Head-to-Head: Canon PowerShot SX260 HS vs Samsung SL720 – Which Compact Powers Your Passion?

When trawling the compact camera aisle or scrolling through specs online, it’s easy to be blinded by flashy zoom numbers or megapixels alone. But if you’ve ever held a camera in your hands (or better yet, have tramped miles with one strapped around your neck), you know that the story is much richer than just digits on paper. Today, I’m pulling out two contenders from the storied compact realm, both promising portability and convenience but targeting slightly different styles: the Canon PowerShot SX260 HS (2012) and the Samsung SL720 (2009).

These cameras embody different design philosophies and technology generations, so gathering practical insights on how they fare across photography disciplines and everyday use can help you figure out which fits your visual ambitions and shooting habits best. Spoiler alert: I’ve logged hours with both, putting them through paces that matter - so buckle up for a deep dive, sprinkled with first-hand experience, technical know-how, and nuanced recommendations.

Size Matters: Handling and Ergonomics First

Although a camera is, of course, a tool for making pictures, the comfort and intuitiveness of its interface can significantly affect your shooting enjoyment and creativity. Physically, these two are compact, but not all compacts hold equally well.

The Canon SX260 HS weighs in at 231 grams and measures 106 x 61 x 33 mm, whereas the Samsung SL720 trims down slightly to 168 grams and a svelte 92 x 61 x 23 mm. What do these numbers mean practically? The Canon feels more substantial and ergonomic in hand - a boon over extended shoots, especially when zooming in where a steady grip matters. It sports a textured grip that prevents the “will it slip?” jitters common with ultra-lightweight cameras. By contrast, the Samsung SL720 edges into ultracompact territory, making it incredibly pocketable but necessitating a bit more care in handling, particularly due to its thinner grip profile.

Ergonomics isn’t just about heft or grip. The layout of buttons and dials, feedback from controls, and the ease with which you can switch modes matter greatly. Here, the SX260 HS has a noticeable advantage.

Canon’s design shows a thoughtfully arranged top deck with a mode dial, zoom rocker encircling the shutter button (which feels responsive and tactile), and dedicated exposure compensation and aperture/shutter priority buttons. Samsung’s SL720, operating with a minimalist command set, lacks manual exposure controls and resorts to touchscreen-free navigation, which can get tedious for those wanting faster control, especially in dynamic or tricky lighting. For the enthusiast who likes manual finesse or tweaking settings on the fly, the Canon’s interface immediately feels more empowering and better thought-through.

Peering Under the Hood: Sensors and Image Quality

At the heart of any camera lies its sensor - where photons become pixels. Image quality hinges largely on sensor technology, effective resolution, and the processing engine’s muscle.

Both cameras share the same sensor size: 1/2.3 inch (around 6x4.5 mm), quite typical in superzoom and compact cameras. The Canon SX260 HS employs a BSI-CMOS sensor, while the Samsung SL720 utilizes a slightly older CCD sensor. This difference places Canon ahead in terms of noise handling and dynamic range capabilities. Backside-illuminated CMOS layouts tend to be more light-sensitive and energy-efficient, resulting in better low-light shots and higher usable ISO thresholds.

Both cameras offer about 12 MP resolution; the Canon maxes native ISO at 3200, while the Samsung caps at 1600, revealing the Canon's focus on versatility across lighting conditions.

From practical tests, images from the Canon SX260 HS deliver better detail retention with smoother gradients and less noise creeping in, particularly beyond ISO 800. Samsung’s images at ISO 400 and above quickly show noise and loss of fine detail, confirming the dated sensor’s limits.

In daylight, both produce decent images with vibrant colors, but Canon’s slightly better color depth and contrast lend photos a more neutral and natural look, which is appreciated in portraits and landscapes alike.

How They Look: LCD and Viewfinder Comparisons

Shooting on the fly often means relying on the rear LCD screen; neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder.

The SX260 HS’s 3.0-inch screen boasts a resolution of 461k dots, offering a crisp, clear preview that lets you judge exposure and focus with confidence in average daylight - though direct sunlight still calls for some shade or angling. The SL720’s 2.7-inch screen, at 230k dots, is dimmer and less responsive to nuanced lighting, thereby making framing and review less comfortable, especially in tricky environments.

Neither are touch-enabled, but navigating the Canon’s menu system feels quicker and more logical due to better button placement and dedicated shortcut keys.

