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Canon PowerShot SX1 IS reviews
You can find here the most interesting reviews / ratings from the well-known expert sites about the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Camera. Here are the reviewers:
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- 22 October 2009 - |
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- 0 |
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- 04 September 2009 - |
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- 0 |
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- 05 May 2009 - |
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- 0 |
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- 04 May 2009 - |
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- 0 |
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- 13 April 2009 - |
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- 0 |
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- 27 March 2009 - |
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- 4 |
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- 16 February 2009 - |
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- 4.5 |
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- 04 February 2009 - |
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- 4 |
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- 14 January 2009 - |
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- 3.5 |
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- 16 December 2008 - |
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- 4.5 |
Imaging Resource 's conclusion / rating - 22 October 2009 |
“ Among long zooms the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS distinguishes itself for its solid build and full features, including a DIGIC IV image processor, 10-megapixel CMOS sensor, 20x zoom lens with 4x digital zoom, articulated LCD, Raw captures, 1080 HD movie captures, and a remote control.
The question really comes down to image quality. I find that to be on a par with the SD990 IS and SX10 IS, exhibiting the same minor problems with chromatic aberration and noise in the shadows of sunlit shots that are not evident on printing standard size enlargements.
Where you will have a problem is when you raise the ISO, or when you point the Canon SX1 IS at a red object. The camera has a problem with subtle contrast in some red subjects, blurring detail even at ISO 80. It's something we've seen in many cameras, including Canon SLRs, but not at ISO 80. For the most part, though, you can print a 13x19-inch print with reasonable detail up to ISO 200. ISO 800 files are really better kept at 5x7, and ISO 1600 files are only useful for 4x6-inch prints. That's not on par with other recent cameras, whose higher ISO images don't decay in quality quite as quickly.
Still, the Canon SX1 performs well enough to produce a 13x19-inch print at its lower ISO settings, and though it doesn't quite rise to all we expected from this special CMOS sensor, it does capture images well enough that those not printing larger than 11x14 or 8x10 should be very happy with it. If you need a stereo long-zoom HD camcorder, of course, the Canon SX1 is easier to recommend... ”
Imaging Resource's rating: |
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- 0 |
Complete review here
DigitalCameraInfo 's conclusion / rating - 04 September 2009 |
“ The Canon SX1, at $599.99, is the most expensive ultrazoom in our test group by a substantial margin, with a $200 gap between the 10-megapixel 20x Canon and the 12.1-megapixel 24x Nikon P90. Of course, two of the ultrazooms reviewed are limited to standard-definition video (the Nikon and the Olympus SP-590UZ), which in part explains the price gap. If video quality is a key factor for you, there's really no comparison. And even if you're concentrating on stills alone, both the Nikon and Olympus delivered notably lower image quality scores,
When it comes to the 9.1-megapixel, 20x Sony HX1, though, the pictures isn't as clear. Actually, that's not quite true, since the Sony had higher still image and video sharpness scores than the Canon, along with even better image stabilization, Sony also delivers an extraordinary 10 frame per second burst mode to the Canon's 3fps. The HX1 has a breakthrough sweep panorama mode that automatically captures a striking panoramic image as you pan the camera and an intriguing low-light mode that combines multiple images to minimize blur. Both cameras provide manual controls, full 1080p video with stereo sound and HDMI out (though the Sony does require an external dongle, an inconvenience), and neither has a great electronic viewfinder. The Canon SX1 has an articulated LCD which the Sony lacks, along with RAW image capture, and we do prefer the feel of shooting with the Canon. Feature-for-feature, though, the HX1 is a better value... ”
DigitalCameraInfo's rating: |
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- 0 |
Complete review here
DCResource 's conclusion / rating - 05 May 2009 |
“ The Canon PowerShot SX1 isn't just a super zoom digital camera -- it's also a video camera capable of recording Full HD video. In the past, hybrid cameras have been just so-so, but the PowerShot SX1 takes good quality stills and very nice HD movies. Add in a rotating LCD, manual controls, snappy performance, and lots of point-and-shoot features, and you end up with a hybrid camera that's done the right way. The SX1 isn't perfect, though: it's expensive, with a low resolution EVF, bizarre manual exposure options, and images that have a bit too much purple fringing for my taste. If you need a camera capable of taking HD movies, the the PowerShot SX1. If you want a capable super zoom camera with a more conventional movie mode, then you can save $200 by purchasing the PowerShot SX10 instead.
