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Canon PowerShot SX230 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 14x Image Stabilized Zoom 28mm Wide-Angle Lens and 1080p Full-HD Video (Black) (OLD MODEL)
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Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | Canon |
Model Name | Canon PowerShot SX230 HS |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12.1 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | 1/2.3-inch |
Image Stabilization | Optical |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/3200 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 15 seconds |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Exposure Control Type | Automatic |
Form Factor | Compact |
About this item
- Canon's HS SYSTEM with a 12.1 MP CMOS and DIGIC 4 Image Processor
- Full 1080p HD Video for exceptional quality with stereo sound, plus a dedicated movie button for easy access
- Remember where you were and when your pictures were taken with a GPS tracker that records your location, and a logger
- Powerful 14x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer and a 28mm Wide-Angle lens.
- Smart AUTO intelligently selects the proper settings for the camera based on 32 predefined shooting situations
- 12.1 effective megapixels, 1/2.3-inch high-sensitivity CMOS; 14x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom
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This Item Canon PowerShot SX230 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 14x Image Stabilized Zoom 28mm Wide-Angle Lens and 1080p Full-HD Video (Black) (OLD MODEL) | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $229.00$229.00 | $149.95$149.95 | -10% $89.99$89.99 List: $99.99 | $99.00$99.00 | $89.99$89.99 | $59.99$59.99 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | — | — | — | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Monday, Apr 1 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Zoom | 4.1 | 3.8 | 3.9 | 3.9 | 4.4 | 4.6 |
Easy to use | — | 4.1 | 2.4 | 2.4 | 4.6 | 4.5 |
Picture quality | — | 3.8 | 3.9 | 3.9 | 4.4 | 4.6 |
Image stabilization | 3.9 | 4.0 | — | — | 4.0 | — |
Auto focus | 3.6 | — | — | — | 4.3 | 4.7 |
Sold By | TxPrime USA | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | MCJMFG | Jckduhan-US |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD |
display size | 3 inches | 2.7 inches | — | — | — | 2.8 inches |
lens type | zoom | Wide Angle | Wide Angle | Wide Angle | Macro | Macro |
zoom type | Optical Zoom, Digital Zoom | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom | Digital Zoom | Digital Zoom |
shooting modes | Scene | Automatic, Portrait, Landscape, Macro | Easy | Easy | Manual | Automatic, Easy |
connectivity tech | HDMI, USB | USB | USB | USB | Micro USB | USB |
What's in the box
Looking for specific info?
Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Center, Face Detection, Tracking, Multi-area, Single, Continuous, Live View, Contrast Detection |
---|---|
Display Resolution Maximum | 461,000 |
Photo Sensor Size | 1/2.3-inch |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Effective Still Resolution | 12.1 |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 12.1 MP |
White balance settings | Auto, Custom, Shade, Flash torch |
JPEG quality level | Fine |
Camera Flash | Built-In |
Image Stabilization | Optical |
Video Capture Format | AVC |
Video Capture Resolution | FHD 1080p |
Video Standard | MPEG 4 |
Viewfinder Type | Optical |
---|---|
Screen Size | 3 Inches |
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Fixed |
Batteries Required? | Yes |
---|---|
Number of Batteries | 2 AAA batteries required. |
Are Batteries Included | No |
Rechargeable Battery Included | No |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Description | Lithium Ion |
Battery Weight | 22 Grams |
Battery Life | 210 Photos |
Target Gender | Unisex |
Digital Scene Transition | zoom |
Connectivity Technology | USB, HDMI |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 3.2 |
Wireless Communication Technology | EyeFi |
Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC/MMCplus/HC MMCplus |
Memory Slots Available | 1 |
Special Feature | Travel |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Skill Level | Professional |
Specific Uses For Product | Photography |
Form Factor | Compact |
Hardware Interface | USB |
Audio Recording | No |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
GPS | Built-In |
Lens Type | zoom |
---|---|
Optical Zoom | 14 x |
Digital Zoom | 4 x |
Zoom Type | Digital Zoom, Optical Zoom |
Autofocus Points | 9 |
Camera Lens Description | 28 Mm |
Compatible Mountings | Canon RF |
Focus Type | Autofocus & Manual |
Maximum Focal Length | 392 Millimeters |
Minimum Focal Length | 28 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 3200 |
---|---|
Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/3200 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 15 seconds |
Exposure Control Type | Automatic |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Shooting Modes | Scene |
Model Name | Canon PowerShot SX230 HS |
---|---|
Brand | Canon |
Model Number | 5043B001 |
Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #59,666 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #365 in Digital Point & Shoot Cameras |
ASIN | B004J3YCGM |
Number of Items | 1 |
Color | Black |
Included Components | Tripod |
Specification Met | No |
Assembly Required | No |
Age Range (Description) | Kid |
Processor Description | DIGIC 4 with iSAPS technology |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.3 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 7.87 ounces |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Product Description
Product Description
Travel the world with the new PowerShot SX230 HS digital camera. It's the first Canon PowerShot to come with GPS technology that'll automatically tag your photos with time and locations. You can even view all the photos' locations on a map by using special bundled software. And with amazing features, such as the HS SYSTEM, 12.1 Megapixels, 14x Wide-Angle Optical Zoom and 1080p Full HD Video, the stylish PowerShot SX230 HS is your essential traveling companion.Experience the Power.
From the Manufacturer
Experience the Power.
Canon's HS SYSTEM with a 12.1 Megapixel CMOS and DIGIC 4 Image Processor improves shooting in low-light situations without the need for a flash and lowers noise levels at higher ISO settings.The Canon HS SYSTEM takes the frustration out of low light shooting. The system delivers clear, blur-free shots with all the ambiance intact, and frees you from the sometimes unwanted effects of using the flash. Beautiful low light shots are possible at both low and high ISO speeds, and the dynamic range is expanded to retain maximum detail in highlight and shadow areas.
The system is the result of two technologies brought together in a compact PowerShot. The first is the 12.1 Megapixel CMOS Sensor, which positions the light-receiving surface for optimal light reception. More light means clearer, blur-free images with plenty of detail and nuance, even in dark areas. Working together with the CMOS sensor to deliver the HS SYSTEM is Canon's advanced DIGIC 4 Image Processor, which actively reduces noise and delivers high speed image processing.
Memorable Moments in Spectacular Full HD.
Full 1080p HD Video for exceptional quality with stereo sound, plus a dedicated movie button for easy access. Zoom optically while shooting video and keep footage stabilized with Dynamic IS.Experiencing the brilliance of Full 1080p HD video in a Canon PowerShot ELPH digital camera has never been easier. With the convenient dedicated movie button, you'll be able to instantly record everyday moments in amazing life-like realism at a push of a button. You can also operate the optical zoom while shooting video so you can get in close–but don't worry about shaky footage because Dynamic IS will help keep your videos steady!
The Ideal Travel Companion.
Remember where you were and when your pictures were taken with a GPS tracker that records your location, and a logger lets you view the locations on a map via Canon's software.
The new PowerShot SX230 HS digital camera is the first PowerShot digital camera to come equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS)* technology. Now you can travel the world and let the camera automatically record the locations and local times of your stills and videos for you to vividly remember time and time again! You can also maximize the usefulness of this GPS technology by using the special bundled Map Utility software that makes sharing the memories of your worldly adventures very fun. Besides displaying all your photos' locations on a world map, the SX230 HS digital camera's GPS system can also track your route from photo to photo–a great way to visualize how much you've traveled during a particular trip! You can also create and share custom maps–like a personal mini-travel guide!–with friends and family members to give them ideas on what to see and do when they visit a particular destination.
* In certain countries and regions, the use of GPS may be restricted. Therefore, be sure to use GPS in accordance with the laws and regulations of your country or region. Be particularly careful when traveling outside your home country.
As a signal is received from GPS satellites, take sufficient measures when using in locations where the use of electronics is regulated.
This software uses Google Map for displaying maps.
Incredible Zooming Power.Powerful 14x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer and a 28mm Wide-Angle lens. Great overall zoom for a family vacation to your favorite tourist destination.
