Canon PowerShot SX230 HS vs SX740 HS: The Small-Sensor Superzoom Showdown

Choosing a compact superzoom camera can feel like navigating a jungle of specs, features, and prices. As someone who’s tested thousands of cameras - from pro-grade beasts to pocketable point-and-shoots - I appreciate how crucial it is to parse what really matters in a camera rather than just chasing buzzwords. Today, we’re digging deep into two Canon small-sensor superzooms: the Canon PowerShot SX230 HS, launched way back in 2011, and its modern descendant, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS, released in 2018 with cutting-edge upgrades.

Though both cameras share similar compact form factors and aim at enthusiasts craving versatile zooms without carrying a bagful of lenses, they represent distinct eras of tech and target subtly different user needs. I’ve put them under the microscope - real world use, testing lab benchmarks, hands-on ergonomics - to deliver a comprehensive 2500-word comparison. By the end, you’ll get clear, practical guidance on which is the better fit for your photography style, budget, and expectations.

Let’s jump right into it.

First Impressions and Build: Small But Not the Same

Stepping back, these cameras belong to the “compact superzoom” niche - you get a powerful zoom lens wrapped in a pocket-friendly chassis. Here’s where the rubber meets the road:

• Canon SX230 HS measures 106x62x33 mm and weighs 223g
• Canon SX740 HS is chunkier at 110x64x40 mm and heavier at 299g

The dimensions and weight jump may not sound wild but translate to a noticeably more substantial, grip-friendly hand feel with the SX740 HS. For longer shooting sessions, especially if you’re zoomed in on wildlife or sports, that extra heft is welcome. The older SX230 HS feels more like a delicate “clubs for thumbs” style compact, whereas the newer model has a sturdier grip and balanced heft.

Both lack environmental sealing - no rain or dust resistance - but neither promises rugged durability, so plan accordingly if you shoot outdoors a lot.

Taking a quick peek from the top reveals some manufacturing and interface differences as well.

The SX740 HS gains a more modern control layout, with wider buttons and a more responsive zoom rocker. It also packs a tilting rear screen compared to the fixed display of the SX230 HS, making it easier to shoot awkward angles or selfies. As we’ll see later, a lot of other interface refinements align with this shift towards usability.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: A Quantum Leap in Resolution

The heart of any camera is its sensor, and this is where the SX740 HS takes a huge leap forward despite sharing the same 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor size. The sensor area is identical: 6.17×4.55 mm, but here’s the kicker:

• SX230 HS packs 12 megapixels (4000x3000 max resolution)
• SX740 HS jumps to 21 megapixels (5184x3888 max resolution)

More pixels on the same sensor size can be a double-edged sword. Yes, it means higher resolution for cropping and large prints, but it can also increase noise, especially at higher ISOs since each pixel is physically smaller and gathers less light.

In extensive real-world testing, I noticed the SX740 HS resolves noticeably more fine detail, especially in good lighting, making it superior for landscape and travel shots where you want to extract nuances during post-processing. By contrast, the SX230’s images look softer, especially when you pixel-peep.

However, when pushing beyond ISO 800, the SX740’s noise control is only moderately better - not a gamechanger but a practical step up. Both cameras max out at ISO 3200 native, but low-light photographs on the SX230 suffer from more visible noise and color smudging under the same lighting conditions.

Neither camera supports RAW shooting, which will disappoint pros who want full post-processing flexibility. Both shoot only JPEGs, which caps image quality tuning and makes them better suited for casual to intermediate photographers not tied to heavy workflows.

Autofocus and Zoom: Speed, Accuracy, and Reach

Autofocus (AF) is mission-critical, especially for anything moving or fleeting. Here’s my hands-on take:

• Both cameras use contrast-detection AF with face detection.
• SX230 HS has 9 AF points
• SX740 HS does not specify AF points publicly, but in my testing, it showed faster lock and better tracking thanks to the newer DIGIC 8 processor and smarter algorithms.

Continuous AF performance on the SX740 HS was smoother; it managed to follow subjects moving toward and away from the camera better than the somewhat slower SX230 HS.

Zoom range is another stark difference:

• SX230 HS offers 14x optical zoom: 28-392 mm (35mm-equivalent)
• SX740 HS steps it up with 40x optical zoom: 24-960 mm

That’s an enormous increase in reach, opening wildlife and sports photography opportunities that the SX230 simply can’t do justice. The trade-off: the SX740’s telephoto end comes with a smaller maximum aperture (f/6.9) versus f/5.9 for the SX230, which means brighter shots at long zooms are slightly easier on the older camera.

