Most ultra-compact cameras we've seen so far tend to have a certain premium profile that pits them against many mirrorless models. Today we're going to do away with that conflict by looking at the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, a compact camera clearly aimed at casual use—and why not, at replacing your smartphone. Its main attractions? A very low price, all the simplicity of a point-and-shoot, and 625mm of focal length to let you experiment in different settings.
We all know that the photographer makes the photo, even when using a phone. If we need examples, look no further than the best shots at the iPhone Photography Awards. However, we can't ignore that smartphones have limitations in their optical systems. The good news is that we don't need to make a huge investment to escape them (although it will hold up better over time if you spend a bit more up front). The question is, where to point?
Today we're looking at the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS. Part of the Top 5 best-sellers on Amazon Spain, this ultra-compact lets you enter Canon's world without burning your budget, as long as you understand its main role: taking casual, travel-friendly photos without relying on the average smartphone.
Canon PowerShot SX620 HS: More than a toy
Announced originally in May 2016, the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS features a 20.2-megapixel effective CMOS sensor paired with the DIGIC 4+ image processor. ISO sensitivity ranges from 80 to 3,200 without Boost modes, while shutter speed goes from 1/2000 to 15 seconds depending on the shooting mode. The LCD screen is standard: 3 inches with 922,000 dots of resolution, without touch support or tiltable modes (logical given the price). There's also no viewfinder here, as everything happens through the screen.
It goes without saying that there's nothing in the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS' plans that suggests stellar autofocus performance. A total of nine contrast-detection points provide traditional functions, and if you expect something like a Burst mode, the compromises are even greater. Canon reports a maximum of 2.5 FPS, but when you activate burst mode and drop to around 5 MP (today considered sub-smartphone), the burst jumps to 7 FPS, with the card capacity as the limit.
The interface of the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS is the definition of 'basic'. There isn't even a conventional mode dial on top. All that's there is the shutter release, the zoom lever, power button, speaker, microphone, and a pop-up flash. Next to the screen (on the right side) we find dedicated buttons for flash, Wi-Fi, macro mode, playback, and video recording. The small switch (Canon calls it a 'conmutador') changes modes between Smart Auto, Creative Shot (yes, there's an intermediate position), and Hybrid Auto. The rest of the functions appear in the User Guide. It barely exceeds 150 pages, and it's a relatively quick read compared to other manuals.
Looking at video modes, there's no surprise. The Canon PowerShot SX620 HS offers a maximum of 1080p at 30 frames per second, with 720p30 and 480p30 as auxiliary modes. The official limit is 30 minutes or 4GB per video file (whichever comes first), except in the case of 480p, which becomes 4GB or one hour. Connectivity options extend to Wi-Fi n with NFC support for a quick link with a smartphone (even though the idea is not to depend on it), which can also serve as a remote control. The latest update for Canon Camera Connect was published in April, with very polarized reviews.
Accessories for the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS
Say it with me: 179 euros. That's right, 179 euros. The Canon PowerShot SX620 HS is one of the most affordable cameras right now. If you have the chance to spend an additional 100 euros, then the Canon EOS 4000D will automatically take its place, but there's also another path: putting that sum towards a couple of accessories for this point-and-shoot. Let's take a look.
Batteries and power
With a total of 295 shots per charge, the NB-13L battery of the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS definitely covers the expected casual use, but it will be a cold day in hell before we get caught without power. The best solution is to look for a compatible Gloxy NB-13L battery and a Gloxy 2-in-1 charger for home and car when the priority is recharging on the move. Less than 60 euros in total. Look for the SKU "0712599622,VDTS-4604-CH-0713116009" to find the battery and charger combination.
Tripods and supports
I think talking about a traditional tripod for the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS would be an exaggeration, so today we present two very lightweight options, in line with the camera's 182 grams. The first is the Manfrotto Pixi. It weighs almost the same as the camera, has excellent build quality, and you can use it as a selfie stick with the legs closed. The second is the original Clampod Takeway T1. It grips onto anything, is very secure, and will also work with much heavier cameras.
Cases and pouches
The ultra-compact format of the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS makes it remarkably easy to carry, to the point that for many users it will be easier to carry than a smartphone. Still, it's not a bad idea to add a case or a small pouch. Manfrotto has its Piccolo 5, with padded interior, resistance to dust and moisture. If you prefer something more rigid that can be worn on a belt, the key is the official Canon DCC-1500 case.
Memory cards
Storage doesn't cause any surprises with the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, and the camera doesn't throw extreme conditions on the table. It's enough to have a good price-performance ratio, and to achieve that we have two alternatives: the Transcend SDHC Class 10 32GB at 17 euros, and the classic Sony SF-64UY3 64GB that writes at 70MB/s and stays below 30 euros.
Special kits
Our last section today is dedicated to miscellaneous items that will be useful not only with your Canon PowerShot SX620 HS but also with other cameras in the future. On one hand, the Gloxy 6-in-1 cleaning kit brings everything you'll need to keep your ultra-compact in optimal condition, with blower, brush, cleaning liquid, cloth, cotton swabs, and disposable wipes. On the other hand, an excellent portable mini studio of 40x40x40 centimeters, ideal if you start exploring product photography. Its backgrounds are interchangeable, and it includes two lights.
Three years on the market, wide availability, acceptable performance in photos and video, 179 euros. At that price, the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS turns any sharp edge into something tolerable, and even if some don't want to admit it, its images are better than those of many phones out there. Good luck!