A powerful 14x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer and a 28mm Wide-Angle lens provides a wide range of shooting possibilities that are great for traveling and everyday photography. The versatile 14x Optical Zoom will let you get the shot you want, whether it's a close-up or a subject that's far away. An ultra wide lens will let you photograph large groups, beautiful landscape and tall buildings, while the Optical Image Stabilizer will help keep images steady and clear.
Advanced Smart AUTO for Stills and Videos that Shine.
Smart AUTO intelligently selects the proper settings for the camera based on 32 predefined shooting situations.
The PowerShot SX230 HS digital camera takes the quality of your still images and videos to a whole new level - automatically. The camera's advanced Smart AUTO system detects a wealth of information about the scene you're shooting, then automatically selects the optimal settings for you. Now with an expanded range of 32 shooting scenarios, the camera handles a wide variety of situations, freeing you up to concentrate on composing your shot and capturing the moment you're looking for. From portraits to landscapes to action scenes, the PowerShot SX230 HS digital camera has you covered whether you're shooting stills or videos.
- Smart AUTO
The camera automatically selects the best shooting settings for optimal quality based on subjects and environmental factors to provide point-and-shoot simplicity. - P Program
Access advanced exposure compensation features while shooting mostly automatically. - Av Aperture-priority
You define the aperture to either isolate your subject or have clarity throughout the entire picture, and the camera will choose the corresponding shutter speed. - Tv Shutter-priority
You select the shutter speed to stop or blur action, and the camera finds the appropriate aperture. With slow exposure times, Canon's noise reduction system activates to ensure low image noise. - Movie Digest Mode
Records a video clip before capturing a still image and then combines one day's worth of clips into a video. - Portrait
The camera sets a large aperture, focusing the subject and artistically blurring the background to make your subject pop. - Kids & Pets
Reduced focusing time freezes fast-moving subjects, so you won't miss those special shots. - Smart Shutter
The camera automatically takes the photo when people smile, wink, or get into frame. - High-speed Burst
The camera shoots continuously at a high speed of approx. 8.2fps while you hold down the shutter. - Best Image Selection
The camera takes five photos in succession, and then chooses the best one out of the bunch. - Handheld Night Scene
Suppresses image blur even without the help of a tripod. - Low Light
For high quality image capture in an amazing range of dimly-lit situations. - Fisheye Effect
Add a classic photo distortion without a fisheye lens. - Miniature Effect for Movies & Stills
Emphasizes perspective for a miniature effect by blurring upper and bottom portions of videos and stills. - Toy Camera Effect
Simulates photos taken with "toy" or pinhole cameras, darkening the image at the edges to create a vignette effect. - Creative Light Effect
Transform background bright spots to stars, hearts, music motes and more. - Monochrome
Choose from three single-tone effects: Black-and-White, Sepia, or Blue. - Super Vivid
Super Vivid intensifies existing hues, saturating the scene with bright colors. - Poster Effect
Poster Effect combines several similar shades into one color, turning subtle gradations into eye-catching, scene-popping contrasts. - Color Accent
Choose to retain a single color in your image while other colors turn monochrome. - Color Swap
Select a color and replace it with a color you specify for special effects. - Beach
Get clear shots of people at a sunny beach without darkened faces. - Foliage
Capture brilliant shots of autumn foliage, greenery and blossoms. - Snow
Shoot clear snow scenes without darkened subjects or an unnatural bluish tint. - Fireworks
Grab brilliant images of skyrocketing fireworks. - Stitch Assist
Build awe-inspiring panoramas by neatly aligning sequential images.
Shoot in Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 24 fps for up to 14 min. and 34 sec. or 4GB per clip. Shoot in HD (1280 x 720) at 30 fps for up to 20 min and 43 sec. or 4GB per clip. Shoot in VGA (640 x 480) at 30 fps for up to 43 min. and 43 sec. or 4GB per clip and QVGA (320 x 240 at 30 fps) for up to 1 hour 58 min. and 19 sec. or 4GB per clip. Also shoot in iFrame Movie format (1280 x 720) at 30 fps for up to 13 min. and 35 sec. or 4GB per clip.
