations. The camera’s versatile 40x Optical Zoom, flash, self-timer and shutter are all under your control, with images being saved to your camera as usual.
* One-time registration is required on CANON iMAGE GATEWAY online photo album.
** Compatible with iOS versions 7.1/8.4/9.0, Android smartphone and tablet versions 4.0/4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon Camera Connect app. This app helps enable you to upload images to social media services. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has no responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app.
◊ Compatible with Android smartphone and tablet versions 4.0/4.1/4.2/4.3/4.4/5.0/5.1.
# With the download of the free Canon Online Photo Album app. The images and videos utilizing Image Sync can be viewed and downloaded with your smartphone or tablet within 30 days.
20.3 Megapixel* CMOS sensor with DIGIC 6 Image Processor helps deliver stunning image quality even in low light.
20.3 Megapixel* High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor
The PowerShot SX720 HS camera employs a 20.3 Megapixel* High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor, which delivers powerful imaging performance and is optimized for use in compact cameras. Utilizing a sophisticated light-capturing design, it provides high sensitivity for high ISO capture with reduced noise. It’s also incredibly fast, capable of rapidly capturing and moving image data to the processor, as well as enabling fast continuous shooting and fast autofocus.
* Image processing may cause a decrease in the number of pixels.
DIGIC 6 Image Processor
The PowerShot SX720 HS camera is equipped with the DIGIC 6 Image Processor, which helps boost image quality in both stills and video. Improved light sensitivity allows for higher resolution with less noise when shooting in dark conditions, and Dynamic IS detects and compensates for tilt and parallel movement (shift blur) to help create video that’s virtually free of distortion. The processor also enhances the performance capabilities of the PowerShot SX720 HS camera, enabling high-speed, high-quality continuous still image shooting at up to 5.9 frames per second. And video recording is impressive as ever, as the DIGIC 6 Image Processor enables Full HD at 60p, as well as MP4 recording. Highly compressed MP4 video not only preserves space on your memory card but also improves playback on compatible mobile devices. Plus, with MF Peaking, made possible thanks to the DIGIC 6 Image Processor, you’ll have a pro-level focusing tool at your disposal.
Capture spectacular 1080p Full HD video at 60p with stereo sound.
The PowerShot SX720 HS camera is designed to make beautiful, creative video capture easy and fun. Image quality is luminous and lifelike in 1080p Full HD, with selectable frame rates of 60p, 30p and 24p to match the situation and end use. MP4 format, ideal for sharing and playing on mobile devices, is also available. Dynamic IS offers 5-axis image stabilization that can correct strong camera shake that can occur when you shoot while running or walking backward.
Large 3.0-inch LCD (approx. 922,000 dots) allows easy viewing even from a wide angle.
The large, 3.0-inch high-resolution LCD screen makes it easy to both frame and review your shots. A resolution of approximately 922,000 dots helps make even small details clear, and images are viewable even from a wide angle, so showing others what you’ve captured is easy, too.
Zoom Framing Assist allows the camera to automatically zoom in or out while following the movement of your subject and help it to remain in focus.
With its 40x Optical Zoom lens, the PowerShot SX720 HS camera has the telephoto reach to capture subjects a long distance away. At maximum telephoto, however, it can be challenging to track a moving subject. The Zoom Framing Assist seek function makes it much easier to use the camera’s powerful zoom lens. When you press and hold the Zoom Framing Assist button, the camera will automatically zoom out to include a wider angle of view, enabling you to easily locate your moving subject. Once you find it, releasing the button will cause the lens to return to its original zoom position, intelligently keeping the subject in focus until you’re ready to shoot and capture the perfect close-up moment. You can even make zoom adjustments while the button is pressed, with an animated assist frame that makes viewing easy. When the button is released, the lens will return to the adjusted zoom position.
Zoom Framing Assist offers a seek assist function that detects when you’re panning (for instance, to search for the location of a soccer player) and automatically zooms out to help; stop panning, and the zoom returns to its original position. Zoom Framing Assist keeps your subject’s face the same size in your frame no matter how they move. Tap the Zoom Framing Assist function button to detect your subject’s face. As your subject retreats and advances the camera automatically zooms in and out so their face remains the same size. It’s especially useful for capturing the expressions of fast-moving children. The feature has been further enhanced by letting you choose the subject’s size: choices include face, upper body, whole body, manual or off for superior assistance and control. And, for even more convenience, all Zoom Framing Assist functions are also available when shooting video.
Story Highlights enables the camera to automatically compile images and videos* from a certain day or event into a mini highlight reel with music and effects.
View your still images and video* as a fun short story with the Story Highlights feature on the PowerShot SX720 HS camera. Improved for convenience, you can choose to have the camera create this reel automatically by using advanced algorithms to classify your images according to date, event or people, then compiling a short video of approximately three minutes** with suitable background music and color effects applied. You can also customize your Story Highlights reel for a fun, unique video. Story Highlights BGM lets you add background music (choose from three pre-loaded songs) to the clips that Story Highlights automatically generates, for a new level of emotive expression. It’s all done in camera, without the need for any additional software. Easily access and enjoy your Story Highlights – simply press the Story Highlights button to start creating your highlight album. The Story Highlights album can be saved to the camera’s memory card for quick replay and also shared using the PowerShot SX720 HS camera’s built-in Wi-Fi technology.
* Videos must be shot in Hybrid Auto or Short Clip.
** Length of highlight video varies according to the photos and videos added to the Story Highlights album.
Creative Shot mode uses composition, color and lighting from your original image to create unique images with an artistic flair.
Not only is the PowerShot SX720 HS camera a stylish powerhouse, the camera also enables you to easily create artistic images with Creative Shot mode. In Creative Shot mode, the camera captures the original composition, automatically produces and saves five additional copies of the image and uses advanced Canon technologies to apply any of 46 filter options based on the individual scene, subject and exposure. Filter choices are grouped into Retro, Monochrome, Special and Natural categories to make exploring the world of artistic photography fun and easy, or you can simply select Auto to access the full range of effects. With Creative Shot mode, the result can lead to stunning artistic photos that are ideal for sharing.
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Michael Dorenzo –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Easy to use, I owned one before and liked it.
This little camera is compact and simple, takes great photos.
2 people found this helpful
Colleen GreeneColleen Greene –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Good little camera
I had another camera exactly like this only red for a few years which I loved. Unfortunately while kayaking it got wet. My husband offered to get me a new camera and I loved this model so ordered the same one. I am into taking bird pics and make greeting cards. Sometimes when you try to use the zoom it takes a while to engage but it takes good photos.
One person found this helpful
Dave LaBarge –
3.0 out of 5 stars
First Canon digital camera, not sure if I’d buy another.
The Canon is OK, that’s about it.I purchased it to replace an older Sony digital camera that began to have focusing problems. However, this camera seems to be a bit slow for focusing for a much newer and higher end camera. Also, the flash seems able to be easily damaged due to the pop up design. Quite a number of times when I popped up the flash it never flashed. The camera should have a “forced flash” feature. The amount of time to “recycle” to take another pic with flash appears to be lengthy even with a fully charged battery.I find the camera difficult to use one handed whereas I’ve never problem with others. While pushing the picture button the top of the camera your index finger will inadvertently hit the “arrow” or the picture playback button. At other times it also rotated the round button from auto to the hybrid auto button while trying to take pics with one hand. It gets annoying.Otherwise most pics come out fine without problems.
