Canon PowerShot SX500 IS vs SX700 HS: A Superzoom Showdown from My Photographer’s Perspective

When sifting through the labyrinth of compact superzoom cameras, the Canon PowerShot SX500 IS and SX700 HS are two models that often surface - and for good reasons. Both flaunt mammoth zoom ranges, manageable footprints, and feature sets that appeal to casual snappers and discerning enthusiasts alike. But after spending exhaustive time with these two, shooting everything from the intimate to the extreme, I can tell you - they may look similar on paper, but they each carve out distinct personality quirks and advantages.

Grab your virtual backpack and let’s trek through everything from sensor tech to ergonomics, real-world autofocus drama to video chops, dissecting where these cameras shine and where their specs flirt with compromise. Whether your photography scene involves taming wildlife, chronicling street antics, or capturing the quiet majesty of starry skies, there’s a pick here for you. Let’s dive in.

Size and Feel: Ergonomics That Make or Break Your Shooting Mood

First impressions often kick-start the whole camera-love affair, and with pocket-friendly portables, comfort is king. Here’s the thing: neither of these beasts is a pocket-clencher, but their compactness is surprisingly manageable given their stupendous zoom ranges.

At a glance - and a handful - the SX700 HS feels lighter and sleeker. Weighing in at 269g versus the SX500 IS's 341g, it’s like comparing a sprightly middleweight boxer to a solid heavyweight. The SX700 HS flaunts dimensions of 113x66x35mm, clearly slimmer and more streamlined compared to the slightly chunkier 104x70x80mm frame of the SX500 IS. The SX500 IS’s deeper grip might appeal if you like your compact cameras to feel substantial and anchored, but after a couple hours shooting street scenes or landscapes handheld, the SX700 HS's trim profile bets on portability without compromising too much grip.

Handling wise, the SX700 HS wins some brownie points due to refined button placement and an overall smoother finish - something that subtly encourages exploring controls without fumbling. The SX500 IS, launched back in 2012, shows its age here not just in bulk but also ergonomics, feeling a tad dated next to its newer sibling.

Controls at Your Fingertips: A Top-down Look

Physical controls can make or break the flow of shooting - especially when chasing unpredictable subjects. Let’s zoom in on the control layout.

Both cameras share a typical compact superzoom layout - a mode dial, zoom rocker, shutter button, and playback controls - but the SX700 HS benefits from a more intuitive distribution. Its control wheel is smoother, selecting modes feels more tactile and precise, and the buttons avoid that cramped “finger-fumble” syndrome the SX500 IS sometimes provokes. For photographers accustomed to moving fast, these ergonomic refinements in the SX700 HS reduce distractions during critical moments, whether pursuing birds or snapping decisive street expressions.

One caveat is both models lack a viewfinder, adopting a purely LCD-dependent shooting style, which brings me to their screen tech…

Viewing Experience: The LCD Screens That Sell the Story

Whoever said “the camera is only as good as its screen” knew what they were talking about. In superzoom compacts - without viewfinders - the display often becomes your eye.

Here, the SX700 HS sports a brighter, higher resolution 3" PureColor II G TFT screen with 922k-dot resolution - a significant upgrade from the SX500 IS's more modest 3" TFT color LCD at 461k dots. What this boils down to in practice is noticeably sharper live-view previews and easier-to-digest menus, especially under bright sunlight. As someone who battles glare in outdoor scenarios, the SX700 HS screen clarity and better angle viewing made framing and reviewing shots more forgiving.

Neither screen supports touch input, which would have been a cherry on top, but their overall responsiveness in live view and playback remain reliable. Certainly, the higher pixel density on the SX700 HS edges it in the user-friendly department.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Now, let’s crack open the engine room - sensor size, type, and raw imaging capability - where the real technical magic unfolds.

Both cameras share the same sensor size: a 1/2.3" sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55mm, equating to a surface area of roughly 28.07 mm². Physically identical, but the sensor technologies diverge notably.

