Canon SX510 HS vs. SX740 HS: Which Compact Superzoom Wins for You?

When you're on the hunt for a compact superzoom camera, there’s a sweet spot between pocket-friendly portability and versatile reach - and Canon’s PowerShot SX line has long catered to just that crowd. Today, I’m diving into a detailed hands-on comparison between two budget-oriented Canon models that sit five years apart but compete for similar shooters: the Canon PowerShot SX510 HS from 2013 and the newer Canon PowerShot SX740 HS from 2018.

Both cameras offer long zoom lenses and user-friendly interfaces, but their differences matter a lot depending on how, where, and what you like to shoot. I've spent many hours putting both through their paces across portrait, landscape, wildlife, and even video work to see how they stack up in practical terms. If you’re weighing these for your next upgrade (or first step up from a smartphone), this side-by-side break down will help you zero in on the best fit for your style and budget.

Let’s tackle every angle - technical specs, shooting experiences, and real-world value - so you get a clear picture.

At a Glance: Physical Feel, Design, and Handling

Starting with how these cameras feel in your hands - crucial for those long shooting days or on-the-go grabs.

The SX510 HS is a chunky retro-style compact at 104x70x80mm and a weighty 349g. I noticed it has decent heft that helps in stabilization, but the "blocky" form factor makes it a bit fiddly for small hands or when shooting street with just one hand.

The refreshed SX740 HS slims things down noticeably to 110x64x40mm and a lighter 299g. Its sleeker, more rounded profile feels modern and easier to slip into a jacket pocket during travel. Sporting a tilting 3-inch LCD screen (more on that later), it suits vloggers and selfie fans better.

Scrolling through controls:

You don’t get viewfinders on either, but the SX740 HS has a more refined layout with responsive buttons and clubs for your thumbs - making manual exposure modes and burst shooting far more accessible. The SX510’s buttons felt older-school with tiny dials that could frustrate quick changes under pressure.

Ergonomically, hands down, the newer SX740 wins for intuitive handling - a key point if you want to nail shots in fast-paced scenarios like street or travel.

Sensor and Image Quality: Pixel Peeping Meets Practical Output

Both cameras pack a 1/2.3-inch sensor, but the SX740 HS boasts a 21-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor backed by Canon’s DIGIC 8 processor, compared to the SX510 HS’s 12-megapixel CMOS with the older DIGIC 4 engine. The newer backside-illuminated (BSI) tech in the SX740 gives it a leg up in light-gathering efficiency, especially in dim environments.

In my tests, this translates to noticeably sharper images with less noise at higher ISO settings. The SX510 HS is serviceable in good light but struggles in shadows and low-light, producing softer, noisier shots even at ISO 800.

The native ISO range tops out at 3200 on both, but the SX740’s performance at ISO 1600 and 3200 felt more trusting, with less smear and cleaner skin tones - important if you shoot events or indoor portraits.

I ran side-by-side landscape images and the SX740 preserved more fine detail and dynamic range, which means better color gradation in skies and foliage. That said, neither camera delivers the kind of RAW files pros crave - neither supports RAW shooting, so you’re locked into JPEG with baked-in image processing.

For sharpness and bokeh:

• The SX510 HS’s f/3.4-5.8 lens is decent but falls off in telephoto sharpness after 500mm equivalent.
• The SX740 HS opens slightly wider at f/3.3 but narrows to f/6.9 at max 960mm zoom, so expect dimmer framing at far reaches.

Bottom line: If image quality and detail preservation matter more than raw file flex, the SX740 HS's sensor and processor upgrades modernize your handheld pictures, especially in mixed lighting.

Screen and Interface: The Touch and See Experience

A big practical difference is the rear screen. The SX510 HS offers a fixed, relatively low resolution 3-inch TFT LCD (461k dots), which feels dark and rigid for composition or reviewing images. It’s non-touch and doesn’t articulate, making vlogging or awkward angles tougher.

The SX740 HS, however, sports a higher-res tilting 3-inch LCD (922k dots) that flips up 180 degrees - nice for selfies or those creative overhead shots. Although not a touchscreen, this more flexible interface significantly enhances usability in bright daylight and varied shooting angles.

The interface software has also improved on the SX740, with snappier menu navigation and smarter auto modes, including a clearer exposure compensation dial and intuitive guides - good for beginners pressed for time. The SX510’s UI felt dated and occasionally clunky when switching between modes.

If you prioritize quick framing flexibility or video vlogging alongside photography, the newer, tilting screen alone might justify the price hike.

Autofocus and Speed: Tracking the Action

Neither model boasts phase-detection autofocus, relying on contrast detection AF - not surprising for compact superzooms but still a critical factor.

