TThe Canon PowerShot SX200 IS is relatively compact for its huge zoom range. We like the curved design of the solidly built camera body, and controls and buttons are well placed and easy to operate. When we first turned on the camera, we were surprised to see the flash popping up automatically - it stays up even when Flash is off. However, we got used to it very quickly - not bothersome or distracting at all.
 
While some photographers really like extra-wide angle lenses, we think 28mm or 30mm is better for general photography, showing subjects more clearly. The zoom range, 28-336 mm, of this lens is versatile for anything from landscape to paparazzi-friendly telephoto.
 
As with many PowerShots, the SX200 IS has full manual exposure and manual focus modes, which we really appreciate. Unlike other PowerShots, the FUNC. menu of this camera has a new and different look, which actually makes it a little harder to use.
 
We enjoy using this camera, which is a very capable performer. But it has two serious competitors in the Lumix ZS1 and Lumix ZS3, since both have excellent optical video zoom, which the SX200 IS lacks.

 

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HIGH

• responsive
• very good image quality
• compact, attractive, well built body
• good, versatile 28-336mm zoom lens
• effective optical image stabilization
• 720p HD video
• excellent 3.0" LCD
• full manual exposure mode
• manual focus mode

 

MIND

• FUNC. menu can be better
• video zoom is not optical

WISE

• very good and capable travel camera