Zoom, Focus, and Autofocus Systems – The Superzoom Showdown

If superzoom versatility is at the core of your kit bag dreams, understanding how these cameras handle zoom and focusing makes or breaks the deal.

Canon’s SX260 HS flaunts a highly impressive 25–500 mm (20x) optical zoom, while Samsung’s SL720 offers a less ambitious 28–102 mm (3.6x) zoom range. The difference is palpable - from wide-angle landscapes and group shots to distant wildlife or sports events, the Canon’s longer reach unquestionably expands creative possibilities. I’ve personally found the 500 mm equivalent focal length invaluable when traveling or shooting outdoor events where getting closer physically is impossible or inconvenient.

Autofocus wise, Canon’s 9-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection works satisfyingly fast and accurate in good light. However, it stumbles somewhat in low light or when tracking moving subjects - unsurprising given contrast-detect AF's inherent limitations compared to modern hybrid AF systems. Canon compensates somewhat with an optical image stabilization system (OIS), which helps steady handheld shots at long focal lengths or slower shutter speeds.

Samsung’s SL720 lacks image stabilization entirely, puts autofocus on single-point contrast detection without face or subject tracking, and is slower to lock focus especially in dim environments. Given its shorter zoom, this is less awkward but does limit creative scope.

Burst and Shutter Speed: Catching the Moment

In fast action scenarios - whether kids, pets, or sports - you want to ensure your camera keeps pace without missing the critical moment.

The Canon SX260 HS offers continuous shooting at about 2 frames per second (fps), which feels sluggish by today’s standards but was somewhat average for compact superzooms at the time. Its shutter speed range extends from 15 seconds exposures (great for night photography) up to 1/3200th of a second, providing ample flexibility for varied lighting and motion freezing.

Samsung’s SL720 lacks continuous shooting modes and offers a more limited shutter speed range (up to 1/1500th of a second), further restricting possibilities for fast action or bright daylight conditions.

In practice, the Canon’s burst capability lets you capture a reasonable sequence of shots, with the caveat that buffer clearing will slow you down after about 5 frames. The shutter response is quick enough, though autofocus hunting can sometimes delay shots in challenging conditions.

Picture Styles: Portrait, Landscape, and Specialized Use

Let’s break it down by photography genres, shall we? I’m drawing on my experience plus sample results from both cameras.

Canon SX260 HS front Canon SX260 HS screen back Samsung SL720 front Samsung SL720 screen back

Portrait Photography

Portraiture thrives on accurate skin tones, pleasant bokeh, and reliable face/eye detection.

• Canon SX260 HS: Face-detection autofocus helps nail focus on faces admirably, with warm but natural skin tones. The lens’s max aperture (f/3.5 at wide, f/6.8 at telephoto) isn’t wide enough for dreamy bokeh; expect fairly busy backgrounds, but the 20x zoom lets you isolate subjects at longer lengths, helping background separation somewhat.

• Samsung SL720: Lacks face detection and manual exposure modes, making precise portrait capture more challenging. Skin tones skew slightly cooler and less vibrant. The maximum aperture (f/2.8 to 5.7) gives some shallow depth of field at wide angle but the shorter zoom limits creative framing.

Landscape Photography

Resolution, dynamic range, and weather resiliency matter.

Neither camera features weather sealing, so caution is advised shooting outdoors in harsh conditions. That said, the Canon’s superior sensor and processing capture finer detail and wider dynamic range, essential for landscapes that mix shadow and highlights. The longer zoom extends creative framing from sweeping vistas to closer patterns in nature.

Samsung’s sensor and narrower zoom mean images risk turning flat under high contrast scenes, with less ability to crop significantly. The smaller screen complicates composition in bright daylight.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Speed, autofocus, and reach dominate here.

Canon’s 20x zoom plus optical stabilization provides obvious advantages, though the AF system isn’t professional-grade. The 2 fps burst and occasional AF lag restrict capturing fast, erratic subjects, but for casual wildlife shots or backyard action, it suffices.

Samsung’s zoom and AF limitations place it far behind here; better suited to static scenes than swift sports or animals.

Street and Travel Photography

Portability, discreetness, and versatility crucially come to the fore.

Samsung’s SL720 wins points for compact size and lighter weight, fitting easily into a pocket or purse. It’s quiet and unobtrusive, appealing for street photography where blending in is golden.

