Very accurate colors
Low noise at high ISOs
High noise at lower ISOs
Lots of distortion at wide angle
Introduction
It looks like an innocent compact SLR, but the Canon SX1 is actually a paparazzi-pleasing ultrazoom in sheep’s clothing, with a 20x zoom plus high-def 1080p video. For the same $600 price, though, you could buy a highly rated interchangeable-lens SLR.
| This review is organized into 16 pages | ||
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Page 1
Product Tour
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Page 2
Color
Color reproduction is highly accurate, although the most accurate color mode is not the default choice. Read More... |
Page 3
Noise
Lower noise than other ultrazooms at high ISO settings, but was noisier than other models at more modest ISOs. Read More... |
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Page 4
Resolution
Overall results are decent, and image stabilization is effective, yet there is chromatic aberration, and lots of distortion at the widest setting. Read More... |
Page 5
Video
1080p movie performance is fine, but it trails the Sony HX1 in color and sharpness. Read More... |
Page 6
Sample Photos
A gallery of photos taken with the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Read More... |
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Page 7
Playback
There are multiple quick browsing options and full-featured video playback mode, though no calendar view and only one thumbnail display. Read More... |
Page 8
Hardware
The lens zooms quickly and accurately, and it has an articulated LCD, HDMI out, and wireless remote. The electronic viewfinder was so-so. Read More... |
Page 9
Controls
Full manual, shutter & aperture priority, accurate auto, user-defined settings available via dial, though burst mode is slower than claimed. Read More... |
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Page 10
Design & Handling
It’s easy to hold, the quick-access menu is well-designed, and the user guide is excellent, but the main menu takes too much scrolling. Read More... |
Page 11
Nikon P90 Comparison
 We compare the SX1 IS to the P90. Read More... |
Page 12
Olympus SP-590UZ Comparison
 We compare the SX1 IS to the SP-590UZ. Read More... |
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Page 13
Sony HX1 Comparison
 We compare the SX1 IS to the DSC-HX1. Read More... |
Page 14
Conclusion
Read our final conclusion of the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS. Read More... |
Page 15
Photo Gallery
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Part 16
Comments
Read what people are saying about the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS. Add your comments... |
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Shop for the Canon SX1 IS
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