2 people found this helpful
Stephen P. Hutson –
5.0 out of 5 stars
SX720- Great Camera!
This is my first Amazon review after many purchases.I researched camera’s for weeks. Including the Sony with the View Finder. Even tried both in the store.The Sony felt like a cheap toy. The view finder was a good idea, but you really had to strain to seeanything through it. I compared the zoom and the Canon completely blew away the Sony also.I really don’t need a flip screen or a view finder. So I purchased this camera.Its completely fantastic. And I am shocked people would say cameras in this range are no better than cellphone camera’s with optical zoom. This camera takes incredible pics. And yes, the zoom is nuts tooIf you are debating like I was. Don’t listen to the silliness about GPS and view finders, etc etc.And take the plunge and buy this camera. You will not be disappointed!
12 people found this helpful
Diane Sala –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Good Camera
I purchased this camera a few months ago and really have not used it yet. Just fooling with it. I like the features on it but it does not come with a booklet. You have to download the manual to put on your phone or ipad etc. Canon does not print a booklet any longer (I called). I had a tough time changing the language but finally figured it out. It is lightweight and comes with the proper cords. You have to purchase the memory cards but easy to find.
Pedro Guy –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Superior pocket camera
I normally use an interchangeable lens SLR for high quality photos, but for situations where the SLR camera bag is too cumbersome, this little camera makes a good substitute. The images are sharp, the zoom range is impressive, and the macro button adds versatility. The image stabilization function makes it very easy to zoom in without losing the subject, which was a problem with my previous all-in-one camera. This one does have trouble with super-bright images–like when the sun is behind the subject, or just out of frame–but that’s the only condition I’ve run into so far that it doesn’t handle well. All things considered, I’m very happy with this camera and expect to continue using it for some time!
S. A. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Updated review!!! Camera for Japan only
I just received this camera and I am very upset that I, as well, received a camera that is NOT intended for sale outside of Japan and that it has NO warranty!!!! So why is it that these cameras are sold here on Amazon???? The language is Japan when you turn the camera on and the manual even has no English version!! Returning it tomorrow!Update: I gave this camera another “shot” and ordered it again but this time from BuzzPhoto! A so much better experience! This camera is made in China but was set in English. And wow does it take amazing pictures! Even in low light the pictures come out clear. I am very happy that I did not give up on this camera.
3 people found this helpful
Bergheil –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Worth every penny!
As a bicycle tourer and enthusiastic point and shoot amateur photographer, I look for maximum performance in the smallest package. I found that in the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS. It is a little bigger and heavier than other compact digital cameras but the advantages you get from it easily make up for this. Between this camera and my iPhone, I am as compact as possible. I can capture quality images, wirelessly transfer them with the Canon Connect app to my phone and then send them to family and friends. The fantastic zoom gives me the ability to reach out and grab the shots which were not possible with my previous camera. The Super Vivid mode can turn a boring dim sunset into a print you are proud to show to others. I almost feel guilty when I receive compliments on the photos as the camera did it not me.
21 people found this helpful
K.M.K.M. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fantastic Camera for Nature Lovers!
My fiancé got me this camera for Christmas. I love taking pictures of birds so he got me this camera because of it’s super zoom, and other high quality features. I am in love with it!!! I can take close-up pictures of nature from very far away and see so many details that I cannot see with my naked eye. The photos I’m sharing for this review are taken in “Auto Mode.” The camera has many different settings, including Manuel. There is much to learn. I’d say it is user-friendly but definitely provides new, passionate photographers with opportunities for improving their photography skills and fine-tuning. If you do not play around with all of its built-in high-tech features you are definitely missing out! I highly recommend this camera.
3 people found this helpful
Elizabeth Harlin –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fantastic Features on Canon SX270
This camera has so many features it will take a while to get used to it but I hope to have it down by the time I take my trip to Europe in May. It’s a light weight, compact, camera with outstanding 40x zoom. The one issue I have is the manual discusses using the keyboard that you can get up on the camera screen, but does not tell you how to get it up. Hopefully that will be written in later instructions I have not read yet. I cannot give a review of the battery life or durability because I just got the camera yesterday. However, it certainly looks durable.
G. Burnett –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Great travel cam for the price!
Like others, I upgraded from this from the SX260HS. I live on a sailboat and upgraded for the 40x optical zoom. I am very amateur and just snap pics that are later shrunk to 400 Kb and posted on a blog, so the fact that this camera doesn’t shoot massive RAW files didn’t bother me. I love how it can go from wide-angle to ultra-zoom — perfect for travel! I find I tend to shoot a lot in LIVE mode, with two clicks up on ‘vivid’ for my outdoor landscape shots, as it produces a more subtle look right out of the camera than just upping the saturation in Photoshop afterwards. This camera is also better in low-light than my old camera, although it doesn’t come close to a DSLR with its massive lens, which is expected. But if you are walking around a dark cave or cathedral without a tripod, setting it on 2-second self timer to reduce shaking when you press the button and leaning your hand against a rock while it fires a pic without flash results in much better shots than with the old version.I have only two complaints. The first is the flash. My old 260SX was annoying as well in the fact that the flash came up right under your finger while you held the camera. This camera has the same location problem, which I can deal with, but my flash stopped smoothly popping up after just two weeks of use. Now I literally have to pry it up. It’s possible I got some dirt or something in the mechanism, but I can’t find anything. This flash seems more complex and breakable. I don’t use flash much, so this is not a deal breaker. The other problem is the autofocus. It is quite touchy without a tripod. Even without zooming out a lot one has to hold the camera quite still to get the focus to slowly come to a decision, regardless of “image stabilization”. I find I have to take two or three shots to guarantee I have a focused one. I also often have trouble getting it to focus on what I want — if a rope close to me is in the foreground of a pic of a boat far away, it prefers to focus on the tiny rope in the corner of the giant autofocus area, instead of the big boat, despite my attempts to lock the focus on something else. This may be my inexperience or just what happens with a pocket cam versus a DSLR that’s five times the price. Regardless, I still make this my go-to travel cam as it has to be the best compact cam for travel given its amazing 40x optical zoom (I even use it as post-hoc binoculars to see the names of boats from far away!) and I am very pleased with my purchase.
15 people found this helpful
JunkBMW –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Canon’s best snapshot camera yet!
I’m no pro, viewing this latest Canon as a more full featured point-n-shoot. Yes, you’ll see some fringing when dark and light meet, but if you want pro quality get a pro camera and pay accordingly. This thing has been great on vacations, where I usually leave it hanging from a lanyard around my neck or even in a front shirt pocket so it’s handy for taking spur of the moment shots. The super zoom is pretty amazing for getting close, detail shots, especially in this day and age when so many attractions are using fences to keep the unwashed masses away. The preview screen on the back is bright enough to use in full sun, and the controls are well laid out and mostly follow the same conventions of previous Canon cameras I’ve owned. Some of the features are buried in menus that are not at all intuitive, so I keep a copy of the owner’s manual on the iPhone for reference.The camera is more battery hungry than previous models, and charging seems to take longer as the battery is bigger. The good news is that it will charge off the Canon version of the USB cable, though it seems to want to be nearly fully discharged before it will trigger the charging mode. So now for the first time ever I’m keeping a spare battery and using the wall wart charger for topping up.The other issue is the lanyard ring, which is so small and poorly positioned it is very difficult to get anything larger than the small thread like end of the supplied hand lanyard through. I finally managed to find a 4mm split ring to fit it, but it doesn’t swivel freely. It works well enough, but it’s not “right”.At the end of the day this is a great snapshot camera, providing detailed 20 Mb images aided by that wonderful 40x super zoom lens. In other words, just what I was looking for.
