Canon SX30 IS vs Sony HX30V: In-Depth Comparison of Two Small Sensor Superzoom Cameras

In the world of small sensor superzoom cameras, the Canon PowerShot SX30 IS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V represent two notable models from the early 2010s era. Though somewhat dated by today’s standards, these cameras still hold relevance for photography enthusiasts seeking an affordable bridge or compact superzoom capable of offering a broad focal length range with user-friendly controls. I’ve spent considerable time shooting with both bodies, assessing their real-world performance across diverse photographic genres, so let me share a thorough comparison of these two contenders based on hands-on experience, technical analysis, and practical usage.

First Impressions: Ergonomics and Build Quality

When you first pick up the Canon SX30 IS and Sony HX30V, the difference in physicality is immediately noticeable. The SX30 IS is a robust, bridge-style camera with a distinctive DSLR-like body and sizable grip. Weighing in at 601 grams and measuring 123 x 92 x 108 mm, it feels substantial and well-suited for stable handholding during extended shoots. Canon’s articulation of the fully articulated 2.7-inch screen offers enhanced flexibility, especially for awkward angles or video recording. That’s a thoughtful feature, particularly for those who value creative framing on the fly.

In contrast, the Sony HX30V is much more compact and lightweight - 254 grams and with dimensions of 107 x 62 x 35 mm - making it more pocketable and travel-friendly. Its fixed 3-inch XtraFine TruBlack TFT LCD stands out for higher resolution (922k dots) compared to Canon’s lower 230k-dot screen, though it lacks articulation. The Sony’s compactness results from its design philosophy focusing on portability over DSLR-style ergonomics.

These differences boil down to your handling preference: if you want a comfortable, substantial grip and doesn’t mind the weight, Canon wins ergonomically; if minimalism and portability are paramount, Sony is the natural choice.

Looking at control layout from above, Canon sticks to a traditional mode dial offering manual exposure modes including shutter and aperture priority, a rarity among superzooms and a huge plus for photographers wanting creative control. Sony’s HX30V opts for a more consumer-friendly interface without dedicated P/A/S/M modes but still supports manual exposure adjustments via menus. I personally prefer the Canon’s physical dials when composing quickly in dynamic environments.

Under the Hood: Sensor and Image Quality

Both cameras sport the typical 1/2.3-inch compact sensor size, with sensor dimensions of 6.17 x 4.55 mm and a sensor area of about 28 mm². However, there are critical differences in sensor type and resolution that impact image quality significantly.

The Canon SX30 IS uses a 14-megapixel CCD sensor, a technology well-regarded for color rendition and smooth tone gradation but typically trailing behind CMOS sensors in noise handling and high ISO performance. On the other hand, Sony’s HX30V employs an 18-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS (BSI-CMOS) sensor which provides enhanced light-gathering efficiency, resulting in cleaner images at higher ISOs and better dynamic range.

When shooting in daylight or well-lit conditions, both cameras deliver respectable image quality consistent with small sensor superzoom expectations: sufficient detail but visible softness when pixel-peeping, and limited ability to crop without significant quality loss. However, in low-light scenarios, the Sony HX30V clearly outperforms with usable images up to ISO 1600 and even 3200 with some compromise. The Canon’s high ISO ceiling maxes out at 1600 and shows much more grain and chroma noise.

Color science is subjective, but I found Canon’s tones warmer and more pleasing straight from the camera, making portraits and skin tones more natural, while Sony leans towards contrasty, cooler results suitable for landscapes but occasionally harsh in shadow detail.

Autofocus: Speed, Precision, and Tracking

A camera’s autofocus system is crucial across genres, especially for wildlife, sports, and fast-paced street photography.

Canon SX30 IS features a 9-point contrast-detection AF system without face detection or tracking; autofocus speed is adequate but noticeably slower in dim conditions, and it lacks continuous AF tracking so moving subjects can quickly fall out of focus. This limitation can frustrate birders or action shooters.

Sony HX30V also has 9 AF points but ups the ante with face detection and basic AF tracking capabilities. Though not on par with modern mirrorless cameras, the HX30V’s autofocus is snappier, especially in good light, and tracks moving subjects better, making it more reliable for casual wildlife and street shooters aiming to catch fleeting moments.

Neither camera offers phase-detection autofocus - which was reserved for higher-end models at their release - but Sony’s BSI-CMOS sensor and BIONZ processor optimize contrast detection to extract maximum speed from the system. I recommend Sony for autofocus-dependent genres or if quick autofocus lock is a priority.

