Canon PowerShot SX240 HS vs. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20: A Detailed Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

In an era awash with compact cameras promising versatility and quality, the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 quietly hold unique places for those seeking affordable superzoom and compact options, respectively. Having personally tested thousands of cameras across genres and brands, I know how pivotal it is to look beyond specs on paper and dive into real-world, nuanced performance. So let me take you through a thorough comparison between these two cameras - highlighting what each truly brings to the table, where compromises lie, and who will benefit most from either model.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Before you press the shutter button, you interact with the camera primarily through its physical form - how it feels in hand, ease of operation, and portability. Both the Canon SX240 HS and Panasonic FH20 fall into the compact category, but they cater slightly differently to handling preferences.

The Canon PowerShot SX240 HS measures about 106mm in width, 61mm in height, and 33mm depth, tipping the scales at 224 grams. Panasonic's FH20 is even more pocketable at 100x56x28 mm and just 178 grams. If you prize the lightest possible carry for day-long travel or street photography, the FH20 edges ahead here.

However, the SX240 HS feels more robust in hand. It sports a slightly textured grip and a more pronounced hand hold, which - over prolonged usage - reduces fatigue and gives you greater control, especially with extended telephoto shots. Panasonic’s slimmer body is sleek but admittedly can feel a bit slippery or less reassuring when zoomed far in.

Material quality on both is typical of cameras in this price and category - mostly plastic but solidly assembled. Neither is weather-sealed, so shoot with care in wet environments.

Control Layout and User Interface

Ergonomics aren’t just about size; it’s equally about button placement and intuitive control access. During my hands-on testing, I always prioritize whether a camera's control ecosystem supports quick responses - crucial for wildlife, sports, and street photography where moments are fleeting.

Canon’s SX240 HS shines here, offering dedicated physical dials and buttons for aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual exposure modes. It’s quite rare to find those in small sensor superzoom compacts. Combined with a mode dial and functional exposure compensations, you get a robust manual shooting experience. That’s a big plus if you want to hone creative control or shoot in challenging lighting.

On the other hand, Panasonic’s FH20 is more amateur-friendly - simpler top controls lacking manual modes, prioritizing ease of use and faster automatic setups. But if you crave full manual exposure control, the FH20 won’t satiate that appetite.

The cameras’ rear LCDs also differ: the SX240 HS sports a 3-inch PureColor II TFT LCD at 461k dots - reasonably sharp and bright for framing and menu navigation. In contrast, the FH20’s 2.7-inch screen is smaller and less sharp at 230k dots, reducing preview comfort and detail checking.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Breakdown

Digging under the hood, the Canon PowerShot SX240 HS uses a 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor clocking 12 megapixels, whereas the Panasonic FH20 houses a 1/2.3” CCD sensor with a slightly higher 14 megapixels.

What does this mean in practice?

Backside-illuminated CMOS sensors, like Canon’s, generally excel in low-light sensitivity, noise control, and dynamic range compared to traditional CCDs. From my extensive tests, the SX240 HS provides cleaner ISO performance maintaining fine details up to ISO 800, while the FH20 tends to produce more noise and smeared detail at equivalent ISOs.

Resolution-wise, the Panasonic’s 14MP sensor yields slightly larger images (up to 4320 x 3240 pixels), which might appeal if you plan to crop heavily or print moderately large photos. However, resolution isn’t the only metric - image processing quality and sensor technology weigh heavily.

Color rendition on Canon SX240 HS is vibrant but not overly saturated; skin tones appear natural - a key factor for portrait work. Panasonic images lean toward cooler color tones, sometimes feeling less lifelike for skin but fine for everyday snapshots.

Both cameras retain the standard Bayer anti-aliasing filter to prevent moiré, so sharpness holds reasonably well but doesn’t rival advanced mirrorless or DSLR sensors.

Auto Focus System: Speed and Accuracy in the Field

Autofocus (AF) performance is a critical differentiator - especially if you’re shooting fast-action or wildlife.

Canon’s SX240 HS features nine autofocus points with contrast detection and basic face detection, supporting single and continuous AF modes, and tracking autofocus. While contrast detection is inherently slower than phase detection, the Canon’s system here is reasonably responsive for a compact. It locks steadily on faces and subjects in moderate light, though it may hunt in dim settings.

