Manual of product PowerShot SX20 IS
Editorial note
The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS stands out for its remarkable image quality, thanks to its 12.1 MP sensor and a maximum resolution of 4000 x 3000 pixels, allowing for precise capture of every detail. Its powerful 20x optical zoom, combined with an integrated image stabilizer, offers appreciated flexibility for capturing distant subjects while ensuring sharp photos and videos, even in motion. Additionally, the 2.5-inch tilting LCD screen and various shooting modes suited for different lighting conditions enhance the user experience. However, some drawbacks deserve to be highlighted. The maximum video resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels may seem insufficient for users seeking Full HD quality. The weight of 560 g can also be a hindrance for those looking for a lightweight compact camera. Furthermore, the lack of compatibility with Mac operating systems limits its appeal to some users. Finally, manual focus could pose difficulties for those who prefer a fast automatic focus system. In terms of score, the user experience is overall positive with 85, thanks to an intuitive interface. Performance is good, rated at 78, although video quality may disappoint. Battery life is satisfactory with a score of 80, while the modern design receives a 75 due to its weight. The varied features, such as optical zoom and image stabilizer, score 82, while usability is rated at 70 due to the limitations of manual focus. Finally, the value for money is considered reasonable with a score of 77, although the lack of Mac compatibility may restrict its attractiveness. Overall, the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS is a solid choice for photography enthusiasts, despite some limitations that may not suit all users.Score details
User experience
The user experience is overall positive, thanks to an intuitive interface and well-thought-out features, such as the tiltable LCD screen and various shooting modes.
Performance
The performance is good, with exceptional image quality thanks to the 12.1 MP sensor, but the maximum video resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels may disappoint those looking for higher quality.
Battery life
The battery life is satisfactory, thanks to its use of AA batteries that ensure optimal performance for extended use.
Design
The design is modern and sleek, but the weight of 560 g can be a drawback for those looking for a lightweight compact camera.
Features
The features are varied, including a powerful 20x optical zoom and built-in image stabilizer, although the 4x digital zoom may lead to a degradation in image quality.
Usability
Manual focus can be problematic for some users, especially those who prefer quick autofocus, thus limiting usability in certain situations.
Value for money
The value for money is reasonable considering the features offered, but the lack of compatibility with Mac operating systems may restrict its appeal to some users.
Advantages
12.1 MP sensor for accurate images.
20x optical zoom for distant subjects.
Image stabilizer for sharp photos.
Various shooting modes.
USB 2.0 connection and direct printing.
2.5-inch tiltable LCD screen.
Disadvantages
Not compatible with Mac
Digital zoom degrades quality
Relatively heavy to carry
Video resolution limited to 720p
Manual focus is inconvenient
Technical Specifications PowerShot SX20 IS
General Information
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ModelPOWERSHOT SX20 IS
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Brand
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Category
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Type
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SKU1040493
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MPN1040493
Image quality
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Megapixel12.1 MP
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Maximum image resolution4000 x 3000 pixels
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Image stabilizerYes
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Sensor typeCCD (charge-coupled device)
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Image sensor size1/2.3 "
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Camera typeCompact camera
Objective system
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Digital zoom4 x
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Optical zoom20 x
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Focal length5 - 100 mm
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Combined zooms80 x
Other features
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Digital SLRNo
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Equivalent focal length in 35 mm28 - 560 mm
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Effective sensor resolution12100000 pixels
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Camera shutter speed1 - 1/3200 s
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Video possibilitiesYes
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Video possibilitiesYes
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InterfaceUSB
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Quantity of HDMI ports1
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Compatible operating systemsWindows XP SP2-3 / Vista (inc. SP1-2)
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Mac OS X v10.4 - 10.5
Tuning
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TuningTTL
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Autofocus (AF) assistance beamYes
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Minimum focusing distance0 m
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Auto Focusing (AF) Modescontinuous auto focus, single auto focus
Exposure to light
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ISO Sensitivity80
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Type of exposure100
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200
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400
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800
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1600
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AUTO
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aperture priority AE
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auto
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manual
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shutter priority AE
Flash
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Flash Exposure LockYes
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Flash range (wide)0.50 - 6.8 m
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Flash range (tele)1 - 3.7 m
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Flash modesSlow synchronization
Video
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Maximum video resolution1280 x 720 pixels
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Supported video formatMOV
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Motion JPEG frame rate30 fps
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Video recordingYes
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Type HDHD
Screen
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ScreenLCD
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Screen size2.5 "
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Digital display resolution230000 pixels
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Tilted LCD screenYes
Connectivity
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PictBridgeYes
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USB Version2.0
Camera
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Reading zoom (max)2 x
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HistogramYes
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HistogramYes
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HistogramYes
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Image processorDIGIC 4
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Photographic effectsblack&white, Neutral, Sepia, Vivid
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Scene modesbeach, Close-up (macro), Fireworks, Night landscape, Night portrait, Panorama, Portrait, Landscape (scenery)
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White balanceauto, Cloudy, daylight, Fluorescent, Tungsten
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Camera playbackVignette
Design
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Product colorBlack
Battery
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Battery typeAA
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Battery technologyNickel-metal hydride (NiMH)
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Number of supported batteries4
Packaging contents
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Provided softwareZoomBrowser EX / ImageBrowser
Minimum system requirements
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Mac CompatibilityYes
Weight and dimensions
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Weight560 g
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Width124 mm
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Depth86.9 mm
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Height88.3 mm
Environmental conditions
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Operating temperature0 - 40 °C
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Operating relative humidity (H-H)10 - 90 %
Memory
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Compatible memory cardsmmc
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sd
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sdhc
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a megapixel?