Shooting Experience Across Genres

Let’s take a deep dive into how these cameras handle specific photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography – Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

For portraits, skin tone accuracy and subject separation are key.

Canon’s warmer color science lends itself well to skin tones, delivering natural blush even without custom adjustments. The wide focal range starting at 24 mm (35mm equivalent) lets you capture environmental portraits, while the long end (840 mm) offers tight headshots from a distance - albeit with less background blur due to small sensor size and variable aperture (F2.7–5.8). The fully articulated screen is also a plus for creative framing.

Sony starts a bit narrower at 25 mm and tops out at 500 mm, giving less reach but still solid framing versatility. Its cooler color palette means you might want to tweak white balance or post-process skin tones. Its autofocus system supports face detection, aiding in consistent focusing on eyes - an undeniable benefit for portraits.

Neither camera produces strong bokeh thanks to the sensor’s size, but optically the Canon’s lens produces slightly smoother backgrounds on wide aperture settings. Neither offers eye tracking autofocus, so critical focus handling is manual.

Landscape Photography – Dynamic Range and Weather Sealing

Landscape shooters demand sharpness, resolution, and wide dynamic range.

Sony’s higher pixel count (18 MP vs 14 MP) provides more detail to work with in large prints or cropping, a plus for enthusiasts. The BSI-CMOS sensor also yields superior dynamic range, retaining richer shadow detail and smoothing highlight roll-off.

Neither camera has weather sealing, limiting outdoor durability in harsh conditions. Construction is decent but not ruggedized.

A minor point: Canon’s articulation can aid in composing close-to-ground or awkward angle shots common in landscape work. Sony’s fixed screen is less flexible but higher resolution can make focusing on fine textures easier.

Wildlife Photography – Autofocus and Telephoto Reach

When photographing animals, reach and autofocus matter more than ever.

Canon’s 24–840 mm equivalent zoom gives SUPERIOR focal length range, reaching an impressive 840 mm, which is fantastic for distant wildlife. However, the camera’s sluggish autofocus and single shot continuous shooting rate (1 fps) drastically limit your ability to track and capture fast-moving critters.

Sony’s HX30V zoom tops out at 500 mm, noticeably less reach, but compensates with a 10 fps burst mode and better AF tracking, improving your odds of sharp images of moving subjects. For casual wildlife shooters, the Sony may deliver more keeper shots, but for those who prioritize reach, Canon has the optics edge.

Sports Photography – Tracking Accuracy and Frame Rates

Sports photography requires fast autofocus, high frame rates, and good handling under varied lighting.

Canon’s slow single FPS burst mode and lack of AF tracking make it a poor choice for sports.

Sony’s 10 fps continuous shooting rate is a standout in this category, paired with AF tracking (albeit modest by today’s standards). However, limited max shutter speed of 1/1600 second and max native ISO of 12800 means indoor or low-light sports will test the HX30V more severely.

Street Photography – Discreteness and Low Light

Street photographers need discretion, portability, and competent low light.

Sony HX30V’s compact, lightweight form factor makes it much less obtrusive and a better choice for candid street shooting, where the Canon’s size and heft can draw unwanted attention.

Sony’s superior ISO performance again offers advantages in dusk or night street scenes, while Canon’s louder shutter and bulky design make it less ideal for this genre.

Macro Photography – Magnification and Focus Precision

Both cameras offer macro capabilities, with Sony allowing focusing as close as 1 cm, compared to Canon’s 0 cm macro focus range claim, though both are fixed lens systems.

Sony’s advantageous sensor and lens design lend to better sharpness at close distances. Canon’s articulation aids in composing close-up shots from different angles.

Neither has specialized macro modes or focus stacking, limiting macro enthusiasts looking for creative depth.

Night and Astro Photography – ISO Performance and Exposure Controls

Astrophotographers look for high ISO usability and long exposure capability.

Canon SX30 IS offers shutter speeds up to 15 seconds, great for star trails but hampered by noisy ISO 1600 ceiling and CCD sensor noise.

Sony HX30V maxes exposure at 30 seconds and supports ISO up to 12800, with comparatively better noise control - though small sensor size still limits raw astrophotography use.

Neither supports RAW shooting or bulb mode, which pros usually prefer for night sky photography, but the Sony is better suited for handheld low-light captures.

Video Capabilities – Resolution and Stabilization

Video is increasingly crucial even for still photography cameras.

