Canon PowerShot SX740 HS vs. Samsung TL240: A Detailed Face-Off for Enthusiast Photographers

Selecting a compact camera that truly fits your photographic style can be surprisingly challenging, especially when models from very different eras and design philosophies cross paths. Today, I want to take you through an in-depth comparison between two distinct small sensor-based cameras: the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS, released in mid-2018, and the Samsung TL240, a 2010 release. Despite their age gap and differing feature sets, both appeal to photography enthusiasts seeking portability and easy handling but with divergent strengths.

Having tested both extensively under varied conditions, I will unpack their performance in key photographic disciplines, technical merits, and practical usability to help you decide which makes more sense for your needs - or if either aligns with your evolving photo gear demands.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics, and Handling

When choosing a camera to carry everywhere, size and usability are paramount. The Canon SX740 HS, a “Small Sensor Superzoom,” packs a lot of zoom reach into a compact, manageable body measuring 110x64x40 mm and weighing 299 grams. The Samsung TL240, classed as an “Ultracompact,” prioritizes pocketability with its slender 104x58x20 mm frame and featherlight 160 grams.

You can see here how much slimmer and lighter the Samsung TL240 is. For street photographers or travelers who prize inconspicuousness, that size difference alone might tip the scales. However, the Canon's extra heft often translates to a sturdier grip and better balance, especially when paired with its long 40x zoom lens compared to Samsung's modest 7x range.

The SX740 also sports a heftier control interface, something I appreciate after years handling cameras - dials and buttons are well spaced with enough tactile feedback to operate confidently without looking. The Samsung, while sleek, leans more toward streamlined minimalism, which can feel limiting for users who like manual tweaking on the fly.

Speaking of handling, here’s a detailed look at their top plates and control layouts:

The Canon’s five-way controller and dedicated buttons for exposure compensation, ISO, and other settings are clear advantages for enthusiasts who want quick access without diving into menus. Samsung’s TL240 bundles controls into fewer buttons and a menu-driven interface, trading immediacy for simplicity.

In the field, I often found the SX740 more comfortable for extended shooting, especially when zooming or changing settings rapidly, while the TL240 felt more appropriate for casual snaps but less ideal for deliberate composition or manual control.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Modern CMOS vs. Older CCD

Both cameras share the same sensor size: 1/2.3 inches (6.17x4.55 mm), which is common among compact superzooms and ultracompacts. However, here the Canon uses a more modern BSI-CMOS sensor delivering 20.3 megapixels, compared to Samsung’s 14MP CCD sensor. This difference fundamentally influences image quality and performance under varied shooting scenarios.

While sensor size acts as a limiting factor - compact cameras can’t compete with larger APS-C or full-frame sensors when it comes to noise control or dynamic range - technological improvements place Canon's SX740 head and shoulders above the TL240 in several respects.

The BSI-CMOS technology in the Canon improves light-gathering efficiency and noise performance, particularly at higher ISO settings (Canon tops out at ISO 3200 natively). The Samsung’s CCD sensor, prevalent a decade ago, struggles with noise beyond ISO 400, making low-light photography more challenging.

Resolution-wise, the Canon’s 5184x3888 pixel output offers finer detail than Samsung’s 4334x3256, which helps greatly when cropping or printing larger images. That said, at typical viewing sizes, both deliver solid image quality with the caveat that Samsung’s images tend to exhibit a softer rendering, particularly towards the edges of the frame.

For color fidelity and tonal gradation, Canon’s newer DIGIC 8 processor gives it an edge in producing vibrant but natural skin tones and balanced color rendition. Samsung’s TL240 sometimes produces images with harsher contrast, and colors can appear oversaturated or muted in tricky lighting.

LCD Screens and User Interface: Tilting Touch vs. Fixed Non-Touch

The rear screen plays a vital role in composing shots and navigating menus, especially for compact cameras that lack viewfinders. The Canon SX740 HS sports a 3-inch tilting LCD with 922k-dot resolution, albeit not touch-sensitive, while Samsung’s TL240 has a larger 3.5-inch fixed screen but a relatively crude 230k-dot resolution - think of it as “legacy” screen tech by today’s standards.

Despite the Canon screen’s smaller size, its higher resolution and tilt mechanism make it more versatile, especially for shooting at awkward angles or when hand-holding closer to the ground. Samsung’s fixed display is easier to see in terms of size but can be frustrating outdoors in bright sunlight due to its low pixel density and lack of anti-reflective coatings.

