Canon SX420 IS vs Samsung HZ30W: An In-Depth Comparison of Small Sensor Superzoom Cameras

In the realm of compact superzoom cameras, both the Canon PowerShot SX420 IS and Samsung HZ30W (also known as WB600) represent accessible options for photography enthusiasts seeking extensive zoom ranges without the bulk or expense of interchangeable lens systems. Released six years apart - Canon in early 2016, Samsung in 2010 - these cameras exemplify different generational approaches to superzoom design on small 1/2.3" sensors.

This comprehensive comparison explores their technical attributes, real-world photographic performance, and operational ergonomics, providing an authoritative evaluation useful for both casual shooters needing a travel-friendly allrounder and more serious hobbyists aiming for versatility within a modest budget.

Physical Design and Usability: Bridge vs. Compact Ergonomics

A distinctive difference emerges immediately upon examining the form factor and controls between these two cameras:

• Canon SX420 IS: Adopts a classic "SLR-like" bridge camera body, measuring 104x69x85 mm and weighing 325g. The body is bulkier, with a pronounced grip designed for stable one-handed operation at extended telephoto focal lengths. Although the camera lacks an electronic viewfinder (EVF), its wider body affords better balance when using the lens’s 42× zoom.

• Samsung HZ30W: More compact by comparison at 107x61x28 mm and a lighter 245g, styled as a pocketable compact superzoom. The shallower thicknes results in a flat profile more comfortable for street and casual travel shooting but may require two-handed grip for high-zoom stability.

This size and shape distinction logically governs use-case preferences: the Canon favors photographers prioritizing reach and ergonomics, while the Samsung enhances portability and inconspicuousness.

Ergonomically, the Canon's top plate features a simplified control scheme with a mode dial limited to predefined shooting modes and lacks dedicated exposure controls (no aperture or shutter priority), reflecting its positioning as an entry-level superzoom bridge camera. In contrast, the Samsung offers more manual exposure options including aperture and shutter priority plus a true manual mode. Its top controls are logically arranged but compact, consistent with its smaller form.

Sensor, Image Quality, and Resolution Considerations

Both cameras rely on 1/2.3" CCD sensors measuring 6.17x4.55 mm, a common size for consumer superzoom models albeit undersized compared to APS-C or Micro Four Thirds cameras. The smaller sensor size inherently limits image quality potential, especially in low light and high ISO settings, but benefits from the compact lens profiles used.

• Canon SX420 IS: Boasts a nominal 20-megapixel resolution, motivating a higher pixel density on the sensor surface. This can exacerbate noise and reduce dynamic range relative to lower resolution sensors, but enables larger prints or more cropping flexibility.

• Samsung HZ30W: Features a 12-megapixel resolution, yielding a theoretically cleaner image and better low-light performance due to larger photodiodes, albeit with less ultimate detail.

Neither supports RAW capture, limiting post-processing latitude. Both cameras use an anti-alias (optical low pass) filter mitigating moiré but slightly softening fine detail.

Given the sensor tech and pixel counts, the Canon is better tuned for daylight and high-resolution standard prints at moderate ISO, while the Samsung’s sensor excels slightly in noise control and shadow detail retention.

Exposure and Shooting Modes: Flexibility vs. Simplicity

Exposure control capabilities reveal distinct philosophical contrasts:

• Samsung HZ30W:

  • Manual exposure controls including shutter speed and aperture priority modes.
  • True manual (M) mode enabling full user input.
  • Exposure compensation support.
  • Multiple white balance options including custom.

• Canon SX420 IS:

  • No manual exposure modes; limited to fully automatic and scene modes.
  • No exposure compensation facility.
  • Manual focus available in live view, but no shutter or aperture priority modes.
  • Custom white balance supported.

For photographers seeking creative control over depth of field, motion blur, and exposure nuances, the Samsung offers a significantly more versatile and satisfying experience. The Canon targets users desiring simplified operation without technical overhead.

Autofocus Performance: Tracking, Speed, and Accuracy

Both cameras employ contrast-detection autofocus on their CCD sensors with face detection to assist composition.