What does the abbreviation "MP" mean?
What is the weight of the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
What is the size of the screen on the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
What is the height of the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
What is the width of the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
What is the depth of the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
How do I adjust the exposure settings on my Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
Why are my indoor photos blurry with my Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
How do I capture a fast-moving subject without motion blur with my Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
How do I enable manual focus on my Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
How can I extend the battery life of my Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
Does the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS have a built-in flash?
Does the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS have image stabilization?
What is the maximum image resolution of the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS?
Is the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS a digital SLR camera?
What type of zoom does the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS have?
Is the manual for the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS available in French?
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Presentation of product PowerShot SX20 IS specifications from brand Canon
General Information
The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS is a camcorder from the Canon brand, known for its excellence and innovation in the photography sector. This model, identified by the reference PowerShot SX20 IS | 3633B016, offers optimized performance to satisfy users looking for an enriching shooting experience.
Image Quality
Equipped with a 12.1 MP sensor, the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS allows for remarkable image quality. Its maximum resolution of 4000 x 3000 pixels ensures precise details and exceptional clarity. The built-in image stabilizer guarantees sharp photos and videos, even during movement. The CCD sensor (charge-coupled device) contributes to optimal image quality, while the sensor size of 1/2.3 " promotes excellent light management and superior photo definitions.
Lens System
The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS features a powerful 20x optical zoom and a 4x digital zoom, allowing for capturing distant subjects with great precision. With a focal length of 5 - 100 mm, it offers flexibility for various shots. The lens system combines zoom capabilities of up to 80x, enabling exploration of different capture distances.
Other Features
Although it is not a digital SLR, the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS ensures high image quality. Its equivalent focal length in 35 mm ranges from 28 - 560 mm, providing varied perspectives. The effective resolution of the sensor is 12.1 MP, ensuring precise details. Its shutter speed ranges from 1 - 1/3200 s, allowing for sharp images even in low light. An integrated flash facilitates capturing clear images in dark conditions, and its video capabilities enhance the user experience. This model features a USB interface for easy connection and an HDMI port for compatibility with other devices. It is also compatible with Windows XP, Vista, and 7 operating systems.
Focusing
The focus is manual, allowing users to precisely control the lens. An autofocus (AF) assist beam is also present, improving focus in low light conditions. The minimum focusing distance is 0 m, and the autofocus modes include Multi Point, Single, and Tracking Auto Focus.
Light Exposure
The ISO sensitivity ranges from 80 to 1600, with AUTO settings to adapt to different lighting. Exposure modes include aperture priority, automatic, manual, and shutter speed priority, allowing for creative control over shots.
Flash
The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS includes flash exposure lock, ensuring optimal lighting. The flash range is 0.50 - 6.8 m in wide mode and 1 - 3.7 m in telephoto mode, with several flash modes suited for shooting conditions.
Video
The maximum video resolution of the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS is 1280 x 720 pixels, providing adequate image quality for videos. It supports the MOV format and records at a frame rate of 30 fps, ensuring smooth playback.
Screen
The 2.5-inch LCD screen allows for pleasant viewing, with a resolution of 230000 pixels. This screen is tiltable, providing flexibility to explore various shooting angles.
Connectivity
The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS supports PictBridge, allowing for direct photo printing without a computer. It features a USB 2.0 port for fast and efficient connection.
Camera
This model offers a maximum playback zoom of 2x, a live view, and a custom color option. It is equipped with a DIGIC 4 image processor, ensuring optimal performance. The included scene modes allow for optimizing shots based on the subject, and the white balance offers several options to adjust the color temperature.
Design
The design of the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS is sleek, with a black finish that gives it a modern appearance.
Battery
Operating with AA-type batteries, this model uses nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) hybrid batteries for lasting performance. It supports up to 4 batteries for extended use.
Package Contents
The included software, ZoomBrowser EX / ImageBrowser, enhances the user experience and optimizes the device's performance.
Minimum System Requirements
It is worth noting that the Canon PowerShot SX20 IS is not compatible with Mac systems.
Weight and Dimensions
Weighing 560 g, this camcorder is designed for easy handling. Its dimensions are 124 mm in width, 86.9 mm in depth, and 88.3 mm in height, allowing for optimal integration into various spaces.
Environmental Conditions
The Canon PowerShot SX20 IS operates within a temperature range of 0 to 40 °C and supports a relative humidity of 10 to 90 %, ensuring its performance in various environments.
Memory
This model is compatible with mmc, sd, and sdhc memory cards, ensuring efficient storage of your data.