Super Slow Motion Movie
Record your clips in high speed (approx. 240fps), and then watch your videos in slow motion.
Actual results may vary from examples shown above.
Final image may vary depending on picture composition. Easily Turn Your Memories into Videos.
Movie Digest Mode records a short video clip right before shooting a still image and then combines one day's worth of clips into one video.
Putting together a video containing highlights from family vacations, important occasions and other special events is now easier than you might imagine. Using the Movie Digest Mode, you can have the camera automatically record a short video clip (up to approximately 4 seconds) every time you shoot a still image. The camera will then combine an entire day's worth of clips into a single video. No editing required Ð Movie Digest Mode does all the work, so you can sit back and enjoy your video!
Add some Fun to Your Photos!New scene modes, Toy Camera Effect and Monochrome, add an artistic look to your photos.
Add some vintage nostalgia with Toy Camera Effect. Toy Camera Effect recreates this look by darkening the edges to make them appear as if they were photographed through a pinhole lens and adding contrast.
Monochrome lets you sway away from the usual black & white combination. Now you can choose from three single-toned effects: Black & White, Sepia or Blue to really give your photos the effect you're looking for.
See the Image on a Big Screen.
Large, bright 3.0-inch wide PureColor System LCD with high resolution and wide viewing angle.
The PowerShot SX230 HS digital camera's high resolution (461,000 dots) 3.0-inch wide PureColor System LCD gives you the big picture, whether you're shooting, reviewing or showing off your images. This high-resolution screen offers a crisp, clear picture to make shooting, playback and using the camera's menu functions especially convenient. Clear and bright, it features Night Display for easy viewing in low light.
3.0-inch with PureColor System LCD Screen
Read about our customers' top-rated cameras on our review page: Point-and-Shoot Cameras
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, portability, and ease of use of the digital camera. For example, they mention that it takes great movies, produces fantastic pictures, and has a 14x optical zoom. They appreciate the small size and lightweight design. As for the ease of using the camera, they say the controls and menus are easy to use and intuitive.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the quality of the camera. They say it takes good movies, does better than their big cameras, and performs beautifully. They also say it's hardy and works like a dream. Customers also mention that the build quality is good, and the lens is great. Overall, customers are happy with their purchase and recommend it to others.
"...I am just super happy with the performance (for cost) of this thing.Ken" Read more
"...The SX230 is a thoroughly satisfying hunting and outdoors companion with little question.Copyright 2012 by Randy Wakeman...." Read more
"...Don't get me wrong, it takes great photos, has great build quality, but there are a couple of glaring problems.First is the flash...." Read more
"...LINE: I'm happy with it, more than I expected to be - the build quality is good but not heavy and the camera does what its' designed to do very well..." Read more
Customers like the image quality of the camera. They mention that it takes fantastic shots, and the flash turns out well. They also appreciate the neat picture modes and the absence of grainy pictures in low light conditions. The 12.1 megapixels are great for posters and flat screen televisions.
"...However, the housing restricts that feature. The 12.1 megapixels are great for even posters or flat screen televisions..." Read more
"...The picture quality amazed me. This little thing, at low light, equals or betters my older T2i for low noise...." Read more
"...Slightly smaller and lighter than the rest, it is fast and takes excellent pictures in the "dummy mode," my favorite mode...." Read more
"...Don't get me wrong, it takes great photos, has great build quality, but there are a couple of glaring problems.First is the flash...." Read more
Customers are impressed with the zoom of the digital camera. They say it has a 14x optical zoom and looks professional. They also appreciate the big and fast zoom, saying it's remarkably steady. Customers also say the quality of the optics appears to be very good and the lens is fairly fast. They mention that the image sharpness and detail is very good, and that they get very good pictures.