The PowerShot SX1 is a fairly large and somewhat heavy super zoom camera. It's made of a mix of metal and plastic, and it feel solid in your hands. The camera is easy to hold, thanks to a large right hand grip. Be sure to keep an eye on your left hand, though, as you can block the AF-assist lamp easily. The SX1 is a bit intimidating in terms of controls: it has a lot of buttons, some of which aren't labeled terribly well. While I like having a scroll wheel on the back of the camera, the one on the SX1 needs to give you more feedback -- it's far too easy to blow past the option you wanted to select, since the dial doesn't "click". The main event on the SX1 is its 20X optical zoom lens, which is the same as the one on the PowerShot SX10. This lens has an impressive 28 - 560 mm focal range, which covers just about any shooting situation you might encounter. Inside the lens is Canon's reliable optical image stabilization system, which does a good job at reducing the effects of camera shake in stills and movies. On the back of the camera is a flip-out, rotating 2.8" widescreen LCD. The screen is sharp, and offers good visibility both outdoors and in low light. One thing that did not impress was the SX1's electronic viewfinder, which is both smaller and lower resolution than the one on the SX10. Isn't it supposed to be the other way around? The PowerShot SX1 includes a lens hood and remote control, and you can add an external flash to its hot shoe, if you wish.
If you're looking for a camera that can take high definition videos, then the PowerShot SX1 is absolutely worth checking out. It's not without its issues, but the PowerShot SX1 does most everything very well. If you don't need HD video recording, RAW support, HDMI output, or a remote control, then you can save at least $200 by purchasing the nearly identical PowerShot SX10. It remains to be seen how the SX1 compares to Sony's Cyber-shot DSC-HX1, but I'll be posting that review soon, so keep an eye on the home page for it... ”
Complete review here
DigitalCameraReview 's conclusion / rating - 04 May 2009 |
“ When the SX1 IS was announced, three things set it apart from it its older brother, the SX10 IS: a CMOS sensor, true HD movie capability and a RAW shooting option. Well, four things if you count a significantly higher MSRP. Canon dubbed the SX1 IS a camera with "evolved technology", and it has upped the ante over the SX10 IS in a number of areas. It remains to be seen if HD movies and RAW are enough to coax folks into parting with DSLR level money for a SX1 IS when the rest of the package is available for a lot less in the SX10 IS. The SX 1 IS is good, but is it that good?
The cameras share much in common, such as basic image quality and general operating characteristics, but the SX1 IS wins most of the important battles, if only incrementally, when we start talking about bottom line performance: a bit better shutter lag, faster continuous shooting rates both with and without AF, faster single shot-to-shot times, and faster flash recycle times with a slightly shorter range. Then there's the HD movie capability the SX10 IS (and most other competitors) lack and the RAW shooting option.