22 people found this helpful
Edward TorpyEdward Torpy –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Amazing Travel Zoom
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I’ve been buying Canon PowerShot digital cameras since the first Powershot Digital ELPH (S100) came out in May 2000. I’ve always placed a very high premium on small, light cameras that allow me to take photos while I travel without making me feel like a working photographer out on assignment. So when I was looking to upgrade my 4 year old PowerShot ELPH 310 HS
Canon PowerShot ELPH 310 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 8x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom Lens and Full 1080p HD Video (Purple)
, I narrowed my choices between the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS (Black) with 12x Optical Zoom and Built-In Wi-Fi
and this new megazoom camera (Powershot SX720 HS). The ELPH 360 is nearly the same size and weight as my old ELPH 310, but has the advantage of a 12x zoom vs a 8x zoom. Initially, I thought that anything more than 15x or 20x would be overkill because I thought it would be impossible to hold the camera steady enough for a clear photo or video that would not be shaking all over the place. But now that cell phone cameras are so good, I thought it was time to see what these megazooms can do with their image stabilization. And all I can say is “wow”! The attached video was shot hand-held and zooms in all the way to 40x. NOTE: Amazon has horrible degraded the picture quality of this video, but you can still see how steady the picture is even when zoomed in all the way. (I was leaning against a wall to help steady my shot.) The attached pics show the new SX720 compared to the old ELPH 310 (which is very similiar in size to the ELPH 360).
226 people found this helpful
DEBORAH SHELLEY –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great so far. Zoom and close-ups are fantastic.
Very pleased after owning it for 1 month. Big vacation trip, took 2,000 pics so far. So I’ve used all the basic features, but not advanced yet.Here’s what I love: Zoom is great. Stabilization is pretty darn good (at 40X zoom a some % of pictures are still blurry, but many are crisp, and that’s way better than my old camera). Natural colors came out great (landscapes & flowers). People came out great in natural light (but not flash). It has a “Sports mode” that takes pictures rapid-fire as long as your finger is on the shutter … I never had that before. (drawback is that I had 500 pics from a whale-watch cruise 🙂 Movies were good, and I could edit (shorten) them right on the camera. Close-ups were great, even without putting it in macro mode. I did experiment a tiny bit with manual overrides, and so far so good.Drawbacks: Not happy with the flash. It seems to wash out the subjects a little. But most pictures come out ok without flash. Bigger problem, pointing anywhere into the sun creates glare/spots/rings on the picture. I didn’t like that I can’t force it to flash in the normal Auto mode (to illuminate the foreground, for instance).Neutral observations: it’s not tiny, but will fit in a (baggy) pocket if necessary. Wish a spare battery were cheaper … battery lasted maybe 400 pictures on average, plenty for a wedding, not enough for a safari. Controls seem logical. The manual that comes with it looks thick, but it’s just the basics (in multiple languages). Any advanced stuff requires the online manual.
5 people found this helpful
AZ –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very durable and takes great photos!
I bought this camera twice. The first time I only had it a few short months before it bounced out of its case while my horse tried to buck me off. I went back to look when I realized it was gone, but couldn’t find it. I bought the same camera again to replace it. Over a year later, a neighbor found the original camera. It was trashed. It had been run over by farm machinery and stepped on by cows for a year. The screens are shattered beyond repair. BUT-and this is why I am giving it five stars- The SD card survived and I salvaged all my photos off of it. I plugged it in and it is currently charging its battery for me (Which I will keep for my second camera). This thing has been left out in the elements for OVER A YEAR. I am impressed. I also bought this case for it: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004INWL2K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 so it would never get lost again. I would recommend it if you are looking for a case.In terms of performance, I am not a photographer and I don’t use any of the fancy settings, but I love it. It is compact while still having excellent zoom. I do have it cleaned about once a year because dust gets behind the lens, but as I use this thing everyday in very dirty conditions I do not fault the camera. All in all a great buy!
Traditional CatholicTraditional Catholic –
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Great Camera with a Fantastic Zoom!
Here is what I like:~Very good photo quality, with sharp detail and accurate colors~Good video quality, with only a little noise from the zoom motor.~Flash evenly distributes light~Image Stabilizer is very effective, for both photos and videos~Full manual controls are available (photos only)~Menus are very easy to use~Plenty of features~40x zoom is the longest I’ve ever seen in a camera that can fit in your pocket!~Canon’s unique “Zoom Assist” feature is very helpful when I’m photographing birds that are constantly flying out of my screen’s view.~LCD screen is big and clear~”ECO” mode will turn off the camera’s screen after the it’s not been used for awhile and bring it back on at the press of any button; that’s greatfor saving battery power! It can be turned on or off.~Video record button is conveniently placed on the top of the camera.Here is what I don’t like:~There is no panorama mode, which is surprising because most other cameras have one. I do miss having it, but it can be overlooked.~The “Sport” mode is useless because although most cameras’ sport modes boost the shutter speed to help you capture fast-moving subjects, all this one does is turn on continuous shooting, which is already available in the other modes! That doesn’t make any sense, but it’s not a big problem because I can set shutter speed manually in Tv mode.Overall, there are way more good points than bad, and I am so happy I chose this camera!J. M. B.
136 people found this helpful
apav –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Seems to be working okay
I got this PowerShot because it took better photos than my old PowerShot. Unfortunately, this camera will not display movies on the screen. You get a “Incompatible JPEG” message. Neither Canon Community nor JustAnswer could give me a solution. JustAnswer said my files were corrupt or unsupported. NOT! Here is my solution, but I don’t know why it works: when the “incompatible” message is on the screen, press the FUNCSET button, then select “Play Linked Digest Movie.” The movies will run on the screen. This also works when “SET” appears in the upper left corner of the screen, with or without the JPEG message. After writing this review, I still had problems viewing photos on the camera, so I sent the camera, battery, and memory card to Canon Service (before doing so, I copied all photos to my laptop). Canon Service’s report said the camera was working normally – no charge. I got everything back, but the photos had been erased, presumably through reformatting. I prefer to leave my photos on my camera, so I can share them with friends. After a while, I copy them to my laptop and delete them from the camera. I’ve taken a few new photos with the camera, and I haven’t had problems viewing them. I’ll be taking more tomorrow at the zoo. This is just to let other buyers know what to do, in case they encounter the same issue.
12 people found this helpful
Duncan –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best subcompact super zoom out there!
