Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Review: Is It a Travel Must-Have?

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS stands as one of the most impressive compact super-zoom cameras available today. This pocket-friendly powerhouse packs extraordinary features that make it perfect for travel photographers and casual users alike.

With its remarkable 40x optical zoom range and advanced imaging capabilities, this camera transforms how you capture distant subjects and precious moments.

Canon has refined their compact camera technology significantly with the SX740 HS. The camera offers professional-grade features in a surprisingly compact body.

Key Takeaways

• Exceptional 40x optical zoom extends from 24-960mm equivalent, providing incredible reach for wildlife and distant subjects while maintaining image quality
• Advanced DIGIC 8 processor enables 4K video recording at 30fps and burst shooting up to 10 frames per second for capturing fast-moving action
• Compact and lightweight design weighs only 299 grams, making it perfect for travel without sacrificing performance or image quality
• Flip-up LCD screen rotates 180 degrees for easy selfie shooting and creative low-angle photography compositions
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity allows instant photo sharing and remote camera control through smartphone apps
• Optical Image Stabilization effectively reduces camera shake even at maximum zoom for sharp handheld photography

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Overview

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS represents Canon’s commitment to delivering professional camera features in an ultra-portable package. This camera excels as both a travel companion and everyday photography tool. Canon designed this model specifically for users who demand versatility without compromising on image quality.

The SX740 HS builds upon Canon’s successful compact camera heritage. Canon incorporated feedback from photographers worldwide to create a camera that addresses real-world shooting challenges. The result is a sophisticated imaging device that fits comfortably in your pocket yet delivers results comparable to much larger cameras.

Professional photographers appreciate the manual exposure controls available on this compact camera. The camera provides full PASM (Program, Aperture, Shutter, Manual) exposure modes. These advanced controls give experienced photographers creative freedom while automatic modes assist beginners in achieving excellent results effortlessly.

The camera’s 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor captures detailed images with excellent color reproduction. Canon optimized this sensor specifically for the compact form factor. The sensor works seamlessly with the DIGIC 8 processor to deliver fast autofocus performance and reduced noise levels in various lighting conditions.

Design and Build Quality

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS impresses with its premium build quality despite its compact dimensions. Canon used high-quality materials throughout the construction. The camera feels solid and well-balanced in hand, instilling confidence during extended shooting sessions.

Ergonomic considerations heavily influenced the design process. The camera features a comfortable grip that provides secure handling even during one-handed operation. The control layout positions frequently used buttons within easy reach of your thumb and forefinger. This thoughtful design reduces the learning curve for new users.

Canon offers the SX740 HS in both black and silver finishes. Both color options feature an attractive premium appearance that complements the camera’s advanced capabilities. The silver model particularly appeals to users who prefer a classic camera aesthetic.

The camera’s compact footprint measures approximately 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.6 inches. This size allows the camera to fit comfortably in jacket pockets or small camera bags. Despite its small size, Canon didn’t compromise on button placement or screen size, maintaining usability standards.

Weather resistance considerations make this camera suitable for various shooting conditions. While not fully weather-sealed, the camera handles moderate environmental challenges well. Users should exercise normal precautions in dusty or humid environments to ensure optimal performance.

Image Quality and Sensor Performance

The heart of the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS lies in its advanced imaging system. The 20.3-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor delivers impressive image quality across various shooting scenarios. This sensor size represents the optimal balance between image quality and compact camera design.

Canon’s DIGIC 8 image processor works in perfect harmony with the sensor. This powerful processor enables advanced computational photography features. The processor significantly improves autofocus speed and accuracy compared to previous generations. Real-world performance shows noticeably faster subject tracking and reduced shutter lag.

Color reproduction on the SX740 HS showcases Canon’s renowned color science. Images display natural, pleasing colors straight from the camera. Canon’s processing algorithms particularly excel at skin tones and landscape photography. The camera maintains color accuracy across different lighting conditions.

