Canon SX40 HS 12.1MP Digital Camera with 35x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized
Zoom and 2.7-Inch Vari-Angle Wide LCD Review
Megazoom digital cameras excel at zooming in on distant objects, but they tend to struggle in low-light conditions. Canon has been a prominent player in this field for a long time, although it has never been my personal favorite among mega-zoom cameras. Olympus pioneered the earliest long zooms and continues to offer compelling options. However, other companies like Panasonic, Fujifilm, Casio, Canon, and Nikon have also entered the game since the era of 18x zoom cameras.
It’s important to note that Canon’s image quality is not lacking, but using Canon mega-zoom cameras has been a somewhat less pleasant experience. With the Canon SX40 HS, the company is making a strong bid for the top spot in this league. Canon enthusiasts may not have been bothered by the issues of its predecessors, but the Canon SX40 HS is a camera that anyone interested in mega zoom should seriously consider; it offers a highly satisfying experience.
As for its appearance and feel, the Canon SX40 has a sculpted design reminiscent of an EOS DSLR, with ergonomic features like a comfortable grip. Despite being compact, it’s not pocket-sized due to its square shape, with the lens and body aligned on different axes. However, carrying it on your shoulder or wrist is comfortable, and the camera’s design blends form and function seamlessly. The only design flaw is the eyelet for the shoulder strap, which, like many other Canon eyelets, has sharp edges that could damage the strap.
Pros:
- Impressive wide and long general-purpose zoom lens with good performance.
- Excellent image quality.
- Articulating LCD screen.
- Comfortable grip and well-designed controls.
Cons:
- Rear scroll wheel sensitivity can be an issue.
- Low-resolution LCD screen.
- No lens hood is included.
- Slow startup time and cycle time.
In summary
Canon’s SX40 HS represents a significant advancement in their mega-zoom camera lineup, offering excellent image quality and overall performance. If you’re seeking a satisfying long-zoom camera experience, the Canon SX40 HS is a strong contender to consider.