Conclusions

Canon is one of the very few companies I personally admire and as a consumer, don't have a problem spending my money on them time after time.  Simply put, their cameras are just that good.  Their new PowerShot SX1 IS does not only offer just about all the features one can possibly ask for, but happens to be in a class of its own, being the first point and shoot camera to sport a CMOS sensor.  This allows Canon to bring a number of new features to the table that where just not possible, two of which make this camera so unique and of high interest to many.

Features Galore

The new SX1 IS has you covered in terms of its features.  It's got practically all one can possibly ask for, including plenty of "SLR-Like" advanced features, an articulate  widescreen display, impressive 20x zoom, amazing full HD video with stereo sound and the ability to capture in RAW format for maximum control.  For a camera in this class, there is simply no better option out there.

Superior Quality

As with all Canon cameras, you can expect a high build quality with each and every purchase.  The SX1 IS is no exception.  The I/O slot covers are not flimsy and the swivel LCD display is excellent, even in bright sunlight.  As far as the body goes, it is built to withstand plenty of abuse and I really couldn't find anything negative to say about its overall build quality.

Ultra-Zoom Madness

Thanks to its quality wide-angle 20x IS lens, the Canon SX1 IS is capable of providing exceptional shots, even when boldly activating its 4x digital zoom.  Most cameras struggle when using the digital zoom features but this one manages to maintain a high level quality.  In addition, the ultrasonic motor is practically silent yet highly functional.  It is a main hardware feature to keep in mind for those wanting to take some nice HD videos.  The mechanism is so smooth and silent, you won't even hear it in mostly all your captured videos.

Impressive Picture Quality

This new model from Canon exceeds the boundaries of a point and shoot camera.  It is the first camera in its class to sport a CMOS sensor, not only providing some very impressive shots, but also capable of taking them at speeds that most entry level SLR cameras can not offer.  No, it's still not an SLR and I found that most of the best pictures where taken in Auto mode.  However, if you play with the wide variety of settings available, you can take some pretty impressive shots that can easily rival that of more expensive (entry level) prosumer cameras.  The only minor issue I found was its average low-light performance.  However, that's something mostly anyone will face with just about any camera unless you take full advantage of its manual features.

Spectacular Video Captures

Quite possibly the most impressive feature during testing is its spectacular 30fps Full HD video captures.  Not only were each and every one taken super clear and played back without any issues even when zooming, but all are taken with stereo sound.  The result are videos that will amaze you and keep you wondering how it is even possible from such a compact camera.

Excellent Playback Features

One area most don't tend to touch upon is a camera's playback features and performance.  This is not too important with most models but this one is an exception due to its features and 1080p support.  With that said, I did happen to test this extensively and below are my final thoughts...

Not only does this camera do well with playback of its full 30fps 1080p videos, but will also impress when connected via its HDMI port.  You can setup a slideshow and even select from a number of transition effects available.  Most importantly though, playback of your high-def videos on a quality 1080p display will leave you breathless.  They play smoothly and the camera is highly responsive overall.  While on the subject, I found it important to provide you all with two important tips below...   

**click to enlarge**

Important Tip #1 - Note that while the Canon SX1 does have an HDMI out port, it is a Mini HDMI port (HDMI-C).  You will not be able to use a standard HDMI cable for connectivity.

Important Tip #2 - Do not use an adapter!  If you have some spare HDMI cables lying around like I do, an adapter will likely not support this camera due to the location of the HDMI port and the limited space around it.  I have two and none were able to provide enough clearance to fully plug in the connector.  In fact, you can not only cause damage to the port itself when trying to force it into place, but will damage the exterior housing if too much force is used.  Stick to a quality HDMI to Mini HDMI cable.  If you are a smart shopper, you can pick up a quality 3ft cable with gold leads for less than eight bucks...shipped.

Final Thoughts

The new Canon SX1 is not only in a class of its own in terms of its features, but is one that breaks the norm of how an advanced point and shoot camera should be designed.  As most have put it, it really does earn that "SLR-Like" classification.  It is not only the first point and shoot to sport a CMOS sensor, but the first quality camera to offer full 30fps 1080p video captures.  Add to that its impressive 20x zoom, RAW capture capabilities, superior image quality and high build quality and you have a camera that practically offers all one can wish for.  Some have stated that its current price tag is a bit too steep.  I beg to differ, and with a current price tag between $520 - $599, you'll definitely get your money's worth.  In short, this highly anticipate model from Canon was certainly worth the wait and easily earns are very highest recommendation and award.

More information on the new Canon SX1 IS can be found on Canon's USA Website.

No, unlike most amateur consumer reviews that have mostly made just one negative comment regarding the lack of a lens cap holder, this is not a "Con".  If you would only take the time to observe the design of the lens cap and simply look at its back side, you'll see it has a clip built in, allowing you to very easily clip the cap to the included carry strap.

Questions?  Comments?  Discuss them here...

Next:  Additional Sample Shots