• The SX500 IS employs a CCD sensor - a tried-and-true chip renowned in its time for vivid colors but hampered by slower readout speeds and weaker low-light performance.
• The SX700 HS upgrades to a BSI (Backside Illuminated) CMOS sensor paired with Canon’s more advanced DIGIC 6 processor, reflective of technology leaps made between 2012 and 2014.

This transition isn’t trivial. The BSI-CMOS design inherently improves light gathering - especially at higher ISOs - yielding cleaner images with less noise, and DIGIC 6 enhances processing speeds, color fidelity, and dynamic range. The SX700 HS pushes max native ISO to 3200 (compared to 1600 on the SX500 IS), offering more flexibility for low-light and night shots.

Resolution-wise, both cameras settle on a 16-megapixel tally (4608 x 3456 pixels), an adequate number for printing up to 11x14 inches with sharpness intact. However, in practice, images from the SX700 HS display superior detail retention, especially in shadows and highlights, thanks to the more modern sensor and processing pipeline.

As someone who often tests cameras with standardized studio charts and real-world scenes, the SX700 HS's noise reduction strikes a commendable balance between detail preservation and noise suppression, whereas the SX500 IS can get a touch mushy at higher ISOs, revealing its older imaging pedigree.

Zoom and Lens Performance: 30x to Rule Them All?

Let’s gaze at their marquee specs: lens range and aperture.

Both cameras boast a 30x zoom - a jaw-dropping 24-720mm equivalent on the SX500 IS and a slightly shifted 25-750mm on the SX700 HS. The minor difference in starting focal length is negligible; effectively, both cover everything from wide-angle to super-telephoto.

• SX500 IS: F3.4-5.8 aperture range
• SX700 HS: Slightly faster wide-end at F3.2 but weakens to F6.9 at telephoto

What does that mean for you? At the wide end, the SX700 HS lets in more light - handy for landscapes and interiors - while the SX500 IS maintains a somewhat brighter aperture across the zoom range at the long end. However, due to better sensor sensitivity, the SX700 HS compensates for this narrower aperture, keeping images cleaner at zoomed-in focal lengths.

Macro enthusiasts won’t be disappointed; both get as close as 1cm focus distance, allowing you to explore near-microscopic details with fair sharpness.

In terms of optical quality, I found the SX700 HS produces crisper edges and less chromatic aberration, likely a result of enhanced lens coatings and improved internal optics, which Canon quietly tweaked between generations. The image stabilization systems (both optical) deliver solid handheld stability, but the newer DIGIC 6 processor in the SX700 HS enables more responsive and efficient correction, especially beyond moderate zooms.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Catching the Action

Superzooms can be slow to focus, especially at extreme telephoto lengths or in tricky light - frustrating if you’re chasing wildlife or snapping fast sports.

The autofocus systems here starkly differ.

• SX500 IS relies on a single contrast-detection AF point, with face detection capable but no continuous AF tracking. This means you have to reacquire focus after every shot, making wildlife or sports shooting a test of patience, not reflexes.
• SX700 HS ups the ante with 9 AF points and introduces continuous autofocus during burst shooting, facilitating tracking of moving subjects, although phase detection isn’t present (expected for compacts).

And the maximum continuous shooting rates? The SX500 IS limps at a sluggish 1 frame per second - fine for family portraits but borderline useless for sports. The SX700 HS, in contrast, hits 9 frames per second, giving you a fighting chance at freezing action and capturing sequences.

In real-world test runs photographing a local soccer match and birds in flight, the SX700 HS significantly improved keepers and confidence. The autofocus was more reliable and quicker to snap on faces or erratic subjects, whereas the SX500 IS’s single point AF felt like dial-up internet in a fiber world.

Image Stabilization: Steady Hands Welcome

Both cameras deploy optical image stabilization (OIS), a must-have at such extended focal lengths to mitigate the telephoto hand-shake effect. While Canon does not publicize the stabilization specifics low-level data for these models, in practice, I found the SX700 HS marginally steadier - especially at the 600-750mm range. The DIGIC 6 processor's faster response can analyze motion and adjust more adeptly, helping reduce blur in slow shutter conditions.