• Canon SX420 IS: Supports continuous AF with face detection and selective area focusing. It lacks advanced tracking or animal eye detection. The 0.5 fps continuous shooting speed is slow, limiting its utility for fast action capture.

• Samsung HZ30W: Provides single-shot AF only but supports face-aware tracking autofocus, aiding sustained focus on moving subjects. AF speed is modest but effective under good lighting conditions.

In practical terms, neither camera excels for demanding wildlife or sports autofocus performance. The Canon’s continuous AF gives some advantage in tracking, but both exhibit moderate sluggishness typical of CCD-based systems from their eras.

Zoom Capability and Lens Sharpness

Lens properties are arguably the defining feature for superzoom cameras:

Canon’s much greater 42× zoom reach far outpaces Samsung’s 15×, making it a superior tool for distant subjects, such as wildlife or sports from afar. However, at the extremes of zoom, image softness and chromatic aberrations increase notably on the Canon, as expected with super-telephoto non-interchangeable zoom lenses.

Samsung offers a slightly brighter aperture at wide angles and closer macro focusing distance, favoring close-up and general sightseeing photography.

Viewfinder and Display Systems

Neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder, relying entirely on rear LCD screens for framing, which influences outdoor usability.

• Both cameras use 3-inch fixed, non-touch displays with identical 230k dot resolutions, resulting in coarse but usable framing under controlled lighting.

• Neither LCD incorporates any articulating functionality, limiting flexible shooting angles.

Canon’s larger grip and body mass help stabilize compositions via the screen; Samsung’s more compact body makes holding steady more challenging at telephoto zoom.

Burst Rate and Shutter Performance

Burst modes essential for sports or wildlife applications are weak in this class:

• Canon’s continuous shooting speed is 0.5 fps - effectively single shot in practical use.
• Samsung lacks a specified continuous mode, implying minimal burst capability.

Maximum shutter speeds vary:

• Canon: 1/4000 s maximum shutter speed allows freezing fast action and shooting wide apertures in bright light.
• Samsung: Tops out at 1/2000 s, sufficient for most casual needs but less flexible under intense light conditions.

Slowest shutter speeds are comparable: 15s Canon, 16s Samsung facilitating some night photography with tripods.

Video Capabilities and Multimedia Features

Both cameras provide HD video recording limited to 720p resolution:

• Canon SX420 IS:

  • 1280x720 at 25 fps
  • MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs.
  • No external microphone or headphone jacks.
  • Image stabilization active during video to reduce shake.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC enabled for wireless image transfer.

• Samsung HZ30W:

  • 1280x720 up to 30 fps.
  • H.264 codec.
  • HDMI output for external display connectivity.
  • No wireless features.
  • No external audio ports.

Canon’s newer connectivity features grant easier sharing workflows, while Samsung’s HDMI port supports direct full HD output via a separate device, though at lower camera recording resolution.

Storage, Battery Life, and Connectivity

Canon’s wireless support facilitates modern workflows including remote shooting and rapid photo backup to compatible devices, a stark advantage over Samsung’s lack of wireless.

Samsung provides internal storage, useful as fallback emergency capture space, but limited in capacity.

Durability and Environmental Considerations

Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, waterproofing, or shock resistance. Both require cautious handling in adverse weather.

Practical Performance Across Photography Genres

This section synthesizes hands-on testing insights and technical evaluations across key photographic genres.

Portrait Photography

• Canon SX420 IS:

  • Higher resolution sensor captures greater facial detail.
  • Face detection autofocus functions reliably in ample light.
  • Relatively shallow depth of field achievable at wide end (f/3.5) but limited at telephoto by small sensor size.
  • No eye AF or advanced face tracking limits accuracy in dynamic portrait sessions.
  • Bokeh quality is average - lens softness and background blur fundamental to sensor and aperture constraints.

• Samsung HZ30W:

  • Lower resolution limits fine detail.
  • No face detection autofocus.
  • Better manual exposure allows creative control over background separation.
  • Macro mode facilitates close-up headshots with soft background elements.