Low-light performance impresses for a camera in this class. The sensor handles ISO settings up to 3200 reasonably well. Noise levels remain controlled at moderate ISO settings, though performance naturally decreases at maximum sensitivity. The optical image stabilization system significantly helps in low-light handheld shooting.

Dynamic range capabilities allow the camera to capture detail in both shadows and highlights. Canon’s intelligent exposure optimization automatically adjusts settings to preserve important image detail. This feature proves particularly valuable in challenging lighting conditions like backlit subjects.

40x Optical Zoom Lens Performance

The standout feature of the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is undoubtedly its remarkable 40x optical zoom lens. This lens provides an equivalent focal length range of 24-960mm in 35mm terms. Such extensive zoom capability transforms your photography possibilities dramatically.

Wide-angle capabilities at 24mm equivalent capture expansive landscapes and large group photos effectively. The lens performs admirably at the wide end with minimal distortion. Interior photography benefits greatly from this generous wide-angle coverage, allowing you to capture entire rooms comfortably.

The telephoto reach extends to 960mm equivalent, bringing distant subjects incredibly close. Wildlife photographers particularly appreciate this extensive reach for capturing birds and animals from respectful distances. Sports photographers find the zoom range invaluable for following action across large venues.

Optical image stabilization proves essential at longer focal lengths. Canon’s IS system effectively counteracts camera shake, enabling sharp handheld photography even at maximum zoom. The stabilization system adapts automatically to different focal lengths, optimizing performance throughout the zoom range.

Lens sharpness remains impressive throughout the zoom range. Peak sharpness occurs around the 100-300mm equivalent range, though the entire zoom range delivers acceptable results. Some softness appears at extreme telephoto settings, which is typical for this class of camera.

The Zoom Framing Assist feature helps users maintain subject tracking at long focal lengths. When activated, this feature temporarily zooms out to help locate and center subjects before returning to the selected zoom position. This innovative feature significantly improves usability at extreme telephoto settings.

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4K Video Recording Capabilities

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS introduces 4K video recording as a major upgrade over its predecessor. The camera captures 4K footage at 30 frames per second with good detail and color reproduction. This capability elevates the camera’s appeal for content creators and video enthusiasts.

However, 4K recording comes with limitations that users should understand. The camera applies a significant crop factor in 4K mode, effectively reducing the wide-angle capability. This crop factor makes the effective focal length longer but may limit creative options for certain shots.

1080p video recording offers more flexibility with full sensor width utilization. The camera supports various frame rates including 60p for smooth motion capture. The full sensor readout in 1080p mode provides the complete zoom range without additional cropping.

Video stabilization performs admirably across different recording modes. Electronic image stabilization works alongside the optical stabilization to deliver smooth footage. This dual stabilization system proves particularly effective when walking while recording or shooting handheld at longer focal lengths.

Audio recording quality meets expectations for a compact camera. The built-in stereo microphones capture clear sound in quiet environments. Wind noise reduction helps maintain audio quality during outdoor recording sessions.

Continuous Shooting and Autofocus Performance

The DIGIC 8 processor enables impressive burst shooting capabilities of up to 10 frames per second. This performance represents a significant improvement over the previous generation. Action photographers can capture decisive moments with greater success rates.

Autofocus speed and accuracy have improved substantially with the new processor. The camera locks onto subjects more quickly and maintains focus tracking better. Single-point autofocus works reliably in good lighting conditions.

The camera offers multiple autofocus area modes to suit different shooting scenarios. Face detection works well for portrait photography. The tracking autofocus attempts to follow moving subjects but performs better with slower-moving targets.

Buffer capacity allows for extended burst sequences before the camera slows down. JPEG files can be captured continuously for several seconds. RAW file recording is not available, which limits post-processing flexibility but keeps the camera accessible to casual users.

Pre-focus capabilities help reduce shutter lag in critical shooting situations. Half-pressing the shutter button maintains focus lock, enabling faster response when the decisive moment arrives.

Connectivity Features and Smart Functions

Modern connectivity options make the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS highly versatile for sharing and remote control applications. Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth enable seamless smartphone integration. These wireless capabilities eliminate the need for cables in most sharing scenarios.