"...The zoom is remarkably steady (I recommend a small tripod). I've never cared for Optical Zoom, but the 14X works as well as any...." Read more
"...Some nice things in that department; You can zoom while recording and this thing has two microphones on the front for that '2-channel' sound...." Read more
"...For a true 14x optical zoom range, more manual controls, the best low-light images of the group, along with a GPS of dubious value, the Canon SX230..." Read more
"...this camera takes very good photos, is feature-laden, has an excellent 14x optical zoom, and great low-light capabilities...." Read more
Customers like the portability of the digital camera. They say it's small enough to stuff in a coat pocket and powerful enough to take those extreme photos. They also find it to be the perfect size for a travel camera with SLR like options, all in s very compact design. Some customers also say the camera is amazing for its size and slides easily into jeans pockets.
"...I also own a Panasonic DMC-FH25, which is also a good quality, compact, high zoom camera (8x)...." Read more
"...outdoors person, it is attractive to have a unit that is handy and pocketable, yet capable of grabbing both a dazzling sunset and having enough..." Read more
"...with it, more than I expected to be - the build quality is good but not heavy and the camera does what its' designed to do very well...." Read more
"...I do a lot of international traveling and the size is perfect for putting into my pants pocket during day trips...." Read more
Customers like the ease of use of the digital camera. They mention that the manual modes are very easy to use, the controls and menus are easy enough to use. The set, display, menu, and the dial are all easy and intuitive. The options are relatively straight forward, and there is an easy shoot mode. The camera has a quick way to access the video mode, and it acquires the image quickly.
"...The function set, display, menu and the dial are all easy and intuitive. The zoom is remarkably steady (I recommend a small tripod)...." Read more
"...-ZR3 (or similar Lumix models) fits the bill with an easy and effective intelligent auto mode...." Read more
"...PROS: Small, lightweight, excellent shot quality, HD movies, easy to access menus. You don't need to study the camera to use it...." Read more
"...priority, shutter priority, and full manual modes and found them very easy to use and I could quickly find the right setting to match the shooting..." Read more
Customers like the value of the digital camera. They mention that it is worth every penny that they spent in it. Some customers also appreciate the optical zoom, which is worth the extra size and weight.
"...This is really a remarkable camera for the price...." Read more
"...and virtually fool-proof operation make it an excellent, reliable choice for the money...." Read more
"...230 HS can be found for under $200 used in 2017, and is an awesome deal for the money when compared to stuff you can find brand-new...." Read more
"...trade off for me was the longer optical zoom, which is worth the extra size and weight...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the shipping of the digital camera. Some mention that it's fast and smooth, while others say that it has a somewhat slow 3.1 lens and GPS is sometimes a little slow to acquire a fix outside. The colors are good, but the shutter speed was clearly too high and there is often a long delay when taking a picture.
"...Great zoom, low light ease of use, great color accuracy, quick focusing and small size...." Read more
"...The quality of the optics appears to be very good and the lens is fairly `fast' with a max aperture at the wide angle setting (5mm) of 3.1, not bad..." Read more
"...I was able to get reasonably good output, but the camera is like a slow laptop with a lens, insisting on processing and saving at an irritatingly..." Read more
"...The slow motion mode is okay but it's small resolution makes it nothing more than a gimmick. HD video is good unless you plan to use it in low light...." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the battery life of the digital camera. They mention that it sucks up power from that small battery like a drunk at the end of prohibition. In addition, it is a major battery drain in logging mode. Having an extra battery is advisable, even with GPS off.
"...On the minus side is the very mediocre GPS sensitivity, battery life, and flash placement...." Read more
"...In other words, it's dismal. The battery is quickly depleted and takes a little more than two hours to charge...." Read more
"...and the Nikon, not having as large or as crisp of a screen, its long battery life (330 shots) and virtually fool-proof operation make it an excellent..." Read more
"...for the last 3 years and it's performed fairly well, but the performance in low light, the short zoom and the general quality of the shots left me..." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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Like so many people that buy things from Amazon.com I rely heavily on the customer reviews before ordering things. I appreciate the time and effort reviewers take in trying to help customers make informed buying decisions, but the greater number of reviews the greater number of contradictions one must wade through. Here is what the reviews of the Canon SX30HS camera told me:
1. Most negative comments were referring to the automatic popup flash feature. The reviewers carried on about where the flash unit was located and the fact the thing opened when the camera was activated and the only way they could stop that was to keep their finger on the flash while turning on the camera. Then they usually went on to say it didn't matter.
