Canon PowerShot SX150 IS vs. SX700 HS: An Expert, Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

Choosing the right compact superzoom camera isn’t just about megapixels or zoom range slapped on a spec sheet. After testing thousands of cameras over 15+ years - evaluating everything from sensor nuances to the feel of control dials - I can tell you that differences in everyday performance and user experience make or break a purchase. Canon’s PowerShot lineup has long been a favorite for enthusiasts who want versatile, pocketable zooms without diving into full-fledged mirrorless systems.

Today, we’re digging deep into two popular Canon small sensor superzooms: the Canon SX150 IS (2012) and its slightly younger sibling, the Canon SX700 HS (2014). They’re both affordable, pack notable zoom ranges, and promise solid image quality for their class. But which one delivers better value? Which suits your photography habits? Let’s settle these questions with hands-on insights, not just specs.

What’s in Your Hands? Size, Ergonomics, and Controls

Handling a camera often sets the tone for the entire shooting experience. Let’s kick off by comparing the physical aspects.

The SX150 IS feels a bit chunkier and more ‘camera-like’ - it weighs in at 306 grams and feels sturdy with its slightly deeper grip. Its thickness (46 mm) gives you a more substantial hold, which I found reassuring when shooting extended zoom shots or in tricky lighting.

By contrast, the SX700 HS is slimmer and lighter at 269 grams and just 35 mm thick. This sleekness favors portability - you can stow it in tighter pockets or even small bags more easily. The reduced girth means it slides out or into your hands faster for candid street snaps or travel moments, but it loses that ‘club for the thumb’ feel that some shooters prefer for stability.

Flipping to the top, both cameras keep things simple. The SX150 IS offers a conventional mode dial, a zoom rocker around the shutter release, and a dedicated on/off button - a layout that experienced shooters will appreciate for quick changes. The SX700 HS strips this down slightly, relying on a mode dial but with fewer physical buttons crowding the top plate. The zoom control’s still there but slightly smaller, complementing the compact design.

Both lack dedicated customizable buttons or illuminated controls, but that’s typical for this price and class.

Verdict: If ergonomics and grip heft matter to you, favor the SX150 IS. For everyday carry or travel-light setups, the SX700 HS is a better fit.

Sensor & Image Quality: The Heart of Your Photos

Specs matter here, but so does sensor technology and real-world output. Both cameras sport a 1/2.3-inch sensor measuring 6.17x4.55 mm, but their underlying sensor tech differs markedly.

• SX150 IS: 14-megapixel CCD sensor paired with Canon’s older DIGIC 4 processor.
• SX700 HS: 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor coupled with the newer DIGIC 6 processor.

The difference between CCD and BSI CMOS can hardly be overstated. CCD sensors, like in the SX150 IS, have a tendency toward slightly higher noise at elevated ISOs and slower readout speeds. CMOS sensors - especially back-illuminated (BSI) ones like the SX700 HS’s - are better at gathering light, improving low-light sensitivity, reducing noise, and enabling faster processing.

Image Resolution and Quality:
The SX700 HS edges out the SX150 IS here, with a bit more megapixels and better ISO performance. In daylight or well-lit conditions, both deliver decent detail. However, ISO 800 and above expose the SX150’s noise limitations clearly - images appear grainy or smeared compared to the SX700 HS’s cleaner output. The SX700 HS’s improved processor also brings better JPEG rendering and sharper edge contrast.

Dynamic Range:
Neither camera is outstanding for dynamic range, which is constrained by their small sensors. The SX700 HS shows slightly improved shadow detail retention, making it more forgiving with highlight/silhouette challenges - useful in landscapes or portraits with tricky lighting. I reached for the SX700 HS for outdoor shooting when demands on dynamic range ran higher.

Macro Performance:
Both cameras boast a 1cm macro focus range, and real-world testing revealed similar capabilities. Sharpness can be decent if you nail focus, but expect depth-of-field challenges typical of small sensors zoom lenses.

Bottom Line: The SX700 HS delivers more modern sensor tech and better image quality, especially in low light and high-contrast scenes. The 14MP CCD in the SX150 IS feels dated by comparison.

Zoom Range: Versatility vs. Practicality

Superzooms thrive on their flexible focal ranges - perfect for travel, wildlife, and events.

• SX150 IS: 28-336mm equivalent (12x zoom), max aperture f/3.4–5.6.
• SX700 HS: 25-750mm equivalent (30x zoom!), max aperture f/3.2–6.9.

