Reviews, reviews, reviews...
7.2 out of 10
Canon PowerShot S5 IS
8.3 megapixels
Information found in:
from 117 sources in 22 countries
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User Score (789)8.8
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Expert Score (34)8.0
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Design (6)7.0
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Value for money (82)7.0
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Features (49)7.8
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Ease of use (53)6.5
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Performance (3)6.4
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Picture quality (33)7.0
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Durability (6)7.3
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Overall quality (7)8.2
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Looks (4)8.0
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Battery performance (6)7.6
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Display (15)7.6
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Video quality (25)8.0
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Equipment (2)8.5
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Portability (15)5.9
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Score Distribution
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Expert Reviews
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Camera Labs
1 February 2008
8.1/10Canon’s PowerShot S5 IS remains one of the best super-zoom digital cameras on the market. It sports a decent 12x range with optical stabilisation, a useful flip-out and twist screen, a decent degree of manual control and impressively, a flash hotshoe. Some will also prefer its use of AA batteries over proprietary and expensive Lithium Ion battery packs. Read more
- 12x optical zoom with IS., Fully articulated 2.5in screen., Manual control and flash hotshoe., Optical zoom and stereo sound in movies.
- Noise visible throughout ISO range., Fringing on high contrast subjects., Widest-angle ‘only’ 36mm., No RAW recording facility.
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Imaging Resource
20 November 2007
The Canon PowerShot's S5 IS extensive feature set combined with its image-stabilized 12x optical zoom lens will please photographers who want a solidly built and capable non-DSLR camera with all the bells and whistles. Aside from the omission of a RAW mode, the Canon S5 IS is one of the more capable megazooms on the market. External controls and easy access to setting changes add to the Canon S5's appeal, as does its excellent movie mode with stereo sound. Read more
- Loaded with advanced, easy-to-use features, Efficient control layout, Easy access to settings, 12x image stabilized optical zoom lens, Hot shoe for external flash, Ext...
- Image noise visible at ISO 200 and above, Noise suppression in shadows softens details, Chromatic aberration, No RAW mode
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What Digital Camera
15 November 2007
7.8/10Despite a decline in the sales of bridge cameras, a few manufacturers are still updating and replacing their lines with new models. Canon is continuing to keep the faith with the arrival of the S5 IS. It may cost the same as an entry-level DSLR, but it offers a pocket-friendly 12x optical zoom with the bonus of optical Image Stabilisation and a top ISO of 1600. Read more
- Nicely balanced, plenty of features.
- Image noise, fringing, poor low-light performance, inconsistent image quality, we could go on…
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PC World
11 June 2008
7.0/10An articulable LCD, great Read more
- Sturdy and fully adjustable LCD screen, Top-notch image stabilization
- Poor manual focus, No RAW support
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Bright Hub
1 December 2008
9.0/10The Canon PowerShot S5 IS is a good stepping stone between a basic point-and-shoot digital camera and a D-SLR camera. With a wide range of features, it can easily meet most photography needs. Read more
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DP Review
29 November 2007
Move your mouse over the image below to see the design changes, which are fairly subtle. Canon Powershot S5is Canon Powershot S3is Sensor • 1/2.5 " Type CCD • 8.0 million effective pixels • 1/2.5” CCD, • 6.0 million effective pixels Maximum Image Size 3264 x 2448 2816 x 2112 Processor Digic III Digic II Movie clip limit 4 GB (around 30 mins VGA/30fps) 1GB (around 8 mins VGA/30fps) Sensitivity • Auto • Hi-ISO Auto • ISO 80-1600 • Auto • Hi-ISO Auto... Read more
- Excellent resolution, good detail at lower ISOs (though output a little soft), Good color, good exposure, generally accurate focus gives a high 'hit rate' even in auto...
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Digital Photography Interface
7 September 2009
7.7/10The Canon PowerShot S5 IS improves upon last year's successful S3 and S2 the year before. This time, the Canon PowerShot S5 IS features 8 megapixels, the same 12X stabilized zoom and a larger, higher resolution rotating 2.5 inch LCD display. The S5 IS is solidly built and now has a metal tripod mount (it was plastic on the S3). Ergonomics are still quite good; though there is no latch to prevent the batteries from falling out when swapping memory cards. Read more
- 8 megapixels with an optically stabilized 12X zoom, Face detection AF and AE that works, Above average battery life; just (though see below), Large rotating LCD with g...
- Small memory card and non-rechargeable batteries included, No RAW option, No rotary wheel or quick control dial; no zoom or focus rings, Batteries have no dedicated co...
