Best Reviewed
Digital Cameras (Ultra-Zoom)
- Best ultra-zoom digital camera Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V *Est. $340
- Budget ultra-zoom digital camera Canon PowerShot SX130 IS *Est. $200
- Extreme-zoom camera Canon PowerShot SX40 HS *Est. $395
- Best compact ultra-zoom camera Canon PowerShot SX230 HS *Est. $190
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Budget ultra-zoom digital camera
- Very good image quality
- HD video with stereo sound
- Manual settings in addition to auto modes
- Long shutter lag
- Bulky design
- Short battery life
The Canon PowerShot SX130 IS, successor to the very popular SX120 IS, has a 12x zoom and shoots 720p HD video in stereo sound. Reviewers praise the SX130 for delivering excellent image quality and a strong feature set at a reasonable price. CNET reviewer Joshua Goldman says the SX130 is a good choice for anyone who wants more creative control over their photos since it offers shutter priority, aperture priority and manual modes. The SX130 also features creative modes including a fish-eye effect and Smart Shutter mode (camera snaps shot when it detects a smile).
The 12x optical zoom lens (35 mm equivalent: 28 mm to 336 mm) can be used when shooting video, though experts warn that the microphone will pick up the sound of the zoom motor. The SX130 is powered by two alkaline batteries, which add to the overall weight of the camera and don't last long. Experts recommend using rechargeable NiMH batteries. The biggest complaint we read about the SX130 is a slow shutter speed; however, experts are quick to add it is on par with other cameras in this class.
We found helpful reviews on dedicated photo sites including PhotographyBlog.com and Steves-Digicams.com. CNET editors also give good insight. Many consumers post reviews on Amazon.com.
| Canon PowerShot SX130IS 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 12x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD | |
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Our Sources
Blogger Mark Goldman gives a very detailed review of the Canon PowerShot SX130 IS, comparing it to the earlier SX120 IS. His review includes sample images and video. Overall, he says that while the design of the camera may be a little bulky and have fewer features than some of its competitors, the SX130 IS "undoubtedly offers fantastic value for money for such a big-brand camera."
Review: Canon PowerShot SX130IS Review, Mark Goldman, Nov. 12, 2010
Editor Steve Sanders lists pros and cons and gives a detailed summary of his conclusions about the Canon PowerShot SX130 IS. He says the camera is "great for anyone that is looking for great quality at an affordable price."
Review: Canon PowerShot SX130 IS Review, Oct. 5, 2010
Jim Keenan gives a thorough and organized review of the Canon PowerShot SX130IS including sample photos, images of the camera and a sample video clip. Keenan calls the SX130 "a worthy new competitor in the superzoom ranks."
Review: Canon PowerShot SX130 IS Review, Jim Keenan, Sept. 16, 2010
4. CNET
CNET gives a short video review along with a longer written evaluation. Joshua Goldman says the SX130 IS has excellent picture quality and plenty of features for anyone who wants to get creative. His only complaint about the camera is slow shutter speed but he says it's comparable to other cameras in this price range.
Review: Canon PowerShot SX130 IS, Joshua Goldman, Oct. 27, 2010
LetsGoDigital.com provides a short, easy to read overview with sample, downloadable photos shot with the Canon SX130 IS. This is more of an explanation of features than an actual review.
Review: Canon PowerShot SX130 IS Review, Dennis Hissink, Sept. 13, 2010
6. Amazon.com
Over 280 customers post their opinions about the Canon PowerShot SX130 IS on Amazon.com giving it an overall score of 4 out of 5. Several reviews are very detailed and compare the SX130 to other models. Users are generally happy with picture quality and like the wide range of features and settings. Negatives include reports of poor battery life and disappointment that video clips are limited to 10 minutes.
Review: Canon PowerShot SX130IS, Contributors to Amazon.com
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