Canon PowerShot SX510 HS vs. SX620 HS: The Ultimate Small Sensor Superzoom Showdown

Choosing the right compact superzoom camera can be challenging given the myriad options and subtle feature differences. In this detailed comparison, we put two Canon favorites head-to-head: the Canon PowerShot SX510 HS (announced in 2013) and its later counterpart, the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS (released in 2016). Both are small sensor superzoom compacts aimed at enthusiasts and travelers wanting versatile zoom ranges in pocket-friendly bodies. But which one is right for you? We’ll explore their design, technology, and real-world performance across diverse photography disciplines to arm you with an expert, hands-on informed perspective.

Size, Shape, and Handling: How These Compact Cameras Feel in Your Hands

One of the first things you notice about a camera is how it feels and fits. Ergonomics play a big role, especially if you shoot for extended periods or on the go.

The SX510 HS is noticeably larger and heavier, weighing nearly twice as much as the SX620 HS. This size difference is due in part to the longer 30x zoom lens extending to 720mm versus the 25x 625mm on the newer model. The SX510 HS’s chunkier grip provides a more secure hold, which we appreciate for telephoto-heavy shooting such as wildlife or sports, where a steady hand counts.

In contrast, the SX620 HS’s compact and slim profile makes it exceptionally pocketable and ideal for urban or travel scenarios where portability is king. However, the reduced grip size might compromise comfort during long handheld sessions or when using longer zoom focal lengths.

For those valuing lightweight and travel-friendly design, the SX620 HS wins hands down. If you prefer a more substantial camera that feels stable during heavy zoom use, the SX510 HS is preferable.

Control Layout and User Interface: Which Feels More Intuitive?

Ease of control and interface responsiveness is key for capturing spontaneous moments.

Both cameras feature fixed 3-inch LCDs with no electronic viewfinder, relying heavily on the rear screen for composition. The SX610 HS offers a higher resolution display (922k dots) compared to the SX510 HS (461k dots), which means the image previews and menu texts are crisper in the newer camera.

Buttons and dials are simplified in both models, but the SX510 HS provides manual autofocus and exposure modes (shutter/aperture priority and manual) - a boon if you want greater creative control. The SX620 HS, by contrast, omits manual exposure options entirely, favoring straightforward full-auto and scene modes ideal for casual shooters.

Moreover, SX510 HS supports exposure compensation, manual white balance, and custom settings that let you fine-tune images. The SX620 HS drops these photographer-level controls in favor of ease-of-use features.

If you enjoy manual settings and want tactile control for learning or creative photography, the SX510 HS will better suit your style. For users seeking a quick point-and-shoot experience with less complexity, the SX620 HS is friendlier.

Sensor, Image Quality, and Performance: What Do These Cameras Deliver?

At the heart of any camera is its sensor and image processing engine. Both units use a 1/2.3" sensor, a small sensor size common in superzoom compacts.

Although both sensors share identical physical dimensions, the SX620 HS sports a more advanced BSI-CMOS sensor paired with DIGIC 4+ processing, allowing better light gathering efficiency and image detail. It also quadruples the pixel count to 20MP versus 12MP on the older SX510 HS.

Real-World Image Quality

• Dynamic Range & Noise: The SX620 HS shows modest improvements in dynamic range recovery and lower noise at higher ISOs compared to the SX510 HS, courtesy of the back-illuminated sensor design. However, both cameras exhibit the expected noise characteristics of small sensors shooting beyond ISO 800.

• Sharpness & Detail: The 20MP sensor yields finer detail capture, noticeably so on large prints or detailed crops. The SX510 HS’s 12MP sensor still produces acceptable results for sharing online or casual use but falls short on nuanced texture retention.

• Color Rendition: Both cameras deliver Canon’s signature warm, pleasing color palette. The SX510 HS’s DIGIC 4 processor results in slightly less vibrant output compared to the newer DIGIC 4+ in the SX620 HS.

Given the limitations of small sensors, neither camera rivals APS-C or full-frame models, but the SX620 HS stands out as the superior choice for image quality, especially in well-lit conditions.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Catching the Moment in Action

Autofocus (AF) performance is vital for genres like wildlife, sports, and street photography, where decisive timing counts.

The SX620 HS improves AF versatility with 9 focus points (vs. 1 on SX510 HS) and offers continuous autofocus in video and live view modes - features backed by enhanced processing power. This facilitates smoother focus transitions during tracking and moving subjects.

Our hands-on tests reveal:

• AF Speed: Both cameras show decent performance in daylight; the SX620 HS locks focus faster and more reliably in challenging lighting due to added AF points and refined algorithms.

• Tracking: The SX620 HS maintains better subject tracking for moving targets like children or pets, useful for casual wildlife and sports snapshots.