If you envision geeking out over distant bird behavior or moon craters handheld, the SX700 HS’s OIS coupled with better ISO latitude provides tangible benefits.

Low Light and Night Photography: When the Sun Goes Down

Previously, I’d say neither camera is a night owl, given their sensor sizes, but the SX700 HS makes a commendable attempt with support for native ISO 3200, double the SX500 IS’s ceiling. That enables shooting inside dimly lit venues or urban nights with significantly less noise and sharper detail.

Neither accepts raw output files, limiting post-processing flexibility - a dampener for photography purists. That said, the cleaner out-of-camera JPEGs on the SX700 HS reduce reliance on post-editing, a practical tradeoff for casual shooters.

Both offer shutter speeds down to 15 seconds, enough for basic long exposures or nightscapes, but neither supports bulb mode or dedicated astro-focused features. Still, if you’re dabbling in star trails or suburban moon shots, the SX700 HS will yield better star point rendition and lower noise at higher ISOs.

Video Capabilities: Modest but Functional

For casual videographers, neither is a cinema powerhouse, but the SX700 HS considerably closes the gap with Full HD 1080p recording up to 60 frames per second, enhancing smoothness and slow-motion potential. Meanwhile, the SX500 IS tops out at 720p at 25fps.

Both use H.264 compression, but note neither sports microphone or headphone jacks - limiting sound quality or external audio controls. Stabilization works during video mode, which aids handheld shots, although you might still want a tripod for static scenes.

If video is a must-have but you accept modest specs, the SX700 HS clearly delivers more value. Otherwise, consider dedicated hybrids or mirrorless offerings.

Connectivity and Storage: Everyday Convenience

In this smartphone-dominated era, wireless options matter for quick sharing and remote control.

• The SX700 HS impresses with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, letting you pair with your phone for instant image transfers and remote shooting - nice to have when scrambling on hikes or city wanderings.
• The SX500 IS only offers compatibility via Eye-Fi card support, a workaround that’s less convenient and now largely dated.

Both cameras rely on single SD card slots (SD, SDHC, SDXC compatible), USB 2.0 for data transfer, and unfortunately no HDMI in the SX500 IS. The SX700 HS adds micro HDMI output, helpful for quick TV playback.

Battery life favors the newer model, rated for approximately 250 shots per charge versus 195 in the SX500 IS, a non-trivial difference for all-day outings.

Weather Resistance and Durability: Toughness Under Pressure?

Neither camera touts weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproof features, a common tradeoff for compact superzooms in this price range. So if you’re planning rain-soaked hikes or challenging environments, consider protective cases or more rugged models.

Build quality on both is solid plastic, but the SX700 HS’s lighter weight and polished finish lend a more modern feel, while the SX500 IS is more utilitarian.

Photography Genre Breakdown: Who’s Best for What?

Let’s distill the strengths and limitations into practical user recommendations across popular categories.

Portraits

• SX700 HS: Better face-detection AF, wider ISO range, and smoother bokeh (thanks to lens improvements and sensor). Skin tones render more naturally with DIGIC 6, and improved continuous AF helps with fleeting expressions.
• SX500 IS: Can get the job done with stable colors but slower AF and lower max ISO limit performance in variable lighting.

Landscapes

• Both cameras cover wide-angle needs from 24/25 mm equivalents. The SX700 HS’s better dynamic range and noise control facilitate richer shadow details and crisper textures, useful for nature scenes. The SX500 IS’s brighter aperture at wide end helps daylight capture but loses out on image processing finesse.

Wildlife

• SX700 HS: Clear winner with faster AF, continuous tracking, and quicker burst rates - key for capturing wildlife behavior.
• SX500 IS: Limited by slow AF and single fps shooting - better suited for static subjects.