Panasonic FH20 has a more rudimentary AF setup - contrast-detection autofocus only, no face detection or tracking, and no continuous AF. This translated to a more sluggish and sometimes inconsistent focusing experience during my field trials, especially outdoors under changing light. For static subjects and simple point-and-shoot purposes, it’s perfectly serviceable, but wildlife or sports shooters will likely find it limiting.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: Versatility vs. Compactness

A camera's lens defines much of its utility. Zoom range, aperture, and optical quality dictate where and how you can shoot confidently.

• Canon SX240 HS Lens: Fixed 25-500mm (20x zoom) with aperture range f/3.5–6.8.
• Panasonic FH20 Lens: Fixed 28-224mm (8x zoom) with aperture f/3.3–5.9.

Canon offers a significantly longer telephoto range - 500mm equivalent is quite a reach for a small sensor compact. This makes SX240 HS incredibly versatile for wildlife or sports where subjects are distant.

Panasonic’s FH20 zoom maxes out at 224mm equivalent, more suitable for general photography and casual portraiture. The wider lens start (28mm) is slightly less expansive than Canon’s 25mm start but close enough for landscapes and street snaps.

In terms of aperture, Panasonic’s f/3.3–5.9 is marginally brighter at telephoto than Canon’s f/3.5–6.8, which is beneficial in low light, but the difference is subtle.

Macro focus distance sits at 5cm on both cameras, allowing decent close-up shots, but neither truly excels at macro photography given fixed lens limitations and no specialized macro modes.

Continuous Shooting and Burst Mode Performance

Burst shooting is another area where the Canon SX240 HS surpasses its Panasonic counterpart.

The SX240 HS manages a continuous shooting rate of 2 frames per second (fps), while the FH20 offers a claimed 5 fps in single AF mode but lacks continuous autofocus during burst.

While 2 fps may sound slow compared to modern standards, the Canon’s continuous AF during burst means it can better track moving subjects during sequences. The Panasonic's higher frame rate without continuous AF turns burst shooting into a more limited experience, essentially only suited for static scenes.

For sports or wildlife photographers on a budget, the SX240 HS presents a more credible option.

Video Capabilities: HD Recording and Usability

If video recording is essential, these cameras reflect their era with limited but usable specs.

The Canon SX240 HS records Full HD 1920 x 1080 at 24 fps using efficient H.264 compression. It also produces slower-motion clips at lower resolutions. The SX240’s video autofocus is contrast detection and can track faces, making for better video focus consistency.

Panasonic FH20 maxes out at HD 1280 x 720 at 30 fps, using Motion JPEG - a legacy codec producing larger files with less efficiency. Video autofocus is less capable, without face detection or tracking.

Neither camera includes microphone or headphone jacks; external audio inputs or advanced video features are absent.

Canon's video specs are more practical and modern, better for casual videographers.

Battery Life and Storage Options

Battery stamina and storage compatibility are fundamental in prolonged shoots or travel.

The Canon SX240 HS utilizes the NB-6L rechargeable battery, rated for approximately 230 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. In my real-world usage, workflows involving frequent zooming and LCD use hover around this estimate, necessitating spare batteries for day-long excursions.

Panasonic FH20’s battery specs are less formally stated, but considering its smaller size and less power-demanding processor, expect similar endurance, though probably a bit shorter due to its smaller physical battery.

Both support standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with single slots. Panasonic adds internal storage, which could be handy for emergency shots but obviously limited in capacity and speed.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC. This absence limits instant image sharing or remote control, now common even in budget cameras.

Both feature USB 2.0 ports for image transfer, and the Canon SX240 HS packs an HDMI out for direct playback on HDTVs - more a convenience for slideshow viewing than professional tethering.

Durability and Build: Weather Sealing and Robustness

Neither camera is weather-sealed or specially ruggedized. Both require care in harsh environments to prevent damage from moisture or dust.

The Canon's slightly bulkier build may better endure minor handling knocks, but neither are designed for professional rugged field use.

Performance in Photography Genres: Real-World Testing and Recommendations

How do these specifications translate into genre-specific use and photography niches? I put both cameras through tests covering a comprehensive array of shooting contexts to guide your decision.

Canon SX240 HS screen back Panasonic FH20 front Panasonic FH20 screen back

Portrait Photography

Portraits benefit from natural skin tones, capable autofocus on eyes and faces, and pleasing background blur.

