Canon PowerShot A810 vs Canon PowerShot SX240 HS: A Thorough Hands-On Comparison for the Serious Photographer

When I evaluate cameras, I rely first and foremost on years of hands-on experience coupled with objective testing methods, aiming to separate marketing gloss from practical reality. Today, I’m diving deep into two compact Canon models introduced simultaneously in early 2012: the PowerShot A810 and the PowerShot SX240 HS. While both share Canon’s legacy of user-friendly compact cameras, they address different user needs and budgets.

This comparison is built to help photography enthusiasts, hobbyists, and even some professionals who want a compact, affordable carry-around camera prioritize what’s meaningful: image quality, usability, performance across photography genres, and overall value. Over the next 2500 words, I will dissect these two cameras’ build, tech, and real-world shooting characteristics, and offer clear purchase guidance with practical insights.

First Impressions and Ergonomics: Compact Yet Distinct

Both cameras fall within the small sensor compact segment but present different handling philosophies.

Right out of the gate, the Canon A810 is remarkably pocketable, weighing just 171 grams and measuring 95×62×30 mm. It is designed for maximum portability and convenience, making it ideal for casual snapshots or users who prioritize a lightweight companion.

In contrast, the SX240 HS tips the scales at 224 grams with dimensions closer to 106×61×33 mm. Though still compact, it offers a longer zoom lens and a slightly bulkier grip area, which I found gives more confidence when holding for extended bursts or telephoto shots. The battery pack also adds to the weight, but it delivers longer usage times without swapping AA batteries.

Handling-wise, the A810 keeps it simple - fixed lens, no manual focus ring, and a basic button layout. Meanwhile, the SX240 HS features manual focus capability, aperture and shutter priority modes, and dedicated buttons to access them, hinting at more creative flexibility.

In the top-view comparison, the SX240 HS’s controls are spaced and labeled more generously, contributing to faster workings in the field. For someone who shoots spontaneously in dynamic settings, this means fewer fumbling moments.

Sensor and Image Quality: CCD vs BSI-CMOS

Image quality always starts with sensor technology and resolution. Both cameras use similarly sized 1/2.3” sensors (6.17×4.55 mm), which traditionally limit low-light performance and dynamic range compared to larger APS-C or full-frame sensors. However, the sensor type and image processing can make a tangible difference.

The Canon A810 employs a 16-megapixel CCD sensor. CCD sensors were quite popular in point-and-shoots during the early 2010s for their color rendition but often suffer in low-light due to higher noise at elevated ISOs.

The Canon SX240 HS, by contrast, uses a 12-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor with Canon’s DIGIC 5 processor. Backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensors generally yield better high ISO performance and a broader dynamic range because their architecture allows more efficient light capture.

In real-world testing, I noticed the SX240 HS delivers cleaner images from ISO 400 and above, with noticeably less grain and better shadow detail. The A810, while capable of crisp photos in bright conditions (thanks to its higher resolution), struggles more in dim interiors or shadowy landscapes.

Both cameras lack RAW support, which restricts post-processing latitude, but the SX240 HS’s default JPEG output looks more flexible in my editing workflows.

Display and Live View: Seeing What Matters

With any compact camera, the rear LCD is your main viewfinder, since neither model includes an optical or electronic viewfinder - a minor inconvenience for some.

The SX240 HS boasts a 3-inch PureColor II TFT LCD with 461k dot resolution, significantly sharper and brighter than the A810’s 2.7-inch 230k dot screen. During outdoor use, especially in bright sunlight, the SX240’s screen remained readable and responsive, whereas the A810’s display felt cramped and faint.

Neither camera has touchscreen input, so navigation relies on physical buttons, but the clearer screen on the SX240 HS does make framing and reviewing images more satisfying. For those who rely heavily on live view composition or image playback in the field, the SX240 HS better fits the bill.

Lens and Zoom Range: Versatility Versus Simplicity

One of the SX240 HS’s headline features is its 20× zoom lens covering 25-500mm equivalent, compared with the A810’s 5× zoom at 28-140mm equivalent.

This significant difference shapes the cameras’ suitability for various photographic genres.

• Canon A810: The 28-140mm lens with a more generous maximum aperture of f/2.8 at the wide end offers brighter framing, which helps in low-light snapshots and shallow depth-of-field scenarios. However, with just 5× zoom, it limits reach for distant wildlife or sports.

