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Canon PowerShot A1200 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£90
  • Avg. price in US: ~$110
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.54 µm
  • Weight: 185 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 200 shots

Canon PowerShot A1200 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.0

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

3.4

Technical Score

10.0%

8.7

User score

Poor
3.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.2

Sensor & Image

25.0%

2.9

Photo Features

18.0%

3.2

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.0

Display & Design

8.0%

3.2

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.0

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
8.7

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(224)
amazon
4.1
(219)
amazon
2.7
(2)
amazon
5.0
(1)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(486)
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.0
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    4.7

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    1.3

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.2
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.9

    Weight

    30.0%

    1.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.3
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Price

    20.0%

    9.9

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    1.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    1.0

    Touchscreen

  • 3.5
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    4.7

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.8

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

  • 7.2
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.9

    Weight

    25.0%

    9.4

    Thickness

    20.0%

    ?

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 3.2
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    1.8

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    4.7

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 4.1
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.9

    Weight

    25.0%

    1.3

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • canon-powershot-a1200
  • canon-powershot-a1200
canon-powershot-a1200
canon-powershot-a1200

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Canon PowerShot A1200 is a compact 12.1-megapixel point-and-shoot camera featuring a 1/2.3" CCD sensor and a DIGIC 4 image processor. It is equipped with a 4x optical zoom lens (28-112mm equivalent) with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 at the wide end, and it unusually includes both a 2.7-inch LCD and an optical tunnel viewfinder. Key strengths include its portable lightweight design, 720p HD video recording capability, and convenient power source using two standard AA batteries. However, it lacks optical image stabilization, exhibits slow shooting performance between frames, and struggles with significant noise in low-light conditions at higher ISO settings.

Technical Specifications of Canon PowerShot A1200

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

4.2

Sensor & Image

25.0%

2.9

Photo Features

18.0%

3.2

Video & Audio

14.0%

4.0

Display & Design

8.0%

3.2

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.0

Connectivity & Storage

3.4
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a technical score of 3.42 points, which is lower than 98.5% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
(224)
amazon
4.1
(219)
amazon
2.7
(2)
amazon
5.0
(1)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.1
(486)
Amazon_logo.png
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.7
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a user score of 8.74 points, which is higher than 75.8% of cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 66.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.0

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

5.8
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.8 points, which is lower than 79.5% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

1/2.3"
Canon PowerShot A1200 uses a sensor classified as 1/2.3"; it is smaller than the sensor in 60.5% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 38.1% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

12.1 MP
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a main camera resolution of 12.1 MP, which is lower than that of 86.6% of cameras and equal to that of 6.9% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

1.54 µm
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a main camera pixel size of 1.54 µm which is smaller than in 62.2% of cameras and equal to the size in 2.2% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

80
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a base ISO of 80 which is lower than that of 79.8% of cameras and equal to that of 15.7% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

1,600
Canon PowerShot A1200 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 1,600, which is lower than that of 85.9% of cameras and equal to that of 13.3% of cameras.
Show more
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon PowerShot A1200 does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

9
Canon PowerShot A1200 has 9 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 67.1% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 26% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

no
Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Canon PowerShot A1200 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
Show more
Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1,280 px
Canon PowerShot A1200 supports 1,280 px video recording which is lower quality than that of 71.4% of cameras and equal to that of 18.5% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

20 Mbps
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a video bitrate of 20 Mbps which is lower than that of 70.7% of cameras and equal to that of 3.9% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Canon PowerShot A1200 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Canon PowerShot A1200 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
Show more
Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

compact
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

185 g
Canon PowerShot A1200 weighs 185 g which is lighter than 83.3% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

97.5 mm
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a width of 97.5 mm which is narrower than 87.9% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

62.5 mm
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a height of 62.5 mm which is shorter than 72.2% of cameras and equal to that of 0.3% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

30.7 mm
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a thickness of 30.7 mm which is thinner than 75.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.1% of cameras.
Show more
Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

200 shots
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 200 shots, which is shorter than that of 90.5% of cameras and equal to that of 3.8% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

N/A
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Canon PowerShot A1200 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
Uses 2x AA batteries.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support Wi-Fi. 47.9% of cameras include this feature.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon PowerShot A1200 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Canon PowerShot A1200 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
Show more

