Canon Powershot Sx70 Hs Vs Nikon Coolpix P950: Which Megazoom Camera Reigns Supreme?
What To Know
- A wider maximum aperture allows for more light to reach the sensor, resulting in brighter images in low-light conditions and a shallower depth of field, which can be useful for isolating subjects from the background.
- The SX70 HS has a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 922,000 dots, while the P950 has a slightly larger 3.
- The SX70 HS has a battery life of approximately 325 shots per charge, while the P950 has a slightly longer battery life of approximately 360 shots per charge.
When it comes to wildlife photography, a camera that offers both powerful zoom capabilities and high image quality is essential. Two popular options in this category are the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS and the Nikon Coolpix P950. Both cameras boast impressive zoom ranges and a host of features designed to capture stunning wildlife shots. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two cameras to help you make an informed decision about which one is the best fit for your wildlife photography needs.
Image Quality:
The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS features a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Nikon Coolpix P950 has a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor. While the SX70 HS has a higher megapixel count, it is important to note that megapixels alone do not determine image quality. Both cameras produce sharp and detailed images, with good color reproduction and dynamic range. However, the SX70 HS may have a slight edge in low-light conditions due to its larger sensor.
Zoom Range:
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a wildlife camera is the zoom range. Both the SX70 HS and the P950 offer impressive zoom capabilities, but there is a significant difference in their reach. The SX70 HS boasts a 65x optical zoom, which translates to a focal length range of 21-1365mm (35mm equivalent). On the other hand, the P950 takes it a step further with its 83x optical zoom, providing a focal length range of 24-2000mm (35mm equivalent). This extraordinary zoom range makes the P950 an excellent choice for photographers who need to capture distant subjects, such as birds in flight or wildlife in remote locations.
Lens Aperture:
The lens aperture plays a crucial role in controlling the depth of field and the amount of light entering the camera. The SX70 HS has a maximum aperture of f/3.4-6.5, while the P950 has a slightly wider maximum aperture of f/2.8-6.5. A wider maximum aperture allows for more light to reach the sensor, resulting in brighter images in low-light conditions and a shallower depth of field, which can be useful for isolating subjects from the background.
Viewfinder and LCD Screen:
Both the SX70 HS and the P950 feature electronic viewfinders (EVFs) and LCD screens. The SX70 HS has a 0.39-inch EVF with a resolution of 2.36 million dots, while the P950 has a slightly larger 0.39-inch EVF with a resolution of 2.36 million dots. Both EVFs provide a clear and detailed view of the scene, making it easier to compose and focus your shots. The SX70 HS has a 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 922,000 dots, while the P950 has a slightly larger 3.2-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 921,000 dots. Both LCD screens are bright and sharp, allowing you to review your shots and adjust camera settings easily.
Continuous Shooting Speed:
The continuous shooting speed is an important consideration for capturing fast-moving subjects. The SX70 HS has a continuous shooting speed of 10 frames per second (fps), while the P950 has a slightly faster continuous shooting speed of 7 fps. While both cameras offer respectable continuous shooting speeds, the SX70 HS has a slight advantage in this area, making it a better choice for capturing fast-paced action.
Autofocus Performance:
Autofocus performance is crucial for capturing sharp and in-focus wildlife shots. The SX70 HS utilizes a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which offers fast and accurate autofocus, even in low-light conditions. The P950, on the other hand, uses a contrast-detection AF system, which can be slower and less reliable in low-light situations.
Battery Life:
Battery life is an essential factor to consider, especially when shooting wildlife in remote locations where access to power outlets may be limited. The SX70 HS has a battery life of approximately 325 shots per charge, while the P950 has a slightly longer battery life of approximately 360 shots per charge. While both cameras offer decent battery life, it is always a good idea to carry a spare battery or a portable charger when shooting wildlife for extended periods.
Additional Features:
Both the SX70 HS and the P950 offer a range of additional features that can enhance your wildlife photography experience. The SX70 HS features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to wirelessly transfer images to your smartphone or tablet and remotely control the camera using the Canon Camera Connect app. The P950 also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a built-in GPS module that allows you to geotag your images with location data. Additionally, both cameras offer a variety of scene modes and creative filters to help you capture unique and artistic wildlife shots.
Verdict:
The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS and the Nikon Coolpix P950 are both excellent choices for wildlife photography, offering powerful zoom capabilities, good image quality, and a range of features to enhance your shooting experience. The SX70 HS has a higher megapixel count, a slightly faster continuous shooting speed, and a more advanced autofocus system, while the P950 has a longer zoom range, a wider maximum aperture, and a slightly longer battery life. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific wildlife photography needs and preferences. If you prioritize zoom range and low-light performance, the P950 is the way to go. If you value a higher megapixel count, faster continuous shooting speed, and a more advanced autofocus system, the SX70 HS is an excellent option.
Alternatives to Consider:
If you are looking for alternatives to the SX70 HS and the P950, here are a few other wildlife cameras worth considering:
- Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV: This camera offers a 20.1-megapixel sensor, a 25x optical zoom, and a fast autofocus system.
- Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II: This camera features a 20.1-megapixel sensor, a 16x optical zoom, and a built-in ND filter.
- Fujifilm X-T30 II: This mirrorless camera offers a 26.1-megapixel sensor, a 4x optical zoom, and the ability to use interchangeable lenses.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which camera has a longer zoom range, the SX70 HS or the P950?
A: The Nikon Coolpix P950 has a longer zoom range, with an 83x optical zoom compared to the SX70 HS’s 65x optical zoom.
Q: Which camera has a higher megapixel count, the SX70 HS or the P950?
A: The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS has a higher megapixel count, with a 20.3-megapixel sensor compared to the P950’s 16-megapixel sensor.
Q: Which camera has a faster continuous shooting speed, the SX70 HS or the P950?
A: The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS has a faster continuous shooting speed, with a rate of 10 fps compared to the P950’s 7 fps.
Q: Which camera has a more advanced autofocus system, the SX70 HS or the P950?
A: The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS has a more advanced autofocus system, utilizing a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system compared to the P950’s contrast-detection AF system.
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life, the SX70 HS or the P950?
A: The Nikon Coolpix P950 has a slightly longer battery life, with a rating of approximately 360 shots per charge compared to the SX70 HS’s 325 shots per charge.