The Canon Camera Connect app provides comprehensive remote control functionality. Users can adjust camera settings, compose shots, and trigger the shutter remotely. This app proves particularly valuable for self-portraits and group photos where camera positioning is challenging.

Automatic image transfer functions can send selected photos to your smartphone while shooting. This background transfer capability ensures important shots are immediately available for sharing on social media. The automatic transfer feature works reliably without significantly impacting battery life.

Bluetooth connectivity enables constant low-power connection with your smartphone. This connection automatically activates WiFi when needed, streamlining the connection process. GPS data from your phone can be embedded in image files for location tracking.

The camera supports direct printing to compatible wireless printers. Canon’s SELPHY series printers work seamlessly with the SX740 HS for immediate photo printing. This capability appeals to users who prefer physical prints of their favorite images.

Battery Life and Storage Options

Battery performance on the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS provides adequate shooting capacity for typical use. The included NB-13L lithium-ion battery delivers approximately 265 shots per charge under CIPA testing conditions. Real-world performance varies based on usage patterns and feature utilization.

Power management features help extend battery life during extended shooting sessions. The camera automatically adjusts screen brightness and enters sleep mode to conserve power. WiFi usage significantly impacts battery life, so users should disable wireless features when not needed.

The camera accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards with UHS-I compatibility. High-speed cards improve performance when shooting burst sequences or recording 4K video. A Class 10 or UHS Speed Class 1 card is recommended for optimal performance.

USB charging capability adds convenience for travel photography. The camera can be charged using standard USB power sources including power banks. This flexibility eliminates the need to carry a separate charger for short trips.

Storage capacity requirements vary based on shooting preferences. JPEG files typically range from 3-8MB depending on compression settings and scene complexity. 4K video files consume significantly more storage space, requiring larger capacity cards for extended recording.

User Interface and Menu System

Canon designed the user interface with accessibility and ease of use as primary considerations. The menu system follows Canon’s established conventions, making it familiar to users of other Canon cameras. New users find the logical menu organization easy to navigate.

The 3.0-inch LCD screen provides clear image preview and menu navigation. Screen brightness automatically adjusts to ambient conditions for optimal visibility. The 922k-dot resolution delivers sharp menu text and detailed image review capabilities.

Touch functionality is absent from the SX740 HS interface. All navigation relies on physical buttons which some users prefer for reliable operation. The control wheel and navigation buttons provide precise menu navigation even while wearing gloves.

Customizable function buttons allow users to assign frequently used settings for quick access. The custom function button can be programmed with various camera functions. This customization capability improves shooting efficiency for experienced photographers.

Scene modes offer automated optimization for common shooting scenarios. These modes adjust multiple camera settings simultaneously for optimal results. The scene mode selection covers most typical photography situations including portraits, landscapes, and macro photography.

Low Light Photography Performance

Low light capabilities represent an important consideration for any compact camera. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS performs reasonably well in challenging lighting conditions for its sensor size. The camera’s maximum ISO sensitivity reaches 3200, though optimal image quality occurs at lower settings.

Optical image stabilization proves invaluable for handheld low light photography. The IS system allows for slower shutter speeds without motion blur. Users can often achieve sharp images at shutter speeds 2-3 stops slower than normally possible.

The camera’s automatic ISO adjustment works intelligently to balance image quality and motion blur prevention. The auto ISO upper limit can be customized to prevent excessive noise levels. This flexibility allows users to prioritize either image quality or motion-stopping capability.

Noise reduction algorithms help maintain acceptable image quality at higher ISO settings. Canon’s processing preserves detail reasonably well while controlling noise levels. Results remain usable for web sharing and small prints even at maximum ISO settings.

Flash performance provides adequate illumination for nearby subjects. The built-in flash offers several modes including auto, forced on, and red-eye reduction. Flash range covers approximately 10-15 feet depending on zoom setting and ISO sensitivity.

Macro Photography Capabilities

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS excels at close-up photography with impressive macro capabilities. The camera can focus as close as 1cm from the subject in macro mode. This extreme close-focus ability opens up opportunities for detailed nature photography and product shots.