Canon PowerShot A1200 vs the average camera

  • 53.2% lighter
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is lighter than the average camera (185 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Canon PowerShot A1200 is lighter than the average camera (185 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.185 g vs 395 g
  • Better viewfinder type
    Canon PowerShot A1200 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
    What it is: The type of viewfinder the camera uses to frame the shot, such as optical, electronic, hybrid, or none.
    When it matters: When you strongly prefer the clarity of an optical finder, the preview benefits of an electronic one, or no viewfinder at all.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Canon PowerShot A1200 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).optical vs none
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Canon PowerShot A1200 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
    What it is: Support for recording video at 24 frames per second, a frame rate commonly associated with cinematic motion.
    When it matters: When you want footage with a more traditional cinematic cadence instead of standard video motion.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon PowerShot A1200 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
  • 22.4 mm narrower
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is narrower than the average camera (97.5 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
    What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
    When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon PowerShot A1200 is narrower than the average camera (97.5 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.97.5 mm vs 119.9 mm
  • 10x more popular
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 3.22x cheaper
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is cheaper than the average camera (£90 vs £290).
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is cheaper than the average camera (£90 vs £290).£90 vs £290
  • 9.2% higher user score
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a higher user score than the average camera (8.74 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.
    When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a higher user score than the average camera (8.74 vs 8.000).8.74 vs 8
  • 15.3 mm thinner
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is thinner than the average camera (30.7 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
    What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
    When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon PowerShot A1200 is thinner than the average camera (30.7 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.30.7 mm vs 46 mm
  • 53.2% lighter
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is lighter than the average camera (185 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • Better viewfinder type
    Canon PowerShot A1200 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (optical vs none).
  • 22.4 mm narrower
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is narrower than the average camera (97.5 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 15.3 mm thinner
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is thinner than the average camera (30.7 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • 11.4 mm shorter body
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is shorter than the average camera (62.5 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Canon PowerShot A1200 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Video & Audio
  • 10 % lower viewfinder coverage
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower viewfinder coverage than the average camera (90% vs 100%). The average camera has viewfinder coverage of 100%.
  • 0.3 in smaller screen
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
  • No hot shoe
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 23.1% lower magnification
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower viewfinder magnification than the average camera (0.6x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
  • Smaller sensor
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
  • 4.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • 1.8 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.5 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • 4,800 lower max ISO
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower max ISO than the average camera (1,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • 18,900 lower expanded ISO
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower expanded ISO than the average camera (6,400 vs 25,300). The average camera reaches an expanded ISO of 25,300.
    Reduced resolution only.
  • 2 older
    Canon PowerShot A1200 is older than the average camera (2011 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
    March 2011
  • 4.7 fps slower mechanical burst
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • 14 fewer AF points
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • No manual focus mode
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
  • No manual exposure control
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
    No true manual exposure mode.
  • No continuous video AF
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    focus locked at recording start
  • 640 px lower video resolution
    Canon PowerShot A1200 records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
  • 33.3% lower video bitrate
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (20 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • 130 shots shorter battery life
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has shorter battery life than the average camera (200 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • No HDMI output
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support HDMI output, the average camera does. 78.7% of cameras support HDMI output.
  • Smaller sensor
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
  • 4.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 20 MP

    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.12.1 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • 4.7 fps slower mechanical burst
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.1 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • 10 % lower viewfinder coverage
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower viewfinder coverage than the average camera (90% vs 100%). The average camera has viewfinder coverage of 100%.
    What it is: The percentage of the final image area that is visible through the viewfinder when composing a shot.
    When it matters: When you want the framed view to closely match what will actually appear in the final photo.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: 100%

    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a lower viewfinder coverage than the average camera (90% vs 100%). The average camera has viewfinder coverage of 100%.90 % vs 100 %
  • 0.3 in smaller screen
    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.
    What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
    When it matters: When you want a larger display for reviewing shots, using menus, or shooting from awkward angles.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 3 in