Canon’s SX30 IS records 720p HD video at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format. It lacks microphone input and stabilization is optical only.

Sony HX30V offers 1080p Full HD video at 60 fps, using MPEG-4 and AVCHD codecs - more advanced and higher resolution. Optical Stabilization is also included but no mic input.

For casual videographers, Sony’s higher resolution and frame rates make it the clear winner.

Travel Photography – Versatility and Battery Life

Both cameras are designed with travel in mind, but approach the category from different angles.

Sony’s lightweight and compact design is a dream to lug around on long trips, minimizing fatigue.

Canon’s extensive zoom range on a bulkier body offers more framing possibilities without changing lenses, beneficial for long days shooting diverse landscapes and cityscapes.

Battery life is notoriously absent on Canon’s spec sheets but generally modest on both; Sony claims 320 shots per charge, which I found achievable in real use, while Canon’s real-world endurance is shorter, necessitating spares.

Usability: Interface, Screen, and Viewfinders

Canon’s SX30 IS features an electronic viewfinder (EVF), albeit with basic specs and no resolution detail available. The articulated rear LCD is small and fairly low resolution at 230k dots, but swiveling helps shooting at difficult angles.

Sony omits an EVF entirely, relying on the bright, crisp 3-inch screen rated at 922k dots with XtraFine TruBlack technology for better outdoor viewing.

For daylight shooting, Sony’s screen is the clear winner, but those preferring eye-level composing may find Canon’s EVF useful if a bit rudimentary.

Menus and controls align with each brand’s typical style - Canon leans toward photography enthusiasts with dedicated dials; Sony prioritizes compactness and simplified operation.

Connectivity and Storage Options

Canon SX30 IS includes Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless image transfer, a nice touch at the time for instant sharing. Sony HX30V integrates built-in WiFi for wireless functions plus a built-in GPS, a handy feature for travel photographers wishing to geotag photos.

Both support SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, with Sony adding compatibility for their proprietary Memory Stick formats. USB 2.0 and HDMI outputs are standard on both.

Value Analysis: Price and Longevity

At launch, the Canon SX30 IS was priced around $400, similar to Sony’s HX30V pricing near $420. Given age and technology, both are budget offerings today.

Sony’s slightly higher specs in sensor resolution, video quality, and autofocus capability edge it ahead in overall value. However, Canon’s reach, physical handling, and long zoom lens retain unique appeal.

Canon SX30 IS front Canon SX30 IS screen back Sony HX30V front Sony HX30V screen back

Reviewing sample photos, you can see Canon images boast warmer color palettes with natural skin tones and smooth tonal transitions. Sony images display sharper fine details and stronger contrast, with less noise at high ISOs. Lens distortion and chromatic aberration are comparable and consistent with small sensor superzoom expectations.

Final Ratings and Takeaways

When aggregating all test results, Sony HX30V scores better in autofocus speed, low-light performance, video capabilities, and portability. The Canon SX30 IS excels in zoom range, ergonomics, and articulated screen versatility.

Breaking down by photography type:

Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

Choose the Canon SX30 IS if:

• You want the longest possible zoom range (24–840 mm) for distant subjects like wildlife or event photography.
• You value DSLR-style ergonomics and physical exposure controls for creative manual shooting.
• An articulated screen is a significant bonus for your shooting style.
• You prioritize warm color science and natural skin tones for portraits.

Choose the Sony HX30V if:

• Portability and discreetness are paramount - perfect for travel, street, and casual everyday shooting.
• You want better video capabilities and higher resolution images.
• Superior autofocus with face detection and tracking is important for dynamic subjects.
• You need built-in GPS and wireless connectivity for on-the-go sharing and location tagging.
• Your work involves low-light or night photography, thanks to the BSI-CMOS sensor.

Closing Thoughts

Both the Canon PowerShot SX30 IS and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX30V represent strong small sensor superzoom cameras of their era, each catering to slightly different photographer needs. Hands-on testing shows the Canon excels in zoom reach and handling, providing a DSLR-like feel in a single, versatile package. Meanwhile, Sony offers cutting-edge sensor technology of its time, superior autofocus, video specs, and compact convenience.

If I had to pick one for casual travel shooting and street photography, the Sony would be my go-to, thanks to its discretion and responsive performance. For anyone who needs reach and manual controls for wildlife or versatile zoom needs, I’d recommend the Canon.

In sum, both cameras serve as excellent gateways into superzoom photography, providing ample opportunities for creative exploration without breaking the bank.

Happy shooting!