The Canon PowerShot A1400 vs Canon PowerShot SX620 HS: A Hands-On Compact Camera Showdown

When it comes to picking a compact camera, whether for casual shooting, travel, or beginners stepping up from smartphones, the Canon PowerShot family often pops up as a reliable, affordable choice. I spent considerable time testing the Canon PowerShot A1400 and the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, two seemingly similar compacts that, at a glance, cater to different types of users but actually overlap in many areas. Today, I’m sharing a full, real-world comparison based on my hands-on experience with both. If you’re deciding between these two and want a detailed technical dive combined with practical advice - for everything from portraits to wildlife and video - you’re in the right place.

Let’s jump in.

Size, Design, and Ergonomics: Comfort vs Compactness

First impressions matter, and size plus handling influence how gladly you’ll carry a camera and use it for extended shoots.

Canon’s PowerShot A1400 and SX620 HS are both compact little shooters, but they wield different philosophies in terms of features vs size.

In this size comparison, the A1400 is a bit chunkier with dimensions of 95 × 62 × 30 mm and weighing 174 grams (sans batteries). It’s designed with use of common AA batteries (two), making it ideal for photographers who want straightforward, accessible power sources, especially when traveling to places without access to charging.

The SX620 HS, on the other hand, measures 97 × 57 × 28 mm and slightly heavier at 182 grams but uses a proprietary rechargeable battery pack that boasts nearly double the battery life - 295 shots rating - which I found super handy for longer sessions. The thinner profile helps maintain a sleeker silhouette in pockets, suiting street photographers or travelers prioritizing minimal bulk.

Both cameras employ fixed lenses and lack the traditional "clubs for thumbs" grip, but the SX620 HS’s more modern design makes the controls feel slightly more polished and easier to reach. The A1400 feels a bit dated - control buttons are smaller, laid out tightly, and lack illumination, which dims user confidence in low light.

No touchscreens here, which is expected for entry-level compacts, but both have flip-up LCDs for live view shooting - more on that shortly.

Bottom line: If you prize rugged, easy battery replacement and slightly chunkier feel, the A1400 fits. For portability and battery endurance, SX620 HS wins. I much preferred the ergonomics of the SX620 HS over multiple days of shooting.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: CCD vs BSI-CMOS

Image quality is king, so what do these two packs under the hood?

Both cameras employ a small 1/2.3-inch sensor measuring approximately 6.17 x 4.55 mm (28.07 mm²), typical for budget compacts. The key difference comes down to sensor type:

• Canon PowerShot A1400: 16MP CCD sensor
• Canon PowerShot SX620 HS: 20MP BSI-CMOS sensor with DIGIC 4+ processor

CCD sensors historically deliver pleasing color rendition but tend to struggle in low light, higher noise, and slower readout speeds. The older DIGIC processor on the A1400 isn’t conducive to clean high-ISO performance or fast processing.

Conversely, the SX620 HS’s backside illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor excels in gathering light at pixel level, benefiting noise control and dynamic range. Paired with the DIGIC 4+ engine, it yields better image clarity, improved color fidelity, and higher ISO usability (ISO 80–3200 native vs 100–1600 on A1400).

In practice, under daylight, both produce acceptable images for social media or casual prints. When you start pushing ISO beyond 400 or shooting indoors, the A1400’s noise and soft details become noticeable, while the SX620 HS retains more usable detail and a cleaner image.

Color depth and dynamic range testing (while unofficial in these models) align with general sensor realities: the SX620 HS produces punchier colors, better shadow detail, and less banding in difficult light.

LCD Screen and Viewfinder Experience

Neither is a power user’s delight here, but they differ enough to impact usability.

The A1400 sports a modest 2.7-inch fixed LCD with merely 230k dots resolution, no touchscreen capabilities, and no electronic viewfinder (uses a basic optical tunnel viewfinder with no overlay information). This means framing accuracy feels off at times and focusing is more guesswork without a real EVF - weird in 2013 but forgivable on a budget model.

The SX620 HS ups the ante: it has a larger 3-inch fixed LCD boasting 922k dots, yielding clearer image review and easier framing. Again, there’s no viewfinder, but the better screen brightness and resolution make composing more reliable, especially in bright conditions.

Neither screen offers touchscreen control - a missed opportunity given many contemporaries had this feature by 2016 - but the SX620 HS's improved brightness and responsiveness aid workflow.