The SX510 HS offers single-point autofocus with limited continuous capabilities. Its max 4fps burst shooting speed is slow by today’s standards and AF sluggishness surfaces in challenging low light or fast-moving subjects. For wildlife or sports photography, this is a tough ask.

The SX740 HS improves notably, delivering continuous autofocus during bursts at up to 10fps - more than twice as fast. Face detection works reliably on both, but the SX740’s AF tracking is smoother in practice, thanks to the newer processor and improved algorithms.

For handheld wildlife or casual sports snapshots, the SX740 HS is your best bet - it gets you closer to capturing decisive moments without frustrating lag. On the other hand, the SX510 HS is better suited for static or posed subjects where rapid AF isn’t as critical.

Zoom Range and Lens Quality: Reach and Versatility

Both cameras have fixed superzoom lenses but differ in range and aperture width:

The longer 960mm zoom on the SX740 is a significant advantage for wildlife or sports shooters who don’t want to lug a massive telephoto lens. Of course, narrow maximum apertures at full zoom mean you’ll need good light or a steady grip to avoid softness and noise.

Interestingly, the SX740 HS also improves macro capability, focusing down to 1cm versus the SX510’s lack of true macro. This opens up more creative possibilities for close-ups - useful for nature and tabletop photographers.

While image quality at full zoom can occasionally soften on both, the SX740 HS maintains a more usable reach overall. If it’s extreme telephoto you need in a compact shell, the 40x zoom wins out without adding bulk.

Video Features: From HD to 4K Ready

Video capabilities are one area where the SX740 HS clearly eclipses its predecessor:

The SX510 HS tops out at 1080p Full HD video, which is fine for casual clips but limited for modern content creators wanting 4K clarity. The SX740 HS adds 4K UHD recording at 30fps, with reasonable autofocus and in-camera digital image stabilization.

While neither has microphone or headphone jacks (a bummer for serious vloggers), the 4K video option makes the SX740 HS a much more flexible tool if you're shooting travel videos, family events, or short films.

Bonus: the SX740 HS supports built-in Wi-Fi with Bluetooth and NFC for fast image transfer and remote control, while the SX510 HS lacks these wireless technologies entirely.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity

Both cameras use proprietary battery packs, but:

• SX510 HS battery life rates at around 250 shots (CIPA standard)
• SX740 HS improves slightly with about 265 shots per charge

In practice, don’t expect all-day shooting with either - carry a spare if your day’s loaded with photos or videos.

Both accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards (UHS-I compatible on SX740). Notably, the SX740’s USB 2.0 port allows data transfer but no USB charging like some newer models - a minor inconvenience.

Wireless connectivity differences also factor in:
The SX740’s Bluetooth and NFC integration simplify pairing with smartphones, enabling faster sharing and remote shooting via Canon’s Camera Connect app, a huge usability enhancement over the SX510’s primitive connectivity.

Weather Sealing and Durability: Not Rugged, but Pocket-Sized

Neither model offers weather sealing or ruggedness features like dustproof or freezeproof capabilities. Both are compact cameras meant primarily for fair-weather and casual use.

While the SX510 HS’s boxier build might feel a bit more durable (or at least less delicate on your gear shelf), the newer SX740 HS’s streamlined design prioritizes portability over sheer robustness.

If you shoot in rougher conditions regularly, neither is ideal - you’d start looking at an entry-level ruggedized model or mirrorless compact with weatherproof features.

Comparing Their Strengths Across Photography Genres

I tested both in typical genres Canon targets with these shooters. Let’s break down the practical use cases with real-world insights.

Canon SX510 HS front Canon SX510 HS screen back Canon SX740 HS front Canon SX740 HS screen back

Portrait Photography

• SX740 HS takes clearer, more detailed portraits with better skin tone fidelity due to its higher-res sensor and improved AF face detection.
• SX510 HS struggles in lower light scenes, and lacks the continuous AF to keep catchable eye-level sharpness during candid moments.
• Both lack RAW files and wide aperture lenses, so background blur (bokeh) isn’t very creamy but adequate for casual use.

Landscape Photography

• The SX740 HS captures sharper details and better dynamic range, producing more punch in skies and foliage.
• Neither offer weather sealing for outdoor adventures, but the newer model's sensor and lens improvements help in early mornings or cloudy days.
• The SX510 HS works but produces softer images and can suffer flare on bright scenes.

Wildlife and Sports

• SX740 HS stands out here thanks to a faster burst rate (10fps) and longer reach (40x zoom), plus improved AF tracking.
• The SX510 HS’s 4fps and shorter zoom limit framing options and rapid subject capture.
• Neither camera is truly pro-grade for high-speed sports, but the SX740 HS can handle occasional action shots better.

