Canon Powershot SX510 HS: reviews, photos and specs

The popularity of budget cameras in a compact form factor has been noticeably quieter in recent years. And even attempts by manufacturers to expand the functionality of cameras against a background of lower prices did not save the situation. Moreover, the optional advantages did not change the situation with the quality of the images in due measure. Users are more interested in the result, rather than the presence of additional settings. Still, in some areas, inexpensive compact models remain in high demand, as confirmed by the Canon Powershot SX510 HS, which is reviewed below. Developers of this version managed to combine good functionality with the price tag and good ergonomics. However, other factors contributed to the popularity of this model.

General information about the model

The development is a continuation of the concept, which was laid down in the previous version of the SX500 IS. Among the main features of the family, which allowed to win the love of fans, it is worth noting the presence of a 30-fold superzuma. Externally, the Canon Powershot SX510 HS Black is slightly different from the early modification, but significant changes have taken place in the filling. In the new version, the device acquired a simplified matrix, resulting in a reduction in the number of pixels from 16 to 12.1 million.

Despite a sharp decrease in the resolution, the device did not lose as much in the quality of the resulting images. This was facilitated by a new high-sensitivity HS system. This technology eliminates the need to use a tripod or flash while working with the Canon Powershot SX510 HS. Feedback indicates that a high-sensitivity CMOS sensor made the camera virtually independent of external conditions. This means that even with poor lighting, the operator can expect a decent quality - of course, within the capabilities of this camera.

Specifications

The model in terms of operating parameters corresponds to its closest competitors from other manufacturers and does not offer anything fundamentally new. Is that the use of proprietary technology is knocking out of the total number of cameras Canon Powershot SX510 HS. Reviews, for example, note the advantages of the device in working with zoom and focusing. The official specifications of this modification are as follows:

• The focal length is from 24 to 720 mm.
• Zoom - optical 30-fold.
• The number of pixels - 12.1 million.
• The resolution of the BSI CMOS matrix is 4000x3000.
• The sensitivity is from 100 to 3 200 ISO.
• The flash is up to 5 m.
• Screen characteristics - LCD with a diagonal of 3 inches.
• Memory cards - supports SD, SDXC, SDHC formats.
• Interfaces - USB, HDMI, audio outputs, Wi-Fi connection.
• The number of pictures on one battery charge is 250.
• The dimensions of the camera are 10.4x7x8 cm.
• Weight - 349 gr.

Design and ergonomics

Externally, the camera looks solid and even nudges the association with a professional SLR. Although the model is positioned as a compact camera, against the background of other representatives of the segment, it stands out in massive sizes. In addition, the case has an irregular shape, which also adds an originality to the overall image of the Canon Powershot SX510 HS. Black color in this case does not create a sense of cheap product, but on the contrary - makes the camera more presentable. As for management, it is implemented by traditional mechanical elements. I must say that the massiveness affected the mass, so it's difficult to talk about ease in manipulating the device. Rescue the situation of simple settings that are represented by a wheel, trigger and conveniently located buttons.

Shooting Quality

With average operating parameters and a low number of pixels, the device provides a good result of shooting. Partly this contributes to the possibility of automatic adjustment of photosensitivity, although here everything is not perfect. For example, evening landscapes with good detail can leave a "grain" in the pictures. It should be noted and the advantages of zoom, which is supplied by Canon Powershot SX510 HS. The instruction notes that the lens has 13 optical elements that work with a 30-fold approximation. Thanks to such equipment, the device can be very useful in the hands of the traveler when taking panoramas and landscapes. However, of course, there is no need to speak about the quality of the images by the standards of professional models. The creators were able to squeeze the maximum out of the possibilities of a modest matrix, but this model could not go beyond the level of the budget device.

Positive feedback about the camera

The opinions of users about the merits of the camera are quite diverse. There is an unusual and attractive design, a well-thought-out configuration of controls, balanced settings without unnecessary useless options, and an overall decent quality of images. But here we must bear in mind that Canon Powershot SX510 HS camera is mainly used by inexperienced amateurs and beginners, who are undemanding in shooting capabilities. From the perspective of professionals, this is an entry-level model, which, however, looks good against the background of other representatives of the class. And do not forget about the price tag of the device in 10-12 thousand rubles. For the features that this model has, the cost is very attractive. The presence of a 30-fold zoom and a wide range of photosensitivity still can not boast of every device of this level.

Negative feedback

Many users criticize the camera for an outdated matrix of 12.1 megapixels. Perhaps, this drawback is the main factor that did not allow the model to rise above the budget level. There are also complaints about the Canon Powershot SX510 HS battery. Testimonials for comparison give analogues from other manufacturers of compact amateur cameras, which are characterized by more continuous work in the offline mode. A separate place in criticism is taken directly and shooting, but with drawbacks of this kind have to be reconciled, since it is not necessary to wait for more from the model from the lower link. There are improvements on a number of parameters, but at the heart of the technical stuffing is able to provide at best an average level of quality.

Conclusion

Increasing the requirements for cameras in the budget segment forces producers to make concessions in prices and, if possible, improve the performance of these products. Not always perfecting affects the basic characteristics, which was shown by the example of Canon Powershot SX510 HS. Reviews about this camera focus on secondary parameters, leaving the modest quality of the pictures behind the brackets by default. For example, there is a solid design and implementation of new options, but the capabilities of the matrix are perceived as an unchanging entity for the device from the budget group. On the other hand, against the backdrop of compact, low-cost cameras, this proposal looks quite attractive - especially for unpretentious newcomers.