I was trying to decide between the Canon SX710 and the Nikon S9900, both being 30x zoom, and leaning towards the Canon, but was fortunate in seeing that Canon was about to release a 40x zoom in the SX720 HS. I am delighted with the SX720. The screen is beautiful – as clear as an actual photograph and the zoom is just amazing. The built in electronic 2x converter makes that an 80x zoom with even a 160x possible digitally. The software is just amazing – the camera can even take pictures by itself if a designated face in the picture smiles or winks! I primarily use the “Auto” setting but every other conceivable option is available – shutter or aperture priority, manual just being a few. I really like the separate button for HD video too. It has an option to take about a 4 second video before each still shot it you want. It then collects these video shorts into a monthly album. All in all it is a beautiful camera, light and sub compact as well, so I can carry it at all times. It fits perfectly in the hand and has a pop up flash to reduce red eye. I highly recommend it for those like me who enjoy super zooming.
167 people found this helpful
C. E. Jones –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great combination of small size and a great zoom lens
We’ve had this camera for almost a year. We LOVE this camera for taking great close-up photos of birds and other wildlife. (It also has done great with tiny animals, such as capturing the faces and threatening gestures of tiny white crabs the size of nickels on the white sand beaches in Anastasia State Park, Florida.) Because it is small we take it on every hike we go on. Thus, we get lots of unexpected opportunities to record cool animals.I strongly recommend getting a monopod to stabilize the camera when using the upper range of the zoom. A monopod is lighter than a tripod and thus pretty easy to tuck into a backpack. It works well enough that we’ve got some great photos of the moon and bird faces at even maximum zoom.My only complaint is that I wish it worked better in low light. I don’t have a standard for comparison–this may be top-of-the-class performance for low light conditions–but it is one thing I would investigate further were I buying another camera. Overall, however, I am extremely satisfied with this camera, and I recommend it to anyone who will listen.
2 people found this helpful
Amazon Customer –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Some Getting Used To
Taking some getting used to but so far so good. The picture quality is amazing when you get used to the various setting this little device has, only downside is that its not too good in low light scenarios for pictures in my opinion. Zooming in is good but does get grainy especially at full zoom. Video quality is good, surprisingly great in low light, only thing I notice is a slow lag when there’s something fast moving but I’m putting this down to purely the image stabilization. The buttons do take some getting used to, and I have noticed it takes a while to power back on and off again maybe 5-10 seconds at most. I also have noticed when the device is turned off that the shutter can be opened, which does worry me slightly but a case is definitely needed for this camera.I do recommend this camera, especially for the price it’s on at, I’m still getting used to it but so far I love it!
One person found this helpful
ZACK –
3.0 out of 5 stars
6yrs and over a half a million photos with this camera
Purchased this cam in 2014. As a home inspector I take on average of 300-500 pix a day using this camera . It held up no doubt to bangs , falls and even got wet under the sink mistakenly and it’s still going to strong.1- zoom horrible at max zoom2- focuses not to well …when attempting to focus on a object it requires you to zoom out and then zoom back in and not to close or else you’ll find your self repeating the same process again.4- shutters don’t open automatically and now require me to manually open them , if I forget that shutter partially closed photos are horrible.5-Flash is stuck in closed position and requires me to pry it open with a pen or sharp object. I walk around using my flashlight now as my flash.
RobRob –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great camera for the price.
Really like this camera. Easy to use and great pics and video. I have even used a video editing program to grab a pic from the video. And it was clear and beautiful!. I live in Mexico and ordered from Amazon US. The camera came with only Japanese Instructions and the camera was in Japanese. I had to watch a Youtube video to figure out how to set the language to English. But once I did that, it worked like a charm. The pic of the Iguana is actually from a video I took. It is grabbed from one of the video frames!
mickmick –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Range and Great Value!
I have had the SX720 for a couple of weeks now and have taken several hundred photos under various conditions. I have owned about 5 other Canon compact cameras but this is by far the best one yet. I find the long zoom and “motion control software” to be quite remarkable for a camera in this price range. I also have several DSLR’s so know what is reasonable to expect from a compact. This camera is a bargain and won’t disappoint. No…it won’t compete with a DSLR with a $5000 lens on it but then again….this camera costs $379. I am totally satisfied and highly recommend it! I am attaching a few shots I took “hand held” of an osprey fishing out over the Deschutes River from quite a distance.
206 people found this helpful
NYkerNYker –
2.0 out of 5 stars
Don’t buy! It’s “grey-market” camera – NO WARRANTY
Bought this camera as a Christmas gift for my child, but got very disappointed to find out it’s “grey-market” camera. I called Canon and they confirmed that it has no US warranty and isn’t meant for the US market.It’s model 1070C004 (for Japan only) instead of 1070C001 (for US)On the battery charger it says “for use in countries other than U.S.A.”Camera box has lots of Japanese writing, says “For Japan only” & “Contains no warranty outside Japan”, which was partially covered by a stickerI called the seller (Abe’s Electronics Center) and asked it they have a US version of this camera, but was told that they only have “import”. I asked the guy on the phone to update the description of the camera they sell on Amazon to say it’s an import and has no warranty (as some other sellers do) but he told me they wouldn’t do it.I returned the camera next day. Now I have a VERY disappointed child and no camera.
186 people found this helpful
PaulPaul –
3.0 out of 5 stars
Beware!! No warranty on this camera!!
I purchased this camera in January 2019. Here it is September 2019 and, while on vacation, the lens refused to retract. I mistakenly believed this Canon camera came with a one year warranty so I sent it to the Canon Service Center in Virginia (where the Canon customer service agent said to send it along with the receipt). I called them today to check on the repair status and was told that this is an “off market” camera so there is no warranty. The repair cost to fix the non-retracting lens would be $170. I can buy another camera for not much more and it will not be a Canon. There should be a huge disclaimer to the potential customers of this product either by Amazon or Canon.
2 people found this helpful
Reggae Lover –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great features great camera
I always used a 35mm camera because I worked in photo before. When I traveled to Asia the word was TRAVEL LIGHT. I got this because my other cameras are Canon and the brand has been good over the years. This camera does it all. Make adjustments on the screen and off you go. The picture produced is very rich. The manual feature is good if you don’t want auto, It fits nicely in the pocket and the battary has a very long life. I took close to 800 pictures and I only charged the bat once or twice. For the price this is a great bargain
JM Smith –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reasonable Carry Camera
Use several SLR cameras but sometimes want something easy to haul around in your pocket. For a camera with a less than 1 inch sensor, this camera does very well, especially if you enhance your photos afterwards. The 40X optical zoom (not Digital) is very good for such a camera size. You can go digital after the 40x, but you won’t want to. Has ability to take full control of camera or use in one of several auto modes. Its not a DSLR but it;s also not big and heavy.
Steve RSteve R –
3.0 out of 5 stars
Great camera, pictures? Meh…
This is a really great camera that is easy to use and looks really cool. I am just very disappointed in the image quality that it delivers. I have used it for both stills and video clips and in both cases the image quality is no where near as good as my iPhone 8. I wanted this camera to use in the airplane since the iPhone is a little tricky to use one handed. It is great for that, but the video quality just causes me to leave it in the hangar.The first photo below was taken with the Canon SX 720, the second with my iPhone.
Stormy –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Nice camera.
I Just received my camera today, and I am very pleased. The WiFi setup was extremely easy after downloading the app to my cell phone.What I found very interesting, was that I could use the app to take pictures if I were using a tripod from a distance!.I am giving this product 4 stars due to the positioning of the pop-up flash. This makes it difficult when placing my left finger on the camera while taking shots. I just have to get use to hand placement.
