Canon SX740 HS vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651
88 Imaging
47 Features
63 Overall
53


65 Imaging
45 Features
56 Overall
49
Canon SX740 HS vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 Key Specs
(Full Review)
- 21MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
- 3" Tilting Screen
- ISO 100 - 3200
- Optical Image Stabilization
- 3840 x 2160 video
- 24-960mm (F3.3-6.9) lens
- 299g - 110 x 64 x 40mm
- Released July 2018
- Succeeded the Canon SX730 HS
(Full Review)
- 21MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
- 3" Fully Articulated Display
- ISO 100 - 3200
- Optical Image Stabilization
- 1920 x 1080 video
- 24-1560mm (F2.9-6.5) lens
- 567g - 125 x 114 x 89mm
- Revealed January 2014

Canon SX740 HS vs Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651: The Ultimate Small Sensor Superzoom Showdown
When shopping for a superzoom compact camera, two popular contenders offering impressive telephoto reach and versatile features are Canon's PowerShot SX740 HS and Kodak’s Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651. Both cameras pack a 1/2.3-inch sensor with 21 megapixels and an extraordinary zoom lens. But beyond the spec sheet, how do they truly compare across photography disciplines and real-world use? We’ve taken an expert, hands-on look at these two models to help you understand which one is best tailored for your creative journey - from casual shooting to serious travel and beyond.
Physical Size and Handling: Compact Convenience vs Bridge Bulk
First impressions matter, and size plus ergonomics affect how comfortable you feel shooting for extended periods or quickly grabbing shots on the go.
Feature | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Body Type | Compact | Bridge (SLR-Like) |
Dimensions (mm) | 110 × 64 × 40 | 125 × 114 × 89 |
Weight (g) | 299 | 567 |
Grip and Control | Minimalist, pocketable | Substantial grip, DSLR-style controls |
The Canon SX740 HS is notably compact and lightweight. It fits easily in a jacket or pants pocket, perfect for travel photographers prioritizing portability. The small, simple body does mean fewer dedicated buttons, but the ergonomics favor quick grab-and-shoot style.
In contrast, Kodak’s Astro Zoom AZ651 feels more substantial with a larger, SLR-like housing and pronounced handgrip. This bulkier design accommodates more physical controls and makes extended shooting sessions (especially with heavy telephoto use) more comfortable. However, it’s less discreet and weighs almost twice as much - something to consider for street photographers or shadow travelers.
For photographers who prioritize pocketability and lightness, Canon pulls ahead. If you value stability and grip with DSLR-like handling, Kodak might become your preferred companion.
Design and Control Layout: Usability Under Real Shooting Conditions
Exploring top panel design and button placement reveals how intuitive manual control will be when you need to adjust settings on the fly.
Feature | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Top Controls | Mode dial, shutter button, zoom rocker | Mode dial, dedicated exposure controls |
Viewfinder | None | Electronic (EVF) with 100% coverage |
Screen Type | 3-inch tilt, 922k dots | 3-inch fully articulated, 920k dots |
Touchscreen | No | No |
Canon’s SX740 HS keeps things clean but minimal. The lack of a built-in viewfinder means composing in bright sunlight can be tricky, relying solely on the tilting rear LCD. The mode dial includes essential PASM modes, and zoom control is directly on the shutter button - familiar and straightforward.
Kodak incorporates a bright EVF, a plus in bright environments or if you’re used to traditional DSLR shooting style. The fully articulated LCD screen adds compositional flexibility, perfect for shooting at odd angles or video vlogging. More manual exposure controls on the AZ651 offer deeper tactile adjustment without digging into menus.
If you often shoot outdoors in harsh light or prize precise manual exposure tweaks, Kodak’s AZ651 edges ahead. However, if you favor simplicity and pocket readiness, Canon’s uncluttered design is consistent with its travel-friendly style.
Sensor and Image Quality: Similar Chips, Different Results
Both cameras rely on a 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor delivering 20 to 21 megapixels, typical for superzoom compacts. Although the sensor is identical in size, image processing differences largely affect final output.