Street Photography

• The SX740 HS's lighter weight and smaller profile pair nicely with tilting screen, making it less conspicuous and versatile for street shooting.
• The SX510 HS is chunkier and demands two hands, which might draw unwanted attention.
• Both lack viewfinders, so relying on the screen can be tricky in bright sunlight.

Macro Photography

• The SX740 HS wins with a close focusing distance of 1cm, allowing creative flower, insect, and product shots.
• The SX510 HS has no dedicated macro mode and focuses only close to zero centimeters (a misnomer on paper), reducing true macro usability.

Night and Astro Photography

• Compact superzooms are not the best for astro, but the SX740’s BSI sensor and better noise control make it usable for casual nighttime cityscapes.
• The SX510 HS struggles beyond ISO 800, making long exposures noisy and less detailed.
• Neither offers bulb mode or external intervalometers to support serious night sky shooters.

Video

• Significant leap with the SX740 HS’s 4K UHD video recording - a real selling point for travel and content creators.
• The SX510 HS maxes out at Full HD with limited frame rates, fine for home videos.
• Neither offers mic inputs or headphone monitoring, restricting pro video work.

Travel Photography

• Portability and zoom range make the SX740 HS the clear winner for travel around the world or day trips - light, versatile, and easy to share photos with wireless options.
• The SX510 HS is heavier and less flexible, though still compact enough for casual use.

Professional Use

• Neither camera is suitable as a primary professional tool due to no RAW, limited sensor size, and restricted manual controls.
• They can serve as affordable "walkaround" or backup cameras, with the SX740 HS offering generally improved performance.

Performance Scorecards for Quick Reference

Let’s summarize with relative ratings I assigned after dozens of shoots, factoring sensor tech, AF, lens, ergonomics, and features:

And digging deeper into genre-specific suitability:

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Canon PowerShot SX510 HS

Pros

• Affordable price point for budget cheapskates
• Decent zoom range for casual users
• Good beginner-friendly manual controls

Cons

• Older sensor with lower resolution
• Slow autofocus and burst shooting
• Fixed, low-res screen without articulation
• No wireless connectivity or 4K video
• Heavier and bulkier body design

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS

Pros

• High-res 21MP BSI sensor with better image quality
• 40x zoom lens with improved telephoto reach
• Fast 10fps continuous AF and burst shooting
• Tilting 3" screen for versatile framing
• 4K UHD video and wireless connectivity
• Lighter and more ergonomic design

Cons

• Narrow aperture at max zoom limits low-light telephoto shots
• No RAW shooting, limiting post-processing flexibility
• No mic input or advanced video features
• Battery life is average for its class

My Recommendations: Which One Should You Buy?

If you’re reading this, you probably want a versatile, compact camera and wonder if the SX510 HS is still worth it against the newer SX740 HS.

I personally wouldn’t recommend the SX510 HS unless you find it at a steep discount or are on a very tight budget, as you surrender a lot in speed, image quality, and convenience. The SX740 HS's improvements - especially sensor performance, zoom reach, autofocus, and 4K video - aren’t just incremental upgrades but enable shooting that feels genuinely fresh and capable on many fronts.

• Go with the SX740 HS if you want:

  • The best compact superzoom experience without stepping into mirrorless or DSLR territory
  • 4K video for travel or creative content
  • Faster autofocus speeds for casual wildlife or sports
  • Tilting LCD screen and better wireless options

• Consider the SX510 HS if you:

  • Are on a shoestring budget and want a basic camera with respectable zoom and manual controls
  • Rarely shoot fast action or in low light
  • Just want a simple travel companion for snapshots without fuss

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Ideal Compact Zoom Companion

Both Canon SX510 HS and SX740 HS shine in their eras as compact superzooms, but five years and technological leaps make the SX740 HS a more well-rounded, modern choice for today’s photography enthusiast.

If you're hunting for a lightweight, affordable superzoom that can do a bit of everything - portraiture, landscapes, a dash of wildlife, and vlogging - the SX740 HS is the better all-around performer. The investment in newer sensor tech, faster AF, bigger zoom, and 4K video translates into a camera you’ll likely keep using beyond a quick “just for now” buy.

However, budget constraints or ultra-basic needs can still make the SX510 HS relevant, acknowledging its limitations.

Just remember, both are compact superzooms - they won't replace a pro mirrorless rig, but they can complement your kit or simply satisfy when bulk and complexity aren't the goal. Knowing which one aligns with your needs will save you money and frustration down the road.

Happy shooting - and feel free to drop any questions if you’re stuck between these two clubs for your active thumb!

Disclosure: I tested these cameras extensively, using standard optical bench tests combined with real-world shooting in multiple lighting environments and genres. My analysis reflects direct hands-on experience over hundreds of test shots and video clips.