• Canon SX240 HS: The 25-500mm superzoom is a marvel for its size, permitting tight telephoto work such as bird photography or distant landscapes. However, its max aperture narrows to f/6.8 at the telephoto end, demanding good lighting or higher ISO settings.

During my field tests, the SX240 HS’s long reach allowed me to capture small subjects far away with good detail, even though some image softness crept in at full 500mm. The A810, meanwhile, excelled in street and travel scenarios where a faster lens and lighter frame made handheld shooting easier.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Tracking and Responsiveness

Both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF systems with 9 focus points and face detection capabilities. Notably, neither supports phase detection or advanced tracking modes seen in higher-end mirrorless or DSLR cameras.

The SX240 HS offers manual focus, increasing control for situations like macro or low light where autofocus may struggle.

When it comes to continuous shooting performance, their differences become clearer:

• Canon A810: Shooting speed peaks at only 1fps, which is quite limited for action or wildlife photography.

• Canon SX240 HS: Slightly better at 2fps, still modest but sufficient for capturing moderate sports or kids in motion.

Both cameras perform well when locked onto a subject at close to middle distance in good light. However, in low light, AF performance slows, particularly on the A810, causing some missed shots or hunting. The SX240 HS’s DIGIC 5 processor helps maintain steadier focus acquisition.

Building for Outdoors: Durability and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers environmental sealing, waterproofing, or rugged construction. Both have plastic bodies consistent with their price points and intended casual use.

With sizes and weights modest for travel photography, the SX240 HS’s added zoom length requires greater care to avoid lens barrel damage. Both benefit from careful handling and protective cases when shooting outdoors.

Battery Life and Storage: Powering the Day

The A810’s use of 2 x AA batteries offers flexibility - you can swap batteries easily anywhere in the world without specialized chargers. However, AA batteries add weight and limit shooting duration to about 220 shots per charge. Rechargeable NiMH batteries improve this but require forethought.

The SX240 HS uses a proprietary NB-6L lithium-ion battery pack, rated for about 230 shots per charge. This is in line with typical compact shooters of this era but necessitates charging resources.

Both cameras support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with a single slot. Given the video capabilities of the SX240 HS, I recommend using class 10 or better cards for smooth recording.

Video Capabilities: HD Recording and Features

Here the SX240 HS pulls ahead significantly:

• SX240 HS: Offers Full HD 1080p recording at 24fps, plus 720p at 30fps, and even high frame rate slow motion options at 120fps and 240fps at lower resolutions. This versatility enables experimental video and smooth panning shots.

• A810: Limited to 720p HD at 25fps and VGA at 30fps. No slow motion modes.

Neither camera has microphone or headphone ports, limiting audio customization. HDMI output on the SX240 HS makes it easier to playback videos on HDTVs, while the A810 lacks this.

For casual documentary or travel videos where HD is desired, the SX240 HS is clearly the better-equipped performer.

Genre-by-Genre Performance Insights

Many photographers wonder how each camera fares across different types of photography. Drawing on real-world shooting and sample images, here’s a concise breakdown, integrating an overview illustration of genre ratings:

Portraits

While neither camera promises professional-grade bokeh or skin tone perfection, the A810’s wider max aperture at 28mm (f/2.8) provides modestly better separation and softer backgrounds at short distances. Both benefit from face detection AF, locking onto eyes decently well in good light.

However, the SX240 HS’s relatively slow lens and lower resolution impact fine detail capture. In consistent daylight, both perform respectably for family portraits or casual selfies (though no front screen or selfie-friendly features).

Landscape

Landscape photographers need dynamic range and resolution first and foremost. The A810’s higher 16MP count edges out the 12MP SX240 HS on paper, but its older CCD sensor limits highlight and shadow details.

In practice, the SX240 HS’s BSI-CMOS sensor yields cleaner files with less noise and better tonal gradation, enhancing landscape shots, particularly during golden hour or overcast skies.

Both cameras lack weather sealing and robust build to withstand heavy environmental stress, so professional outdoor photographers may seek more rugged gear.

Wildlife and Sports

The SX240 HS is the clear winner here given its massive 20× zoom and slightly faster burst shooting. Surprisingly, even a 2fps continuous rate can capture pivotal moments with some patience.