2. Almost every review in the bunch said the battery drain in the Canon SX230HS was awful, but that is about what the manufacture implied it would be with the GPS and all. Give me a break.
3. Another big complaint was with how the camera was difficult to hold and one needed to be careful in order to keep from dropping it. Well, gee people--is being careful with an expensive camera an unusual thing to keep in mind when using it?
4. More than one reviewer admitted that they dropped their cameras and then described the resulting damage. I am not sure they were suggesting that Canon was responsible for that, but even mentioning how clumsy they were and then blaming the camera was a bit over the top.
5. Some reviewers were critical of one or all of the user settings offered on the camera. Most of those reviews came from people who couldn't tell the difference between an ISO setting and a prune. After whining about the complexity of making manual adjustments they usually said pictures shot using the AUTO setting were great. When one buys a point and shoot camera then complains when not using it that way probably should have kept the Kodak Baby Brownie.
6. The GPS doesn't work indoors. Yep, that is exactly what most reviews said. I guess it is true, but maybe that all depends on the `doors' one is in.
7. The camera is heavy say some. How heavy could a thin four inch wide camera be?
8. A wish that the camera made it easier to delete a bad photo might be a legitimate complaint and it appears in the reviews several times. At least it is possible to erase bad shots even if it takes a few clicks to do it.
9. Not having a view finder on the camera was mentioned, but how many other little point and shoot pocket sized cameras have one of those?
10. The reviewers all seemed to like the HDMI and HD features. I guess both have something to do with television and there is a special cable involved that isn't included with the camera (sold separately).
The camera "experts" provided detailed lists of Pros and Cons which seldom did much too understandably critique the Canon SX230HS for non-experts. I guess other experts like to know that the white balance is good, the camera compares favorably to a NIKON S9100 or that the focal range is acceptable. Is this a point and shoot camera or what? Anyhow, those lists were sort of interesting albeit mostly esoteric comparisons meaningful to very few readers.
Most of the Canon SX230HS reviews were very positive and told of how happy the owners were with the camera. The reviewers liked the high12 to 1 MP resolution, the anti-shake feature, the remarkable zoom and the excellent video capability. They liked the looks of the camera and many said it was generally the best on the market. Above all, most reviewers said the camera produced excellent photographs. But then there were a few that had very little good to say about anything. Go figure.
Some hated the GPS feature unless they really liked it.
Over and over the reviews contained grumbling about the flash, the short battery life and how hard the camera was to hold# Some of this is probably warranted, but none of it is likely to be a deal breaker.
Then there were reviews that were silly or just plain picky Is it all that important to know the blue colored camera is actually a dark turquoise? Or, who wouldn't buy the Canon SX230HS because somebody thought the camera they received was poorly packed in the shipping box? "If you want more, pay more--If you want less, then pay less." I'll have to remember that one. A comment about how puzzling it is to open the battery compartment was hard to believe. Can that really be a problem?
"The camera doesn't let me think." That could be a blessing. How about this? "I have big hands so the camera was hard to grip." Was that a criticism of the camera or the reviewer's large hands? Then there are the helpful gold stars. I presume that a half star is better than no star? But, by how much would that be? Is there a margin of error? One reviewer said this, "I gave it four stars because I don't think anything is perfect."
What I finally determined from reading all of the reviews was not a big surprise. For references to the excellent qualities in the camera there was also a review or two that said the camera was terrible. FOR ALMOST EVERY ONE OF THE MANY COMPLIMENTS THERE WAS PROBABLY ONE COMPLAINT.
I found many things in the reviews that were quite comical. The reviewers meant well of course. Here is a collection of direct quotes from the reviews of the Canon SX230HS that I found amusing:
* "The price was just right, but it could be lower."
* "14x zoom: It is really amazing how they are able to put a 14x zoom in such a small body?"
* "The zoom on this camera is unlike any other small camera I have seen. It is better than binoculars."
* "I like the camera, but since I am a senior citizen I have a hard time learning new things."
* "I appreciate your concern regarding the Canon camera and it is deficient."