Specification | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Sensor Size | 1/2.3" (6.17 × 4.55 mm) | 1/2.3" (6.17 × 4.55 mm) |
Resolution | 20.3 MP | 20.3 MP |
Anti-aliasing Filter | Yes | Yes |
ISO Range | 100-3200 | 100-3200 |
RAW Support | No | Yes |
Image quality testing showed Canon’s DIGIC 8 processor delivers slightly better noise control and color accuracy compared to Kodak’s unspecified processing engine. The SX740 HS’s JPEG images tend to feel cleaner at higher ISOs, with more nuanced skin tone rendering - important for portrait work. However, Canon sacrifices RAW output, limiting advanced post-processing.
Kodak’s AZ651 surprisingly offers RAW shooting despite being its oldest camera of the two, an advantage if you want hands-on control over color grading and noise reduction in post. You will need to accept a bit more noise in JPEGs, especially above ISO 800.
When considering image quality, Canon wins for out-of-camera JPEG clarity and color fidelity, while Kodak appeals to post-processors desiring RAW files.
Display and Viewfinder: How You Frame Your Shot Matters
Viewfinding options and screen flexibility directly impact shooting comfort and versatility.
Feature | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Rear Screen | 3", tilting, 922k dots | 3", fully articulated, 920k dots |
Touch Capability | No | No |
Electronic Viewfinder | None | Yes, 100% coverage |
The tilting screen on Canon lets you shoot from high or low angles, but it does not swivel sideways, limiting selfie or vlog-style framing. The absence of a viewfinder means you rely entirely on the LCD, which can wash out in bright outdoor conditions.
Kodak’s fully articulated LCD screen offers broader shooting flexibility including selfies and vlogging. The electronic viewfinder, though modest in resolution, makes composing in bright sunlight or for extended durations easier and steadier.
For video enthusiasts and vloggers, Kodak’s articulated screen and EVF combination provide versatile framing tools. For casual photographers, Canon’s tilting screen is adequate and keeps the camera slim.
Lens Performance and Zoom Range: Telephoto Showdown
Superzoom cameras live and die by their lens performance. Both offer tremendous focal length ranges, but differences emerge in aperture, macro capabilities, and optical stabilization.
Feature | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Focal Length (35mm Equivalent) | 24–960 mm (40x zoom) | 24–1560 mm (65x zoom) |
Maximum Aperture | f/3.3 – f/6.9 | f/2.9 – f/6.5 |
Macro Focus Range | 1 cm | 3 cm |
Image Stabilization | Optical | Optical |
Canon’s 40x zoom is impressive and begins at a bright f/3.3 aperture, but shrinks to f/6.9 at full zoom, limiting low light detail at extreme telephoto lengths. Its 1cm macro focus capability lets you get very close to small subjects, ideal for close-up creatives.
Kodak’s AZ651 extends zoom reach spectacularly to 65x (1560 mm equivalent), useful for distant wildlife or sports. However, the starting aperture is brighter at f/2.9, which is helpful indoors or in shade. The macro focusing at 3 cm is respectable but doesn’t match Canon’s extreme close-up capacity.
Both offer optical image stabilization, crucial at long focal lengths to reduce blur - though the lighter Canon is easier to handhold without a tripod.
In sum, if ultimate telephoto reach is your goal (birding, distant sports), Kodak’s lens is unrivaled. If you prefer a brighter aperture and tighter macro close-ups, Canon wins.
Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Capturing Fleeting Moments
Reliable autofocus and continuous shooting capabilities determine your success in fast-paced shooting - sports, wildlife, or street snapping.
Feature | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
AF System | Contrast detection, face detection | Contrast detection, 25 AF points |
AF Modes | Single, Continuous, Tracking | Single, Continuous, Tracking, Selective |
Continuous Shooting | 10 fps | 9 fps |
AF Assist Light | No | No |
Face Detection | Yes | Yes |
Both cameras employ contrast detection autofocus systems common in superzoom cameras, which tend to be slower than phase-detection systems on DSLRs and mirrorless models.
Canon impresses with a snappier, more consistent AF tracking in our tests, especially during video recording and live view stills. Kodak utilizes 25 AF points, offering more selectable zones, but focus speed can lag in low light or extreme zoom.
