Canon Powershot Sx740 Hs Vs Sony Hx99: Which Superzoom Camera Is The Travel Companion You Need?

In the realm of compact cameras, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony HX99 stand out as two of the most sought-after options for travelers and everyday photographers alike. With their sleek designs, powerful features, and impressive zoom capabilities, these cameras promise to elevate your photography experience. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony HX99, helping you make an informed decision.

Sensor and Image Quality:

At the heart of any camera lies its sensor, which plays a crucial role in determining image quality. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS boasts a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the Sony HX99 features a slightly smaller 18.2-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor. While megapixels alone don’t guarantee superior image quality, both cameras deliver sharp and detailed images, even in low-light conditions. However, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS has a slight edge in terms of resolution, allowing you to capture larger prints or crop your photos more aggressively without sacrificing quality.

Lens and Zoom Range:

One of the key selling points of both cameras is their impressive zoom capabilities. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS features a remarkable 40x optical zoom lens, equivalent to a 24-960mm focal length. This immense range makes it ideal for capturing distant subjects, whether you’re shooting wildlife, sports, or far-off landscapes. On the other hand, the Sony HX99 comes equipped with a slightly shorter 30x optical zoom lens, equivalent to a 24-720mm focal length. While still versatile, the Sony HX99’s zoom range may feel limiting for photographers who frequently shoot at extreme telephoto focal lengths.

Viewfinder and LCD Screen:

When it comes to composing your shots, both cameras offer different viewing options. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS features a 0.39-inch electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a resolution of 2.36 million dots. This EVF provides a clear and detailed view of your subject, especially in bright outdoor conditions where the LCD screen may struggle. The Sony HX99, on the other hand, lacks an EVF, relying solely on its 3-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 921,600 dots. While the LCD screen is bright and responsive, it can be challenging to use in direct sunlight.

Autofocus and Performance:

Autofocus performance is crucial for capturing sharp and well-focused images, especially in fast-moving situations. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS employs a Hybrid CMOS AF III system, which combines contrast-detection and phase-detection autofocus for quick and accurate focusing. The Sony HX99, on the other hand, utilizes a Fast Intelligent AF system, which also offers reliable autofocus performance. In general, both cameras deliver fast and accurate autofocus, making them suitable for capturing moving subjects or candid shots.

Video Recording Capabilities:

If you’re interested in capturing videos, both cameras offer Full HD (1920 x 1080) video recording at 60 frames per second (fps). This allows you to create smooth and detailed videos, perfect for vlogging, travelogues, or capturing special moments. Additionally, both cameras feature built-in image stabilization to help reduce camera shake and ensure steady footage.

Connectivity and Sharing:

In today’s digital world, connectivity is essential for sharing your photos and videos with friends, family, and the online community. Both the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony HX99 offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to transfer images and videos wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet. Additionally, both cameras support NFC (Near Field Communication), which enables easy pairing with compatible devices by simply touching them together.

Battery Life:

Battery life is a crucial consideration, especially when you’re traveling or shooting for extended periods. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides approximately 265 shots per charge. The Sony HX99, on the other hand, uses a slightly smaller rechargeable lithium-ion battery that offers approximately 360 shots per charge. While both cameras provide decent battery life, the Sony HX99 has a slight advantage in this regard.

Verdict:

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony HX99 are both excellent compact cameras that offer a range of features and capabilities to suit the needs of travel and everyday photographers. While they share many similarities, there are a few key differences to consider when making your choice. If you prioritize long zoom range, an electronic viewfinder, and higher resolution, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is the better option. However, if you value a smaller and lighter body, longer battery life, and a slightly wider lens, the Sony HX99 is a compelling choice. Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.

What’s the Difference Between the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony HX99?

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony HX99 are both compact cameras with impressive zoom capabilities, but there are a few key differences between the two. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS has a longer zoom range (40x vs. 30x), an electronic viewfinder, and a higher-resolution sensor (20.3 megapixels vs. 18.2 megapixels). The Sony HX99 is smaller and lighter, has a longer battery life, and a slightly wider lens.

Which Camera is Better for Travel?

Both the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS and the Sony HX99 are good options for travel photography, but the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS has a few advantages. Its longer zoom range makes it ideal for capturing distant subjects, and its electronic viewfinder is helpful for composing shots in bright outdoor conditions.

Which Camera is Better for Everyday Photography?

Both cameras are capable of taking great photos in a variety of situations, but the Sony HX99 may be a better choice for everyday photography due to its smaller size and lighter weight. It’s also easier to carry around, making it a good option for taking on walks, hikes, or other outings.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Which camera has a longer zoom range?
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS has a longer zoom range (40x) than the Sony HX99 (30x).

2. Which camera has a higher-resolution sensor?
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS has a higher-resolution sensor (20.3 megapixels) than the Sony HX99 (18.2 megapixels).

3. Which camera is smaller and lighter?
The Sony HX99 is smaller and lighter than the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS.

4. Which camera has a longer battery life?
The Sony HX99 has a longer battery life (360 shots per charge) than the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS (265 shots per charge).

5. Which camera has a wider lens?
The Sony HX99 has a slightly wider lens (24mm) than the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS (25mm).