Autofocus Systems and Performance: Speed and Accuracy in the Field

Autofocus makes or breaks many photography moments from fast sports to macro detail.

The A1400 has a CCD-based contrast detection system with 9 autofocus points, offering center-weighted and face detection autofocus modes. You lose advanced tracking or continuous autofocus prowess though. I observed autofocus to be slow and sometimes hunting under low light or with moving targets - consistent with older, entry-level tech.

The SX620 HS, equipped with 9 contrast detection AF points and face detection, includes touch-and-select focus points, enabling more user control. Continuous autofocus and tracking performance improved thanks to the DIGIC 4+ and newer sensor's faster readouts, translating to fewer missed shots on moving subjects.

Neither camera has phase detection autofocus or the latest Dual Pixel tech - no surprise at this price - but the SX620 HS feels peppier and more reliable in real-world shooting, particularly for wildlife or street scenes where quick focus is essential.

Lens and Zoom Capability: 5x vs 25x - A Major Differentiator

Compact fixed lenses often define camera versatility.

The A1400 sports a modest 28–140 mm equivalent zoom (5x optical zoom) with variable aperture from F2.8 at wide to F6.9 at telephoto. Good for portraits and general snapshots but limited reach.

The SX620 HS crushes it with a massive 25x zoom: 25–625 mm equivalent, aperture F3.2 to F6.6. This extended reach opens up telephoto shooting for wildlife, sports, or detailed travel shots. Plus, the SX620 HS lens supports macro focusing down to 1 cm vs 3 cm on the A1400 - great for close-ups.

I found the A1400’s zoom lens delivers decent sharpness in the center but softens at long focal lengths, which is expected. The SX620 HS lens optics, benefiting from newer design, maintain surprisingly good detail across the zoom range, though corner softness and chromatic aberration are visible at full telephoto.

Optical image stabilization is completely absent in the A1400, resulting in noticeable blur at longer zooms or handheld shots in low light. The SX620 HS includes optical IS, which I tested extensively and found essential for keeping handheld shots sharp, especially beyond 200 mm focal length.

Burst Speed and Shutter Performance: Catching Action

For sports, wildlife, or spontaneous moments, frame rate matters.

The A1400’s burst mode clocks in at a modest 1 fps, which is painfully slow and frustrating for fast action. Shutter speeds range from 15 s to 1/2000 s, but with no manual or shutter/aperture priority modes, you’re stuck relying on auto exposure.

The SX620 HS doubles the continuous shooting speed to 2.5 fps and shares a similar shutter speed range. Still basic, but better for informal action snaps. Neither camera offers professional-grade burst rates, of course, but the SX620 HS’s faster buffer and processor give it an edge.

Video Features: HD Quality and Usability

Video capability is a must-have nowadays even on compacts.

The A1400 records up to 720p HD at 25 fps using H.264 codec, which feels outdated and lacks image stabilization. Audio is mono via built-in mic; no external mic port.

The SX620 HS advances to full HD 1080p at 30 fps, also with H.264 encoding and better compression. Crucially, the SX620 HS has optical stabilization for smoother handheld video. Wifi and NFC connectivity allow quick transfer and some remote control but lacks 4K or raw video options.

As a casual videographer, I found the SX620 HS video output usable for social clips and travel memories, while the A1400’s lower resolution and absence of stabilization make videos look shaky and less up to modern sharing standards.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity

Battery life can make or break a vacation or extended shoot.

Surprisingly, the A1400’s use of common AA batteries limits you to about 150 shots per charge cycle, which means you’ll want to carry spares or alkaline rechargeables. The SX620 HS uses a proprietary Li-ion battery pack with nearly 300 shots per charge, doubling operational time.

Both use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with single slots, nothing extraordinary but dependable.

Connectivity is where the SX620 HS shines with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for hassle-free image transfer to phones - perfect for the travel or social photographer. The A1400 has no wireless connectivity to speak of, relying on USB 2.0 data transfer, which feels archaic now.

Real World Performance Across Photography Genres

Neither body is a pro-level powerhouse, but understanding their strengths relative to photography styles is key.

Portraits

• A1400: Skin tones appear slightly muted, with some noise in indoor shots. 5x zoom lens can create passable background separation, but variable aperture means bokeh quality is limited. Face detection helps but autofocus can hunt.
• SX620 HS: More resolution aids detail in eyes and skin textures. Zoom allows tight framing and softness of backgrounds improved. Faster AF and live view quicken focus on subjects.

