Canon SX60 HS vs Casio EX-Z800: A Deep Dive Into Two Very Different Cameras

In the vast ocean of digital cameras, it’s fascinating how two machines that seem to share a ‘point-and-shoot’ vibe can actually target completely different audiences and photographic ambitions. Today, I’m diving headfirst into comparing the Canon PowerShot SX60 HS and the Casio Exilim EX-Z800. While one packs an eye-popping zoom and a comprehensive feature set, the other champions portability with an ultra-compact design. Buckle up for a detailed tour - complete with hands-on impressions, technical decryptions, and real-world performance tests - that will help you figure out which camera earns a spot in your bag (or shelf).

Comparing the physical size and ergonomics between the Canon SX60 HS (left) and the Casio EX-Z800 (right)

Setting the Stage: Who Are These Two Cameras?

Canon SX60 HS is a bridge camera, launched in late 2014, designed for the enthusiast who desires DSLR-style control and an extraordinary zoom range, without the hassle or expense of interchangeable lenses. Sporting a 65x zoom (21-1365mm equivalent), it screams versatility.

In contrast, the Casio EX-Z800 hails from 2010, catering to the casual user keen on ultra-compactness and quick snaps. It’s a lightweight, pocket-friendly little chap with a 4x zoom (27-108mm equivalent), simpler controls, and arguably a more basic feature lineup.

They serve different priorities - Canon’s all about range and control, Casio’s about convenience and ease. Let’s peel back the layers to see how they perform where it counts.

Design and Ergonomics: Form Meets Function

First impressions matter. And when I held both cameras in my hands, the difference was stark.

The SX60 HS has a heftier, SLR-like body, weighing in at 650 grams, with dimensions offering a substantial grip. Its sculpted handhold, thoughtfully placed buttons, and a fully articulated 3” LCD with 922k-dot resolution screamed serious photography - not just casual shooting. The viewfinder? An electronic unit with 922k-dot resolution and 100% coverage, making it easy to compose in bright conditions.

Flip over to the EX-Z800, and you get an incredibly compact 124g ultracompact device, which slips easily into a pocket. The fixed, non-articulating 2.7” screen has a modest 230k dots, adequate for simple framing but not for detailed image review. There’s no viewfinder, which - while understandable given the size - can make precise composition outdoors a challenge.

Ergonomically, the SX60 HS lets you adopt a comfortable shooting posture, thanks to its protruding grip and robust handhold. The Casio feels minimalist - easy to operate one-handed but lacking physical controls (almost everything is menu-driven), which may frustrate those wanting direct exposure adjustments or quick access to settings.

Top view design and control layout comparison highlights the Canon’s richness in buttons and dials vs Casio’s minimalist approach

Sensor Powerplay: Image Quality Basics

Both cameras deploy a 1/2.3” sensor - a small sensor size common in compact and bridge cameras. The underlying sensor tech differs: the Canon opts for a BSI-CMOS sensor paired with the DIGIC 6 processor offering a 16MP resolution, raw file support, and solid image processing capabilities. Casio uses a CCD sensor with 14MP resolution, a technology that was common in compact cameras but tends to lag behind CMOS in noise performance and dynamic range.

Let’s talk data because numbers don’t lie:

• Canon SX60 HS: DXO Mark scores include an overall rating of 39, color depth of 19.2 bits, dynamic range ~10.1 EV, and low light ISO performance around 127 (measured).
• Casio EX-Z800: Not officially tested by DXO, but CCD sensors and older processors like its Exilim Engine 5.0 mean lower dynamic range, earlier noise degradation, and weaker high ISO usability.

The low-light ISO limits alone (6400 max ISO for Canon, 3200 for Casio) tell a story: Canon’s sensor and processor combo will outperform in dim lighting, offering cleaner files and more post-processing latitude.

While small sensors have inherent limitations in image quality compared to APS-C or full-frame cameras - especially in noise and depth of field control - the Canon’s newer BSI-CMOS sensor and processor make a tangible difference for when image quality matters.

Sensor size and technology comparison reveal the Canon’s advanced CMOS sensor versus Casio’s older CCD

Autofocus and Speed: Locking Focus in the Real World

Focus systems can make or break a shooting experience. The Canon features 9 contrast-detection AF points, with face detection and tracking capabilities for continuous AF modes. It provides manual focus as well, catering to enthusiasts who want precise control.

The Casio EX-Z800, by contrast, has a single AF point with contrast detection and no continuous tracking. Face detection is absent, meaning focus acquisition is slower and less reliable in complex scenes.

In my practical tests:

• Canon SX60 HS achieved speedy focus in good to moderate lighting - even with challenging subjects. It was particularly effective on faces, thanks to face detection.
• Casio EX-Z800 struggled with quickly locking focus, especially in low light and low-contrast situations. Manual focus was possible but clunky due to small size and limited physical controls.