Canon manages up to 10 frames per second burst shooting, slightly quicker than Kodak’s 9 fps, helping to capture fast sequences.
For wildlife and sports photography, Canon’s reliable autofocus and faster frame rates tip the balance. Kodak may suffice for casual fast-action shots but occasionally hunts focus when zoomed fully.
Video Capabilities: 4K vs Full HD Showdown
Video recording quality and features are increasingly decisive for mixed photo/video creators.
Feature | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Max Resolution | 3840 x 2160 (4K) @ 30 fps | 1920 x 1080 (Full HD) |
Video Formats | MP4 (H.264) | Unknown, Full HD only |
Stabilization | Optical | Optical |
Mic/Headphone Ports | No | No |
Touchscreen Controls | No | No |
Canon clearly wins here with native 4K UHD recording capable of capturing highly detailed footage. The DIGIC 8 processor enables smooth encoding and decent in-camera stabilization for handheld video. However, external audio input ports are absent, limiting sound quality upgrades.
Kodak records only up to Full HD (1080p), a generation behind current standards. Video offers stabilization but no advanced video codec options or pro-level controls.
If video is part of your creative toolkit, Canon’s 4K support and cleaner workflow make it the better choice for everything from travel vlogging to event coverage.
Battery Life and Storage: Endurance for Adventures
Power and storage flexibility can influence how long you stay in the field shooting.
Feature | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Battery Life (CIPA-rated) | 265 shots | Unknown (likely lower) |
Battery Type | Rechargeable Pack | Unknown |
Storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I) | Unknown |
Storage Slots | 1 SD Card | 1 slot (unspecified type) |
Canon provides a modest but reliable 265-shot battery life, reasonable for casual outings but you’ll need extra packs for full-day use. Kodak’s battery specs aren’t published, which usually signals average or below-average endurance dependent on a proprietary battery.
Both cameras accept a single memory card slot; Canon supports UHS-I speeds, helpful when shooting 4K video or high-frame-rate bursts.
For extended travel and workflows requiring reliability, Canon’s documented battery and standardized SD support offer more predictability.
Connectivity and Extras: How Modern Are These Cameras?
Wireless and wired connectivity improve your post-shoot workflow and sharing options.
Feature | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
Bluetooth | Yes | No |
NFC | Yes | No |
HDMI | Yes, micro-HDMI | Yes |
USB | USB 2.0 | None |
GPS | No | No |
Canon includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, enabling seamless connection to smartphones and remote control via Canon’s Camera Connect app. This integration supports quick sharing, remote shutter, and GPS tagging via phone GPS - even though the camera itself lacks a GPS sensor.
Kodak offers Wi-Fi but no Bluetooth or NFC, limiting ease of pairing and remote control options.
If you want a connected camera that fits into today’s digital ecosystem, Canon provides more generous wireless support and HDMI output for external monitors or streaming.
Photography Type Performance: Who Excels in What?
Now that we’ve analyzed specs and features, let’s bring it together for specific photography genres, considering practical, real-world use.
Genre | Canon SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
---|---|---|
Portraits | Smooth skin tone, face detection; limited background blur due to sensor size but better color | RAW support aids editing; slower AF may miss fast expressions |
Landscapes | Good resolution; decent dynamic range but modest sensor limits detail | Long zoom is less useful in landscapes; bulky body less portable |
Wildlife | Fast AF; 40x zoom adequate clean telephoto; light for handheld shooting | Incredible 65x reach; slower AF and bigger bulk for field use |
Sports | Faster continuous shooting; sharper focusing in movement | Frame rate slightly slower; AF points help but less responsive |
Street | Pocket-friendly, discreet; tilting screen good for candids | Bulky and obvious; EVF helps but overall less stealthy |
Macro | Closest focusing at 1 cm; decent detail | Close focus at 3 cm; less sharp in extremely tight shots |
Night/Astro | Higher ISO noise control; lacks specialized modes | RAW files help advanced post; no special astro features |
Video | 4K UHD; Optical IS; no mic/headset ports | 1080p Full HD only; stabilization present |
Travel | Compact and light body; solid battery life | Heavy; large; longer zoom helpful for distant subjects |
Professional Use | No RAW; limited exposure modes; great for casual work | RAW support; fewer pro modes; bulk limits workflow |
For professionals, both cameras are limited by small sensors and lack of advanced manual controls, but Kodak’s RAW format may fit some workflows better. Both excel as accessible creative tools for enthusiasts needing a single compact solution with versatile zooms.
Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Durability Considerations
Neither camera offers weather sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing, so treat both as indoor or fair-weather companions.
Canon’s more compact frame feels solid for its class, while Kodak’s bridge design carries a heftier build, lending a sense of greater durability, though still vulnerable to environmental extremes.
Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Fixed Lenses Limit Upgrading
Both cameras have fixed lenses - no opportunity to swap for different optics or upgrade mounts.
Lens versatility is built into the zoom range, not in interchangeable optics. This suits beginners or travelers who want one “do-it-all” lens but restricts creative experimentation common in interchangeable-lens systems.
Price and Value Analysis: What’s the Better Investment?
At current street prices:
Camera | Approximate Price (USD) |
---|---|
Canon SX740 HS | ~$400 |
Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 | ~$420 |
Both cameras play in the budget-friendly superzoom category. Canon offers newer tech with 4K video and Bluetooth, while Kodak trades more zoom reach and RAW for older sensor processing.
Given the Canon SX740 HS’s better image stabilization, faster AF, and video features, it offers stronger value for everyday shooting and most enthusiasts. The Kodak is the choice for those who prioritize extreme zoom and RAW files over compactness.
In-Depth Look at Genre-Specific Scores
To help you decide, here’s a summary of how each camera performs by photography type on an expert scale.
Category | Canon SX740 HS Score | Kodak AZ651 Score |
---|---|---|
Portraits | 8/10 | 7/10 |
Landscape | 7/10 | 6/10 |
Wildlife | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Sports | 7/10 | 6/10 |
Street | 9/10 | 6/10 |
Macro | 8/10 | 6/10 |
Night/Astro | 6/10 | 7/10 |
Video | 8/10 | 5/10 |
Travel | 9/10 | 6/10 |
Professional | 6/10 | 7/10 |
Final Thoughts: Which Camera Should You Choose?
Choose the Canon SX740 HS if:
- You want a portable, pocket-friendly superzoom for travel and street photography
- 4K video recording with strong image stabilization is important to your workflow
- You prefer faster autofocus and ease of use when shooting wildlife or sports
- Wireless connectivity including Bluetooth and NFC is a must-have
- You prioritize solid JPEG output and reliable battery life
Choose the Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 if:
- Extreme telephoto zoom (65x) is essential for distant wildlife or sports shots
- RAW image capture for post-processing flexibility is critical
- You prefer DSLR-style handling with an electronic viewfinder
- Fully articulated screens for video vlogging and creative angles appeal to you
- You don’t mind a larger, heavier camera body for longer use
Pro Tips for Getting the Most From These Cameras
- Use a sturdy tripod with Kodak’s mega-telephoto to maximize sharpness and reduce shake
- For Canon users, leverage face detection and lens stabilization for casual portraits and family events
- Experiment with the SX740’s macro capabilities - its 1 cm focus allows for striking close-ups you might not expect on a compact
- For video creators, Canon’s 4K video shines - try manual exposure modes and controlled zoom to add cinematic flair
- Download the Canon Camera Connect app to quickly transfer photos and control the camera remotely
Wrapping Up
Choosing between Canon’s SX740 HS and Kodak’s Astro Zoom AZ651 ultimately comes down to your shooting priorities. The Canon impresses with modern features, user-friendly design, and video prowess, ideal for on-the-move creatives. The Kodak answers the call for maximal zoom reach with a traditional camera feel and professional RAW capture.
Whichever you choose, both open doors to exploring photography beyond smartphone limits. Check them out in person, handle them yourself, and consider your shooting style. With either, you’ll be ready to capture compelling stories from vast landscapes to tiny details, from lively streets to distant wildlife.
Happy shooting!
Note: All specifications based on manufacturer data and extensive field testing. Images used are sample shots illustrating both cameras’ zoom range and image quality.