Landscape

• A1400: Limited dynamic range and resolution limit large prints. Macro minimum focus 3 cm is okay for close-ups, but no stabilization hinders handheld sharpness.
• SX620 HS: Slightly better dynamic range and sharpness with more pixels. Optical IS helps handheld shots. Lightweight for hiking but no weather sealing, so cautious in tough environments.

Wildlife and Sports

• A1400: 1 fps burst and slow AF make it tough to track fast animals or athletes.
• SX620 HS: 25x zoom lens is invaluable, plus improved AF tracking and 2.5 fps burst help snag action moments.

Street

• A1400: Chunkier, AA battery bulk limits pocket-ability, and slower autofocus frustrates quick candid shots.
• SX620 HS: Slimmer build and better AF speed aid discreet shooting. No viewfinder hurts a bit in bright daylight.

Macro

• A1400: 3 cm focusing range okay but lack of stabilization challenges sharpness.
• SX620 HS: Closer 1 cm macro, plus IS stabilizes short-distance snapping.

Night/Astro

Neither camera excels; small sensor and no raw format limit post-processing options. Higher noise at elevated ISOs on A1400 makes it least suited. SX620 HS is marginally better but still entry-level.

Video

SX620 HS is the only real contender here with 1080p stabilization and wifi, let alone better dynamic range for videos.

Travel and General Use

Both lightweight and pocketable compared to larger DSLRs, but SX620 HS offers better battery life, zoom range, and connectivity - making it my pick for travelers who want a compact all-rounder.

Professional Work

Neither camera supports raw files, advanced exposure modes, or professional-grade build quality (no weather sealing, no ruggedness). They’re best seen as affordable backup cams or casual companions - not primary pro gear.

Canon A1400 screen back Canon SX620 HS front Canon SX620 HS screen back

Above is a gallery comparing daylight and indoor shots between the two. Notice the SX620 HS’s superior sharpness and color vibrancy, along with better detail retention in shadows.

In my scoring system - based on image quality, autofocus, ergonomics, features, and value - the SX620 HS noticeably outperforms the A1400 by a significant margin.

The SX620 HS leads in all genres except extreme low-light and astro photography, where both stumble equally.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Buy Which?

If you belong to one of these groups, here’s my recommendation.

Buy the Canon PowerShot A1400 if…

• You’re an absolute beginner or cheapskate on an ultra-tight budget (< $150)
• You want a camera powered by easy-to-replace AA batteries for travel in remote areas
• You shoot mainly daylight casual photos and don’t mind limited zoom range
• Simplicity matters - you want a camera that just works with minimal controls

Buy the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS if…

• You need a versatile travel or walkaround camera with extensive zoom reach
• You want better image quality, especially in low light, and video capability
• You prize longer battery life and wireless image sharing for social media
• You want a compact with quick autofocus for street, wildlife, or casual sports shooting
• You can spend closer to $280 and want better bang for your buck

Final Thoughts: One Is a Compact Classic, the Other a Smart Zoom Powerhouse

I’ve tested hundreds of compacts over the years, and both the A1400 and SX620 HS have their places - though that spot is more limited for the former nowadays.

The Canon PowerShot A1400 is a no-frills basic compact from an earlier era, fine for those who want cheap and cheerful with minimal fuss. It’s been reliable, but its slow autofocus, limited zoom, and lack of stabilization make it a tough sell compared to newer budget models.

The Canon PowerShot SX620 HS represents a meaningful upgrade in sensor tech, zoom versatility, autofocus performance, and usability. If photo quality and feature set matter even slightly to your shooting style, it’s well worth the price difference and remains a standout small sensor zoom if you want a pocketable companion without breaking the bank.

Whichever you pick, know these cameras will never compete with mirrorless models or enthusiast DSLRs. But for casual shooting, travel snapshots, and social sharing, you can’t go terribly wrong.

In my experience, the SX620 HS feels like the wiser investment in 2024. Yet for true budget-conscious shooters who prize battery ease, the A1400 remains a quirky but adequate choice.

Happy shooting!

If you want a deeper dive into either camera’s lens sample images, autofocus tests, or comparison to modern mirrorless options, drop a comment or reach out. As always, I test every detail in real-world shooting conditions to help you avoid buyer’s remorse and get the most satisfying camera in your hands.