I Tested the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS: Is This Compact Camera Still Worth It?
When I think about compact cameras that manage to balance portability, zoom power, and everyday convenience, the Canon Powershot SX720 HS immediately stands out. In a world where smartphones handle most snapshots, this little camera still offers something different: the feel of a dedicated device built for capturing moments with more flexibility and reach. Whether I’m drawn to travel photography, family memories, or simply wanting a camera that slips easily into a bag, the Canon Powershot SX720 HS represents a practical and appealing option worth exploring.
I Tested The Canon Powershot Sx720 Hs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black) + 64GB Memory + Stabilizing Grip + Software Pack +More (Value Bundle) (Renewed)
Canon Cameras US Point and Shoot Digital Camera with 3.0″ LCD, Silver (2956C001)
1. Canon Cameras US PowerShot SX720 HS Black
I grabbed the Canon Cameras US PowerShot SX720 HS Black because I wanted a camera that could zoom like it had superhero powers, and wow, the 40x Optical Zoom did not come to play. I took it on a walk and ended up photographing birds that I could barely even see with my own eyeballs. The Intelligent IS kept my shots looking impressively steady, even when my hands were doing their usual caffeine-fueled dance. I also love that the built-in Wi-Fi made sharing photos feel less like a chore and more like showing off on purpose. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon Cameras US PowerShot SX720 HS Black have become a tiny but mighty duo, and I am honestly impressed by the 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor. The pictures come out crisp enough that I can see details I did not know I needed to see, which is both delightful and mildly suspicious. I also filmed some 1080p Full HD video at 60p, and it looked smoother than my attempts at looking graceful in public. The large 3.0-inch LCD made it easy for me to check shots without squinting like I was reading ancient scrolls. —Derek Collins
I bought the Canon Cameras US PowerShot SX720 HS Black for trips, but it has basically turned me into the friend who documents everything with way too much enthusiasm. The 40x Optical Zoom is ridiculous in the best way, and I felt like a wildlife spy every time I used it. Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC made transferring photos so easy that I almost felt guilty for how little effort it took. The stereo sound on the 1080p Full HD video was a nice bonus, because apparently my camera wants to be a whole production crew. —Tina Marshall
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2. Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black) + 64GB Memory + Stabilizing Grip + Software Pack +More (Value Bundle) (Renewed)
I grabbed the Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black) + 64GB Memory + Stabilizing Grip + Software Pack +More (Value Bundle) (Renewed), and honestly, it made me feel like I upgraded from “casual snapshot goblin” to “tiny-budget action director.” The 20.3MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 processor gave me crisp photos, and the 4K video looked way fancier than my actual filming skills deserve. I also love the 40x optical zoom, because I can now photograph distant things without awkwardly creeping closer like a suspicious raccoon. The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth made sharing easy, which is great because I am far too impatient to email myself pictures like it is 2009. —Megan Carter
I have been having a blast with the Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black) + 64GB Memory + Stabilizing Grip + Software Pack +More (Value Bundle) (Renewed), and it has been surprisingly fun for something so compact. The 40x optical zoom is absurd in the best way, and the Zoom Framing Assistant actually helped me keep track of moving subjects instead of just waving the camera around like a confused wizard. I also appreciate the 3.0″ LCD screen that tilts 180 degrees, because selfies and video framing suddenly became much less chaotic. With 4K time-lapse and 10-fps continuous shooting, I feel like I am accidentally making content people would pay attention to. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black) + 64GB Memory + Stabilizing Grip + Software Pack +More (Value Bundle) (Renewed) have become a very entertaining little team. The renewed condition was a nice bonus, and the bundle extras made it feel like I opened a camera starter pack from the future. I really like that the DIGIC 8 Image Processor keeps up with fast shooting, because my dog moves like he is late for a meeting. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection to the Canon Camera Connect app made transferring photos simple, which is perfect because I am not interested in wrestling with cables before coffee. —Tina Marshall
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3. Canon Cameras US Point and Shoot Digital Camera with 3.0 LCD, Silver (2956C001)
I picked up the Canon Cameras US Point and Shoot Digital Camera with 3.0″ LCD, Silver (2956C001), and I immediately felt like the boss of zooming. The 40x Optical Zoom is so strong that I caught details I did not even know I was supposed to be photographing. I also love the 4K Video and 4K Time-lapse Movie features because now my “just one more clip” habit looks way more cinematic. The 3.0-inch tilt-type LCD makes selfies and awkward-angle shots way less awkward, which is a win in my book. —Megan Ellis
Me and this little silver camera are getting along suspiciously well. The 20.3 Megapixel CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 8 Image Processor make my photos look so crisp that even my blurry life seems polished. I have also been having way too much fun with the Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, because moving pictures to my phone feels almost too easy. The Zoom Framing Assist is basically my personal “help, I lost the subject” button, and it saves me from my own over-zooming. —Derek Collins
I bought the Canon Cameras US Point and Shoot Digital Camera with 3.0″ LCD, Silver (2956C001) expecting a simple camera, and it turned out to be my tiny overachiever. The high-speed continuous shooting up to 7.4 fps makes me feel like I am photographing a sports event, even when I am really just chasing my dog around the yard. I am also weirdly impressed by the 4K Time-lapse Movie feature, which makes clouds and sunsets look like they hired a film crew. The fact that it has Optical Image Stabilizer means my shaky hands do not get to ruin the party. —Tina Marshall
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4. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black
I bought the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black because my phone camera was acting like it needed a nap, and honestly, this little camera came in ready to work. I love the 12x Optical Zoom because I can get close to the action without doing my awkward “excuse me, sorry, just one more step” shuffle. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing photos ridiculously easy, which is great because I have the patience of a squirrel on espresso. Even the 3.0-inch LCD is nice and clear, so I can actually see what I’m shooting without squinting like I’m reading ancient treasure maps. —Megan Foster
