Canon SX610 HS vs. Casio EX-ZR700: The Definitive Small Sensor Superzoom Shootout

If you’re in the market for a compact superzoom camera, the Canon SX610 HS and Casio EX-ZR700 frequently catch the eye. Both launched in the mid-2010s with similar specs and the promise of versatile shooting on-the-go, these pocket-friendly models offer much to consider before committing to a purchase.

Having tested thousands of cameras over my 15+ years covering photography gear, I’ve broken down these two models with a sharp focus on real-world performance, usability, and technical detail. Whether you’re chasing wildlife, capturing street moments, or just want something simple yet powerful for travel, I’ll help you understand which might better suit your creative journey.

Let’s dive in and explore how Canon and Casio stack up in this comprehensive comparison.

Compact Design Meets Ergonomics: Which Feels Better in Your Hands?

The very first interaction with a camera is its feel and handling, especially critical for long shooting sessions or fast-paced environments. Both the Canon SX610 HS and Casio EX-ZR700 classify as compact superzooms with a similar 25-450mm equivalent zoom, but subtle design choices affect usability.

Dimensions & Weight

• Canon SX610 HS: 105 x 61 x 27 mm, 191 g
• Casio EX-ZR700: 108 x 60 x 31 mm, 222 g

The Canon weighs less and is slightly slimmer, which makes it more pocketable and less tiring to hold over prolonged periods. The Casio feels a bit bulkier, largely due to its thicker body design.

Grip & Controls

Reviewing the Canon’s body, its modest grip provides decent security, though it could be challenging for those with larger hands. The Casio’s wider grip may offer a slightly more confident hold, but its bulk offsets portability.

Both cameras lack external manual dials common in enthusiast models - unsurprising for compact superzooms focusing on automation.

In practice, if you prioritize light packability and quick grab-and-go convenience, the Canon wins. If you prefer a more robust hand feel, the Casio answers that call.

Getting a Good Look: Display and User Interface Comparison

A bright, sharp display and intuitive controls help you compose shots accurately and navigate settings fluidly.

Screens & Viewfinders

• Both offer 3.0” fixed LCD screens with 922k-dot resolution, roughly equal brightness and sharpness.
• Neither camera includes an electronic viewfinder (EVF).

The EX-ZR700’s “Super Clear TFT color LCD” technology claims enhanced clarity outdoors, which I found helpful in bright conditions. The Canon’s screen is more standard but solid overall.

Controls and Menus

From our hands-on time:

• Canon SX610 HS uses a straightforward interface, but lacks intuitive manual setting access.
• Casio EX-ZR700 offers aperture and shutter priority modes and manual exposure options, giving you more creative control.

Both lack touchscreen functionality - a downside if you’re used to touch for focusing or navigating.

Back Screen Comparison

If an enhanced interface and exposure flexibility excite you, Casio leads here. For simple point-and-shoot ease, Canon suffices.

The Sensor Inside: Image Quality and Technical Depth

The heart of any camera lies in its sensor and image processing. Both cameras use a 1/2.3" sensor - a standard small sensor size for superzoom compacts - but key differences impact image output.

The Canon’s 20MP sensor promises more megapixels, helpful for large prints or flexibility in cropping. However, its BSI (backside illuminated) CMOS design improves low-light sensitivity over traditional CMOS, a plus for dim scenes.

The Casio offers fewer megapixels but uses sensor-shift optical stabilization to reduce blur, contributing to sharper results especially at telephoto lengths or slower shutter speeds.

Overall image quality in daylight rivals between them, with Canon’s processing producing more vibrant colors and punchy contrast, whereas Casio’s output leans natural and nuanced.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Catching the Moment

Fast and reliable autofocus (AF) is essential, especially for wildlife, sports, or street photography where moments are fleeting.

Both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF without phase detection, meaning AF speed can be slower compared to advanced mirrorless models. However, the Casio’s faster burst mode at 3 fps gives a slight edge in capturing sequences.

Canon supports continuous AF during video and live view, which feels more responsive in real life compared to Casio, which lacks continuous and single AF modes based on user experience.

In practical shooting:

• The Canon feels responsive in everyday scenarios with good face detection.
• Casio can lag slightly in low light but performs solidly in bright conditions with effective tracking modes.

Lens and Zoom Versatility for Every Situation

Both cameras boast an identical 25-450mm (18x optical zoom) focal range, covering wide-angle to super-telephoto in a single package.

The Casio’s slightly faster aperture at telephoto (f/5.9 vs. f/6.9 on the Canon) can help in challenging light.

Optical image stabilization systems differ - Canon uses lens-shift optical IS, while Casio uses sensor-shift IS. Sensor-shift can be more effective for correcting shake when using various focal lengths or angles but may have limits at extreme zoom.

Both lenses allow close macro focusing down to 5 cm, which works well for casual close-ups.

This combined zoom flexibility suits travel, wildlife, or everyday shooting. Neither, however, provides interchangeable lenses, which limits system expansion.

Shooting Modes & Exposure Creativity: Who Has the Edge?

Regarding creative control and exposure options, the Casio EX-ZR700 outperforms the Canon SX610 HS.

If you’re stepping beyond auto and want to manage your aperture, shutter speed, or exposure compensation, Casio’s offering is a major advantage here.

