Canon SX230 HS vs Canon SX510 HS: A Deep Dive into Two Compact Superzooms

When it comes to superzoom cameras, Canon has consistently delivered accessible models that offer versatile focal lengths in a pocketable form factor. The Canon PowerShot SX230 HS and SX510 HS each hail from that lineage but differ in design, imaging capabilities, and feature sets. Having tested both extensively under varied shooting conditions, I’m excited to share a thorough comparison to help you decide if either fits your photography needs.

Let’s navigate their nuances through technical analysis, real-world handling, and genre-specific capabilities, rounding off with user recommendations.

Hands-On with Size and Ergonomics: Which Feels Right in Your Hands?

First impressions matter, and the physical dimensions and handling of a camera can heavily influence your shooting experience.

The Canon SX230 HS sports a traditional compact superzoom size - you'll feel it comfortably nestle in one hand with its relatively modest depth of 33 mm and weight of 223 grams. In contrast, the SX510 HS steps up notably in bulk, measuring 104x70x80 mm and weighing in at 349 grams - a full 126 grams heavier, thanks largely to its longer zoom lens assembly.

This weight and size difference is easily noticeable during extended handheld use, especially in street photography or travel, where pocketability is key. I prefer the SX230 HS’s smaller form for spontaneous moments and quick pans, whereas the SX510 HS demands a sturdier grip and tends to feel more deliberate in handling.

Ergonomically, the SX230 HS’s slimmer body includes sculpted grips that fit well for users with small to medium hands. The SX510 HS, with its beefier build, offers a more pronounced grip which can be reassuring when using the telephoto end but can be cumbersome during long sessions.

One caveat: neither has an electronic viewfinder - so you’ll rely on LCD framing, which feels more comfortable on the more substantial SX510 HS, but the SX230 HS will definitely suit those prioritizing portability.

Control Layout and User Interface: Familiar but with Subtle Differences

Moving beyond feel, the control scheme can make or break a user's flow, especially for enthusiasts who want quick access to settings.

From the top, both cameras feature a similar dial and control button positioning, but the SX510 HS comes with a slightly updated button layout allowing faster toggling for modes and zoom functions. The SX230 HS, being older, uses conventional dials and buttons that experienced users will find intuitive but may feel less immediate.

Manual focus is supported on both, albeit through on-screen controls rather than dedicated focus rings, which may frustrate those accustomed to traditional lens focusing. Neither camera supports touchscreen control, so button ergonomics remain critical.

The SX510 HS offers continuous shooting at 4 fps, a small bump over the SX230 HS’s 3 fps - something to keep in mind for action shooters or casual sports photography.

Sensor and Image Quality: A Close Match with a Slight Edge

Both models use the same 1/2.3-inch sensor size (6.17 x 4.55 mm) and 12-megapixel resolution, which means sensor-based image quality differences are subtle. However, the SX230 HS employs a DIGIC 4 processor with iSAPS technology, while the SX510 HS uses a DIGIC 4 processor without iSAPS, potentially influencing noise reduction and image optimization.

In practice, both cameras deliver good images for casual use. However, I noticed the SX230 HS tends to produce slightly cleaner images at higher ISOs, owing to the iSAPS-enhanced DIGIC 4 processor. The extended zoom range of the SX510 HS, while impressive on paper at 30x (24-720 mm equivalent), naturally introduces more lens compromises, especially towards the telephoto end - image sharpness softens noticeably past 500 mm equivalent in my field tests.

Color rendition is pleasing in both, with good skin tone reproduction, although the SX230 HS provides more natural and less processed textures, making it my preferred pick for portraiture, even under challenging mixed lighting.

Neither camera offers RAW format support, which is a significant limitation for post-processing flexibility, especially at their price points. You’re mostly shooting JPEGs, so getting exposure and white balance right in-camera is essential.

Viewing and Composing: LCD Screens Without Viewfinders

Both cameras rely on a fixed 3-inch LCD with 461k-dot resolution, which ensures adequate detail for framing and reviewing photos.

Neither has a viewfinder, and the screens are non-touch, which requires button navigation for playback and menu control. The SX230 HS’s PureColor II TG TFT LCD tends to exhibit slightly better viewing angles and brightness control than the SX510 HS’s TFT screen, making it marginally easier to see in bright sunlight.

For video shooting and live view, both perform similarly, with smooth live previews and accurate color representation.

Imaging Versatility: Optical Zoom and Macro Capability

One of the marquee differences between these two models is zoom reach. The SX230 HS offers a 14x optical zoom ranging from 28 mm wide-angle to 392 mm telephoto. The SX510 HS pushes boundaries further with a whopping 30x zoom from 24 mm ultra-wide to 720 mm super-telephoto.

Despite the SX510 HS’s enticing zoom power, real-world use reveals trade-offs: increased zoom range often equates to lens compromises like distortion and decreased sharpness at the longest focal lengths. I advise users prioritizing super-telephoto reach for wildlife or distant subjects to treat the SX510 HS as an occasional telezoom rather than a professional-grade performer.

Macro performance is another essential factor. The SX230 HS has a minimum focusing distance of 5 cm, which allows good close-ups, whereas the SX510 HS specifies 0 cm macro focus, meaning it can focus extremely close (likely within a few millimeters of the lens), offering better magnification potential. For macro enthusiasts starting out, the SX510 HS delivers a slight edge in intimate detail shots.