Continuous shooting rates? Canon manages a respectable 6.4 frames per second, which is decent for its class. Casio does not publish continuous burst numbers, suggesting it’s not designed for fast action capture.

For wildlife or sports photography - where fast, reliable AF and quick frame rates are paramount - the Canon’s autofocus system has a clear advantage. The Casio feels more suited for relaxed snapshots.

Shooting Experience: Controls and User Interface

The Canon’s extensive control layout includes dedicated buttons for exposure compensation, manual modes, shutter/aperture priority, and custom white balance. Menus are logical and responsive, aided by a joystick for AF point selection. For anyone serious about photography, these controls not only satisfy but inspire creative shooting.

Casio’s interface is stripped down. No manual shutter/aperture control, no exposure compensation. White balance customization is present, but overall, you get fewer options. The EX-Z800 is designed to do the basics - point, shoot, and let the camera decide.

For beginners or casual photography, that could be a blessing. For hobbyists or professionals wanting control, it’s too limiting.

Back screen and interface comparison: Canon’s large articulated screen vs Casio’s small fixed LCD

Lens and Zoom: The Power of Reach vs Practical Portability

Canon’s 21-1365mm equivalent 65x zoom lens is a monster. With a max aperture of F3.4-6.5, it pulls off everything from wide-angle landscapes to distant wildlife or sports, without swapping lenses. The optical image stabilization (OIS) here is optical and crucial when you’re cranking zoom to maximum - helping keep shots sharp in handheld conditions.

Casio’s zoom is modest: 27-108mm equivalent, 4x zoom, F3.2-5.9 aperture, sensor-shift image stabilization included. Great for everyday snapshots, but forget any serious telephoto ambitions.

The benefit of the Canon’s monster zoom comes at the expense of size and weight - you’re carrying a heavier camera and bulkier body. Casio thrives in pockets but can’t deliver on distant detail or background compression the Canon offers.

Image Stabilization: Keeping Shots Steady

Both cameras feature image stabilization but approaches differ:

• Canon’s optical image stabilization works at the lens level. This is generally more effective at longer focal lengths, like those extreme telephoto reaches of the SX60 HS.
• Casio uses sensor-shift stabilization, a fine solution for reducing minor shakes but less effective than Canon’s OIS at high zoom.

From personal experience, Canon’s OIS noticeably improves sharpness at extended zoom, whereas the Casio’s sensor-shift helps mostly in wide-to-normal focal lengths, effective for handheld snaps but limited beyond that.

Video Capabilities: Moving Pictures in Sharp Focus?

Video has become a vital component of modern cameras, so how do these two fare?

• Canon SX60 HS records full HD (1920x1080) at 60 and 30 frames per second in H.264, with options for external microphones (a plus for vloggers or interview work). Unfortunately, no headphone jack for audio monitoring and no 4K support given its age.

• Casio EX-Z800 tops out at 1280x720 at 20fps with Motion JPEG codec, which is somewhat outdated and prone to larger file sizes and lower quality. No external mic capability.

For those who want basic video with decent quality, the Canon is clearly superior. The ability to record in 1080p60 is a significant advantage for smoother videos. The Casio is best relegated to casual clips of family gatherings or vacations.

Battery Life and Storage

Canon provides the NB-10L rechargeable battery rated roughly for 340 shots per charge under realistic conditions. The SX60 HS’s screen, EVF, and zoom motor do consume power, but overall, it’s respectable for a bridge camera.

Casio, using the NP-120 battery with unspecified exact battery life, weighs much less but generally ultracompacts from this era could only muster between 150-200 shots per charge. Real-world usage often demands carrying extra batteries for day trips.

Both cameras use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, but Canon supports higher capacity cards and has standard USB 2.0 interfaces for transfer.

Connectivity and Features: Modern Expectations?

The Canon SX60 HS offers built-in WiFi and NFC for remote control and quick photo sharing, a considerable convenience. Casio EX-Z800, reflective of its 2010 release window, lacks wireless connectivity altogether.

If you regularly upload or back up photos on the go, Canon again shines.

Reliability and Build Quality

Neither camera is weather-sealed, shockproof, or ruggedized - standard fare for their categories. Build quality of the Canon feels more robust and durable, thanks to its bridge camera construction and heftier materials. Casio’s plastic body suits its pocketable mission but less so for rugged conditions.

Canon SX60 HS front Canon SX60 HS screen back Casio EX Z800 screen back

How Do They Perform Across Photography Genres?

Let’s cut to the chase with genre-specific insights, informed by actual shooting, sensor specs, and feature assessments:

Portrait Photography

• Canon SX60 HS: The 16MP sensor and good image processing render skin tones naturally, plus symbolic face detection and tracking enhances focus accuracy. Bokeh quality suffers from small sensor limitations but long zoom focal lengths help isolate subjects reasonably.