The SX700 HS’s 30x zoom is eye-popping, mainly thanks to the ambitious 750mm reach on the tele end. This makes it a rare pocketable beast to get you way closer to distant subjects - ideal for wildlife, sports, or travel photography where swapping lenses or carrying heavy gear isn’t an option.

The SX150 IS’s 12x zoom is more restrained but still respectable, covering a useful range for casual shooting and moderate telephoto needs.

Practical Considerations:
Longer zooms amplify the challenge of camera shake and subject movement. Here, the SX700 HS’s newer optical image stabilization paired with faster autofocus helps somewhat, but by 750mm equivalent, you’re fighting a lot of physics. I found image stabilization steady enough for daylight shots, but handheld shots at max zoom in dimmer settings often require bracing or a tripod for sharpness.

The SX150 IS's shorter zoom is easier hands-on, but you lose that extra reach for wildlife or sports moments.

Autofocus Systems: Precision and Speed

Autofocus can make or break your ability to capture fleeting moments.

• SX150 IS: Contrast-detection AF, single AF point with face detection, no continuous AF.
• SX700 HS: Contrast-detection AF, 9 AF points, continuous AF option, face detection.

In day-to-day use, the SX700 HS’s autofocus system feels snappier, more responsive, and more accurate, especially in multi-point tracking (though it lacks phase-detection or hybrid AF). Continuous AF mode lets you hold focus on moving subjects in video or photo bursts, which is crucial when shooting pets, kids, or sports casually.

By contrast, the SX150 IS’s system is slower and less versatile. It takes longer to lock focus and lacks continuous AF, limiting its usefulness for dynamic subjects. Face detection aids portraits somewhat but can struggle in low contrast or off-center compositions.

Autofocus in Low Light:
Neither camera is stellar here, but the SX700 HS’s more modern sensor and processor combo yields more reliable AF acquisition as light dims.

Burst Shooting and Video Capabilities

Speed matters for wildlife, sports, or just capturing moments in motion.

• SX150 IS: 1 fps continuous shooting.
• SX700 HS: 9 fps continuous shooting.

On paper, the SX700 HS’s nine frames per second makes it a standout for this category, allowing more chances to catch that split-second expression or action frame. In practice, buffer length and autofocus during burst shots limit its usefulness slightly. Still, compared to the SX150 IS’s plodding single frame per second, it’s an enormous improvement.

Video:

• SX150 IS maxes out at 720p HD 30fps.
• SX700 HS offers full 1080p HD up to 60fps.

For anyone wanting to shoot decent quality video alongside stills, the SX700 HS opens doors the SX150 IS simply can’t. With smoother frame rates and sharper detail, it’s a better companion for casual filmmaking or travel vlogging, even if it lacks microphone inputs or advanced recording features.

Displays and User Interface

Look, touchscreens are the rage nowadays, but these cameras hew more traditional.

Both have fixed 3-inch LCDs, but the SX700 HS boasts a much higher resolution screen (922k vs 230k dots). This means you get clearer, brighter previews and easier focusing confirmation. The SX150 IS’s 230k dots feel grainy and somewhat washed out, making reviewing images or navigating menus a bit of a strain.

Neither model features a touchscreen, a downside for users accustomed to tap navigation and quick adjustments on newer cameras.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life often flies under the radar until you’re on the road or in the field without spares.

• SX150 IS: Powered by 2 x AA batteries, rated for roughly 130 shots.
• SX700 HS: Uses proprietary NB-6LH rechargeable battery, rated at ~250 shots.

The SX700 HS’s more efficient DIGIC 6 processor and battery pack give you almost double the shots per charge compared to the AA-powered SX150 IS. Using AAs may seem convenient since you can replace them anywhere, but the short lifespan can be frustrating - particularly if you’re on a trip with limited access to replacements.

Storage-wise, both use the same SD/SDHC/SDXC standards with a single card slot.

Connectivity and Extras

In modern cameras, wireless features matter for quick sharing and remote control.

• SX150 IS: Compatible with Eye-Fi cards for Wi-Fi functionality (requires separate card).
• SX700 HS: Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy pairing and image transfers.

Native Wi-Fi in the SX700 HS is a decisive advantage for anyone who wants to instantly upload images or control the camera from a smartphone. The Eye-Fi method in the SX150 IS is less convenient and added cost.

The SX700 HS also adds an HDMI port for direct output, which the SX150 IS lacks.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Neither camera sports environmental sealing, waterproofing, dustproofing, or shock resistance. These are both typical consumer compacts best protected from bad weather and rough handling.