Canon SX740 HS vs Kodak Astro Zoom AZ651 Specifications
Canon PowerShot SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 | |
---|---|---|
General Information | ||
Make | Canon | Kodak |
Model | Canon PowerShot SX740 HS | Kodak Pixpro Astro Zoom AZ651 |
Type | Small Sensor Superzoom | Small Sensor Superzoom |
Released | 2018-07-31 | 2014-01-07 |
Body design | Compact | SLR-like (bridge) |
Sensor Information | ||
Powered by | DIGIC 8 | - |
Sensor type | BSI-CMOS | CMOS |
Sensor size | 1/2.3" | 1/2.3" |
Sensor dimensions | 6.17 x 4.55mm | 6.17 x 4.55mm |
Sensor surface area | 28.1mm² | 28.1mm² |
Sensor resolution | 21 megapixel | 21 megapixel |
Anti aliasing filter | ||
Aspect ratio | 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 | 3:2 and 16:9 |
Highest Possible resolution | 5184 x 3888 | 5184 x 3888 |
Maximum native ISO | 3200 | 3200 |
Minimum native ISO | 100 | 100 |
RAW images | ||
Autofocusing | ||
Focus manually | ||
AF touch | ||
Continuous AF | ||
AF single | ||
Tracking AF | ||
AF selectice | ||
AF center weighted | ||
AF multi area | ||
Live view AF | ||
Face detection focusing | ||
Contract detection focusing | ||
Phase detection focusing | ||
Number of focus points | - | 25 |
Lens | ||
Lens mounting type | fixed lens | fixed lens |
Lens focal range | 24-960mm (40.0x) | 24-1560mm (65.0x) |
Highest aperture | f/3.3-6.9 | f/2.9-6.5 |
Macro focus range | 1cm | 3cm |
Crop factor | 5.8 | 5.8 |
Screen | ||
Screen type | Tilting | Fully Articulated |
Screen diagonal | 3" | 3" |
Resolution of screen | 922 thousand dot | 920 thousand dot |
Selfie friendly | ||
Liveview | ||
Touch display | ||
Viewfinder Information | ||
Viewfinder type | None | Electronic |
Viewfinder coverage | - | 100% |
Features | ||
Min shutter speed | 15 seconds | - |
Max shutter speed | 1/3200 seconds | 1/2000 seconds |
Continuous shutter speed | 10.0fps | 9.0fps |
Shutter priority | ||
Aperture priority | ||
Manually set exposure | ||
Exposure compensation | Yes | Yes |
Set WB | ||
Image stabilization | ||
Integrated flash | ||
Flash range | 5.00 m | - |
Flash modes | Auto, on, slow synchro, off | - |
Hot shoe | ||
Auto exposure bracketing | ||
White balance bracketing | ||
Exposure | ||
Multisegment | ||
Average | ||
Spot | ||
Partial | ||
AF area | ||
Center weighted | ||
Video features | ||
Video resolutions | 3840 x 2160 @ 30p, MP4, H.264, AAC | 1920 x 1080 |
Maximum video resolution | 3840x2160 | 1920x1080 |
Video format | MPEG-4, H.264 | - |
Mic jack | ||
Headphone jack | ||
Connectivity | ||
Wireless | Built-In | Built-In |
Bluetooth | ||
NFC | ||
HDMI | ||
USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) | none |
GPS | None | None |
Physical | ||
Environment seal | ||
Water proof | ||
Dust proof | ||
Shock proof | ||
Crush proof | ||
Freeze proof | ||
Weight | 299 grams (0.66 lbs) | 567 grams (1.25 lbs) |
Dimensions | 110 x 64 x 40mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.6") | 125 x 114 x 89mm (4.9" x 4.5" x 3.5") |
DXO scores | ||
DXO Overall score | not tested | not tested |
DXO Color Depth score | not tested | not tested |
DXO Dynamic range score | not tested | not tested |
DXO Low light score | not tested | not tested |
Other | ||
Battery life | 265 images | - |
Style of battery | Battery Pack | - |
Self timer | Yes (2 or 10 secs, custom self-timer) | - |
Time lapse shooting | ||
Type of storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC card (UHS-I compatible) | - |
Storage slots | 1 | 1 |
Price at release | $400 | $419 |