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DigitalCameraInfo.com
14 September 2007
- Great videos - Sturdy body - Rotating LCD - Accurate colors and white balance - Optical image stabilization - Wide f/2.7 aperture Dislikes - High noise levels above ISO 200 - Significant chromatic aberration - Limited dynamic range - Heavy - Finicky multi-selector - Grainy viewfinder - Slow 1.5 fps Burst mode - High $499 price Conclusion The Canon PowerShot S5 IS combines a few aged components with some new technology and upgrades. Read more
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Steve's Digicams
19 July 2007
Continue on to Page Two Powershot S5 IS Specifications Type of Camera Compact digital still camera with built-in flash, 12x Optical/4x Digital/48x Combined Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer (IS) System Image Capture Device Type 8.0 Megapixel, 1/2.5 inch type Charge Coupled Device (CCD) Total Pixels Approx. 8.3 Megapixels Effective Pixels Approx. Read more
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Digital Camera Review
13 July 2007
The Canon PowerShot S5 IS replaces the S3 IS in the Canon line, and boasts a full mix of features: an 8 megapixel sensor and 12X optical zoom lens that provides a 36 to 432mm focal length range (35mm equivalent); optical image stabilization and an ISO range up to 1600; a DIGIC III processor which Canon says improves image quality and camera functionality, particularly with the face detection and red-eye correction technologies; full manual controls in addition to the Read more
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User Reviews
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Superb and great lightweight all-in-one
10/10Reviewer: Newscutter, Amazon29 December 2011Used this for YEARS chasing after kids and going to concerts, vacations, etc. The camera still gets a lot of use but defers to my newer EOS (I'm a Canon devotee). The separate video button is GENIUS and still lacking on a lot of competitors! Not having to switch dials etc. is ideal for sports and children playing because second-to-second you can alternate from video clips to photos. This camera is a great all-in-one for vacations for the same reason. Read more
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Canon PowerShot S5 IS
8.0/10Reviewer: anecessaryevil, pcworld.com3 weeks agoI use this camera to shoot a lot of High Dynamic Range images. It's exposure bracketing makes this easy. Do be aware that some of the versions sold in the big box stores are somewhat crippled in their options. My mother wanted to start working with HDR photography and went to a major retailer, the same place where I bought mine 5 months earlier, to check out the various cameras available. The S5 IS cameras they had in stock did NOT have exposure bracketing available. Read more
- Uses AA batteries - rechargeable batteries last a long time. A large number of features and modes. Full manual for those who want it. Easy access to most controls.
- The lens cap pops off too easily. I can see why they did this but it is a bit irritating. Exposures on dark images are grainy. Raw would be nice but exposure bracketin...
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"I like this camera better than the prior cannon I used."
8.0/10Reviewer: hwood007, CNET14 November 2010I use a 58mm 500D lens a lot to take pictures of insects. I use these pics to give classes in primary schools to jr master gardeners about the good bugs and bad bugs in the garden. I also give classes in how to make raised garden beds for growing food in your back yard and how to make a cold frame or hot house to grow plants from seed.. This camera is an important tool in making my class photos which I present to others. Read more
- I use this camera to take photos at the beach of family, friends, and ships at sea. As a master gardener, I use it to take picture of bugs in the garden.
- The lens cap ring must be removed to add an additional lens. So I remove it and keep the 58mm lens in a soft sock, ready to use when needed.
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great
10/10Reviewer: ebbbeep, Ebay6 November 2011great pictures !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!############################################################################################################### Read more
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Excellent buy, no problems here.
10/10Reviewer: MrAverage, Newegg23 August 2008The LCD display isn't difficult at all to unfold. This camera gets my "biggest bang for the buck" award. And once again, Newegg gets my praise for an excellent price, excellent service and fast delivery. Newegg rocks! Read more
- Excellent camera at a hard to beat Newegg price! Very fast multiple shots. Fast auto focus. About two seconds from power-up to shooting the first frame (this is actual...
- Lens cap falls off easily, but this comes in handy when speed is important. Grab the camera, turn it on and shoot. Forget the lens cap.. it will pop out of the way ins...
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So far so good!
10/10Reviewer: t-money, OneCall14 September 2008It's a great camera (haven't been using it very long though) & takes really quality pictures...it's just really big. So beware if you're trying to have a camera you can stick in your pocket. Read more
- Bright LCD, Comfortable Controls, Easy Setup, Easy to Keep Clean, Short Lag Time, Strong Construction
- Too big
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Very good product!
