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7.5 out of 10

Canon Powershot SX1 IS

10.0 megapixels

Information found in: from 127 sources in 27 countries

Great Deal: $569.99

  • User Score (417)
    7.9 7.9 from 417 reviewers
  • Expert Score (23)
    8.1 8.1 from 23 reviewers
  • Design (5)
    8.0 8.0 from 5 reviewers
  • Value for money (8)
    6.2 6.2 from 8 reviewers
  • Features (17)
    7.8 7.8 from 17 reviewers
  • Ease of use (20)
    7.7 7.7 from 20 reviewers
  • Performance (26)
    7.4 7.4 from 26 reviewers
  • Picture quality (37)
    6.9 6.9 from 37 reviewers
  • Durability (2)
    7.6 7.6 from 2 reviewers
  • Reliability (2)
    8.6 8.6 from 2 reviewers
  • Overall quality (5)
    7.8 7.8 from 5 reviewers
  • Battery performance (4)
    5.7 5.7 from 4 reviewers
  • Display (25)
    7.7 7.7 from 25 reviewers
  • Ergonomics (25)
    7.5 7.5 from 25 reviewers
  • Equipment (4)
    8.1 8.1 from 4 reviewers
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  • Best Deals

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In Stock (S) $569.99 SEE IT
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  • Score Distribution

Experts:
9-10
(6)
7-8
(16)
5-6
(1)
3-4
(0)
1-2
(0)
Users:
9-10
(174)
7-8
(100)
5-6
(51)
3-4
(22)
1-2
(34)

  • Expert Reviews

  1. Digitaltrends

    Digitaltrends
    6.5/10
    28 July 2009

    A 20x zoom lens and 1080p video capability make Canon's SX1 seem like a DSLR, but it's not. Hybrids aren’t just on the highway – they’re moving to the camera aisle in a big way. Read more

    • 20x wide-angle zoom; good 1080P video at 30 fps; fine photos with enough available light; very effective OIS
    • DSLR price, no DSLR response; steep learning curve vis-a-vis other point-and-shoots; high noise at ISO 800; no auto pop-up flash; disappointing LCD screen; no Smart Auto

  2. DP Review

    DP Review
    9 August 2011

    Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Canon PowerShot S5 IS Sensor • 1/2.3 " Type CMOS • 10.0 million effective pixels • 1/2.5 " Type CCD • 8.0 million effective pixels Maximum Image Size 3648 x 2736 3264 x 2448 Processor Digic 4 Read more

    • Good resolution, Good color, Generally accurate focus gives a high 'hit rate' even in auto mode, Huge photographic versatility with 28-560mm lens and super macro mode, Image stabilization works very well (and can be used i...

  3. PC Magazine

    PC Magazine
    8.0/10
    29 May 2009

    We have some minor gripes with the Canon PowerShot SX1—including its high price—but it's one of the best superzoom cameras you can buy. Read more

    • Terrific image quality. 20X optical zoom. Fast zooming and focusing. Captures HD video with stereo audio. Can take still shots while recording video. Comfortable manual controls. Widescreen LCD. HDMI-out.
    • Pricey. Small screen. Electronic viewfinder. Watch the PowerShot SX1 IS in action!

  4. Camera Labs

    Camera Labs
    8.7/10
    1 February 2009

    Canon’s PowerShot SX1 IS has justifiably become one of the most talked-about super-zoom cameras on the market today. It takes the already capable PowerShot SX10 IS with its powerful 20x zoom and articulated screen, but... Read more

    • Massive 20x range with 28mm wide angle., Full HD video in 1080p with stereo sound., Fast continuous shooting at 4fps., Fully articulated 2.8in screen.
    • Fringing in corners with high contrast subjects., Battery life shorter than SX10 IS., Small viewfinder image, especially at 4:3., Slightly noisier than the SX10 IS.

  5. Imaging Resource

    Imaging Resource
    19 April 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 Read more

    • Sturdy build, Comfortable grip, Instant video recording, Power button turns camera on and off in Playback mode, Aspect ratio button makes changing this option easier than ever, Included remote controls camera in both Recor...
    • Noise suppression loses subtle detail even at the lowest ISO settings (Canon's CCD-based long-zoom models do much better), Lens still has lots more chromatic aberration than most shorter-ratio zooms, Poor detail at high IS...

  6. infoSync World

    infoSync World
    7.3/10
    19 April 2009

    We can definitely say that Canon's upgrade to last year's PowerShot SX10 IS was a step in the right direction. However, the 10-megapixel Canon PowerShot SX1 IS left us with a few sour tastes in our mouths, particularly due to... Read more

    • Great design and interface. 20x optical zoom, swivel LCD and OIS are big bonuses. Great HD video quality in bright light.
    • Inconsistent still image quality. Terrible HD video low light performance. No shutter speed past one second unless you use a Scene mode.

