Canon PowerShot SX700 HS vs Casio Exilim EX-Z800: A Hands-On Comparison for Every Photographer

Choosing the right compact camera can seem daunting, especially with diverse options that vary widely in features, ergonomics, and performance. Today, we take a close look at two distinct compact models: the Canon PowerShot SX700 HS and the Casio Exilim EX-Z800. Although both fall within the compact camera category, they serve different user needs and shooting styles. Drawing on years of hands-on testing experience, we'll dissect their real-world capabilities, strengths, and limitations - providing you with an expert guide to decide which suits your photography journey best.

Understanding the Cameras at a Glance: Form, Function, and Build

Before diving into technical performance, it’s essential to grasp the physical and ergonomic differences, as these markedly affect user experience during shoots.

The Canon SX700 HS offers a substantially bigger body to accommodate its impressive 30x zoom range and larger 3-inch high-resolution screen. Compared to the feather-light Casio EX-Z800, it demands a steadier grip but rewards you with extended reach and framing flexibility.

The Casio EX-Z800 champions ultraportability - slim and featherweight. Its 4x zoom falls short of Canon’s telephoto reach, but this smaller form factor suits everyday carry, quick snapshots, or street photography where discretion is valued.

The image below depicts the control layout and top-profile design differences impacting handling.

Sensor Technology & Image Quality: BSI-CMOS vs CCD - What Does It Mean for You?

Sensor choice is a critical determinant of image quality, especially in varying lighting conditions.

The Canon employs a BSI-CMOS sensor, which typically delivers better low-light performance and faster readout speeds compared to Casio’s older CCD sensor technology. You can expect crisper images with less noise from the Canon SX700 HS in dim conditions. The higher resolution also aids cropping flexibility.

On the other hand, the Casio’s CCD sensor produces vibrant colors but can struggle in lower light or higher ISO settings, yielding more noise. However, for daylight shooting and casual snapshots, its performance remains respectable.

Screens and User Interface: A Window to Your Composition

Live view and screen quality dramatically influence framing and shooting ease.

The SX700 HS’s 3-inch PureColor II G TFT display is bright and sharp, providing accurate color rendition and clarity. This makes manual focusing and menu navigation more responsive, especially under bright outdoor conditions.

The Casio’s smaller 2.7-inch screen with low 230k dots count lacks sharpness, potentially impeding critical focusing and playback evaluation. Its interface is straightforward but less refined than the Canon’s, reflecting its budget-oriented, entry-level design.

Though neither camera offers a viewfinder or touchscreen, the Canon’s superior screen helps compensate for this during composing and reviewing shots.

Autofocus, Zoom, and Stabilization - The Core of Capturing the Moment

Autofocus speed and zoom capabilities often define a compact camera’s versatility, especially for wildlife, sports, or travel photography where responsiveness matters.

The Canon’s contrast-detection AF with 9 points and face detection works reliably, quickly locking focus especially in good lighting. It supports continuous AF and tracking, making it capable in dynamic scenes like sports or active wildlife. The 30x optical zoom extends your reach dramatically - perfect for nature or travel photography that demands versatility.

The Casio EX-Z800’s autofocus is limited to a single point with no face detection or continuous tracking. This restricts how well it can handle moving subjects but serves fine for posed portraits or static scenes. Zoom range is a modest 4x, meaning you won’t get close to distant subjects without cropping later.

Both cameras feature image stabilization, but Canon uses optical stabilization, generally more effective at longer focal lengths. Casio’s sensor-shift stabilization works but has limited impact especially at telephoto. For handheld telephoto shots, Canon thereby gains an edge in sharpness.

Image Samples to See the Difference

Nothing illustrates camera capabilities like direct image comparisons under real conditions. Below is a gallery showcasing photos from both cameras in various scenarios:

• Portraits showing skin tone rendition and bokeh
• Landscapes highlighting dynamic range and detail resolution
• Telephoto wildlife shots demonstrating reach and focus accuracy
• Low light interiors exposing noise handling

Canon SX700 HS screen back Casio EX Z800 screen back

Shooting Across Genres: Which Camera Fits Your Style?

To help visualize their practical use, let’s explore how these cameras perform in common photography disciplines, considering user needs and expectations.

Portrait Photography: Accurate Skin Tones and Bokeh

• Canon SX700 HS: Face detection autofocus and superior sensor provide good color reproduction and sharper focus on eyes and faces - critical for portraits. The longer zoom allows background separation to create modest bokeh, enhancing subject isolation.

• Casio EX-Z800: Limited autofocus and shorter zoom make portraits less refined. Skin tones tend to be decent in good light but suffer from noise and lack of focus precision in tighter shots.

Bottom Line: Canon excels for casual portraits. Casio suits simple snapshot needs only.

