Canon PowerShot A1400 vs. Canon PowerShot SX700 HS: A Hands-On Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

Choosing the right camera, especially in the compact point-and-shoot category, can be tricky with so many options packing different features and designed for various user needs. Today, we dive deep into comparing two Canon compact cameras - the Canon PowerShot A1400 and the Canon PowerShot SX700 HS - to help you find out which suits your photography goals best.

Although both cameras originate from Canon’s PowerShot lineup, they target considerably different audiences and shooting styles. Leveraging our extensive hands-on experience testing thousands of cameras, we’ll break down their capabilities across multiple photography categories to demystify their tech and real-world performance.

A Tale of Two Compacts: A Quick Overview

Before diving into detailed analysis, let’s establish the core differences at a glance.

Right away, it’s clear the SX700 HS is more feature-rich but also pricier and larger. Below, we unpack how this translates into photographic value.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Your Photos

Both cameras sport 16-megapixel 1/2.3-inch sensors, but the technology behind these sensors differs significantly.

Canon A1400 - CCD Sensor

• CCD sensors excel in color fidelity but tend to consume more power and generate more noise at high ISO levels.
• Its maximum ISO 1600 is somewhat limited, and noise control at this upper limit is average.
• Given the camera’s market positioning, the image processing is basic, resulting in less refined images in challenging lighting.

Canon SX700 HS - BSI-CMOS Sensor

• The Backside-Illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor is superior for gathering light efficiently.
• Supports ISO up to 3200 with improved noise handling and dynamic range.
• Paired with Canon’s DIGIC 6 processor, which enhances image quality, autofocus speed, and noise reduction.

We tested both cameras shooting in controlled lighting and shadow-heavy scenes. The SX700 HS delivers richer colors and sharper detail when shooting landscapes or street photography in mixed light. The A1400’s images are softer with muted tones especially noticeable beyond ISO 400.

Lens and Optical Performance: Zoom, Aperture, and Macro

Lens is your primary creative tool, and here’s where the two cameras diverge sharply.

Zoom Range

• A1400: 5x optical zoom (28-140mm equivalent)
• SX700 HS: 30x optical zoom (25-750mm equivalent)

The SX700 HS’s 30x zoom opens up wildlife and travel photography opportunities, letting you comfortably capture distant subjects without carrying additional lenses.

Aperture and Brightness

• Both lenses have a variable aperture narrowing as focal length increases:
  • A1400: f/2.8–6.9
  • SX700 HS: f/3.2–6.9

Though the A1400 starts slightly brighter on wide-angle, in real use, the difference is marginal given the relatively small sensor sizes.

Macro Capability

• Macro focusing distance:
  • A1400: 3 cm
  • SX700 HS: 1 cm

The SX700 HS allows much closer focusing for macro shooting - great for capturing texture, small details, or nature macros.

Stabilization

• A1400: No image stabilization hardware.
• SX700 HS: Incorporates optical image stabilization (IS), critical at long zooms to reduce blur.

The lack of stabilization on the A1400 limits low-light handheld shooting at longer focal lengths, whereas the SX700 HS manages shaky hands better.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Handling and Controls

Ergonomics and user experience can often decide your satisfaction more than raw specs.

Body Size and Build

• The A1400 is smaller and lighter (174 g), highly pocketable for casual use.
• The SX700 HS weighs 269 g, moderately larger to accommodate longer zoom and IS hardware.
• Both cameras have plastic bodies without weather sealing - handle gently and keep dry.

Control Layout

• Neither camera offers extensive manual control compared to higher-end models.
• SX700 HS supports exposure and aperture priority modes and full manual exposure - useful as you progress.
• The A1400 only shoots fully automatically, limiting creative flexibility.

LCD Screen

• A1400: 2.7-inch, 230k-dot screen.
• SX700 HS: 3-inch, 922k-dot PureColor II G TFT LCD.

The SX700 HS provides a far better viewing experience with a sharper, larger screen, aiding in composition and focus checking.

Autofocus System and Burst Performance: Capturing the Moment

Autofocus

• Both cameras use contrast-detection AF, but SX700 HS’s DIGIC 6 processor accelerates autofocus acquisition and tracking.
• Face detection is present on both, improving portraits and casual snapshots.
• The SX700 HS features continuous autofocus during video recording.

Burst Shooting

• A major gap: the A1400 shoots at only 1 fps continuous - barely sufficient for action.
• The SX700 HS bursts up to 9 fps, ideal for sports, wildlife, and fast-paced subjects.

In real-world tests photographing a moving subject, the SX700 HS consistently captured tack-sharp frames mid-action, whereas the A1400 struggled to keep focus and missed many decicsive moments.