• Burst Rates: The 4 fps burst on SX510 HS slightly edges out the SX620 HS’s 2.5 fps, making the older model marginally better for fast-action sequences requiring continuous shooting.

For wildlife and sports enthusiasts wanting smoother autofocus and tracking, the SX620 HS is preferable despite a slower burst mode, while the SX510 HS’s quicker frame rate satisfies simpler needs.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: Reach Versus Versatility

Superzoom cameras’ raison d’être is versatility in focal length. Let's compare their lenses:

The SX510 HS boasts a longer 30x zoom and wider starting focal length of 24mm, lending it more reach - ideal for distant wildlife or sports action. The SX620 HS’s 25x zoom is still substantial and starts marginally narrower at 25mm, which remains versatile for landscape and street views.

While the SX510 HS has a brighter aperture at telephoto (f/5.8 vs. f/6.6), this difference is minor but can help in low light. The SX620 HS reaches a minimum focus distance of 1cm for macro, handy for close-up insect or flower shots, whereas the SX510 HS’s macro capabilities are more limited.

If your priority is maximum zoom reach for distant subjects, the SX510 HS wins. For more versatile close-up shooting and everyday shooting, the SX620 HS is the better all-rounder.

Screen and Viewfinding: Composing and Reviewing Shots

Both lack an optical or electronic viewfinder. Shooting relies completely on LCD screens.

The SX620 HS’s screen doubles the resolution of SX510 HS, providing brighter images with crisper focus confirmation, which helps in bright daylight conditions. However, neither support touch input or articulation, which limits usability for vloggers or creative multi-angle shooting.

For casual snapshots, you’ll find both adequate, but the SX620 HS’s sharper display edges ahead.

Video Functionality: HD Quality and Ease-of-Use

Both cameras capture 1080p Full HD video, but with useful distinctions:

The SX620 HS’s smoother 30 fps recording and continuous autofocus make video capture noticeably more user-friendly and less prone to focus hunting compared to 24 fps on the SX510 HS.

With no microphone ports or advanced video features, both are best for casual video rather than professional applications.

Battery Life and Connectivity: Staying Powered and Connected

The SX620 HS extends battery life moderately and adds NFC, simplifying pairing with compatible smart devices - helpful for instant sharing and remote control apps.

Durability and Weather Resistance: Taking Cameras Outdoors

Neither camera offers environmental sealing or rugged construction. Both should be treated with care outdoors, especially in harsh conditions.

Real-World Sample Images: What You Can Expect

Canon SX510 HS front Canon SX510 HS screen back Canon SX620 HS front Canon SX620 HS screen back

In our shooting tests, both cameras produce pleasing imagery for social media and casual prints. The SX620 HS’s higher resolution and refined sensor deliver richer details and punchier colors. The SX510 HS, despite being older, still provides respectable results, especially in bright lighting.

Overall Performance Evaluation

Summarizing our lab benchmarks and field observations, the SX620 HS scores higher in image quality, autofocus sophistication, and battery life. The SX510 HS stands out in zoom range and manual controls.

How They Compare Across Photography Genres

Recommendations: Which Camera Fits Your Needs?

Choose the Canon PowerShot SX510 HS if you:

• Prioritize maximum 30x zoom reach for distant wildlife or sports.
• Want manual exposure controls to explore photography techniques.
• Prefer a larger grip for stable shooting.
• Shoot in burst mode frequently (4 fps).

Choose the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS if you:

• Want higher resolution photos with more detail.
• Prefer a compact, lightweight camera for travel and street photography.
• Need better autofocus with more focus points and tracking.
• Desire improved battery life and easy wireless sharing via NFC.
• Want better video performance with continuous autofocus.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Form, Function, and Value

Both Canon's SX510 HS and SX620 HS compact superzooms offer compelling packages tailored to different user preferences and priorities. The SX510 HS is a great choice for those who crave longer zoom and manual controls within a compact body, whereas the SX620 HS aligns well with enthusiasts seeking improved image quality, better autofocus, and more modern connectivity in a lighter, sleeker design.

We encourage you to consider your shooting style, favorite genres, and priorities when deciding. Whether capturing the thrill of distant action, intimate macro details, or travel memories, both cameras represent solid, affordable options in the small sensor superzoom category.

If possible, get hands-on experience with each model to assess handling and image results personally. Pairing either with compatible SD cards and spare batteries will maximize your shooting sessions. And don't hesitate to explore Canon’s extensive accessory range to round out your photo kit.

Happy shooting, and may your creative journey be ever inspired!

Author’s note: Our evaluation is based on intensive real-world shooting, side-by-side lab testing across ISO ranges and focal lengths, and patient workflow integration trials, spanning various photographic disciplines to ensure this advice supports your passionate pursuit of photography.