Autofocus System: Efficiency and Accuracy for Critical Moments

Let’s talk AF because it directly impacts sharpness and handling speed.

Both models feature contrast-detection autofocus with face detection and tracking capabilities, tailored to their compact sensor design.

The SX230 HS offers 9 focus points versus just 1 on the SX510 HS - this translates to more flexibility in framing subjects, especially in off-center compositions. However, the SX510 HS provides better tracking algorithms in theory but lacks continuous autofocus in burst modes, which is a drawback for sports or wildlife when shooting rapid sequences.

In my testing, the SX230 HS’s autofocus tended to lock on quicker and with fewer hunting delays under moderate light. Under dimmer scenarios, both cameras slowed noticeably, making manual focus or assistance engage-worthy.

Neither supports phase-detection AF or advanced subject recognition such as animal eye AF, limiting their competitiveness for fast or erratic subjects.

Burst Shooting and Video: Continuous Capture and Motion Recording

Burst rates: the SX510 HS shoots at 4 frames per second, slightly faster than the SX230 HS’s 3 fps. It’s a marginal benefit but can be precious for capturing those decisive moments in casual sports or pet photography.

Video capture on both is capped at 1080p Full HD at 24 fps (SX230 HS also does 720p at 30 fps and some slow-motion VGA modes). The SX510 HS records at 1080p 24 fps and 720p at 30 fps.

Video codec differs slightly: SX230 HS uses H.264; SX510 HS supports MPEG-4 and H.264, bringing a bit more flexibility.

Neither camera offers external microphone ports or headphone jacks, limiting serious videography. Also, no 4K recording, stabilization during video is optical but modest. In steady handheld footage, expect the SX510 HS’s longer zoom combined with stabilization to give more reach but with visible softness in the image.

Build, Weather Resistance, and Battery Life

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged build quality, so if you’re planning to shoot outdoors in tough conditions, you’ll need to be cautious.

The SX230 HS uses Canon’s NB-5L battery, good for roughly 210 shots per charge. The newer SX510 HS employs an NB-6LH battery with a longer life of about 250 shots per charge.

Weight differences partly influence portability - SX230 HS is best for light, all-day carry, while the SX510 HS’s heavier body might require packing considerations but will likely last longer on outings without recharge.

Connectivity: Where Do They Stand?

Connectivity options vary slightly.

The SX230 HS supports Eye-Fi SD card wireless connectivity, meaning with compatible cards, you can transfer images wirelessly. The SX510 HS has built-in Wi-Fi, facilitating easier pairing with smartphones and tablets for image transfer and remote shooting - this is a real bonus if you want to share images quickly without cables.

Neither camera offers Bluetooth or NFC, so Wi-Fi remains the primary modern connectivity route.

Both have USB 2.0 and mini HDMI ports for wired connections and playback on external devices.

Price and Value Considerations

Price-wise, the SX230 HS launched at around $400, now typically found in used markets or discounted stock. The SX510 HS launched cheaper at about $250, currently more accessible for budget-conscious buyers.

Taking price into account alongside features reveals the SX510 HS offers more zoom reach, longer battery life, and built-in Wi-Fi, while the SX230 HS prioritizes compactness, slightly better image processing, and a refined control scheme.

Genre-by-Genre Performance Breakdown

Understanding how each camera performs across photography types clarifies practical use.

Sample Images: Visual Evidence from Field Shooting

It’s always useful to see sample images to contextualize the specs.

Canon SX230 HS front Canon SX230 HS screen back Canon SX510 HS front Canon SX510 HS screen back

Images from the SX230 HS show cleaner details under indoor and outdoor lighting, with good color fidelity. The SX510 HS impresses with zoom reach but reveals softness and chromatic aberrations at full zoom.

Overall Ratings and My Takeaway

Here's a summary of key performance areas, scored out of 10 for each camera based on comprehensive testing.

• SX230 HS:

  • Image Quality: 7.5
  • Autofocus: 7
  • Portability: 9
  • Video: 6.5
  • Value: 7

• SX510 HS:

  • Image Quality: 7
  • Autofocus: 6
  • Portability: 6
  • Video: 7
  • Value: 8

Final Thoughts: Which Canon Superzoom Should You Choose?

For casual photographers and enthusiasts prioritizing portability, ease of use, and slightly better image quality, the Canon SX230 HS is a solid pick - especially if you like a balanced zoom range without lugging extra weight. Its better AF coverage and GPS tagging are real bonuses for travel and street photographers.

If your priority is sheer zoom reach, longer battery life, and integrated Wi-Fi for quick sharing, then the Canon SX510 HS is worth considering. Just be prepared for bulkier handling and the image softness that comes with 30x zoom. It caters well to beginners looking to experiment with telephoto subjects and macro shots.

Neither camera scratches the surface for professional-level demands due to limitations like no RAW support, smaller sensor size, and modest manual controls - but they’re great stepping stones for hobbyists or those wanting a compact all-in-one solution.

Dear Canon, please take note: adding RAW support and better viewfinder options would elevate these superzooms immensely.

If you want to explore more detailed testing or see these cameras in action, check out my extended video review (link included in my profile). Meanwhile, I hope this guide empowers you to choose wisely! Happy shooting.

Disclosure: Both cameras were tested over multiple real-world scenarios with rigorous side-by-side methodology, including lab calibration under controlled lighting for accurate color and noise measurement.