The A810’s reach and speed limit it to casual wildlife photography or quick street candids rather than serious sports. Autofocus hunting is also slower on the A810.

Street and Travel Photography

For street shooting - where discretion, portability, and responsiveness matter - the A810’s smaller size, lighter weight, and faster lens give it a slight edge in comfort.

The SX240 HS’s longer zoom is valuable for candid shots from varying distances but its slightly larger footprint is less pocket-friendly, though still very manageable for travel.

Battery considerations favor the SX240 HS’s rechargeable system, but AA batteries in the A810 might appeal to those traveling off-grid.

Macro

Close focusing distances (3 cm on A810 versus 5 cm on SX240 HS) indicate the A810 can frame subjects a bit tighter. Neither camera includes focus stacking or advanced macro tools.

Manual focus on the SX240 HS helps here, but in daylight both produce decent florals or insect images for entry levels.

Night and Astro Photography

Camera limitations show markedly in this demanding genre. Both models cap ISO at 1600 (A810) and 3200 (SX240 HS), but noise makes images at high ISO noisy and less usable.

No bulb mode or extended exposure is available, restricting star trail or deep night photography. For casual night scenes, the SX240 HS’s improved sensor helps capture cleaner files.

User Interface and Menu Systems

Despite simple button arrays, interface fluidity can make or break user experience.

The SX240 HS’s better display resolution and logical menu hierarchy facilitate in-field adjustments like aperture priority, exposure compensation, and white balance bracketing.

By contrast, the A810’s pared-back controls and no shutter/aperture priority modes suit beginners or those desiring simple point-and-shoot usability.

Sample Images and Real-World Verdict

Nothing beats seeing side-by-side image samples to grasp differences:

Canon A810 front Canon A810 screen back Canon SX240 HS screen back

In daylight portraits, A810 photos are sharp with nice colors, though SX240 HS files show less noise in the shadows. Telephoto bird shots are only possible with SX240 HS, albeit with softness near max zoom.

Street scenes benefit from the A810’s wider lens and better ergonomics, while night exposures from the SX240 HS are cleaner, though both cameras struggle with finer shadow details.

Overall Scores and Value Assessment

As a summary, here is an aggregated performance rating chart based on my hands-on tests and image analyses:

Canon A810:

• Strengths: Lightweight, simple operation, higher resolution sensor, brighter lens wide open.
• Weaknesses: Limited zoom, slow continuous shooting, older CCD sensor, less capable video.

Canon SX240 HS:

• Strengths: Superior zoom range, better sensor and processor, Full HD video with slow-motion, exposure modes for creative control.
• Weaknesses: Heavier, smaller resolution, narrower aperture, battery pack dependency, no RAW.

Who Should Buy Which?

To wrap up, here are my tailored recommendations based on shooting needs and budgets:

• Choose the Canon PowerShot A810 if:

  • You want a compact, ultra-light travel or street camera.
  • You prefer simplicity over manual controls.
  • Your main shooting is daylight family portraits or snapshots.
  • You value AA batteries for convenience off the grid.
  • Your budget is tightly constrained (often found at sub-$100 used prices).

• Choose the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS if:

  • You desire a versatile superzoom for wildlife, sports, travel.
  • You want creative control with manual focus and exposure priorities.
  • You value Full HD video including slow motion.
  • You shoot frequently in mixed lighting and want cleaner images.
  • You don’t mind slightly larger size and battery charging.

Final Thoughts

While both cameras are products of their 2012 era, the SX240 HS clearly represents a more advanced, versatile tool for enthusiasts looking to push beyond basic photographic boundaries without moving into DSLR territory. The A810 remains a solid choice for users who prioritize simplicity, portability, and budget.

Neither camera matches the capabilities of modern mirrorless systems, but given their price points and design, they each provide excellent entry points into digital photography.

If you are looking for an affordable, pocketable companion capable of decent images without technical fuss, the A810 fits well. If you seek reach, control, and better video alongside compact convenience, the SX240 HS is my pick.

Feel free to reach out with questions about how these cameras perform in specific scenarios - I test gear thoroughly and enjoy sharing detailed hands-on insight.

This comparison is based on extensive personal testing, field shooting, and technical evaluation over multiple months with sample units. I have no commercial affiliation with Canon - my only goal is to guide photographers toward gear that fits their unique vision and workflow.