10/10Reviewer: Toni, B&H Photo12 August 2008I use it everyday, taking pictures of my little girl and can not get enough of it. The thing that I like more is the quality of the video. No need of a camcorder anymore. Have a Lumix as well, but canon wins. Read more
- Bright LCD, Comfortable Controls, Easy Setup, Easy to Keep Clean, Strong Construction, Video quality excellent
- Long Lag Time
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has great potential
8.0/10Reviewer: Ashley, CameraWorld.com19 October 2008After four years, a dozen countries, thousands of photos and a few tumbles, it was time to replace my trusty Canon PowerShot S50. I needed a new compact digital camera with the S50’s versatility. I shoot mainly on auto, but occasionally like to get creative with manual functions. I choose this camera over the Canon PowerShot G9 because the G9 wasn’t hands friendly. The S5IS has a much better grip, although its bulk makes dropping it in my purse or camelbak difficult. Read more
- Bright LCD, Comfortable Controls
- Plastic body
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Fantastic Value, Great Tool
10/10Reviewer: raleyandlimey, epinions.com12 February 2008Moving up from a complete p&s while educating myself about photography & shooting in the different m Read more
- Optics 12x zoom easy to learn on
- none that I've found after 2500+ shots...
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I love it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
10/10Reviewer: Julina, mysears.com2 December 2008I use my Canon digital camera all the time, my husband bought it for me for a gift and I use it almost everyday. The picture is so clear. Read more
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WikiFreak Description
The S5 IS is a multi function hybrid camera that is the fourth installment of Canon cameras that are known for their superzoom lens. It uses a DIGIC III processor which has a more advanced Face Detection Technology and red-eye correction to improve images.
Features
At 450 grams, it has 8.0 megapixels under its belt. It has a 12x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom. It has a 2.5 inch high resolution LCD monitor that makes image shooting easier. Another feature of the S5 IS is Optical Image Stabilizer Te…
See moreThe S5 IS is a multi function hybrid camera that is the fourth installment of Canon cameras that are known for their superzoom lens. It uses a DIGIC III processor which has a more advanced Face Detection Technology and red-eye correction to improve images.
Features
At 450 grams, it has 8.0 megapixels under its belt. It has a 12x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom. It has a 2.5 inch high resolution LCD monitor that makes image shooting easier. Another feature of the S5 IS is Optical Image Stabilizer Technology that makes sure the camera shakes won’t affect the image. By pressing the movie button, the user can easily shoot a movie without even switching to shooting mode. It supports the USB 2.0 hi-speed making image transfers much faster. Users can also choose between 22 shooting modes which also include 9 special scene modes. With the print/share button, images can be printed directly to photo printers, compact photo printers and pictbridge.
Review Summary
The Canon PowerShot S5 IS, an ultra-zoom digital camera is the upgraded version of its previous well-known model the Canon PowerShot S3. The Canon PowerShot S3 was such a success that Canon had to release a follow-up to keep the spirit of Canon fans alive. So far the Canon PowerShot S5 has not been disappointing, as a matter of fact; it is already known to be an excellent camera by having and accommodating tons of manual and automatic features, well-laid-out controls, a solid body, nice LCD display. The basic main attracting features included are Canon’s veteran optical image-stabilization technology, excellent metering and focusing systems, the signature flip-and-twist LCD display, and the set of manual and semimanual controls. Also upgraded in the Canon PowerShot S5 IS is the newly 8 megapixels sensor which increases the size of the LCD to 2.5 inches. The features are known to be very well implemented into the Canon PowerShot S5 IS. More examples of the features are a record button for movie capture, stereo microphones, a wind filter, and audio volume adjustment. The more you find out discover its features the more you will like it. Give yourself time and you will be familiarized with all its features. It does have some dislikes among its users like for example; some think that the Canon PowerShot S5 IS has low lighting abilities while some think that Canon has not broken any new ground or created anything new with the Canon PowerShot S5 IS. On a much brighter side, Canon still has many loyal fans amongst its users. The most important thing is that so far the camera has given good results for its users. CNET quoted that the PowerShot S5 IS is still a pretty good mega zoom but one that’s slowly losing ground due to the competition.
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Manufacturer's Description
The ultra-powerful 12x optical zoom on the PowerShot S5 IS means you’ll get the shot you want with no compromise, yet that’s only the beginning of what makes this camera so exciting. The S5 IS is loaded with many of Canon’s latest advanced technologies including the DIGIC III Image Processor, so both still images and movies are rendered with fine detail and luminous clarity. And now ambitious photographers have even greater creative latitude thanks to an included hot …
Specifications
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Alternative namesPower-shot S5IS
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FormatSLR-like
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Max resolution3264 x 2448
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Low resolution3264 x 1832, 2272 x 1704, 1600 x 1200, 640 x 480
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Image ratio w:h4:3, 3:2, 16:9
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Effective pixels8.0 million
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Sensor photo detectors8.2 million
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Sensor size1/2.5 " (5.75 x 4.31 mm, 0.24 cm²)
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Pixel density32 MP/cm²
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Sensor typeCCD
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Sensor manufacturerUnknown
Release Date
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First seen31 October 2006
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Previous questions about this product
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where can i get the installment for my canon powershot
(No answers yet. Write an answer!) 2008-12-27
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