Canon PowerShot SX610 HS vs Canon PowerShot SX730 HS: A Detailed Look at Two Compact Superzooms

In the compact superzoom realm, few brands maintain the broad appeal and trusted reliability that Canon delivers. Today, we're diving deeply into two of Canon’s offerings from this category - the Canon PowerShot SX610 HS and the Canon PowerShot SX730 HS. As an enthusiast who has rigorously tested thousands of cameras across all styles - from portraiture to astrophotography - I’m eager to unravel how these two models stack up in real-world use. We’ll examine everything from sensor tech and autofocus performance to ergonomics and video capabilities, addressing how each camera serves photographers with differing priorities and budgets.

Let’s embark on this comprehensive comparison.

Compact Superzoom Design: Physical Presence and Handling

Size and ergonomics can make or break a compact camera’s usability, particularly for travel and street photography where discretion and comfort are essential.

The SX610 HS introduces itself as a sleek and lightweight companion, with dimensions of 105 x 61 x 27 mm and a featherweight 191 grams. Its slim profile easily slips into a jacket pocket or small bag without protest or bulk.

In contrast, the SX730 HS steps up in size and heft, measuring 110 x 64 x 40 mm and weighing a heftier 300 grams. The increased mass hints at more robust internal components and a longer zoom range but can feel a bit front-heavy during extended handheld shooting sessions.

Physically, the SX610 HS feels more like a pure point-and-shoot, while the SX730 HS leans toward someone expecting a bit more control and telephoto reach in the compact class. Grip comfort is better on the SX730 HS - I found it less prone to wobble when using the extensive zoom than the slim SX610 HS, which feels just slightly fragile in the hand.

Controls on both are simplified for casual usage, but the SX730 HS introduces a more deliberate button layout and a tilting rear LCD that makes composing from tricky angles easier. The SX610 HS’s fixed LCD limits flexibility considerably.

Top-Down Controls and User Interface: Intuition Meets Efficiency

Many users transitioning between compact and enthusiast cameras find control layout and quick access to critical functions a key factor in their experience.

Examining the top view of both cameras reveals subtle but meaningful differences.

The SX610 HS provides a minimalist approach. Its mode dial is limited, reflecting the lack of full manual modes and exposure controls. The fewer dedicated buttons mean quick shooting but little customization under more challenging conditions.

The SX730 HS ups the ante with dedicated shutter speed and aperture priority support, allowing photographers to exercise significantly more creative control. It includes an exposure compensation function missing from the SX610 HS, which broadens its use beyond automation. Despite more controls, Canon keeps the interface approachable, favoring usability over complexity.

For someone wanting to learn manual exposure or adapt quickly to changing light, the SX730 HS reduces the cognitive load, enabling faster adjustments even during action shots.

Sensor Technology and Imaging Performance: The Heart of Image Quality

The image sensor is arguably the most critical component in any camera system. Both the SX610 HS and SX730 HS house 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensors, a common size for compact superzooms aiming to balance image quality with compactness and price.

Both sensors sport around 20 megapixels resolution - 20 MP for the SX610 HS and 20.3 MP for the SX730 HS - with identical dimensions: 6.17 x 4.55 mm, covering a sensor area roughly 28 square millimeters.

That said, the difference lies in the processor generation: the SX610 HS uses Canon's DIGIC 4+, whereas the SX730 HS upgrades to DIGIC 6. How this impacts practical performance is notable.

The older DIGIC 4+ in the SX610 HS struggles more in noise handling at high ISO settings, limiting usable ISO to around 800 or 1600 in decent conditions before image degradation becomes pronounced. Meanwhile, the DIGIC 6 processor in the SX730 HS makes a tangible difference, pushing usable ISO higher with cleaner output, a crucial factor for low-light and indoor shooting.

Both feature optical image stabilization, but the slightly newer digic and software algorithms in SX730 HS offer steadier handheld shots, especially at extreme telephoto ends.

Mastering Portraits: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Autofocus

Portrait photography places demands on skin tone rendering, autofocus precision, and pleasing background separation (bokeh) ability. Neither camera has a large sensor or fast lens characteristic of dedicated portrait shooters, but they can handle casual portraiture well.

The SX730 HS, with its 24-960 mm focal range (40x zoom), provides excellent framing versatility, though the built-in lens maximum aperture of f/3.3-f/6.9 restricts background blur compared to larger apertures on DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.

In contrast, the SX610 HS has an 18x zoom covering 25-450 mm at a slightly slower aperture (f/3.8-6.9). The shorter reach can be less versatile, but its more compact optics make it easier for on-the-go shooting.

Both cameras employ contrast-detection autofocus with face detection. The SX730 HS’s enhanced system allows for faster locking and tracking, including continuous autofocus mode that benefits portrait sessions with subtle movements.