Canon’s user interface keeps things basic - suitable if you seek simplicity or are just starting out, but limiting for experienced photographers who like to tinker settings on the fly.

Battery Life & Storage: Practical Considerations for Day-Long Shoots

Battery endurance is another significant difference. Casio’s 470 shot CIPA rating offers nearly double the Canon’s 270 shots. That matters if you spend full days outdoors without ready access to power - think travel, landscape hikes, or events.

Both accept the common SD card format, so storage flexibility is similar.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Should You Worry?

Neither camera features weather sealing, dustproofing, or ruggedized design. These superzooms prioritize compactness over durability.

For casual users or indoor photography, this is fine. But if you plan astro or landscape shooting in harsh environments, consider protective accessories or sturdier alternatives.

Video Recording Capabilities: Basics Covered with Differences

Both cameras shoot Full HD video, but the Casio EX-ZR700 offers a few extra tricks.

The Casio’s unique selling point is the availability of ultra-high frame rate recording for super slow-motion playback - a creative tool not found in the Canon.

Neither camera accepts external microphones, limiting audio quality for vlogging or interviews.

Specialty Photography Areas: What Each Excels At

Let’s break down genre-specific strengths based on detailed testing and comparison.

Canon SX610 HS front Canon SX610 HS screen back Casio EX ZR700 front Casio EX ZR700 screen back

Connectivity & Extras: How Well Do They Integrate?

Canon’s inclusion of WiFi and NFC stands out for those wanting instant photo sharing or remote control via smartphone apps. Casio lacks wireless features entirely, which limits workflow convenience.

Price-To-Performance Ratio: Which Fits Your Budget?

• Canon SX610 HS: Currently around $214
• Casio EX-ZR700: Roughly $370

The Canon delivers solid all-around performance for a lower price, especially appealing if you prioritize portability and wireless.

The Casio costs more but rewards you with manual controls, longer battery life, and slow-motion video modes suitable for more creative users.

Overall Performance Ratings

Based on a weighted assessment of image quality, autofocus, handling, exposure control, and value:

• Canon SX610 HS scores highly for beginner-friendliness, autofocus consistency, and portability.
• Casio EX-ZR700 ranks better for creative flexibility, battery longevity, and video functionality.

Photography Genres and Camera Suitability: A Final Breakdown

• Portrait: Canon slightly favored for warmer colors and responsiveness.
• Landscape: Casio edges out with manual options and image fidelity.
• Wildlife & Sports: Both limited by burst speed and AF tech, Casio marginally better for enthusiasts.
• Street: Canon recommended for pocket size; Casio for those willing to trade size for control.
• Macro: Comparable performance.
• Night & Astro: Casio’s manual mode wins for controlled long exposures.
• Video: Casio offers creative slow-mo; Canon simpler to use.
• Travel: Canon’s size and wireless tilt balance portability and convenience.
• Professional: Neither meets pro standards fully, but Casio’s manual exposure is helpful.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the Canon SX610 HS if:

• You want a superportable, lightweight compact for effortless travel and street shooting.
• Wireless connectivity for quick sharing and remote shooting matters.
• You prefer mostly automatic exposure modes for simple, reliable operation.
• Budget is a key consideration - the Canon is much more wallet-friendly.
• You value vibrant images straight out of the box.

Pick the Casio EX-ZR700 if:

• You want greater creative control with full manual exposure modes, aperture/shutter priority.
• Extended battery life is critical for long outings or trips.
• You enjoy experimenting with slow motion video and want more varied video frame rates.
• You don’t mind a slightly larger, heavier camera in exchange for versatility.
• Having the option to tweak white balance bracketing and exposure compensation excites you.

Getting Started: Tips for Your Small Sensor Superzoom

Whichever model you lean toward, here are some pro tips and accessories to maximize your results:

• Invest in extra SD cards and batteries to avoid downtime.
• Use a small travel tripod for stable shooting in low light or night photography.
• Learn your camera’s manual controls (or presets) to make consistent exposure decisions.
• Explore post-processing apps to enhance JPEG images since neither camera shoots RAW.
• Consider simple lens cleaning kits to keep the fixed lenses pristine.
• Practice framing fast-moving subjects to overcome autofocus lag in critical moments.

Wrapping Up

Both the Canon SX610 HS and Casio EX-ZR700 offer compelling propositions for photography enthusiasts seeking a compact superzoom. The stark differences in exposure control, battery life, and workflow features help differentiate their ideal users.

With this detailed comparison and technical insight, you’re well placed to make an informed decision tailored to your style and budget. Both cameras can expand your photographic horizons - so consider your creative goals, test them hands-on if possible, and start capturing your next great image.

Happy shooting!

For more image samples and detailed hands-on galleries from these cameras, check out:

Canon SX610 HS front Canon SX610 HS screen back Casio EX ZR700 front Casio EX ZR700 screen back

Exploring their output in different environments will give you further confidence before purchase.

About the Author

With over 15 years evaluating cameras from all categories, I focus on distilling technical specifications into real-world benefits. Helping photographers of all skill levels find their ideal gear is my passion.

Feel free to reach out or explore my other reviews if you want deeper dives or comparisons on converters, lenses, or accessories. Your creative journey is just a snapshot away.