Even the CMOS sensor redeems itself after what appeared to be a tie with the CCD-sensored SX10 IS by demonstrating just a bit better looking images at the 800 and 1600 ISO sensitivity levels. The SX10 IS gets more mileage out of its batteries and didn't have the highlight blowing propensity the SX1 IS showed with some high contrast scenes, but the exposure issue is so out of character based on all the other Canon products I've reviewed that I wouldn't be surprised to learn our test camera wasn't quite up to spec... ”
DigitalCameraReview's rating: |
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- 0 |
Complete review here
Steves Digicams 's conclusion / rating - 13 April 2009 |
“ Canon has produced one awesome digital powerhouse, that can be used by anyone! The SX1 is a perfect "bridge" camera that fills the gap between consumer point-n-shoots and entry-level dSLR systems. While the price is close to a dSLR kit, there are several features you will not get on most dSLRs at this price point, like the 20x optical zoom, image stabilization, a 2.8-inch articulating LCD, full HD movie mode, etc. This model offers outstanding performance in both single and continuous capture modes as well as awesome image quality. The CMOS image sensor is a welcomed addition compared the the CCDs used in past models, and we Love the new 1080p HD movie mode. The SX1 is sure to be a very popular model in the coming months (or years), and we have no problem giving this camera our highest recommendation to anyone who is torn between a consumer or dSLR unit. With a street price of US$599 or less, we feel the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS offers an outstanding value for the amount of control, quality and features you are receiving. If you love the SX1, but can't make room in the budget to cover the cost, be sure to check out our PowerShot SX10 IS review. It shares many of the same features, but is a bit easier on the wallet at about US$399... ”
Steves Digicams's rating: |
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- 0 |
Complete review here
DPReview 's conclusion / rating - 27 March 2009 |
“ Lets start with the good. The SX1 IS is a nicely designed, easy to use camera with a very useful zoom range and an effective image stabilization system. This combined with the new interface and features that come with Digic 4, such as auto ISO, the slightly tweaked interface and fast shot to shot speeds, and also RAW mode (something rarely seen in cameras of this class) makes the SX1 IS a camera that has the potential to become one of your favorite toys. The use of CMOS technology has also allowed Canon to add HD 1080p video recording - the first of a range of superzoom cameras to have this feature. On paper if you were shopping for a superzoom camera the SX1 IS should definitely be near the top of your list.
But cameras don't exist only on spec sheets or web pages. Once in hand, the SX1 IS cannot deliver on the promise of the CMOS sensor (which Canon is known for in their EOS range of DSLR cameras). Image quality, while not terrible is actually slightly worse then the much cheaper SX10 IS, and high ISO noise performance is firmly in compact territory. As much as it tries to be DSLR junior, as soon as you see the images you know that it is not. Even though there is RAW mode to give you control over image processing, it offers no more dynamic range, just control over white balance and the amount of noise reduction and sharpening.
The other big difference between the SX1 IS and the cheaper SX10 IS (other then RAW mode) is 1080p HD video capture. While this might sound significant, the image quality problems with the smaller sensor such as noise are also present in the movies, and the usual 'jelly effect' caused by the rolling shutter when panning with CMOS sensors is present here as well. What it comes down to is that the price difference between the SX1 IS and SX10 IS could buy you a nice HD video camera that would give you as good - if not better - video quality.
All this is not to say that the SX1 IS is a terrible camera. In the right situations it can produce nice results, especially if your intended use is for small prints or web galleries. And for some users it will offer the right balance of versatility, features and size to justify the high price. But at this price point, and with low end DSLRs coming down in price all the time, we don't think there'll be many such users, especially since you can get almost all the same features in a much cheaper package (in the SX10 IS).
In the last few months there have been a number of new superzoom cameras announced; all feature fast capture times, more and more new features, and wider and wider zoom ranges. It is too early to say how the SX1 IS stands up against these new cameras, and it will be interesting to see how this market segment shapes up. As it stands the SX1 - whilst interesting - offers too little to justify its high price, and while I'm sure that as its price falls it will become more attractive to a wider range of potential buyers, at the moment it's impossible to see why you would buy one over the SX10 IS... ”
Complete review here
CameraLabs 's conclusion / rating - 16 February 2009 |
“ Canon’s PowerShot SX1 IS is arguably one of the most technologically successful hybrid cameras to date, offering both 10 Megapixel stills and Full HD 1080p video recording in a compact body with a 20x zoom, fully articulated screen, fast continuous shooting, flash hotshoe and HDMI port. As described above, there’s really very little this camera doesn’t offer apart from RAW recording.