Surprisingly, Samsung integrates touchscreen in the TL240, something Canon skips on this model. While the touchscreen interface can speed up menu navigation or spot focusing, the TL240’s small and less detailed screen somewhat diminishes this benefit in practice.

As someone who often shoots in busy environments or on the move, I much prefer the Canon’s tilt screen over Samsung’s fixed one - it beats having to crouch or contort oneself for unique perspectives.

Zoom, Lens Performance, and Macro Capabilities

One of the defining features of the Canon SX740 HS is its powerhouse 24-960 mm equivalent lens, offering a massive 40x zoom range. The Samsung TL240’s zoom maxes out at just 31-217 mm, a 7x zoom.

Think about that - Canon’s reach nearly quintupled Samsung’s.

This really highlights the SX740’s targeting of wildlife and travel photographers wanting an all-in-one “do-it-all” camera without switching lenses. Its aperture range of f/3.3-6.9 is a bit slow at the long end but is typical for ultra-telephoto zooms in compacts.

Samsung’s faster maximum aperture of f/3.3-5.5 at the tele-end lends itself better to low-light or shallow depth-of-field work at shorter zoom lengths but lacks long-distance reach.

Macro focusing is impressive on both, reaching as close as 1 cm. Yet Canon’s more advanced autofocus system and image stabilization yield sharper, more detailed close-ups in real-world use. The SX740’s optical IS is remarkably effective at compensating for shake during telephoto macro shots, which surprised me given the sensor size.

Overall, for anyone craving extreme zoom or wildlife shooting, the Canon clearly has the upper hand.

Autofocus System and Shooting Performance

Autofocus (AF) can make or break your shooting experience. The Canon SX740 HS utilizes contrast-detection autofocus only, with face detection and tracking capabilities, delivering 10 fps continuous shooting - a respectable burst rate for compact cameras.

Samsung TL240 also relies on contrast-detection AF but without face detection and offers no continuous shooting burst mode, which limits its appeal for action or moving subjects.

Notably, the Canon supports continuous AF, meaning it can maintain focus on moving subjects more effectively during video and photo modes, whereas Samsung offers only single AF with tracking capabilities.

From my testing, the Canon’s AF performance in various conditions was markedly faster and more precise, especially in decent lighting. In low light or with fast subjects, the TL240’s AF would hunt more frequently and occasionally miss critical focus.

If you lean towards wildlife, sports, or fast-moving street photography, the SX740’s autofocus and shooting responsiveness empower you to capture fleeting moments much more reliably.

Image Stabilization: Keeping Shots Crisp on the Go

Both cameras feature optical image stabilization (OIS), essential at longer focal lengths or in dim conditions. Canon’s system benefits from recent advances integrated with its DIGIC 8 processor, providing smooth stabilization up to the extreme telephoto end, enabling sharper hand-held shots without a tripod.

Samsung’s OIS, given the TL240’s age and CCD sensor, is decent but less effective at compensating for high zoom or low shutter speeds. This correlates with my field experience where Canon produced noticeably crisper handheld pictures, particularly at 900+ mm equivalent focal lengths.

Given how easily small shakes blur images when zooming, the Canon's superior stabilization feels like a major user-experience upgrade if you shoot outdoors or on the move.

Video Capabilities: 4K and Beyond vs. HD Legacy

Canon SX740 HS ups the ante with 4K video at 30 fps in MP4/H.264 with AAC audio, making it appealing for vloggers or those wanting sharp, high-resolution clips. It also offers full HD at higher frame rates and includes features like time-lapse recording.

Samsung TL240 lags behind with maximum video resolution capped at 720p (1280x720) using Motion JPEG format and maximum 30 fps. This matches what was typical a decade ago but falls short of current standards.

Neither camera supports microphone input or headphone monitoring for audio, limiting professional video workflows, but Canon provides better overall video quality and flexibility.

If you're a hybrid shooter requiring seriously good 4K video without bulky equipment, the SX740 is your better bet.

Battery Life, Storage, and Connectivity

The Canon SX740 HS uses a rechargeable battery pack rated around 265 shots per charge. This is adequate for casual shooting but less than DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, meaning you’ll likely want to carry a spare battery for day trips.

Samsung TL240’s battery life specs are not provided, but older compacts typically offered fewer shots per charge. Importantly, the Canon supports SD/SDHC/SDXC UHS-I cards, providing fast storage with wide compatibility, whereas Samsung uses MicroSD/MicroSDHC and internal storage, which could constrain capacity.