Sports

• The SX700 HS’s 9fps and continuous AF aid freeze-frame action; 1fps on the SX500 IS just won’t cut it for athletes or street performers.

Street Photography

• Portability of the SX700 HS, paired with quick AF and high ISO, make it a nimble tool. The SX500 IS is bulkier and slower, less accommodating for spontaneous moments.

Macro

• Both cameras reach 1cm focusing distance, but SX700 HS provides sharper details thanks to sensor and processing improvements.

Night/Astro

• SX700 HS’s superior ISO ceiling and cleaner images help low-light shooting; long exposure support is equivalent.

Video

• SX700 HS’s 1080p60fps video superiority and stabilization outpace the SX500 IS’s modest 720p25fps.

Travel

• SX700 HS’s smaller size, lighter weight, enhanced battery life, and wireless connectivity make it the more versatile travel companion.

Professional Work

• Neither camera supports RAW files or advanced customization expected for professional workflows. They’re best as high-zoom casual shooters or secondary cameras.

Final Verdict: Which Superzoom Packs the Biggest Punch for You?

Stepping back, the Canon PowerShot SX700 HS is a clear evolution over the SX500 IS in almost every parameter - sensor tech, autofocus, continuous shooting, video specs, and user-friendly features. For photographers who prioritize performance, portability, modern conveniences like Wi-Fi/NFC, and sharper image quality, the SX700 HS is the camera to take home - even at a modest price premium.

Yet, the SX500 IS isn’t without merit. Its bulkier build and simpler controls make it perhaps more approachable for absolute beginners or those on tight budgets who want a straightforward superzoom without fuss. It’s still capable of everyday shooting and can surprise with respectable shots if you work within its limits.

Wrapping Up: My Experience Behind the Lens

Having worked through thousands of camera comparisons, I often find the devil shines brightest in the details and day-to-day user flow. The SX700 HS’s refinements matter - they add up to more decisive autofocus in crucial moments, crisper images when pushing ISO, and a lighter setup that invites more shooting.

In contrast, the SX500 IS embodies an earlier era’s compromises - a camera that feels more like a gentle introduction to superzoom photography rather than a stamina runner.

If your next camera will be your constant companion - whether for nature hikes, family portraits, urban adventures, or catching fleeting moments of wildlife - the SX700 HS deserves your serious consideration.

Canon SX500 IS front Canon SX500 IS screen back Canon SX700 HS screen back

Want to preview image samples? The gallery above showcases side-by-side crops that reflect everything you’d expect - sharper detail and cleaner shadows from the SX700 HS, whereas the SX500 IS holds decent ground at base ISO.

Whether you lean towards the tried-and-true earlier model or the newer all-arounder, keep in mind that superzoom compacts always carry inherent limitations: small sensors, moderate apertures, and plastic build. But for a camera that balances portability, immense focal reach, and value, either of these Canon PowerShots can be an appealing piece of kit - just choose the one that fits your shooting ambitions and budget best.

Technical Appendix: Why Sensor and Processor Updates Matter

In case you’re curious (and I know many of you are), the jump from DIGIC 4 paired with a CCD sensor (SX500 IS) to DIGIC 6 with BSI-CMOS (SX700 HS) is not just corporate jargon. DIGIC 4 processors, prominent pre-2013, prioritized basic image tasks but lacked speed and power efficiency. DIGIC 6’s arrival brought faster RAW processing (even though neither of these cameras supports RAW), improved image pipeline noise handling, and better video encoding. BSI-CMOS sensors optimize pixel arrangement to capture light more effectively, as opposed to older front-illuminated CCDs.

This technical evolution fundamentally translates into sharper photos with less noise at higher ISO, faster autofocus due to quicker sensor readouts, and smoother video.

I hope this detailed exploration helps you get the right Canon superzoom in your hands. Feel free to reach out with questions - after all, choosing a camera is as much about the joy of discovery as any spec sheet! Happy shooting!