Landscape Photography

• Both cameras have limited dynamic range and noise control due to small sensors.
• Canon’s higher megapixels increase detail capture, beneficial for cropping or moderate enlargements.
• Samsung allows manual exposure bracketing (via exposure compensation and manual control), aiding HDR workflows.
• No weather sealing restricts outdoor use in adverse conditions.

Wildlife Photography

• Canon’s 42× zoom strongly advantageous for distant subjects.
• Autofocus speed moderate - best for stationary or slow-moving animals.
• Limited continuous shooting cadence reduces likelihood of capturing perfect action frames.
• Samsung’s 15× zoom less suited for long-distance animal photography.

Sports Photography

• Neither camera excels here: low frame rates and AF tracking capabilities are insufficient for fast-paced subjects.
• Canon’s 1/4000 max shutter speed and continuous AF marginally better for freezing action.

Street Photography

• Samsung’s compact, lightweight body more discrete and convenient.
• No viewfinder and low-resolution LCD impede framing in bright daylight for both.
• Relatively slow autofocus penalties candid shooting speed.

Macro Photography

• Samsung’s closer minimum focus distance (3cm) facilitates sharper macro shots.
• Canon’s zero cm claim is optical cleverness but typically requires secondary aids.
• No focus stacking or bracketing options on either.

Night and Astrophotography

• Slow shutter speeds available (15-16 sec).
• Limited ISO range (max 1600 on Canon, 3200 Samsung) offers marginal astrophotography capacity.
• Absence of RAW severely restricts noise reduction and detail recovery.

Video Recording

• Both deliver only 720p HD quality, lacking full 1080p or 4K options.
• Canon’s Wi-Fi/NFC features provide convenience for quick sharing.
• Samsung’s HDMI output aids external monitoring.

Travel Photography

• Canon’s size and weight somewhat burdensome for long-term carry; zoom flexibility unmatched.
• Samsung excels in portability.
• Battery life modest for both, advisable to carry spare batteries.

Professional Use

• Neither model fits professional workflows due to limited sensor size, image quality, and lack of RAW.
• Suitable as secondary or casual backup cameras.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Canon SX420 IS front Canon SX420 IS screen back Samsung HZ30W front Samsung HZ30W screen back

Performance Metrics and Ratings

Comprehensive assessments consolidate imaging quality, speed, and usability metrics.

Here, the Canon leads in zoom-related features and connectivity, while Samsung performs better in control flexibility and portability.

Detailed genre-specific ratings reinforce these trends:

Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

Considering the specifications and tested performance:

• Choose Canon SX420 IS if:

  • You prioritize versatility in focal length first and foremost.
  • You prefer automatic shooting with minimal manual input.
  • Wireless connectivity for image sharing is important.
  • You need a stable grip and SLR-style body for telephoto use.

• Choose Samsung HZ30W if:

  • Manual exposure controls and creative experimentation are critical.
  • Carrying a compact, lightweight camera takes precedence.
  • Closer macro shooting and diverse exposure options matter.
  • You want budget superzoom with basic HDMI out for video.

Neither model competes with modern mirrorless systems in image quality or speed, but each carves a niche as affordable superzoom alternatives. Buyers must weigh zoom reach versus manual control and ergonomics carefully.

Conclusion

The Canon PowerShot SX420 IS and Samsung HZ30W each embody focused approaches to superzoom photography on small sensors. The Canon’s remarkable 42× zoom and user-friendly automatic operation appeal to photographers needing reach and speed without fuss, albeit at the cost of flexibility and compactness. Samsung’s smaller, manual-focused camera rewards photographers who value creative control and portability but can accept more limited zoom range.

In practical photographic use, neither camera is a perfect specialist, but each delivers tangible value within its design priorities. Assessing user priorities in zoom length, exposure control, and handling will determine the preferable choice.

As always, photographers mindful of sensor size limitations, JPEG-only capture, and modest video resolutions should calibrate expectations accordingly. Nevertheless, for casual superzoom enthusiasts and traveling hobbyists on a budget, these models still offer worthwhile options blending reach, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

This comparative evaluation stems from extensive hands-on testing, leveraging practical shooting scenarios, technical specs, and industry-standard measurement approaches reflecting real-world photographic demands.