Canon’s slightly bulkier profile is still easily portable for travel and daily use, while delivering much more powerful zoom capabilities. Battery life is better too (approx. 230 shots per charge vs. unlisted but likely less on Samsung), important for days out shooting.

Macro and Close-up Shots

Both cameras boast a 5 cm macro focusing distance.

Canon’s optical image stabilization helps produce sharp, handheld close-ups, and manual focus option lets you refine depth where autofocus falters.

Samsung’s lack of stabilization means steady hands or tripods are musts; no manual focus option can frustrate perfectionists.

Night and Astro Photography

Long exposures, noise performance, and ISO sensitivity decide winners.

Canon’s longer shutter (up to 15s) and higher max ISO (3200) enable more creative night photography. The BSI-CMOS sensor handles noise better than Samsung’s CCD.

Samsung maxes out at ISO 1600 and limited long shutter speeds, combined with more noise - restricting creative options in low light or astrophotography.

Video Capabilities – The Unexpected Role of Small Cameras

Video can be make-or-break for many buyers.

Canon’s SX260 HS records Full HD (1920x1080) at 24 fps, a respectable feature in 2012 compact standards. The AVCHD/H.264 format offers decent compression without horrible file bloat. Optical image stabilization significantly reduces handheld shake during video, improving watchability. There is no microphone or headphone port - limiting professional audio capture and monitoring.

Samsung’s SL720 tops out at 640x480 resolution with Motion JPEG compression, which is universally considered low quality by modern standards, even for casual use. The absence of image stabilization makes footage jittery, and no advanced video features are available.

Build Quality and Feature Set Summary

Both cameras forgo weather sealing and ruggedness modifications. Canon weighs more but feels sturdier, sporting a robust battery (NB-6L) with reliable life and SD/SDHC/SDXC card compatibility. Samsung’s battery model is SLB-10A, with less clear endurance figures, but in practical experience, tends to need more frequent charging.

Connectivity options on both are minimal - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC. Canon includes HDMI output; Samsung does not.

Neither support raw image files, which limits post-processing flexibility (though this is typical in this class and generation). Both use fixed lenses, eliminating the need to consider interchangeable lens ecosystems but constraining future upgrades.

Performance Scores at a Glance

On industry-standard metrics like autofocus speed, image quality, and features, the Canon SX260 HS consistently scores higher, reflecting its newer tech and more advanced systems.

The Canon outperforms in wildlife, sports, and low-light categories, while the Samsung scores modestly in street and casual travel photography due to smaller footprint.

Who Should Buy Which – Recommendations Wrapped Up

If you’ve made it this far, kudos. Choosing between the Canon SX260 HS and Samsung SL720 boils down to where you prioritize features, shooting convenience, and budget.

Choose the Canon SX260 HS if:

• You want a powerful superzoom (20x) capable of tackling landscapes, wildlife, sports, and travel with decent image quality.
• Manual control over exposure and focus is non-negotiable.
• You plan to shoot videos at Full HD and benefit from optical image stabilization.
• Battery life and sturdiness matter.
• You’re willing to carry a slightly bigger but more ergonomic camera.

Opt for Samsung SL720 if:

• Portability, pocketability, and discretion trump zoom reach and advanced features.
• You mostly shoot casual photos in good light, with occasional video.
• You’re budget-conscious (~$119 vs $349 for Canon), and low cost is paramount.
• Manual controls and professional-grade performance are not priorities.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Specs, It’s About Your Vision

In over 15 years of camera testing, the temptation to chase specs is always present - but the most satisfying camera is always the one that fits your style, habits, and creative goals. The Canon SX260 HS impresses with its versatility and superior image quality - qualities I’ve enjoyed on memorable trips, catching quick-moving wildlife or snapping candid portraits that feel alive. The Samsung SL720 caters well to the casual shooter who needs a tiny travel buddy more than an all-purpose tool.

Both model years are behind the curve compared to more recent offerings boasting larger sensors, hybrid autofocus, and built-in wireless, so consider your expectations carefully. Yet, if you find either at a bargain second-hand, the Canon in particular is still a capable performer delivering solid image results.

Ultimately, whether to reach further with Canon’s superzoom or pocket a sleek Samsung depends on your photographic quest. Whichever path you take, may your images be sharp and your moments unforgettable.

If you want to dig deeper into any aspect or have questions about settings and techniques on either camera, drop a line! Cameras evolve, but the joy of capturing light stays timeless.