Canon PowerShot A720 IS Digital Camera Review

by Karen M. Cheung
Published on October 17, 2007

Navigation
Intro	Testing/Performance
Components	Design / Layout
Modes	Control Options
Image Parameters	Connectivity / Extras
Overall Impressions	Conclusion
Sample Photos	Photo Gallery
Specs / Ratings

Canon launched the PowerShot A720 IS with optical image stabilization in August 2007 as a full-featured camera at an economic price. The PowerShot A720 IS is the third model in Canon’s entry-level A-series with image stabilization. In addition to increasing the resolution to 8-megapixels, the camera features 6x optical zoom and an updated Digic III processor with upgraded face detection technology. The Canon PowerShot A720 IS retails for $249.99.

Physical Tour

Front (7.5)
The 6x optical zoom lens takes up most of the front face. Separated from the rest of the plastic body, the extending lens is surrounded by silver metal rings with the inscribed text: “Canon Zoom Lens 6x IS” and the focal length and aperture specifications “5.8-34.8mm 1:2.8-4.8.”

A variety of features are crowded above the lens. From left to right, they are the autofocus-assist beam lamp with embossed Canon logo underneath, optical viewfinder window, and rectangular flash with the text “6x Optical Zoom” lining the curved edge of the camera. Underneath the self-timer lamp are three small microphone holes to record audio from the subject or atmosphere. To either side of bottom of the lens are the “8.0 Mega Pixel” text and ring release button. The ring release button allows users to add optional lens converter accessories to the lens.

To the left is a hand grip for the right hand. It is designed with two-toned colors and the camera’s model name – “PowerShot A720” in white text and “IS,” or Image Stabilization, in red font. Also visible from the front is the shutter button, encircled by the zoom lever.

Back (7.5)
Most of the backside is taken up by the 2.5-inch LCD screen. The screen has a black border and silver Canon tagline. Above the LCD is the rare point-and-shoot optical viewfinder, which is surrounded by a slightly raised surface. To the right of the viewfinder are two operation lamps, one to indicate when the camera is ready to shoot and the other when the lens is properly focused.

To the right of the monitor is a seam that divides the LCD from the control panel. The controls include the strangely-placed Record/Playback mode switch, situated where the right thumb naturally rests. Below the mode switch is a central four-way controller which controls flash and focus. The multi-selector is surrounded by four equally-sized circular functions for EV compensation, Print, Display, and Menu.

Right Side (7.5)
The right side of the Canon point-and-shoot is a smooth, flat surface with rounded edges. Near the edge of the camera is the plate seam, the wrist strap eyelet, and two tiny screws.

Left Side (7.5)
The left side of the Canon PowerShot A720 IS houses three ports: DC in, USB, and A/V out, hidden safely under a labeled rubber cover. The port cover overlays the dual silver colors, accented by two screws and a silver highlight band that wraps to the top of the camera.

Top (7.5)
On the front edge of the right hand grip is the shutter button, encapsulated by the circular zoom lever. The zoom lever is labeled with icons that indicate its multiple functions. Below the shutter button are 13 tiny audio ports.

Located off the center axis is the giant mode dial, labeled with gray icons except for the green Auto setting label. The power on/off button and power lamp, which turns on when the camera is in operation, are located at the top center of the camera.

The left side is labeled with the important specifications, including “AiAF” in small text, indicating the camera’s updated face detection algorithm, “Image Stabilizer,” and the model name “PowerShot A720 IS.”

Bottom (3.0)
The bottom of the Canon PowerShot A720 IS is standard. On the left is the plastic tripod socket, set off axis from the lens. In the center is the serial number plate, and to the right is the sturdy battery/memory card compartment door with a textured release button.