• Casio EX-Z800: Limited to 14MP CCD, no face detection, no manual aperture control - meaning bumping out backgrounds for creamy blur is near impossible. Skin tones are decent in good light but struggle in mixed or dim environments.

Winner: Canon, hands down.

Landscape Photography

• Canon SX60 HS: Decent dynamic range (~10 EV) and resolution for prints up to A3 size, plus articulated screen aids composing tricky angles. The zoom’s wide end captures expansive vistas, though weather sealing is absent, so be cautious outdoors.

• Casio EX-Z800: Lower resolution and CCD dynamic range hold back fine detail and shadow recovery, fixed screen means framing limitations.

Winner: Canon, though both cameras have limitations compared to dedicated landscape shooters.

Wildlife Photography

• Canon SX60 HS: Ridiculously useful 65x zoom lets you get close from afar, and AF tracking helps with moving animals. Burst mode at 6.4 fps captures movement reasonably well.

• Casio EX-Z800: 4x zoom and sluggish autofocus make it impractical for wildlife.

*Winner: Canon, for obvious reasons.

Sports Photography

• Canon SX60 HS: Decent continuous shooting and autofocus tracking for casual sports photography; slower than DSLRs or mirrorless but capable for less demanding action.

• Casio EX-Z800: Not designed for sports; no continuous AF or burst shooting.

Winner: Canon.

Street Photography

• Canon SX60 HS: Heavy and loud lens zoom motor make stealth shooting tricky. Articulated screen enhances low-angle shots.

• Casio EX-Z800: Small, quiet, and pocketable - perfect for quick street snaps, especially if discretion is a priority.

Winner: Casio, for sheer portability.

Macro Photography

• Canon SX60 HS: Can focus starting at 0cm (super close!), with manual focus options aiding precision, plus image stabilization keeps images sharp at close range.

• Casio EX-Z800: Macro mode is limited, with less focusing flexibility.

Winner: Canon.

Night / Astro Photography

• Canon SX60 HS: Higher max ISO and raw support provide post-processing latitude, though small sensor limits noise control. Minimum shutter speed down to 15 seconds helps astrophotography.

• Casio EX-Z800: Max shutter speed 4 seconds, limited ISO, no raw support - less suitable for challenging night conditions.

Winner: Canon.

Video Capabilities

• Canon’s 1080p60 beats Casio’s 720p20 by a mile, especially with microphone input options.

Winner: Canon.

Travel Photography

• Canon SX60 HS: Versatile, all-in-one zoom, solid build, WiFi connectivity, but size and weight may be a burden for minimalists.

• Casio EX-Z800: Perfect pocketable compact companion, lightweight, and easy to deploy quickly.

Winner: It depends - travelers valuing lightness take Casio; those wanting all-in-one power and zoom go Canon.

Professional Work

• Canon SX60 HS: Raw support, advanced controls, connectivity, and lens versatility make it suitable for demanding amateurs or backup cameras. Not a pro-level tool but can complement.

• Casio EX-Z800: Too limited in quality and formats for professional use.

Winner: Canon.

Bottom Line: Who Should Buy Which?

If I had to summarize this cinematic matchup with my own testing couch insights:

• Choose the Canon SX60 HS if:

  • You want serious zoom reach and flexible focal lengths
  • Control over exposure and focus is important
  • Video capability at 1080p/60fps matters
  • You shoot diverse genres - wildlife, landscapes, portraits, and even casual sports
  • You can handle a heavier camera and budget about $550 new or less used
  • Connectivity and raw image support are priorities

• Choose the Casio EX-Z800 if:

  • You want a no-fuss, pocket-friendly snapper for everyday carry
  • Minimal photography control is acceptable for you
  • Budget is tight (~$150 ballpark)
  • You prioritize portability over image quality or advanced features
  • Casual family or travel photos in good light are your norm

In essence, Canon SX60 HS shines as the powerhouse bridge camera that ambitiously bridges the gap between compact convenience and DSLR versatility (though it does so with size and weight penalties). The Casio EX-Z800 embraces its role as a lightweight, entry-level point-and-shoot but feels outdated and limited by today’s standards, particularly if image quality and creative control matter.

Final Thoughts: Personal Reflections on These Cameras

Having personally shot thousands of cameras, the SX60 HS strikes me as a camera that rewards patience and interest in zoom photography. It's akin to having a Swiss Army knife, great for exploration and experimentation, albeit with the caveat that it’s neither as fast nor as high-performing as modern mirrorless systems.

The Casio EX-Z800, meanwhile, feels like a time capsule from the early 2010s - a reminder of a period when smaller sensor compacts ruled casual photography before phones aggressively stepped in. Its simplicity is charming if you want a grab-and-go without overthinking.

Whether your photography journey is one of serious exploration or simple snapshot memories, understanding what you truly want - and how these cameras meet those needs - is your guiding light.

Happy shooting - and may your next camera be the perfect partner on your photographic adventures!