Macro mode activation automatically adjusts camera settings for optimal close-up performance. The camera selects appropriate aperture and shutter speed settings. Users can override these automatic selections when creative control is desired.

Working distance becomes critically important in macro photography with this camera. The 1cm minimum focus distance requires careful positioning to avoid casting shadows with the camera body. External lighting may be necessary for optimal macro illumination.

Depth of field control in macro mode requires understanding of aperture effects. Smaller apertures increase depth of field but may introduce diffraction softening. Finding the optimal balance between depth of field and sharpness requires experimentation.

The zoom lens provides variable magnification ratios throughout the focal length range. Maximum magnification occurs at the telephoto end of the zoom range. This flexibility allows users to adjust composition without changing camera position significantly.

Portrait and People Photography

Portrait photography capabilities make the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS excellent for family and social photography. The camera’s face detection system reliably identifies and focuses on human faces in most lighting conditions. This automatic face detection significantly improves portrait success rates.

The flip-up LCD screen proves invaluable for self-portraits and group photos. The screen rotates 180 degrees to face forward, enabling easy self-composition. This feature particularly appeals to social media content creators and travel photographers.

Portrait mode optimization automatically adjusts settings for flattering people photography. The camera selects appropriate aperture settings to blur backgrounds while maintaining sharp focus on subjects. Color processing emphasizes natural, pleasing skin tones.

The 24-960mm zoom range provides excellent framing flexibility for portrait photography. Wide-angle settings accommodate group photos while telephoto settings enable flattering individual portraits from comfortable distances. This versatility eliminates the need to move physically to achieve desired framing.

Red-eye reduction features help minimize the common flash photography problem. The camera’s pre-flash system effectively reduces red-eye occurrences in most situations. Additional post-processing correction is available through Canon’s software if needed.

Sports and Action Photography

Action photography capabilities on the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS benefit from improved autofocus performance and burst shooting. The 10 fps continuous shooting mode captures multiple frames of fast-moving subjects. This burst capability increases chances of capturing peak action moments.

Subject tracking autofocus attempts to follow moving subjects across the frame. Performance varies with subject size, contrast, and movement predictability. Larger, high-contrast subjects track more reliably than small or low-contrast targets.

The extensive zoom range provides excellent reach for sports photography from spectator areas. The 960mm equivalent telephoto reach brings distant action close enough for detailed capture. Image stabilization helps maintain sharpness when following moving subjects.

Shutter priority mode gives photographers control over motion blur effects. Fast shutter speeds freeze action while slower speeds can create motion blur for artistic effect. The camera’s automatic ISO adjustment maintains proper exposure across different shutter speed selections.

Pre-focusing techniques help reduce shutter lag for critical moments. Anticipating action and maintaining half-pressed shutter button keeps the camera ready for instant capture. This technique proves particularly valuable for unpredictable action scenarios.

Travel Photography Excellence

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS excels as a comprehensive travel photography solution. The camera’s compact size and extensive zoom range eliminate the need for multiple lenses. This single-camera solution significantly reduces travel weight and complexity.

Versatility across shooting scenarios makes the SX740 HS ideal for varied travel photography. The wide-angle capability captures expansive landscapes and architecture. The telephoto reach enables wildlife photography and detailed shots of distant subjects.

Weather resistance considerations make the camera suitable for various travel conditions. While not fully weatherproof, the camera handles moderate environmental challenges reasonably well. Basic precautions protect the camera in most travel situations.

Battery life optimization becomes crucial during extended travel photography sessions. Power management features help extend shooting capacity. USB charging capability provides flexibility when traditional charging options are unavailable.

The camera’s automatic scene recognition helps optimize settings for common travel photography scenarios. These intelligent modes adjust camera parameters for optimal results in various conditions. New photographers particularly benefit from these automated optimization features.

Comparison with Competitors

When comparing the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS to its main competitors, several key differences emerge. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99 offers a built-in electronic viewfinder but provides shorter zoom range at 30x optical zoom. Sony’s camera excels in low light performance but costs more than the Canon.

The Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS70 provides RAW file support and touch screen controls that the Canon lacks. Panasonic’s camera offers similar zoom range and includes a built-in viewfinder. However, the Canon provides longer zoom reach and generally better image stabilization.

Price positioning places the SX740 HS competitively in the super-zoom compact market. Canon offers excellent value considering the feature set and build quality. The camera provides professional features at accessible pricing levels.

Brand ecosystem considerations may influence purchasing decisions. Canon users benefit from familiarity with menu systems and control layouts. Software compatibility and accessory availability also favor the Canon ecosystem.

Market positioning shows the SX740 HS targeting mainstream photographers who want advanced features without complexity. This approach makes the camera appealing to a broad audience range from beginners to experienced enthusiasts.

Pros and Cons Analysis

Advantages of the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS include:

The impressive 40x optical zoom provides unmatched reach in this size category. Image stabilization works exceptionally well throughout the zoom range. Build quality exceeds expectations for the price point. 4K video recording adds modern content creation capabilities.

Wireless connectivity features integrate seamlessly with smartphones. The flip-up LCD screen enhances selfie photography and creative compositions. User interface remains intuitive for photographers of all skill levels. Battery life provides adequate capacity for typical shooting sessions.

Limitations include:

4K video recording applies a significant crop factor that limits wide-angle capability. The camera lacks RAW file support that advanced photographers desire. No built-in electronic viewfinder reduces usability in bright sunlight. Touch screen controls are absent from the interface design.

High ISO performance shows limitations typical of small sensor cameras. The camera lacks weather sealing for challenging environmental conditions. Autofocus tracking performance lags behind premium competitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS support RAW file format?

No, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS does not support RAW file recording. The camera captures images in JPEG format only with various quality settings available. This limitation may disappoint advanced photographers who prefer RAW files for extensive post-processing flexibility. However, the high-quality JPEG processing produces excellent results for most users.

How does the image quality compare between 4K and 1080p video modes?

4K video provides higher resolution but applies a significant crop factor that reduces the effective wide-angle coverage. The crop factor makes the lens appear longer but limits compositional flexibility. 1080p video utilizes the full sensor width, providing the complete zoom range without cropping. For most users, 1080p offers better versatility while 4K provides higher detail when needed.

Can I use the camera while it’s charging via USB?

Yes, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS supports USB charging while in operation. This capability proves valuable during extended shooting sessions or when using the camera for extended video recording. However, charging speed may be slower when the camera is actively in use. Using a high-capacity power bank enables extended operation without interruption.

What memory card speed is recommended for optimal performance?

Canon recommends using Class 10 or UHS Speed Class 1 memory cards for optimal performance. These high-speed cards ensure smooth operation during burst shooting and 4K video recording. Slower cards may cause buffer delays or recording interruptions. For best results, choose reputable brands like SanDisk, Lexar, or Canon’s own memory cards.

How effective is the image stabilization at maximum zoom?

The optical image stabilization system works remarkably well even at the maximum 960mm equivalent focal length. Users can typically achieve sharp handheld photos at shutter speeds 2-3 stops slower than normally possible. However, proper hand-holding technique remains important for optimal results. The Zoom Framing Assist feature helps maintain subject tracking at extreme telephoto settings.

Is the camera suitable for professional photography work?

While the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS offers advanced features and excellent image quality, it’s primarily designed for enthusiast and travel photography. Professional photographers may find limitations in low light performance, lack of RAW support, and overall image quality compared to larger sensor cameras. However, the camera excels as a backup camera or for situations where discretion and portability are priorities.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS represents an excellent balance of features, performance, and portability in the compact super-zoom category. Its impressive 40x optical zoom, 4K video capabilities, and user-friendly design make it an outstanding choice for travel photographers, family documenting, and photography enthusiasts who value convenience without sacrificing image quality. While it has some limitations typical of its class, the SX740 HS delivers exceptional value and versatility for its intended market.

Last update on 2025-12-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API