Key Features
Aug 21 2012
Announced
16 megapixels
Resolution
| Brand | Canon |
| Sensor Type | 1/2.3-inch |
| Sensor | CCD |
| Weight | 341g |
| MSRP | $329USD |
Other similar cameras
Canon PowerShot SX150 IS
Released May 14 2012 | 14MP resolution
Canon PowerShot SX120 IS
Released Aug 19 2009 | 10MP resolution
Canon PowerShot SX400 IS
Released Jul 29 2014 | 16MP resolution
Overview of the PowerShot SX500 IS
Are you a photography enthusiast looking for a camera that can match your creative vision? Look no further than the Canon PowerShot SX500 IS. This camera is packed with features that make it ideal for capturing stunning images and videos. From its powerful zoom lens to its easy-to-use interface, this camera has everything that you need to elevate your photography skills. In this comprehensive review, we will take a closer look at the Canon PowerShot SX500 IS and explore its incredible features that make it a popular choice among photographers. So, let's dive in and find out why this camera is a must-have in your photography arsenal!
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Canon PowerShot SX500 IS camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
| Weather sealed | |
| Dimensions | 104 x 70 x 80mm |
| Weight | 341g |
| Thickness | 80mm |
Weather Sealing
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.
Design and Handling
Main design features
| View Finder | None |
| Screen Type | Fixed Type |
| Screen Resolution | 461k dots |
| Body type | Compact |
Suitable for:
| Photography | Above Avg. |
| Videography | Above Avg. |
| Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 461k dots. This makes the Canon PowerShot SX500 IS not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.
Viewfinder
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the PowerShot SX500 IS camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS has a 16MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 16 pixels. Canon PowerShot SX500 IS has a native ISO range of 80 - 1600 which can be boosted to null - null.
Key Features
Aug 21 2012
Announced
80 - 1600
ISO Range
| Sensor | 1/2.3-inch |
| Extended ISO | null - null |
| Max resolution | 4608 x 3456 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
not tested
Color Depth
not tested
Dynamic Range
not tested
Low Light ISO
not tested
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Canon PowerShot SX500 IS camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the PowerShot SX500 IS is excellent
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: 1/2.3-inch
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
| Storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Battery Life | 195 shots |
| Battery Model | NB-6L |
| HDMI | |
| USD | |
| Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS supports SD/SDHC/SDXC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.
Battery
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS uses the NB-6L model of battery pack. This is rated for 195 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.
Shutter
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/1600s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 1 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS features a CCD sensor
No the PowerShot SX500 IS does not have weather sealing.
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS was announced on Aug 21 2012
Yes the PowerShot SX500 IS does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The PowerShot SX500 IS has a native ISO range of 80-1600, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.
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