Landscape Photography: Resolution and Dynamic Range

• Canon SX700 HS: 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor and higher screen resolution aid in capturing detailed landscapes with reasonable dynamic range, though sensor size limits shadow recovery.

• Casio EX-Z800: 14MP CCD performs adequately in daylight but struggles in scenes with contrast due to lower dynamic range.

Weather sealing is absent in both models, so neither is ideal for rough outdoor conditions without extra protection.

Wildlife and Sports Photography: Speed and Zoom

• Canon SX700 HS: 30x zoom paired with 9 fps burst and continuous autofocus tracks fast-moving subjects effectively, though modest autofocus points limit precise tracking under extreme action.

• Casio EX-Z800: Lacks continuous AF and burst shooting, making it unsuitable for wildlife or sports action photography.

Street Photography: Discreteness and Portability

• Canon SX700 HS: Larger size and zoom barrel can draw attention and slow spontaneous shooting.

• Casio EX-Z800: Slim profile and lightweight design are conducive to candid photography and travel, though limited zoom can restrict framing options.

Macro Photography

• Canon can focus as close as 1 cm. Casio does not specify macro range, suggesting limited close-up capability.

Optical stabilization on the Canon helps offset shake for close-ups better than Casio’s sensor-shift IS.

Night and Astrophotography

Neither camera is optimized for long exposures or astrophotography. Max shutter speeds and sensor sizes limit low-light performance, though Canon’s BSI-CMOS sensor offers marginally better high ISO results.

Video Capabilities

The Canon’s ability to record smooth full HD video at 60 frames per second outperforms Casio’s lower-resolution 720p capped at 20 fps, offering greater flexibility for casual videography.

Travel Photography

Canon’s versatile zoom and better image quality suit multi-destination trips, albeit at the expense of extra weight and size.

Casio’s compactness and ease of carry prioritize lightness over optical flexibility, good for ultra-light travel.

Professional Use

Neither camera supports RAW, tethering, or advanced file formats critical for professional workflows.

Build Quality, Battery Life, and Connectivity

Build & Environmental Sealing: Both are compact plastic builds without weather sealing or ruggedness features.

Battery Life:

• Canon offers around 250 shots per charge (NB-6LH battery).
• Casio’s precise battery life isn’t specified, but usage of NP-120 battery suggests moderate endurance.

Connectivity:

• Canon includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for quick sharing and remote control.
• Casio EX-Z800 has no wireless features.

For modern content creators, wireless connectivity can streamline workflow - another win for the Canon.

Practical Ergonomics and Controls

The Canon provides full manual exposure modes (P, Av, Tv, M), exposure compensation, and custom white balance - satisfying enthusiasts who want greater creative control.

Casio restricts you mostly to automatic modes with very limited manual override, targeting point-and-shoot novices.

Scorecard Summary and What This Means for You

Final Thoughts & Recommendations: Find Your Perfect Match

If you prioritize zoom range, autofocus performance, video quality, and wireless connectivity while still valuing portability, the Canon PowerShot SX700 HS is the clear choice. It’s a versatile “travel companion” and capable casual shooter for a wide range of photography styles. Its shortcomings only lie in the lack of RAW and a slightly dated sensor architecture compared to modern mirrorless options - but for its class and price, it remains a compelling option.

The Casio EX-Z800, while showing its age and limited features, shines as an ultra-portable, simple-to-use companion camera. For budget beginners or users needing a straightforward device for daylight snapshot and street photography, its compactness is a big selling point. However, expect compromises in zoom flexibility, low light handling, and video quality.

How to Decide - Your Photography Needs and Budget Matter

• Choose Canon SX700 HS if:

  • You want versatile zoom for landscapes, wildlife, and travel.
  • You need better autofocus speed and tracking.
  • You plan to shoot Full HD video with stabilization.
  • You appreciate Wi-Fi/NFC transfer and remote options.
  • You want manual controls to develop your photography skills.

• Choose Casio EX-Z800 if:

  • Portability and effortless pocketability are priorities.
  • Your shooting is casual, mostly daylight snapshots.
  • You have a limited budget and don’t require manual mode.
  • Video and wireless transfer are not important to you.

Getting the Most Out of Your Compact Camera

Regardless of which camera you choose, consider:

• Investing in extra memory cards and spare batteries to extend shooting time.
• Exploring compatible accessories like tripods, remote releases, or filters to enhance creative possibilities.
• Practicing manual settings where available to learn exposure control and creative techniques.
• Checking out community forums and tutorials to maximize your camera’s potential.

Embark on your photographic journey with confidence. Whether you prefer the versatile Canon SX700 HS or the nimble Casio EX-Z800, understanding each camera’s strengths and limitations ensures your gear supports your creative vision. Ready to explore the world through your lens? Start experimenting today!