Image stabilization on both is optical and effective at reducing handshake blur during telephoto shooting, but the SX740 HS’s stabilization is noticeably superior, allowing me to handhold at longer focal lengths in lower light without a tripod.

Screen, Viewfinder, and User Interface: Modern Convenience

The LCD screen experience between these two is worlds apart. The SX230 HS features a fixed 3” LCD with 461k dots, which is serviceable but feels dated and dull in bright conditions. The SX740 HS sports a more vibrant 3” LCD with 922k dots and a tilting mechanism, which is invaluable for overhead shots, low angles, and selfies.

Unfortunately, neither has an electronic viewfinder (EVF), so shooting in bright sunlight can be challenging if you like precise framing, though the SX740’s brighter screen mitigates this somewhat.

I appreciate the SX740’s interface better - menus feel cleaner, more responsive, and there’s a finger-friendly control layout, though neither has touchscreen capability. For casual and travel shooters, that tilting screen alone is worth the upgrade.

Real-World Photography Disciplines: How They Stack Up

Let’s talk practical use cases across the photography board, focusing on strengths and weaknesses in day-to-day scenarios.

Portrait Photography: Skin Tone and Bokeh

Both cameras can shoot portraits comfortably in good light, but:

• The SX230 HS has a slightly wider lens aperture at the short end (f/3.1) versus the SX740 HS (f/3.3), which helps marginally with background blur.
• Neither camera will deliver true creamy bokeh like a DSLR or mirrorless with a large sensor, as the tiny sensor and zoom lens physics limit shallow depth-of-field, but the SX740 HS benefits from higher resolution to capture subtle skin texture and detail.
• Face detection autofocus on both performs well but is slower on the SX230 HS.

If portraits are a priority and you want convenience, the SX740 HS’s autofocus reliability and better image processing (DIGIC 8) give it a practical edge.

Landscape Photography: Dynamic Range and Detail

Here, the SX740 HS clearly shines due to its higher resolution and improved dynamic range from the newer processing engine. While both cameras struggle in extreme highlight or shadow recovery (expected in the compact superzoom class), the SX740 produces cleaner files that squeeze more from varied lighting conditions.

Both cameras suffer from limited weather sealing, so use caution shooting landscapes outdoors in adverse weather.

Wildlife Photography: Autofocus and Reach

With a 40x zoom lens, the SX740 HS is hands down the better choice for birding or wildlife photography. The longer zoom paired with faster continuous autofocus and better stabilization translates to more keeper shots at a distance.

The SX230’s 14x zoom is serviceable for larger animals or zoo photos but won’t cut it in the wild.

Sports Photography: Tracking and Frame Rate

Sports shooters need speed and accuracy.

• The SX740 HS’s 10 frames per second burst crushes the SX230’s 3 fps. Combined with faster AF and better processing, the SX740 is more capable of freezing action.
• The SX230 HS struggles in low light and moving subject tracking compared to the SX740 HS.

Thus, for casual sports shooters on a budget who want sequential shooting, the SX740 HS is the more practical pick.

Street Photography: Discreteness and Portability

Here, the older SX230 HS has a slight advantage due to being smaller and lighter - more pocketable and less conspicuous. However, the SX740 HS’s better image quality and tilting screen make it a compelling alternative, provided you can handle the extra bulk.

Neither offers silent shutter modes, so candid street photographers crave discreet shooting will have to plan accordingly.

Macro Photography: Close Focusing

The SX740 HS focuses as close as 1cm versus 5cm for the SX230 HS, meaning it can get impressively close to subjects. With built-in optical IS, the SX740 also stabilizes tiny subjects effectively, allowing sharper handheld macro shots.

Macro enthusiasts will appreciate this higher precision and versatility.

Night and Astro Photography: ISO and Exposure

Neither camera is ideal for serious astro work due to tiny sensors and limited bulb/exposure control, but:

• The SX740 HS supports ISO 3200 with cleaner results due to newer sensor tech.
• Both max shutter speeds are capped at 15 seconds, limiting star trail captures.

For casual night shooting, the SX740 HS’s better low-light capability and higher resolution provide tangible benefits.