7 people found this helpful
ts –
5.0 out of 5 stars
very good simple camera
it is easy to use
One person found this helpful
Michael –
5.0 out of 5 stars
but am very pleased with it so far
I have not yet put this camera “through the paces”, but am very pleased with it so far. For a pocket camera, the zoom is incredible. there may be a bit of softening of the image at maximum zoom, but not enough to be easily noticeable (or it may be that the camera was shooting so slowly in somewhat cloudy conditions and full zoom that less than “softening” was inevitable). The 20 megapixel resolution is wonderful. Can do some extreme cropping once downloading pictures onto my computer, yet still get quite clear images. Pretty amazing camera for its size.
One person found this helpful
Margaret Flory –
3.0 out of 5 stars
Canon Camera Powershot SX720
The camera which was delivered is red. That is ok with me, even though I ordered black. The camera takes pictures; that is as much as I can say as I just got it. I am perplexed: the box says it was made in China–the box also states, “not intended for sale outside Japan. Contains no warranty for outside Japan.” Does that mean that I have no warranty? (I am in the USA). What warranty do I have? Much of the verbiage on the box is in a foreign language (possibly Chinese) which I cannot read.
4 people found this helpful
Dan Borden –
3.0 out of 5 stars
Just Another Marginal Camera
Was looking for a camera that handled low-conditions and this look the best fit on a budget – images that were taken at a concert were very dark and grainy. The zoom produced to much noise for a well-lit stage and was always going out of focus at the moment of clicking (stabilization is awful) – very disappointed – ended up using my Pixel 3 (phone) that produces brilliant color and sharpness (wished it had a more powerful zoom). Lesson learned here: Next time try to figure out how to sneak in my Sony RX10M4 that always produced brilliant images without blurriness – even at a 600mm zoom.
KrisB –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Too soon to write a review on my new Canon …
Too soon to write a review on my new Canon SX720. My previous little pocket camera worked okay for the snapshots of family, friends & our “four-legged” kids but eventually I wanted more zoom. After researching & reading many reviews, I finally decided on the SX720. I was very excited when the camera was delivered & have mainly taken pictures & only a couple videos. Now I have more megapixels, sharper pictures & much more zoom if needed. For the amateur photographer that I am, I look forward to learning more & more about this camera & will update at a later date.
5 people found this helpful
Bopper –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Love, love
Love, love, love! I have used the PowerShot 20x zoom for several years and have always liked it but I love this 40x zoom. Such amazing pictures I get. Friends and family are asking me for info about the camera I use when they see my pictures and at least two of them have purchased the camera for themselves. I should see if I can get a referral bonus from Canon! Great little camera for birding or wildlife pictures. Best part is you can easily take it anywhere with you – unlike a bulky DSLR – so you are always ready for “that perfect shot.”
One person found this helpful
Cindy B –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Compact, feels good in the hand, takes excellent photos
This camera was purchased as a replacement for a Canon camera that was 7 or 8 years old. & I am very pleased with this camera. It is compact, feels good in the hand, and takes excellent photos, even at the extreme zoom (has a 40x zoom). Controls are on the back of the camera rather than the top like some other Canons. Battery seems to last well. I did purchase an extra battery so I have a spare at all times.
PaulPaul –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Super crisp pictures and amazing zoom
I bought this camera as me and my family go on occasional nature hikes and like to take pictures of wildlife. The zoom is incredible. We can finally take pictures of birds without the subject being 1% of the picture. Seeing as this is a point & shoot, I was expecting image quality to suffer vs a DSLR at the expense of having more zoom, however I was really surprised by the quality, the pictures come out super crisp and clear.
TravelBugTravelBug –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Good Travel Camera
Trying to find a travel camera that will make me about 90% as happy as my dslr so I can dispense with the weight and hassle. I like this one. I may find it’s never going to leave up to my expectations but so far so good. This has a good zoom and does pretty well in low light. I haven’t tried manual settings yet but the auto settings are pretty intuitive. Sometimes I feel like I’ve been a prisoner to my camera and lens. This camera sets me free without giving up quality capture of the moments.
4 people found this helpful
Antiquity –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Highly Recommend!
LOVE this camera!Since we’ve had cameras on mobile phones, I’ve primarily used my phone camera. On a recent trip to Africa, I was disappointed with the photos that I was taking on my phone camera. Another gentleman had this camera, and I was thoroughly impressed by the quality of his photographs….the zoom is comparable to much larger, more expensive cameras.It has lots of “bells and whistles,” most of which I don’t use…but I’ve been experimenting with various features and love the results.This camera is small, light, and very portable.
One person found this helpful
Tabasco Griffin –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Great for everyone, Easy for beginners
Amazing camera with an outstanding zoom. I took many pictures from close up flowers and plants all the way to the moon. I was blown away when I I could see the details of the moon with a simple digital camera.
Amazon CustomerAmazon Customer –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Amazing colours, crazy awesome zoom
Bought this camera for some intense shooting on my month long trip to Patagonia and was definitely impressed. The colours were crisp, bright and clear. Shooting the penguins standing a few feet away the images came out crisp and clean. Even the once being shot where they were ‘miles’ away they looked like they were standing right next to me.The video came out clear and crisp, even if I couldn’t figure out how to mute the wickedly blowing wind.My only ‘negative’ and I use that word loosely since it seems to be an issue with every pocket camera I’ve ever owned, is that there is now dirt and dust inside the lens so I will need to send it in to be cleaned. Considering I took over 128 GB of photos with this camera in the past 6 weeks it held up like a champ.For anyone new to photography or professional this camera can do it all. I actually dumped my Canon 40D and just carried this as the clarity, zoom and filters were amazing.
3 people found this helpful
Ninja Jim –
3.0 out of 5 stars
Canon Connect ruins this camera
Like others, I purchased this as a substitute for when hauling my DSLR just isn’t practical. The pictures are OK, nothing better than my Samsung S9 takes.The biggest issue is WiFi connectivity. It sucks! I made several attempts at home, but figured maybe my home WiFi was getting in the way. Well outside the home area I made connection attempts again. Cumbersome, confusing, and very difficult to get the camera and my S9 to sync together. I eventually got them to connect, but I honestly don’t know how I do it when it finally connects. I’ve spent hours researching and trying to find a solid, fast way to make the WiFi connection and I can’t make it work quickly. Even the connection tutorial on the Canon Connect app falls short. The illustrations of what I should be seeing are different. To make things clear, the camera is its own WiFi connection…there is a WiFi button on the back of the camera and that sends a WiFi signal to your phone to make the connection.I am Canon loyal, but because of the poor connectivity issue I have requested a refund on this piece. Hopefully the seller grants me my request. I’ve had the camera slightly over a month, used it 1 day because of the connectivity issue.
One person found this helpful
RobynRobyn –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Good quality camera!
I am very happy with this camera. It’s light weight makes it easy to toss in your purse or pocket. Does a great job of zoom with clarity, especially for the size of this little camera. Scene options are not as user friendly as I am used to on my old Olympus, but other than that, I wouldn’t trade this camera for anything. Needed a quality compact camera for a once in a lifetime trip though Honor Flight to Washington DC with my dad (one day flight free to US veterans of wars WWI, WWII, Korean, that now includes Vietnam). The creative option is pretty fun to use. Never know what the camera will do with your photo. You still get what you want as a photo but creative option tosses in a handful of other filter adapted shots for you to toy with. I recommend this camera for anyone looking for a reliable, good camera. Also does a nice job with video! Best camera I have had thus far.
8 people found this helpful
MA SmithMA Smith –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great small camera
The zoom on this camera is amazing. It is a pocket-sized camera… a point-and-shoot… that took pictures that rivaled photos taken by others on our trip lugging around a separate piece of luggage just for their camera and lenses. Note the picture of the Dahl Sheep I took in Denali National Park. The first photo is with the zoom lens not quite completely extended; the second photo is that same image cropped. Distance is difficult to judge, but I’m guessing they were 10 miles away across a very wide valley on a cloudy day. The butterfly was taken from my office desk through window glass into the garden beyond. I had to work to keep the auto focus on the subject but the photo was worth it. I would definitely buy this camera again and it will travel the world with me.
One person found this helpful
ScottScott –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Impressive so far…..
This is the third Canon camera I’ve owned and they continue to not disappoint! This is replacing my Canon PowerShot SX130 IS, which is still a fantastic camera, but I wanted more megapixels, more zoom and less bulkiness. The SX720 HS meets all those requirements and adds new features that I have yet to learn and explore. The only drawback seems to be that when it comes to connecting wirelessly to other devices (smartphones, computers, tablets, etc.) the camera seems to prefer Android devices. I may be wrong, but as of this writing, I still have not been able to successfully connect to my laptop or iPhone.To highlight the effectiveness of the zoom, I uploaded photos I took of the control tower at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. They were taken on a slightly foggy day. The first photo is no zoom, the second photo is with max optical zoom (40x) and the third photo is at max digital zoom (160x).
31 people found this helpful
SMARTREADER –
5.0 out of 5 stars
An excellent and fun to use camera for all occasions.
I have taken 6493 pictures with this camera and it has never let me down. It takes excellent pictures from an amazingly long distance to up close with its macro feature. I’ve taken pictures of whales off of the coast, the moon which near filled the screen with optical zoom and I took a picture of a 3″ doll that looks huge in the picture. I do a lot of hiking and once even accidentally tossed it about 15′ and it just got scratched with no other damage. I use my camera mostly for reference picture to paint from for my illustrations and also for souvenirs when I travel. My one wish for the camera is that it was a little smaller to fit more easily in a pants pocket. I recommend this fun to use and very capable camera to everyone.
TaschaTascha –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Shocked! Best first Camera ever!
First ever camera!I was looking for a camera that I could not only take amazing pictures with but that was going to be simple for a beginner like myself. I searched and saved for two years trying to decide. I couldn’t wait any longer as a concert date was creeping up on me. I needed great zoom and sound quality and I found more than that.Pros:Beautiful design sleek, stylish, and up to date look!Easy to use.Stunning video and picture quality!The audio is HD I was nervous I’d need an external mic for the Demi Lovato concert but I didn’t.Optical zoom makes every detail pop even when fully zoomed in!Battery life was well beyond what I expected.Sync pictures and video has never been more easy!Cons:Doesn’t have a flip screen to take selfies.Could use a bit more of a grip to it because it is very small.I would honestly recommend this to anyone and everyone looking for a wonderful camera!
15 people found this helpful
John D. TuckerJohn D. Tucker –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best point and shoot on the market!
I own 3 of these little jewels. I own 3 because I use it for all my photography and IF something happens I will have a spare in case they become unavailable for purchase in future. I use for nature shots, family activities, travel documentation, concerts and theater presentation that prohibit “professional cameras, moon shots and other celestial bodies. It fits in my pocket and is made from metal…not plastic. The quality of the photos is A+ and the movies are acceptable. The only thing I do not like is the lack of a viewfinder. When shooting birds in flight, or action of any kind trying to use the screen on the back is extremely difficult to find the objects. I also do air shows and I miss many shots because of that problem. That’s when I need my other cameras with viewfinder.
Daniel H. –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Camera is great, but I am yet another victim of the Japanese import!
Just bought the camera, and I think it’ll be great. I am also extremely displeased that I got one of those models that is not supposed to be sold outside of Japan. This only really matters in that there was a distinct lack of documentation and no Warranty. There is no excuse for this bait and switch, and Amazon should be aware of this re-occurring issue.As for the camera itself, I am very impressed with the functionality and ease of use. The pictures are crisp, even in relatively low light. The zoom is amazing though, and I cannot speak more highly of the image stabilization even at 40x.
J.T.J.T. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
This small camera takes amazing images!!!
THe Cannon Shot 720x is an amazing camera. I have shelved my larger more sophisticated ones. I have had the Powershot series for several years now, and the amateur photos I take with it, have earned me 4 awards including “grand prize” and “people’s choice” in 2 years, against professional photographers with much more complicated equipment. This camera is lighter and more compact that its predecessor model with a better zoom. It also take better landscape photos. The Image World is also first rate to deal with, I did have an issue with the first camera sent, and the staff of The Image World have been quick to respond and are sending a new replacement. I take wild life photos and there is often no time for set up, so if you want an amazing wild life or people shot taken with a great zoom, this is the camera.
116 people found this helpful
NicholasNicholas –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Superb Camera
This is a superb camera. I grew tired of always having to lug around one of my DSLRs anytime I went out so I started looking at a few Point and Shoot options. I decided to buy the Canon Powershot 720 HS after reading some of the reviews on Amazon, and I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. The camera is compact and elegant and feels wonderful in your hand. It is a fully manual camera that allows you to set the ISO, aperture, and shutter speed, which is exactly what I was looking for in a Point and Shoot. The camera has a 40X zoom lens, but do not try to zoom out too far without mounting the camera on a tripod or stabilizing it another way. The image quality is excellent, and if you don’t tell anyone the images came from a Point and Shoot, they’d easily think they came from a mid-range DSLR with a good lens.I’ve had the camera now for a few weeks, and I’ve tested it both in the daytime and nighttime. In bright daylight, images come out crisp and richly saturated. At night, the camera performs well, especially if you use a tripod. I rarely use any of my DSLRs at night without a tripod unless I’m using a lens with a really wide aperture, so I’ve grown accustomed to mounting my cameras on tripods. You can get very sharp, high-quality images with this camera at night if you mount the camera. You’re able to do exposures lasting up to 15 seconds, and the images look great. I have not tested the video capabilities of the camera yet, but I will get to it eventually. For me, video capture is a nice option to have, but not something I am really interested in at this point. My main focus (pun intended) is taking still images.If you’re looking for a high-quality, elegant Point and Shoot, this is the camera. I am planning on traveling a lot soon, and I think I am going to leave home all of my DSLRs and lenses and just bring this camera with me. Sometimes less is more, especially with a powerful little camera like this one.
338 people found this helpful
kapplejack –
5.0 out of 5 stars
This camera is AMAZING!!
This camera is AMAZING!! I am so impressed!I purchased this camera specifically for its HD video capabilities, but it has completely revived my love of photography! The last time I purchased a digital camera was back in about 2009, and that one was a mid-range Casio model that lasted me several years. I hadn’t felt the need to get a new camera since then because of the advances in cell phone camera quality, but my phone is now 2 years old and is running out of memory… I decided to try the SX720 and I am so happy I did! It turns out digital cameras have also made some amazing advances over the past 10 years!The photo quality of this camera is incredible and highly impressive. So far, I love the “Live” mode because it’s easy to quickly set your color and contrast settings to achieve beautiful photos with no after-effects needed. The zoom is super crisp and the camera does an excellent job of tracking focus as well. The video mode has a highly advanced stabilization feature that is great for vlogging or shooting video without a tripod. I also love that you can zoom while taking video and the camera’s focus is super fast, my last camera could not zoom while filming.The Wi-Fi transfer feature is neat and easy to configure as well, although it drains the camera’s battery very quickly when transferring video files so I will probably just stick to plugging the SD card (not included) into my PC to transfer files.Overall, I LOVE LOVE LOVE this camera so far! Can’t wait to play with it some more and figure out all of its fancy new features 🙂
3 people found this helpful
G. AllenG. Allen –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Photos and Sharing
Great PhotosThis is my third Canon point and shoot, and I am not at all disappointed so far. The second in the PowerShot SX…HS line. My previous SX260 HS is still going strong — though scuffed up from heavy use. I will miss the built-in GPS feature of my previous Canon, but since it didn’t work indoors anyway, I won’t miss it that much. I bought this model to go from 20x to 40x zoom. The wide-angle is 24mm equiv. full telephoto is 960mm equiv. (which on a DSLR that would be a VERY BIG lens). ( For comparison only – the 20x zoom of the SX260 HS was 25mm equiv. to 500mm equiv. both have the same sensor size) The 40x is a tiny bit wider and way closer, so it isn’t twice as close as my old camera (more like 1.9 times closer at max zoom). The 20 MegaPixel rating doesn’t change the actual output resolution much. Max Res on this camera is 5184 x 3888 (compared to 4000×3000 on the SX260 at 12MP). I attached a comparative max zoom to this and my review on the SX260 HS.
Canon PowerShot SX260 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 20x Image Stabilized Zoom 25mm Wide-Angle Lens and 1080p Full-HD Video (Black) (OLD MODEL)
I plan to do some low-light shot comparisons soon.SharingMaybe I’m weird, but I often find myself photographing something really cool and taking photos, and then pulling out my smart phone to take a smart-phone picture that I can share immediately. Maybe it’s not as good as the one I took a minute ago (for one thing, the zoom just isn’t there). No need anymore. Just tap the back of a smartphone to the side of the SX720, and 30 seconds later, I have a list of photos on the camera that I can copy over to my phone. Select, Menu (to signal I’m done selecting), OK, Confirm screen: OK again, and the selected images appear on my phone.From there, I can e-mail or post to social media without compromising on quality.SHARING UPDATEAt some point, someone at Canon decided to make the ability to transfer photos to a computer over WiFi (on your own wireless network) dependent upon being able to log into Canon’s servers with a (free) account. The cell-phone stuff still works (thankfully), but I’ve removed the Canon software from my computer. The original software didn’t require a Canon account, and I honestly have a hard time understanding why local network connectivity should require this. I haven’t removed stars, but I use an SD card reader to pull photos to my PC now.The very initial setup did take some time. There’s a sweet spot on most smart-phones that are not obvious (the sweet spot on the camera, is clearly etched into the side). Once that was found, everything else was set up within about 15 minutes. There are tutorials on Canon’s web site and YouTube if you want someone to show you.I didn’t really consider this feature deeply when I pre-ordered this camera, and I’ve been surprised that it is already a game-changer for me.
260 people found this helpful
amazonshoppergirl –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Amazing camera!!
My husband and I are blown away with this camera!!! One of the best purchases we’ve ever made!! My dslr canon rebel is going to collect dust. The rebel is great but I wanted a simple point and shoot and was trying to treat the rebel that way and of course my pictures were not great as a result. I don’t want to fiddle with settings. This sx720 is exactly what I needed. Performs amazing indoors in low light. We mainly take pictures of our toddler and baby so a lot of pictures indoors and outside. I was tired of feeling like I couldn’t take pictures after a certain time of day inside due to light. The bulk of our pictures we have been taking on our iPhones and storage always full. No longer!! This is the go to camera now!! We have a canon elph 130 which is awful in low light as the flash makes the person look like a ghost and the rest of the room dark. This camera doesn’t do that at all! Everything looks well lit! A lot of times it doesn’t even need flash when I think it will. The pop up flash is something to get used to especially when in use I have to hold the camera differently but I can live with it because of how in love I am with the picture quality this thing is producing. The video quality is also awesome! We’ve taken several videos of our kids playing and even out on a walk down our road and it has no issues keeping focus..just amazing. I’m so so so happy!!! We are already talking about buying another one so that we can have one set up on a tripod taking video on special occasions and the other taking pictures! This camera is going to capture so many memories for us. The camera is very well built and quality solid materials you can feel holding it. Love the buttons and that there is hardly any delay taking a picture when you press the button. The zoom is also pretty cool, I tested it out taking some pictures of deer in the field behind my house. I couldn’t be happier.
8 people found this helpful
JJones –
1.0 out of 5 stars
Memory card error after every use.
Used the camera for a couple of weeks then got a memory card error. Most online info said to: 1) take sd card out and reinstall; 2) take battery and sd card out and reinstall; 3) reformat sd card in camera.Options 1 & 2 had no effect – camera still had memory card error; 3 isn’t an option – when I go to the settings menu, format is not active (grayed out).Put in new sd card and after the first use, got the memory card error again. Only solution that worked was to reformat sd card in laptop.Have now had the camera since January. If any pressure is put on the battery/sd card compartment there is a memory card error – this means you can’t mount on a tripod. Also, when trying to capture video, it will start recording but when you stop recording (press the button) there is the same error.I bought the camera to travel with but I have missed so many photo opportunities because of this thing. Would not buy again
3 people found this helpful
Kari –
3.0 out of 5 stars
I ordered black but it’s red
Looks good, ut I ordered a black one and it is red
Robert HallRobert Hall –
4.0 out of 5 stars
I am really glad that I did
When my Nikon S9700 committed suicide by jumping off the counter, I did a lot of looking for a replacement. I chose the Canon Powershot SX 720 HS. I am really glad that I did. If not for the WIFI, I would have called it a 5 star camera..My main use is taking snaps of the grandkids. The 40X zoom gets a close up head shot even when I am sitting on the first base line and he is in left field, deep left field of a little league ball field.The antivibration feature really work well. The problem with the 40X turns out not to be the vibration, but finding a moving subject in the field of view. There is a special button for that..The attached pic was taken as a snapshot, not planned, and freehand, no tripod or even a rest on anything like a post. If you figure the plane was at about 30,000 feet??, then this was taken of a plane about 8 miles away . No, it isn’t the greatest quality, but it sure does say something about the antivib and 40X. I would point out that to the naked eye, the plane was a silvery speck at the end of the contrails.As evening falls, and it is hard to see the players well, the light sensitivity is so good that the pics and videos look like they were taken on a bright day. Awesome.. The controls are intuitive for the most part. The pic trigger and video trigger are where I would want them. Autofocus is great unless you start straying off the beaten path. Some of the options will cause the focus to get a little weird.I was surprised that the image size didn’t jump way up from the 5 meg I was used to on the Nikon. Compression in the jpg format??The one thing I really didn’t like was the WIFI upload option. I downloaded the drivers, and was able to get the camera to talk with the network. Even when I can see that the router has the connection, the program to upload doesn’t pop up reliably. When it does load and start to run, in looks like it is shipping the files into the Comcast backbone according to the Netgear Genie program. It ties up most of the 30 mbps that Comcast gives me. I don’t understand why it would be touching the internet, and by the way, it was extremely slow uploading.The attached pic show what Netgear Genie thinks the load on the internet is while loading pics from the camera to the laptop. I really don’t know why it even touches the internet, maybe that isn’t what Genie is telling me?I called Canon tech support and they told me that I could hardwire with a USB2 to mini-B cable. I ordered it, and it didn’t fit.Another call to Tech support, and no, it wasn’t the mini-B, it was the micro-b cable.I ordered it, and after tuning the software options, it works. Every time, and a bunch faster. My recommendation is that you get the hard wire USB micro-B cable.One more comment about Wifi. The camera is designed with a thicker section on the right hand side while holding it. It is natural to use this thicker section to pull the camera from it’s case and put it back. The location of the wifi button is right where you would hold it to put it away. Twice, I have had a dead battery because I accidentally hit the wifi button when storing it, and it drained the battery.Given a choice, I would have it removed…All told, I am EXTREMELY pleased with it. Focus, speed. Light sensitivity, small size, 40X zoom, 1080P video, large memory options, what looks like accurate colors, and a good path to upload to my laptop. What more can you want??An addition, After some quality time on a “great Adventure” with the grandkids. The Pic review button does the same thing the Wifi button does. Both drained the battery when pushed thru the soft case. I have yet to find the right hardcase that the camera will fit in. I intend to make a cover for those buttons and tape it in place. Really a pain when the battery is dead when you want to take that magic pic!! Too bad there isn’t a firmware option to disable them.
Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black)88 people found this helpful
wjt –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Replcement for an SX280
My SX280 HS is becoming unreliable, throwing E32 lens errors. This is the closest replacement, AFAIK. The 40x zoom is probably not that useful, since the 280’s 20x was right at the limit of stable framing, but no biggie. I just like the SX HS series with the DIGIC 6 processor. I looked at the 730, but didn’t need Bluetooth & didn’t like the look of the oversimplified controls. And $50 buys a couple of extra batteries.One thing you do get for several years of technology development is a better battery/sensor. Thus far the 720 shows no sign of gobbling electricity the way the 280 does. The extra $100 also buys a better written manual. I discovered a couple of minor features both cameras have, but which you’d be hard pressed to figure out from the 280’s manual.–9/2/2017Update: The 280’s video/battery life problems are fixed in the 720. Image stabilization is very good. I got acceptable results at >20x zoom with a light-weight monopod (a Slik). Close focus also appears much better.–9/4/2017I’m still on my first battery charge!–9/17/2017Update: I fixed the 280’s lens errors with a can of air and a heavy hand blowing out the gaps in the lens. Risky, but it worked. The 720 is still my go to camera. I upped the rating to 5.July 2019 Update–I got a killer deal on a Panasonic Lumix ZS70. Great camera … but … it feels a lot bigger than this one in my hand. It has more features, does more things, but the 720 is lighter, handier, and in some cases takes better still pictures. If you don’t need an EVF, tilt-screen and better video, this (or its SX740HS successor) might just be the better choice. The 740 has a tilt-screen.June 2020One word of advice. The sensor is 20 Mpx. The lens is capable of delivering 5-8 Mpx. This is typical of these small cameras. Don’t be afraid to use lower resolutions or higher compressions. You won’t lose much. Still a favorite camera.
12 people found this helpful
Bernie Bernbaum –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Decent Compact Digital Camera with Long Zoom but no Panoramic Function
Update 6/30/2017 – While the Canon SX720 has been a good camera for travel, I miss having a viewfinder and RAW format. I bought a Panasonic DMC ZS60 which has both and will try that.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Update: I’ve had the camera for while now and it’s grown on me. The missing panoramic function is still a problem for me. Although I can stitch pictures together for a panoramic image in PhotoShop, it’s extra work. I really miss that function on this camera.I found that I can overcome the slow shutter speed in “Auto” by using the T function and setting the shutter speed – but most of the time, “auto” does the job for me. The camera turns on fast and there’s little shutter lag. Color is good under almost all conditions.The battery can be charged in the camera by connecting the camera to a wall wart that has a USB connector. Charges just fine.I don’t use the WiFi to move pictures from the camera to my PC. I just hook up a USB cable and download them. It’s easy and foolproof.Overall, I like the camera. I upgraded it one star (from 3 to 4) but the fifth star is missing because of the missing panoramic function.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++I haven’t had this camera too long yet but I do have some first impressions. The camera seems to be well made. It turns on quickly, the zoom works quickly and it has a long zoom. Very little shutter lag. Image quality seems to be good. The camera physical size is what I want, which is to fit into my pocket. While my iPhone takes very good pictures, I wanted a zoom lens to get in closer to my subjects.Operation is similar to other compact digital cameras so it’s easy to learn. Layout of the knobs and buttons is good and intuitive. It does NOT have a touch screen like my previous camera and that’s good. It’s too easy to touch the screen by accident and bring up some function that you don’t want. The menus are easy to get to and easy to set the various functions.A few things I don’t like. The first is that there’s no panoramic function. I can stitch photos together in Photoshop Elements but it would be nicer to have the panoramic function in the camera. Second, there’s a number of functions to modify the look of photos. I guess some people might do that in the camera, but most would do it in their photo editing software. When I look at the “useful” functions, it’s Auto and the various priority modes, plus manual.In auto mode, the camera seems to favor a slow shutter speed and a smaller aperture. Maybe that’s to get more depth of field. But the problem is that if your subject is moving, you get a blurred picture. There should be a way of telling the auto function to prioritize to fast shutter speeds. I’d give up depth of field to get pictures that were not blurred by motion. [Update] I now use the T function instead of Auto and set the shutter speed to 1/125 second. Everything seems to work fine with that setting, similar to Auto, but with a faster shutter speed.The WiFi function was difficult to set up. Maybe I had trouble with the directions, but I had to call in to get help setting it up. It does do what I want it to do, which is copy the pictures on the camera to a directory on my PC. The way it names the directory is a bit different from what I do, but I can rename the directory.Another thing I don’t like is that if you leave the camera connected to your PC with a USB cable, and you shut the PC off, the camera is not smart enough to shut itself off when it detects that the power is gone from the USB cable – so the camera battery is dead when you get back to it. It also seems that they expect you to remove the battery from the camera and charge it in the charger provided. That’s a good approach if you use multiple batteries, but if you only use one battery, it would be much nicer to charge the battery from a plug with a USB cable. While you can do that with this camera, it’s not nearly as easy as it was with my previous compact camera. It appears that you have to have the camera “on” to charge the battery. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t be able to charge the battery with the camera in the “off” state.So, all-in-all it’s a straightforward compact digital camera with a long zoom. Too bad they didn’t include a panoramic function in the camera. Overall, I’m somewhat disappointed in the camera.
39 people found this helpful
Naohiro Inohara –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Best compact camera in the world
I think that this is the best compact video camera in the world. This is the fifth SX720HS I bought , because I could not find a camera better than SX720HS.
One person found this helpful