Photography Use Cases: Who Should Pick Which Camera?

Portrait Photography

The SX700 HS provides better face and eye detection, crucial in candid portraits. The A1400’s limited aperture range and sensor technology restrict background separation.

Landscape Photography

• SX700 HS wins with better sensor, higher dynamic range, and improved resolution clarity.
• Its optical stabilization means sharper images handheld.
• However, neither camera has weather sealing, limiting rugged outdoor use.

Wildlife Photography

• The 30x zoom and 9 fps burst make the SX700 HS well-suited for amateur wildlife shooters.
• A1400’s 5x zoom and single-frame shooting limit wildlife capability.

Sports Photography

• Fast burst speeds and manual shutter control on the SX700 HS are key advantages.
• The A1400 is too slow and automatic to track fast movement.

Street Photography

• A1400’s smaller, quieter body favors low-profile shooting.
• SX700 HS is bigger but offers greater reach and image quality.

Macro Photography

• Closer focusing on SX700 HS (1cm) offers creative macro shots.
• Lack of stabilization on A1400 complicates handheld macro shooting.

Night/Astro Photography

• SX700 HS’s better high ISO and manual exposure modes offer an edge for low light.
• Neither camera supports RAW or long exposure modes favored by astro enthusiasts.

Video Capabilities

The SX700 HS’s Full HD video at 60fps plus stabilization notably outperforms the A1400’s basic HD video. Lack of external mic ports may limit serious videographers.

Travel Photography

• Lightweight A1400 is easy to carry but limited in creative tools.
• SX700 HS offers versatility for landscapes, portraits, and wildlife - great as an all-in-one travel camera.

Professional Work

• Neither camera supports RAW files, external flash, or advanced workflow features.
• Best considered as entry-level or backup cameras for professionals with tight budgets.

Connectivity and Battery Life: Staying Powered and Connected

SX700 HS’s built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make it easier to transfer photos on the go or control the camera remotely with a smartphone - features increasingly sought by casual social photographers and vloggers.

Battery life favors the SX700 HS due to energy-efficient electronics and rechargeable battery pack, while A1400’s AA batteries offer ease of finding replacements worldwide.

Value Analysis: What Are You Getting for Your Money?

If your budget is tight and you want a straightforward camera for snapshots, the A1400 is unbeatable on price and portability. However, if you want to explore creative techniques, zoom range, and better image quality, the SX700 HS is worth the investment.

Sample Images: Seeing Is Believing

Our side-by-side gallery showcases sample images from both cameras. Notice how the SX700 HS delivers richer colors, sharper details - especially at zoomed telephoto focal lengths - and smoother low-light images. The A1400’s photos are softer and noisier beyond ISO 400.

Canon A1400 screen back Canon SX700 HS screen back

Performance Ratings at a Glance

In our scoring system considering technical metrics and practical usability:

• Canon SX700 HS scores consistently higher across image quality, zoom versatility, and shooting speed.
• The A1400 achieves a respectable score for beginner-friendliness and portability.

Genre-Specific Performance Breakdown

Different photography genres demand different strengths. Here’s how these cameras stack up per our testing for key photography types:

Final Thoughts: Which Canon Compact Fits Your Creative Journey?

Canon PowerShot A1400

• Ideal for beginners or casual snapshooters who need an affordable, compact point-and-shoot without fuss.
• Great for everyday memories, simple B&W or color prints, and casual social sharing.
• Limits: No manual control, no stabilization, and modest zoom make it less flexible.

Canon PowerShot SX700 HS

• Designed for the enthusiast who craves versatility: long zoom, manual exposure, better low-light capability, and advanced video.
• A solid choice to explore wildlife, travel, street, and video content with one compact body.
• Consider the higher price and slightly bulkier form factor.

Getting Hands-On and Choosing Accessories

Whichever camera you lean toward, especially with compact cameras, hands-on use is vital. Check out stores to hold and try each model.

For the A1400, stock up on AA batteries and SD cards. For the SX700 HS, invest in fast SD cards and consider a compact carrying case to protect your more substantial setup.

Empower Your Creative Vision

Canon offers reliable entry-level equipment that can provide instant gratification but also room to grow. Whether you’re stepping into photography or want an affordable travel companion with advanced zoom and control, these two cameras provide solid options.

With a clear understanding of their strengths and limits, you can confidently match your choice to your aspirations - and start creating images you’re proud to share.

Happy shooting!

This expert comparison is based on thorough field tests, image analysis, and real-world use across multiple environments and shooting disciplines. We encourage you to explore these cameras in person and consider your unique photography style when making your decision.