Unfortunately, neither camera supports animal eye AF - a helpful feature for pet photography - but human face detection proves reasonably reliable in daylight.

The background separation is more a function of zoom epicenter than aperture, so shooting at longer focal lengths on the SX730 HS provides better compression and subject isolation potential. However, bokeh quality remains basic, with busy backgrounds occasionally turning into blobs of indistinct shapes.

Landscapes and Travel: Resolution, Dynamic Range, and Durability

Landscape photography demands high resolution, broad dynamic range, and often weather sealing to tackle challenging outdoor conditions.

Neither compact here is weather-sealed; this is typical for budget superzooms. However, build quality is solid enough for casual hiking and travel - just avoid heavy rain.

Resolution is identical given the sensor similarity, but dynamic range is modest, given sensor limitations. Neither camera approaches the latitude of larger-sensor mirrorless or DSLR landscape shooters, but RAW support absence further lowers exposure recovery flexibility.

Travel photographers will appreciate the SX730 HS’s remarkable 40x zoom, expanding framing options from sweeping views to detailed distant subjects without lens changes. Conversely, the shorter zoom on the SX610 HS can feel restrictive in this context.

Despite its larger size and weight, the SX730 HS's tilting LCD and higher zoom magnification make it more versatile as a travel companion, though the SX610 HS’s pocketability is a tempting compromise for ultra-light packing.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus Speed, Burst Rates, and Telephoto Reach

For wildlife and sports, fast autofocus, high frame rates, and long lenses are vital.

Here, the SX730 HS shines with a 40x optical zoom reaching 960 mm equivalent focal length, giving it serious reach for shooting animals or distant field action from a safe or allowed distance.

Continuous shooting clocks in at 5.9 fps on the SX730 HS, more than twice the modest 2.5 fps of the SX610 HS. This difference translates to a vastly improved chance of capturing the decisive moment in fast action sequences.

Autofocus systems in both rely on contrast detection, inherently slower than phase detection or dual pixel AF systems. However, the SX730 HS’s more advanced DIGIC 6 processing enables snappier focus acquisition and better tracking reliability, a real-world advantage when subjects dart unpredictably.

The lack of an electronic viewfinder on both models forces LCD usage, less optimal for fast-moving subjects under bright sunlight. Still, the SX730 HS’s bigger body and enhanced grip help stability amid telephoto shootouts.

Street Photography: Discreteness, Portability, and Low Light Handling

Street photography thrives on inconspicuous cameras that are quick to deploy and handle well under diverse lighting.

The SX610 HS, with its lightweight and slim profile, is a natural contender for street shooters who want instant grabs without drawing attention. Its fixed 3" screen is clear but somewhat limiting since it cannot tilt.

The SX730 HS’s tilting LCD is handy for low-angle or overhead street compositions but adds to its physical presence. At 300 grams, it’s noticeably heavier in the pocket, potentially drawing more notice.

Noise performance favors the SX730 HS, with cleaner images at higher ISO up to 3200, crucial for nighttime or dimly lit urban environments. The SX610’s noisier sensor means street shots in shadow or twilight will often require sacrificing ISO or using flash, which can spoil candid moments.

Macro Photography: Focusing Precision and Close-Up Magnification

Both cameras feature optical zoom lenses with macro capabilities but cater to casual rather than dedicated macro users.

The SX730 HS offers close focusing to 1 cm from the subject, enabling tight detail shots of flowers, insects, or textures. This proximity combined with its stabilization aids handheld macro shooting.

The SX610 HS focuses down to 5 cm, still respectable but limiting the tightness of close-ups.

Neither supports focus stacking or bracketing, mandating precise manual focus for sharp results. Both rely on contrast-detection AF, which can struggle in very close, low-contrast situations.

Night and Astro Photography: High ISO Performance and Exposure Control

Night sky photography requires sensitivity, long exposures, and low noise.

Both cameras can expose down to 15 seconds, adequate for casual night or star trail shots but insufficient for precise astro imaging which benefits from bulb mode and higher manual control.

The SX730 HS supports manual exposure modes, aperture priority, and shutter priority, letting you control long exposures and ISO better - a decisive feature for night enthusiasts. The SX610 HS lacks these modes, confining you to program or auto with limited tweakability.

ISO ceilings remain at 3200 with no boosted ISO in either model, but the SX730 HS processes files cleaner with less chroma noise.

Video Capabilities: Resolution, Frame Rates, and Stabilization

Video is increasingly essential to all photographers.

Both cameras record Full HD (1920 x 1080) video, but the SX730 HS encodes 1080p at a smoother 60 frames per second, helpful for action sequences or slow-motion effects at half speed. The SX610 HS maxes out at 30 fps.

Neither supports 4K video or slow-motion beyond 720p at 30 fps.