In connectivity, Canon leads again: built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC make seamless image transfer and remote control via smartphone apps possible. Samsung TL240 lacks any wireless connectivity, requiring USB cable tethering for file transfer.

For today’s photo workflows demanding quick sharing and backup, Canon’s modern connectivity options are a major advantage.

Build Quality and Durability: Neither Built for Harsh Conditions

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged features, so both are best used with care in dry conditions.

The Canon’s slightly robust build feels more durable, though still mostly plastic. Samsung’s TL240 looks notably more delicate, a reflection of its ultra-compact class and earlier generation design.

I wouldn’t trust either in rain or dusty environments without protective accessories.

Real-World Performance Examples

To bring some of these points home, here are sample images captured with both cameras under similar conditions.

Canon SX740 HS front Canon SX740 HS screen back Samsung TL240 screen back

You’ll notice the Canon’s sharper detail rendition and better dynamic range, especially in shadows and highlights. Colors from the Canon tend to pop without looking artificial, while Samsung’s images are softer and occasionally less evenly exposed.

For portraits, Canon’s face detection helps produce pleasing reskins and crisp eyes, whereas Samsung struggles in tracking moving subjects or focusing with confidence.

How They Stack Up Across Photography Genres

Let’s place both cameras into photography disciplines to see where each shines or falls short, based on extensive testing and user feedback.

• Portrait: Canon’s advanced AF and color processing yield better skin tones and background blur (bokeh), despite small sensor constraints. Samsung lags due to limited AF and softer images.
• Landscape: Canon benefits from sharper resolution and better dynamic range. Both lack weatherproofing but Canon’s zoom range allows more versatile framing.
• Wildlife: Canon’s 40x reach and burst mode trump Samsung’s 7x zoom and no continuous shooting.
• Sports: Only Canon offers high frame rates and continuous AF needed for action capture.
• Street: Samsung’s ultra-compact form offers stealth, but Canon’s better AF and tilt screen improve shooting confidence.
• Macro: Both focus closely but Canon’s stabilization and sharper output stand out.
• Night/Astro: Canon’s higher ISO capability and stabilization yield usable low-light results; Samsung struggles here.
• Video: Canon’s 4K adds serious video capability; Samsung limited to old-school 720p.
• Travel: Canon’s all-around zoom and features suit travel versatility; Samsung excels in size and portability.
• Professional Work: Canon’s file quality and connectivity fit casual professional use better; Samsung is mostly consumer grade.

Overall Performance Rankings: Who Takes the Crown?

Bringing all test data and personal field experience together, here’s a snapshot of overall ratings (out of 10) I assign these cameras:

The Canon SX740 HS is a clear winner in almost all categories, as expected given the eight-year gap in technology and design. However, the Samsung TL240 can’t be dismissed outright where ultra-portability and simplicity are priorities on a strict budget.

Recommendations: Which Camera Should You Choose?

So, here’s my distilled advice based on your photography style, budget, and expectations:

• Choose Canon PowerShot SX740 HS if:

  • You want a versatile all-in-one superzoom for wildlife, travel, and video.
  • You value fast and accurate autofocus with face detection.
  • You need decent low-light and 4K video capability.
  • You prefer a robust handling experience with tilt screen and wireless features.
  • Your budget comfortably supports a moderately priced compact.

• Choose Samsung TL240 if:

  • You prioritize ultra-compact size and extremely lightweight gear.
  • Your photography is casual snapshots without need for manual control.
  • You shoot mostly in bright conditions with limited low-light demand.
  • 720p video is sufficient for your projects.
  • Budget is very tight and you want a simple, pocket-friendly camera.

Final Thoughts

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS clearly offers a more capable and future-proof package for enthusiasts looking for a compact superzoom camera with modern features. Its finesse in autofocus, sensor performance, and video puts it ahead in a crowded segment.

Meanwhile, the Samsung TL240, although aging and limited in many respects, remains an intriguing alternative for those needing pocketable convenience and basic photographic performance at a lower cost.

If your photographic ambitions include occasional wildlife, travel, or video work, Canon’s investment pays off. But for point-an-shoot simplicity and ultimate portability, Samsung's TL240 may still hold nostalgic appeal.

Dear Canon, please continue enhancing touchscreen interactivity in future models - the tilt screen is lovely but a touch interface would be icing on the cake.

I hope this comparison serves you well in choosing the best camera for your unique photographic journey.

Happy shooting!