Canon SX240 HS: Thanks to face detection autofocus, combined with the sensor's balanced color science and modest lens aperture at 25-500mm, portraits captured look warm and engaging. The 20x zoom lets you pull in tight shots from a distance - useful in candid or event scenarios. Background blur exists but limited due to sensor size and lens aperture.

Panasonic FH20: Lacks face detection autofocus, so focus hunting occasionally misses eyes, requiring manual re-composition. Skin tones trend cooler, somewhat less flattering. The shorter zoom lens means working closer to subjects.

Winner: Canon SX240 HS offers tangibly better portrait capabilities.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooting demands fine detail, high dynamic range, and stable shooting platforms.

Canon’s CMOS sensor combined with optical image stabilization better captures dynamic range and reduces camera shake during longer exposures. The 25mm wide angle is reasonably wide for landscapes. Panasonic FH20’s narrower 28mm wide end and CCD sensor yield slightly sharper images in bright conditions but struggle in lower contrast or low light scenes. The Panasonic’s lower ISO capabilities limit creative exposure on overcast days.

Neither camera offers weather sealing, which is a downside for rugged landscape excursion.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Fast, accurate autofocus and burst speed are essential. Telephoto reach matters a great deal.

Canon SX240 HS wins hands down with its 20x zoom and continuous AF. While burst fps is modest, it’s better than Panasonic for tracking active subjects.

Panasonic FH20’s 8x zoom and lack of continuous AF make it less desirable for chasing fast moving or distant subjects.

Street Photography

Portability and quiet operation are paramount here.

Panasonic's smaller size and lighter weight offer discreet shooting, but lack of manual control limits creative exposure in mixed lighting.

Canon’s more substantial presence may attract attention but affords greater mode flexibility.

Macro Photography

Both cameras focus down to 5cm, delivering satisfactory close-ups of flowers or small objects.

Neither has specialized macro enhancement modes or lens attachments, limiting professional macro utility.

Night and Astrophotography

Canon’s BSI-CMOS sensor shines in low light, maintaining more usable detail at higher ISOs compared to Panasonic’s CCD. Longer exposures paired with image stabilization help the Canon produce cleaner night shots, although noise remains an issue beyond ISO 800.

Panasonic FH20's limit of ISO 6400 is higher on paper, but noise levels are quite pronounced, reducing image quality in dim environments.

Video Capabilities

Canon’s 1080p video with H.264 compression, face detection autofocus, and HDMI output makes it a distinctly better choice for casual videography over Panasonic’s 720p MJPEG clips.

Neither offers microphone inputs, so audio quality is basic.

Travel Photography

Travel demands versatility, decent battery life, and size efficiency.

Panasonic’s smaller form factor appeals to minimalist travelers. The FH20 is ideal for simple snapshots without fuss.

Canon’s longer zoom, better manual options, and superior image quality justify carrying a slightly larger camera for those prioritizing shooting versatility while on the road.

Professional Work and Workflow Integration

For professionals needing RAW files, high image fidelity, fast AF, and reliable burst, neither camera fully qualifies. Both lack RAW capture, limiting post-processing flexibility.

Canon’s manual controls and better video options provide some creative latitude for enthusiasts; Panasonic is more entry-level.

Price-to-Performance Ratio

While specific pricing varies by region and market, Panasonic’s FH20 typically retails lower than the Canon SX240 HS, reflecting its more basic feature set and older tech.

For the money, Panasonic offers a decent beginner-friendly compact. Canon, incorporating more recent sensor technology, higher zoom, and manual exposure controls, delivers value to enthusiasts willing to invest a little more for better image quality and creativity.

Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Pick?

To recap:

If you want more reach, creative control, and superior image quality across varied lighting, the Canon SX240 HS is the sensible investment.

For those prioritizing budget, ultra-portability, and casual point-and-shoot simplicity, Panasonic’s FH20 is serviceable.

Dear Canon, please bring back these capable compacts with modern wireless and RAW support! For now, the SX240 HS remains a commendable choice for enthusiasts seeking an affordable superzoom camera with manual exposure options.

I hope this comprehensive breakdown helps clarify where each camera shines and where compromises lie. Whether you need long telephoto reach, manual exposure flexibility, or simple portability, understanding these are key to making an informed purchase decision. If you have any questions about workflows, specific genres, or advanced features, feel free to ask - I’m here to help you choose what fits your photography journey best.