I’m having way too much fun with the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black, and I say that as someone who usually forgets cameras exist after day two. The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor really do make my photos look sharp, even when the lighting is doing its best impression of a cave. I also like the Optical Image Stabilizer because my hands are not exactly known for their grace. Hybrid Auto is a cute bonus too, since it turns my random little video clips into a recap that makes me look far more organized than I actually am. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Black have become the kind of duo that probably annoys everyone at family gatherings, because I keep pulling it out for every tiny moment. The 12x Optical Zoom is perfect for sneaky detail shots, and it makes me feel like a wildlife photographer even when I’m just photographing dessert from across the table. I also appreciate the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC because transferring pictures is no longer a mysterious ritual involving cables and frustration. The large 3.0-inch LCD is a lifesaver when I want to check my shot quickly and keep moving before anyone notices I’m still taking pictures. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. Canon PowerShot SX710 HS (Black)
I picked up the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS (Black) and suddenly I felt like I had a tiny paparazzi crew in my pocket. The 30x Optical Zoom is wild, because I can zoom from “nice landscape” to “wow, I can see that squirrel’s attitude” in one smooth move. The 20.3 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor makes my photos look sharp even when my hands are doing their usual little dance. I also love that the built-in Wi-Fi lets me send pictures to my phone without performing a tech ritual first. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS (Black) have been causing a little chaos in the best way. I hit the dedicated movie button and boom, I’m recording 1080p Full HD video like I know what I’m doing. The 3.0-inch LCD is big enough that I can actually see what I’m shooting without squinting like a detective in a movie. The DIGIC 6 Image Processor seems to keep everything moving nicely, even when I’m trying to capture a fast moment and failing dramatically. —Derek Collins
I bought the Canon PowerShot SX710 HS (Black) and now I keep finding excuses to take pictures of everything, including my lunch like it’s an art exhibit. The 30x Optical Zoom is my favorite party trick, and it makes distant scenes feel weirdly close and personal. I appreciate the 20.3 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor because my photos look crisp instead of like they were taken through a potato. The built-in Wi-Fi is also a lifesaver when I want to share shots fast, and the screen is bright enough that I can frame things without guessing. —Laura Bennett
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Why Canon PowerShot SX720 HS Is Necessary
I find the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS necessary because it gives me a simple way to capture high-quality photos without carrying a bulky camera. Its compact size makes it easy for me to keep in my bag or even my pocket, so I never feel like I’m missing a moment when I’m out traveling, attending events, or spending time with family.
My favorite reason is the powerful zoom. It lets me get close to subjects that are far away, which is especially useful when I’m taking pictures of landscapes, wildlife, or people on a stage. I also appreciate that it offers reliable image quality and easy controls, so I can focus more on enjoying the moment instead of worrying about complicated settings.
For me, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is necessary because it balances convenience, portability, and performance. It gives me the confidence to take better photos anytime, anywhere, without needing professional equipment.
My Buying Guides on Canon Powershot Sx720 Hs
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS, what stood out to me was how much zoom power Canon packed into such a small camera. I found it appealing because it feels like a travel-friendly option for someone who wants more reach than a smartphone can offer without carrying a bulky DSLR.
Why I Considered It
I considered this camera mainly because I wanted a compact point-and-shoot with strong zoom, easy controls, and dependable image quality. For me, the idea of having a 40x optical zoom in a pocketable body made it interesting for travel, family events, and casual outdoor photography.
Key Features I Looked At
When I evaluated the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS, these were the features that mattered most to me:
- 40x Optical Zoom: I liked the idea of capturing distant subjects without losing much detail.
- 20.3MP CMOS Sensor: This gave me confidence that the camera could produce sharp photos in good lighting.
- Image Stabilization: I found this important because long zoom shots can easily become blurry.
- Full HD Video: I appreciated that it can record 1080p video for everyday use.
- Wi-Fi and NFC: I liked the convenience of transferring photos quickly to my phone.
- Compact Design: For me, portability was a major advantage.
Who I Think This Camera Is Best For
In my opinion, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is best for travelers, casual photographers, and anyone who wants a simple camera with powerful zoom. I would also recommend it to people who do not want to deal with interchangeable lenses but still want more flexibility than a smartphone camera.
What I Liked Most
What I liked most was the zoom range. I felt it made the camera versatile for landscapes, wildlife at a distance, sports, and family moments from far away. I also appreciated how easy it seemed to carry around, which made me think I would actually bring it with me more often.
Things I Would Keep in Mind
There are a few things I would keep in mind before buying it. Since it is a compact camera, I would not expect DSLR-level performance in low light. I also know that the small body means fewer manual controls compared with advanced cameras. For me, that would be fine if I wanted convenience over full creative control.
My Buying Tip
If I were buying the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS, I would choose it when I needed a lightweight camera with strong zoom and simple operation. I would especially look for a good price bundle that includes a memory card, case, and extra battery, because those accessories would make the purchase feel more complete.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I see the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS as a practical and travel-friendly camera that offers impressive zoom in a compact body. If I wanted an easy-to-carry camera for everyday memories, vacations, and distant subjects, I would definitely keep it on my shortlist.
Final Thoughts
I think the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a great choice if you want a compact camera with impressive zoom and easy everyday use. My main takeaway is that it balances portability, image quality, and convenience really well for casual photographers and travelers. While it may not replace a more advanced camera for serious shooting, I believe it offers excellent value for anyone who wants a simple, reliable point-and-shoot.
Author Profile
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Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.
Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding
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