    Canon PowerShot A1200 has a smaller screen than the average camera (2.7 in vs 3 in). The average camera has a screen size of 3 in.2.7 in vs 3 in
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
    What it is: High Dynamic Range mode for photos, which combines multiple exposures to retain detail in both shadows and highlights.
    When it matters: When you take photos in high-contrast scenes, like a bright sky against a dark landscape.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • No continuous video AF
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
    focus locked at recording start
    What it is: The ability of the camera to keep adjusting focus automatically while video recording is in progress.
    When it matters: When you film while subjects or camera distance keep changing and manual refocusing is impractical.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not support continuous autofocus in video, the average camera does.
  • No hot shoe
    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
    What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
    When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon PowerShot A1200 does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
Total
Overall
Display & Design
Sensor & Image
Photo Features
Video & Audio
Battery & Power
Connectivity & Storage

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.0
224 Reviews
amazon
4.1
219 Reviews
amazon
2.7
2 Reviews
amazon
5.0
1 Reviews
United States
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4.1
486 Reviews
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5.0
1 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Canon PowerShot A1200?

  • Includes a rare optical viewfinder for its class, helpful in bright sunlight
  • Uses widely available AA batteries for convenient power
  • Very compact and lightweight design, making it pocketable and travel-friendly
  • Excellent value for money with punchy, high-quality images for a budget camera
  • Features a wide-angle 28mm lens with 4x optical zoom
  • Capable of recording 720p HD video

What customers dislike about Canon PowerShot A1200?

  • Lacks optical image stabilization (IS), leading to potential blur
  • Poor performance in low-light conditions with noticeable image noise
  • Slow overall shooting speed and continuous drive rate (1.0 fps)
  • Relatively short battery life, typically around 200 shots per set of batteries
  • The 2.7-inch LCD screen has a low resolution of 230k dots
  • No RAW file support or full manual shooting modes

Expert reviews

C
cnet.com
10/05/2011
Canon PowerShot A1200 review - CNET

The Canon PowerShot A1200 is an entry-level, budget-friendly 12-megapixel point-and-shoot compact camera that stands out for bringing back a real-image optical zoom viewfinder. It features an f2.8 28mm-equivalent wide-angle lens with 4x optical zoom, captures 720p HD videos, and runs on convenient AA-size batteries. The camera scores well on design and image quality for its price...Read more

C
cameralabs.com
14/12/2011
Canon PowerShot A1200 Review - Cameralabs

The Canon PowerShot A1200 is highlighted as a highly capable and budget-friendly compact camera that uniquely stands out by reintroducing a rare optical viewfinder alongside its 2.7-inch LCD screen. It features a 12.1 Megapixel sensor, a 4x optical zoom lens with an impressive 28mm wide-angle coverage, and a physical mode dial that grants quick access to exposure settings and...Read more

F
firstpost.com
03/10/2011
Canon PowerShot A1200 Review - Firstpost

The Canon PowerShot A1200 is an entry-level, budget-friendly compact camera designed specifically for beginners and casual photographers. It features a 12.1-megapixel CCD sensor paired with Canon’s DIGIC 4 processing engine, which was originally used in their DSLR lineup to reduce image noise and accelerate performance. The design stands out positively for its classy matte black...Read more

N
nicolodeon.wordpress.com
17/05/2011
HEAD TO HEAD REVIEW: Canon Powershot A1200 & Sony Cybershot W510

The Canon Powershot A1200 is a highly functional point-and-shoot camera featuring a dedicated mode dial, great noise control, and vibrant, accurate colors. Its notable pros include subject tracking, face selection, a macro mode, an impressive battery life yielding over 400 shots from two AA batteries, and a comfortable battery compartment grip. However, the reviewer highlights...Read more

F
focus.de
22/12/2011
Seven budget compact cameras put to the test: Lab and field review

The Canon PowerShot A1200 is a highly budget-friendly compact camera that features a 12-megapixel resolution, a 4x optical zoom (28-112mm), and a 2.7-inch display. A major standout feature is its exceptional battery life, which allows users to capture up to 1,000 images on a single charge. Additionally, it surprises users by including an optical viewfinder, which serves as a helpful...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
06/07/2011
Canon PowerShot A1200 Review - Les Numériques

The Canon PowerShot A1200 is an entry-level, 12-megapixel compact camera featuring a 4x optical zoom (28-112mm) and a rare optical viewfinder, housed in a comfortable, AA-battery-powered design. It offers a user-friendly interface with a "live" adjustment mode for easy control over exposure and color, making it an accessible option for beginners. