Canon has increased its range of versatile PowerShot digital cameras with two new additions. The new PowerShot SX520 HS and the PowerShot SX400 IS are both bridge cameras with DSLR physical styling, with the two touting extended-range zoom lenses capable of providing wide focal ranges, and though they have similar image processors and sensors, they do offer different photographic experiences.
The SX520 HS has a 16MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 4+ processing engine, said to offer it “excellent low-light” performance. The 42x optical zoom with Canon’s Optical Image Stabilization system, equivalent to 24-1008mm, includes a Zoom Framing Assist function which helps by zooming out quickly for subject locating, followed by zooming back in with face detection to compose the shot. Its Auto mode includes 32 pre-defined scenes for stills and 21 video scenes, and while it can capture 1080p video, it includes a Creative Shot mode for artistic images, and a Hybrid Auto mode which creates a stabilized video clip of up to four seconds in length whenever the user takes a still image, with the clips then compiled into a “highlight reel.”
Canon PowerShot SX520 HS
Though having a slightly less powerful 30x optical zoom, the PowerShot SX400 IS still includes a 16MP SSD, the same DIGIC 4+ engine, and an equivalent focal range of 24-720mm. Though it lacks the Creative Shot mode, it still includes 21 video scene modes, 32 photography modes, and 720p video recording.
Canon PowerShot SX400 IS
The PowerShot SX520 HS is shipping in September for $400, while the PowerShot SX400 IS will arrive sooner, appearing in August for $250.