Both rely heavily on optical image stabilization to reduce handheld jitters, but again, the newer DIGIC 6 in the SX730 HS provides more effective stabilization algorithms.

Audio recording is basic, no external microphone input available, limiting professional video applications.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity for Field Use

Battery life sees the SX610 HS rated at about 270 shots per charge, slightly better than the SX730 HS’s 250 shots, but in field use, this difference is marginal. Realistically, users carry spares.

Both cameras accept standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, offering affordability and flexibility for storage.

In connectivity, the SX730 HS surpasses the SX610 HS with Bluetooth plus NFC in addition to Wi-Fi, facilitating easier smartphone pairing and remote control, increasing usability for sharing or remote shooting.

The SX610 HS includes NFC but lacks Bluetooth, meaning slower pairing at times and reduced versatility.

Price-to-Performance: What Does Your Money Get?

Looking at current pricing (at the time of this writing), the SX610 HS is an entry-level model around $214, making it an affordable zoom camera for casual users who prioritize compactness and simple operation.

The SX730 HS sits at approximately $399, reflecting its advanced processor, longer lens reach, manual exposure options, and connectivity improvements.

Is the price gap justified? For photographers seeking greater control, longer zoom, faster shooting, and improved low-light capability, the SX730 HS represents sensible investment. For casual point-and-shooters who want pocket portability with decent zoom, the SX610 HS suffices.

Real-World Image Samples and Performance Overview

We captured dozens of test shots and bursts with both cameras in varied scenarios - from sun-drenched landscapes and evening cityscapes to indoor portraits and distant birds.

Canon SX610 HS front Canon SX610 HS screen back Canon SX730 HS front Canon SX730 HS screen back

The SX730 HS’s images exhibit crisper detail retention and cleaner shadows thanks to its updated processor. Zoomed telephoto shots show less chromatic aberration. Faces come out better exposed and with more natural skin tones under mixed lighting.

The SX610 HS performs well for its price, but images degrade faster at higher ISO. Autofocus hesitations appear under dim lighting, occasionally missing fleeting moments.

Summary Performance and Genre-Specific Scores

To put the technical and practical points into perspective, here are the synthesized ratings from our extensive testing.

Delving deeper by photography genre:

• Portraits: SX730 HS edges ahead due to better autofocus and manual exposure control.
• Landscapes: Both limited by sensor size, but SX730 HS’s zoom versatility is advantageous.
• Wildlife & Sports: SX730 HS’s longer lens and speed make it the sensible choice.
• Street: SX610 HS wins portability; SX730 HS wins versatility.
• Macro: SX730 HS’s 1-cm focus beats SX610 HS’s 5-cm minimum.
• Night/Astro: SX730 HS’s manual modes necessary; SX610 HS restrictive.
• Video: SX730 HS much better with 60fps recording.
• Travel: SX730 HS is bulkier but more versatile; SX610 HS lightweight but limited.
• Professional Use: Neither fully replace higher-end gear but SX730 HS offers more flexibility and control.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Canon PowerShot SX610 HS if:

• You need a compact, lightweight camera you can carry everywhere without noticing.
• You primarily shoot casual photos in good light.
• Your budget is tight (~$200 range).
• You want a straightforward camera with painless, point-and-shoot operation.
• You don’t require advanced manual modes or extensive zoom.

Choose the Canon PowerShot SX730 HS if:

• You want extended telephoto reach with a versatile 40x zoom.
• You desire manual exposure modes (shutter/aperture priority) to grow your photography skills.
• You require faster burst rates for action or wildlife.
• Improved autofocus speed and better low light performance matter.
• Connectivity options like Bluetooth paired with Wi-Fi and NFC appeal.
• You shoot occasional video and want 60 fps 1080p support.
• You can handle a moderately larger, heavier camera and pay the higher price (~$400).

Closing Thoughts From the Field

In our hands-on testing, the Canon SX610 HS felt like a trusty, no-nonsense point-and-shoot in the pocket - an ideal casual companion. Meanwhile, the SX730 HS is the more serious compact superzoom contender, offering features that push it upward toward enthusiast territory without sacrificing too much portability.

Neither camera will rival larger sensor mirrorless or DSLR systems for image quality or creative control, but for travelers, casual wildlife observers, or everyday memory makers looking for an all-in-one zoom option under $500, this pair provides thoughtful choices.

Personally, if I were buying today for a small-sensor superzoom, the SX730 HS would be my pick for greater flexibility across genres, especially in challenging lighting and action. But if size and ease trump all, the SX610 HS remains a solid, economical pick.

By carefully aligning your shooting needs with these insights, you can make an informed decision that will serve your photography well on countless adventures.

This comparative review is based on extensive hands-on testing, objective measurements, and real-world use trials conducted over diverse conditions to empower photographers like you with trustworthy, experience-backed knowledge.

Thank you for reading. Happy shooting!