It’s not perfect of course. The viewfinder is smaller and coarser than the SX10 IS – a situation that’s exasperated if you’re shooting in 4:3 to exploit the sensor’s maximum resolution. Pixel-peepers will also spot slightly more noise than the SX10 IS, and there’s the mystery of shorter battery life despite switching to a less power-hungry sensor technology. Like the SX10 IS, there’s visible coloured fringing around high contrast subjects and like most compacts, the AF pauses during the fastest continuous shooting mode.
Probably the biggest issue facing the SX1 IS though is its lack of availability in North America at the time of writing. For some reason, Canon has chosen not to launch the camera in this market yet, but we hope to hear some good news in the near future, and in the meantime some overseas suppliers will ship. Potential buyers should also be aware of new hybrid models converging from the camcorder side: Canon’s HF S100 for example may ‘only’ have a 10x optical zoom with no true wide angle, but along with 1080p video, it’ll capture 8 Megapixel stills.
But even with these issues, the SX1 IS remains a highly compelling camera, and the first stills model we’ve tested which really can act as a viable replacement for an HD camcorder. Once again if you mostly shoot video, a dedicated camcorder will be ergonomically and operationally better-suited to typical consumer filming. But the fact the SX1 IS combines decent still photos with roughly the same video quality as budget HD camcorders, along with a lens that’s wider and longer, all for a similar or lower price tag - ultimately that’s a proposition many will find hard to resist... ”
CameraLabs's rating: |
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- 4.5 |
Complete review here
TrustedReviews 's conclusion / rating - 04 February 2009 |
“ The PowerShot SX1 IS comes closer than any other compact still camera to matching the video capabilities of a dedicated HD camcorder, and no doubt there are some people out there who will find the 4fps continuous mode very useful for something or other, but the loss of high-ISO picture quality is a sacrifice few will be willing to make, especially on a camera costing nearly £400... ”
TrustedReviews's rating: |
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- 4 |
Complete review here
PhotographyBLOG 's conclusion / rating - 14 January 2009 |
“ Whereas we concluded the SX10 IS felt like a lot of camera for the money, it's hard to get away from the fact that with the SX1 IS the opposite feels true. If you were originally considering the SX10 IS you could pay a little more and get a 'proper' DSLR, albeit without the extensive lens range or video clips, but the SX1 IS is more expensive than most consumer-level DSLRs already. Canon could at least have thrown in a rechargeable battery instead of the bog standard AAs the SX1 IS (and SX10 IS) is provided with. For the deep-pocketed though the Canon SX1 IS still proves to be a solid and reliable option for both the uninitiated moving up to a bridge model for the first time, and those stepping down momentarily from a DSLR who are looking for a model as a back up, or perhaps to supplement their existing lens range, but in a more portable and user friendly format.
We're loathe to suggest that you pay the full manufacturer's asking price on this occasion though, due to the question mark hanging over value for money. And happily a quick Internet search revealed the SX1 IS could be had for just under £400 from a major e-tailer at the time of writing, which seems much more like it... ”
PhotographyBLOG's rating: |
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- 3.5 |
Complete review here
PhotoReview 's conclusion / rating - 16 December 2008 |
“ Like most ultra-zoom digicams, the SX1 IS looks and feels like a down-sized DSLR. Stylishly, it owes a lot to the superseded PowerShot S5 IS model, although it's larger and approximately 110 grams heavier. Features that attracted buyers to the S5 IS, such as the vari-angle LCD screen and hot-shoe flash attachment, are included in the new model.
Build quality is generally very good. Despite being made of plastic, the camera body feels robust and all joints and compartment covers are nicely finished. The grip is large enough to be comfortable for average-sized (and larger) hands and it positions the right index finger well for operating the shutter button and zoom control... ”
PhotoReview's rating: |
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- 4.5 |
Complete review here
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