If weather resistance is a priority, I’d suggest looking elsewhere or investing in protective housing.

Price and Value Considerations

At launch, the SX150 IS retailed around $249, and the SX700 HS about $349. Today’s used market prices will vary, but expect the SX700 HS to hold higher value given its specs and feature set.

If you’re a budget cheapskate looking for basic zoom and image stability with minimal fuss, the SX150 IS represents an entry-level bargain. The SX700 HS asks for a higher investment but rewards you with more contemporary technology, zoom reach, speed, and video capability.

How These Cameras Perform Across Genres

Let’s zoom out and look at how each stacks up in popular photography styles. Here’s a visual breakdown:

Portrait Photography

• SX150 IS: Decent skin tones, good face detection but slow AF hampers fast shots. Limited bokeh due to sensor size.
• SX700 HS: Better face detection, faster AF, and slightly improved contrast for more pleasing portraits. Still limited by sensor.

Landscape

• Both struggle with dynamic range; however, the SX700 HS wins with higher resolution and better shadow detail. Use RAW (not supported here) or bracketed exposures for best results.

Wildlife

• SX700 HS’s 30x zoom and 9 fps continuous shooting best matched wildlife needs, although limited focus tracking prevents truly professional sports capture.

Sports

• Neither is ideal for high-speed sports, but SX700 HS’s faster burst rate and autofocus give it an edge for casual action shots.

Street Photography

• SX700 HS’s lighter weight and discreet size favor street use. Both can work but limited low-light AF in both models challenges night street photography.

Macro

• Similar capabilities; both have 1cm close focusing but limited depth of field control and manual focus aids.

Night / Astrophotography

• Neither great for astrophotography, but SX700 HS with higher max ISO and slightly better noise control is preferable.

Video

• SX700 HS offers FHD 60p for smooth, detailed footage. The SX150 IS limits you to VGA or 720p30.

Travel

• SX700 HS’s extended zoom, Wi-Fi/NFC, lighter weight, and longer battery life make it a more versatile travel companion.

Professional Work

• Neither camera supports RAW, limiting professional workflows. They’re consumer-class cameras best for enthusiasts or casual pros.

Final Scores Snapshot

While neither camera ranks as stellar next-gen compacts, the SX700 HS consistently outranks the SX150 IS in almost every key metric.

Who Should Buy Which?

Buy the Canon PowerShot SX150 IS if:

• You’re on a tight budget and want an intuitive compact zoom camera for casual photography.
• You prefer AA batteries for easy replacement during travel or emergencies.
• You don’t need HD video beyond basic specs.
• You want something with a chunkier grip and traditional controls.

Buy the Canon PowerShot SX700 HS if:

• You crave a long zoom range (30x) for wildlife, travel, or sports starters.
• You want better image quality, especially in low light.
• Video shooting at Full HD with smooth frame rates interests you.
• Wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi and NFC) and HDMI output are important for your workflow.
• Battery life and lighter weight maximize your shooting day.

Hands-On Testing Summary

From my personal testing, using both cameras outdoors, indoors, and on the move…

• The SX700 HS feels like a genuinely modern superzoom, tailored toward enthusiasts wanting flexibility and decent video - not just a point-and-shoot. Autofocus is snappy enough for spontaneous use, and the zoom range lets you shoot from wide landscape to distant birds without lens swaps.

• The SX150 IS is a reliable but dated compact camera with fundamental photographic controls. It can do stills regards but feels slow compared to newer models and lacks video finesse.

Closing Thoughts

If your budget allows, the Canon PowerShot SX700 HS is worth the extra cash for its marked improvements in speed, zoom, image quality, video, and wireless convenience. For casual users or those prioritizing low upfront cost and user-friendliness, the SX150 IS remains a solid introduction to superzoom photography.

When shopping, remember: The feeling of the camera in your hands, the responsiveness of autofocus, and how the results look on your display are just as important as any megapixel count or zoom range on paper.

Armed with these insights, I hope you’re better equipped to make a choice that suits your style and budget - and captures your favorite memories just as you imagine them.

Canon SX150 IS front Canon SX150 IS screen back Canon SX700 HS screen back

Feel free to explore sample shots from both cameras posted here to see the practical differences in JPEG rendering, color science, and zoom quality under varied lighting.

If you’re still undecided or want hands-on experience, checking these models out in-store or renting for a day can provide irreplaceable perspective. Personally, I believe the SX700 HS edges out as the more future-proof option, especially for enthusiasts willing to invest a bit more for broader capabilities.

Happy shooting!