* "My wife has been the family Digital Camera Photographer since we began having kids."
* "I loved this camera when it worked."
* "The camera came without strap# It should be a manufacturer's fault."
* "I like the crisp sharp details the flash produced# Not sure if other cameras in this class have the same issue."
* "This review may not be considered useful and provide info you care about."
* "And, no, I did not read the manual."
* "We have kids in sports, and we go to concerts and travel to Lake Tahoe and do cruises and Disneyland every couple of years.
* "I almost never needed flash until the sun was completely gone."
* "I wanted a small camera for my trip to Italy because my superzoom is too large."
* "I have two small children and was sick of missing pictures."
* "Don't Care about GPS don't use it / turned it off."
* "It's a nice camera for photography."
* "For the money though, the images are quite horrible."
* "Not everything is for everyone."
OK, I am finished with a review of reviews# Because most of the comments were exceedingly positive, I went ahead and ordered a Canon SX230HS camera from Amazon.com. When I get it I might even evaluate the thing as a reviewer, providing I find something new to bring to the long list of wonderful and helpful reviews already provided.
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I received the Canon SX230HS three days ago and thought I would let you know that I am very pleased with it. I have put it through a lot of shake down paces. I have tinkered with a number of settings and taken lots of pictures with the camera set on AUTO or EASY which lets the camera do as it pleases. The resulting photos are outstanding. The camera takes great pictures in a variety of situations.
I found the camera to be safe to hold and haven't dropped it yet. The flash gripe is way overblown. Holding the flash unit down while the camera boots up is simple, without effort and the camera doesn't suffer.
I am old, but do not have trouble learning new things. Even so, messing around with the menus and dedicated settings required a little effort. The picture taking choices on this camera are many, but some are a bit inane. It remains to be seen how often I will venture into the world of self determined settings. I like the AUTO and the EASY settings and they like me.
The GPS feature is still a mystery since I have not been able to connect with a positioning satellite so far. My Garmin GPS unit has a bit of trouble doing that too. I will keep trying to connect, but I am not quite sure why.
The optical zoom combined with the anti-shake feature is fantastic. I was blown away with the zooming capacity. Previous reviewers were not wrong about this.
I bought the black version of the camera and the color is actually black. I thought it might be dark gray. Just joking.
I sound as if I like the Canon SX230HS? Ya think?
LATER: After several months with the Canon SX230HS I continue to be impressed with it. I have taken pictures all over the place and it does a great job. I like everything about the camera. It is the best in this price range and I think it is the best "point and shoot" small camera on the market. There is a newer model of this camera, but I really doubt that it is worth the higher price.
I can recommend the Canon SX230HS camera without hesitation.
The zoom is terrific for taking far away landscape photos, portaits of people and for macro close-ups. Very accurate and easy to acquire the image quickly. Some reviewers have mentioned the battery drains quickly but I am able to get approximately 250 pictures on a single charge. I always turn the camera off after taking a photo and don't the GPS or video which may contribute to the longer battery life.
I only use the auto or program modes and these seem to work the best for me. The 'kids and pets' option works great, especially for photos of the grandcildren and my dog which never can seems to sit still for longer than 5 seconds. All the light fixtures in my home are stained glass and the camera captured the correct colors without using the flash in the evening.
Some others have mentioned the pop up flash as being a negative. With the SX200 the flash was unable to be placed back into the frame of the camera, but Canon changed this in the SX210 and the SX 230 so it will be back into the camera. For me, this was a huge improvement over SX200 plus the smaller size of the SX230. It is somewhat ackward when first using this camera, but I was able to easily and 'automatically' push the flash back in after a short time of using it daily.
This has been the camera I have been waiting for since my first Canon Elph purchased 10 years ago. Great zoom, low light ease of use, great color accuracy, quick focusing and small size. The only drawback is the lack of a full manual like Canon used to provide with all their cameras. I always took the manual along when traveling and found it useful to tweak camera settings I normally did not use at home. The manual is available on Canon's website for download though. If you have not owned a Canon before, I would suggest reading it thoroughly as you will get superior photos no matter what the shooting conditions.