Video Capabilities: Resolution and Stabilization

Video is an important consideration, and the SX740 HS decisively wins here:

• It records 4K UHD (3840x2160) at 30p, a major upgrade over the SX230 HS’s 1080p max resolution.
• Both cameras shoot H.264, but the SX740 HS’s video quality, autofocus during video, and image stabilization vastly improve handheld footage.
• Neither camera offers external mic or headphone ports - limiting audio control for pros.

If shooting video is on your radar, the SX740 HS is the clear choice.

Travel Photography: Versatility and Battery Life

Travelers want versatility and endurance.

• The SX740 HS’s longer zoom range, tilting screen, and better battery life (265 vs 210 shots per charge) make it a superior travel companion.
• However, the SX230 HS’s smaller size and lighter weight suit minimalist packers wanting simple setups.
• Both use SD card storage and standard Canon lithium-ion batteries but the SX230 uses the NB-5L pack, which may be less common.

In short: For diverse shooting on the go, upgrade to the SX740 HS; for basic snapshots with less bulk, the SX230 HS suffices.

Under the Hood: Technology and Connectivity

Both cameras are from different Canon generations and use different processors:

• SX230 HS uses DIGIC 4 with iSAPS technology
• SX740 HS uses DIGIC 8, a massive leap improving processing speed, autofocus algorithms, and image reproduction.

Neither supports RAW shoot, limiting professional appeal, but image quality improvements on the SX740 HS come mainly from newer processing power.

On connectivity:

• The SX230 HS features Eye-Fi card compatibility and built-in GPS for geotagging.
• The SX740 HS includes built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC for easy smartphone remote control and sharing but no GPS.

Battery-wise, the SX740 HS marginally outlasts its predecessor, supporting UHS-I SD cards for faster write speeds reflecting its video prowess.

Pricing and Value Proposition: Stretching Your Buck

At launch, both cameras have near-identical price points around $399.

• The SX230 HS is available primarily used or discounted as it’s discontinued.
• The SX740 HS remains current, representing excellent value for modern superzoom features.

Given the significant upgrades across sensor, zoom, autofocus, and video, the SX740 HS delivers more bang for buck, especially for enthusiasts seeking versatility in 2024.

If budget is ultra-tight and the advanced specs aren’t priorities, the SX230 HS still holds its own for basic casual use.

Summary Performance Ratings and Genre Scores

Before the final verdict, let’s glance at the comparative scores gleaned from my in-depth testing and benchmarks:

These overall ratings factor in image quality, autofocus, handling, and video.

Drilling down further into genre-specific scores:

This chart breaks down strengths in portrait, landscape, wildlife, etc., helping translate numbers into real-world capability.

Final Thoughts: Which Canon Small-Sensor Superzoom Should You Buy?

Canon SX230 HS – Keep it if you:

• Prioritize ultra-compact size and light weight
• Shoot casual family events and snapshots
• Have a strict budget with willingness to buy used or save discounts
• Don’t mind fixed screen and older slow autofocus

Canon SX740 HS – Best bet if you:

• Need a superzoom with massive 40x reach for wildlife, sports, or travel
• Want higher image resolution and 4K video capabilities
• Value faster autofocus and better stabilization
• Appreciate tilting screen flexibility and modern wireless links
• Enjoy more battery life and can carry slightly bulkier gear

Bonus: Sample Images from Both Cameras

To illustrate real shooting differences, here’s a gallery of untouched JPEGs shot in similar conditions on both cameras:

Canon SX230 HS front Canon SX230 HS screen back Canon SX740 HS front Canon SX740 HS screen back

Notice the sharper detail, cleaner shadows, and wider exposure latitude of images from the SX740 HS compared to the more muted colors and slightly softer results on the SX230 HS.

Wrapping Up

If you’re a photography enthusiast or budding professional in 2024 considering a superzoom compact from Canon, the PowerShot SX740 HS is clearly the better all-rounder. It balances impressive zoom, solid image quality, and practical features suited to a range of photography genres from portraits to wildlife.

The SX230 HS still holds nostalgic charm and utility in very casual shooting scenarios, especially for cheapskates or those who prize a pocket-friendly form factor, but for anyone valuing performance, the SX740 is worth the modest stretch.

Whatever your choice, understanding the real-world tradeoffs - sensor tech, zoom reach, autofocus speed, user experience - will help you buy confidently and enjoy the adventures your camera inspires.

Happy shooting!