  7. DigitalCameraInfo.com

    DigitalCameraInfo.com
    22 July 2009

    It looks like an innocent compact SLR , but the Canon SX1 is actually a paparazzi-pleasing ultrazoom in sheep’s clothing, with a 20x zoom plus high-def 1080p video. Read more

  8. Digital Camera Review

    Digital Camera Review
    4 May 2009

    While Canon may have taken their time getting a 20x ultrazoom into service with the SX10 IS, they haven't waited all that long in producing a follow up model to share the spotlight in this market niche: the Canon PowerShot Read more

  9. Steve's Digicams

    Steve's Digicams
    13 April 2009

    Specifications Physical Views Features & Controls Record Modes Playback Modes Steve's Conclusion Sample Photos Visitors of Steves can visit the stores below for real-time pricing and availability. Read more

  10. Bright Hub

    Bright Hub
    25 January 2010

    This digital camera review is for the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS - the latest superzoom Point & Shoot from the Canon stable. Find out if this camera is right for you. Read more

  • User Reviews

  1. Camera breaks repeatedly

    Amazon
    2.0/10
    Reviewer: Anne, Amazon
    15 June 2011

    After paying several hundred dollars, this camera has been a disappointment. During our trip to Costa Rica this year, it went into a "lens error" and was unusable for the remainder of the trip. Read more

  2. It´s ok but pictures are only average

    4.8/10
    Reviewer: Lupti, dpreview.com
    16 August 2011

    I tested this cameras a cheap alternative to nowadays models. On paper there aren´t so much improvements on nowadays cameras. The SX1 works with normal batteries, that´s fine I think. Read more

    • I tested this cameras a cheap alternative to nowadays models. On paper there aren´t so much improvements on nowadays cameras. The SX1 works with normal batteries, that´s fine I think. No rip-off with special Li-Ion packs w...
    • Overall I would the rate the camera below average because neither stills nor movies are convincing.

  3. Great Pictures But Kind Of Bulky

    8.0/10
    Reviewer: melsly, epinions.com
    1 week ago

    I've always bought Canon cameras because of the great, professional looking photos they produce. Read more

    • Lot of memory Swivel Screen Many features
    • A little complicated Heavy and bulky Battery power used quickly

  4. "Very solid, Super fast very quiet zoom, IS and focusing"

    CNET
    9.0/10
    Reviewer: suckedsmarty, CNET
    4 December 2010

    The ring around the 4 way (usual) control on the back is "to get used to" and can control fine focus, white balance etc etc. If your thunbs are as worn out and as insensitive as mine then this is a bit dificult to get to... Read more

    • Very fast zoom that is the quietest at zooming (slowly) and quietest at focusing (Fuiji FHS10 was awful) that I've come across so far. Sound recorded - turn downable too. Fun snap scene mode that pics out colour of your ch...
    • Snapping pictures in video, pauses the video. I like this though - pause will be at an interesting bit! VF quite low definition, make sure the dioptre is adjusted for your eyes correctly. Pictures might lack colour but pre...

  5. Good option

    J&R
    8.0/10
    Reviewer: Pao, J&R
    11 August 2009

    This is an excellent option if you are looking for more than a regular point and shoot. This camera offers you most of the features of a profesional. It's heavy but it's worth it. Read more

    • Bright LCD, Fast Shutter Speed, Great Image Quality, Image Stabilization, Strong Construction
    • Heavy

  6. Thank You NewEgg team

    Newegg
    10/10
    Reviewer: MACHINE, Newegg
    17 November 2009

    Newegg has a simple but excellent business model of fair to competitive prices and super fast fulfillment and delivery. So simple you would think to fulfill an order the same day you get it but even @m@zon can't do this. Read more

    • Ordered on Friday and received on Monday. Shipping at the time was $1.99. I could have gotten it cheaper from another vendor and waited 7-9 days. Thanks NewEgg for the exceptional speed of service. Camera was well packaged...
    • None at this time.

  7. I'd buy another in a heartbeat takes the best pics

    Ebay
    10/10
    Reviewer: emmiecats, Ebay
    15 August 2011 See Product at eBay ($569.99)

    I have wanted a nice camera for ever..read an article about Megapixels and said anything over a 6 for amitures was useless. If a 6 takes really good pics then u know a 10 takes even better. Read more or see product

  8. Kind of expensive but has nice features

    OneCall
    8.0/10
    Reviewer: Yankeee fan Joe, OneCall
    10 August 2009

    I got this camera specifically for situations where I need a high power zoom, but don't want to deal with a bulky DSLR and a long, cumbersome lens. Read more

    • 20x zoom lens, Image Stabilization
    • Filters and hood issues, Lousy viewfinder

  9. Walmart

    Walmart
    8.0/10
    Reviewer: aron, Walmart
    29 November 2009

    i bought this camera as a middle option between a point and shoot and dslr, for those times when it gets a little difficult to take your dslr, this is a very good option, it takes pretty good pictures and the 1080 hd video Read more

  10. Great Pictures But Kind Of Bulky

    epinions.com
    8.0/10
    Reviewer: melsly, epinions.com
    12 May 2009

    I've always bought Canon cameras because of the great, professional looking photos they produce. Read more

    • Lot of memory Swivel Screen Many features
    • A little complicated Heavy and bulky Battery power used quickly

  • WikiFreak Description

Canon Powershot SX1 IS

The Canon Powershot SX1 IS is a full HD 10-megapixel digital camera that measures 5.02 x 3.48 x 3.45 inches (W x H x D) and weighs approximately 20.64 ounces. It is equipped with Canon’s DIGIC 4 with iSAPS technology allowing for enhanced noise reduction and high processing speeds. It is also equipped with a shift-type image stabilization system for reduction of blurs due to camera shakes.

The Canon Powershot SX1 IS is equipped with a 2.8-inch vari-angle TFT display that …

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Edit

Canon Powershot SX1 IS

The Canon Powershot SX1 IS is a full HD 10-megapixel digital camera that measures 5.02 x 3.48 x 3.45 inches (W x H x D) and weighs approximately 20.64 ounces. It is equipped with Canon’s DIGIC 4 with iSAPS technology allowing for enhanced noise reduction and high processing speeds. It is also equipped with a shift-type image stabilization system for reduction of blurs due to camera shakes.

The Canon Powershot SX1 IS is equipped with a 2.8-inch vari-angle TFT display that has an image aspect ratio of 16:9 and a pixel canvas of approximately 230,000 dots.

The camera can capture still images of up to 3,648 x 2,736 pixels and saves in JPEG format. It is capable of recording HD videos at full 1080p resolution. Video clips are captured at 30 frames per second and are saved in MOV format. It can record up to 4 gigabytes of HD videos which is equivalent to approximately 29 minutes and 59 seconds of recordings.

Still images and video recordings are saved in memory cards. Compatible types include SD, SDHC, MMC, MMC Plus, and HC MMC Plus.

The Powershot SX1 IS is powered by 4 AA alkaline batteries which can be replaced with 4 AA NiMH batteries. Using the supplied Alkaline batteries, it can take approximately 160 shots or last up to 720 minutes of continuous playback.

The camera connects to computers via Hi-Speed USB 2.0 and is compatible with Windows XP Service Pack 2, Windows Vista, and Mac OS X 10.4 or later. It also has an HDMI mini jack for connecting to other components.

Other features of the Canon Powershot SX1 IS include optical zoom of up to 20x and digital zoom of up to 4x. It features 25 different shooting modes and 12 different photo effects. Apart from these, it has an intelligent orientation sensor and red-eye correction functions. It also supports direct printing through Canon SELPHY Compact Photo Printers and Canon Inkjet Printers that support PictBridge.

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  • Manufacturer's Description

Put your hand around the perfectly-shaped grip of Canon’s sporty new PowerShot SX1 IS and you’re ready for a shooting experience that’s advanced in every way. Superb still images powered by Canon’s DIGIC 4 Image processor, evolved Face Detection Technology and a wide-angle 20x optical zoom are only the beginning. You can also create Full HD movies and see every detail on your HDTV thanks to HDMI output. The 10.0-megapixel SX1 IS is the very first PowerShot equipped wi…

Specifications

  • Format
    Compact
  • Max resolution
    3648 x 2736
  • Low resolution
    2816 x 2112, 2272 x 1704, 1600 x 1200, 640 x 480, 3840 x 2160, 1920 x 1080
  • Image ratio w:h
    4:3, 3:2, 16:9
  • Effective pixels
    10.0 million
  • Sensor size
    1/2.3 " (6.16 x 4.62 mm, 0.28 cm²)
  • Pixel density
    35 MP/cm²
  • Sensor type
    CMOS
  • Sensor manufacturer
    Unknown
  • ISO rating
    Auto, 80 ,100, 200, 400, 800, 1600

Release Date

  • First seen
    18 September 2008

Ask the community

Need more advice? Ask the community a question.

Questions asked: 5 Answers: 3

Previous questions about this product

  • comparison between sx1 and sx10 ??

    anyone can give technical comparison between sx1 and sx10 in terms of picture quality? knew the current diff is hd video and cmos on sx1, but does the cmos account for more sensitive sensors, eg aperture stop higher for same image?? so that can have more bokeh effects??

    Answered by Belle 2009-07-10:

    Canon Powershot Sx1IS and Canon Powershot Sx10 IS are quite similar but they differ in some features. The SX1 has a better picture quality with high resolution compare to the SX10. Canon Powershot SX1 IS has Canon CMOS sensor for full resolution continuous 4fps shooting while the SX10 IS doesn’t have this function. The SX10 IS has 2.5 inch vari-angle LCD II with wide viewing angle plus electronic viewfinder while the SX1 IS has 2.8 inch widescreen. The SX1 IS also has true HD video (1080p at 30

  • Instructions Canon PowerShot SX 1 IS

    Where to get cd, dvd , video or down load for this camera

    Answered by actl36 2009-07-27:

    where would I get the instructional dvd or video for the cannon powershot sx10 is

  • What would be/is the cost of this camera?

    Answered by KristoferB 2008-12-04:

    depends where you look, I found it for around

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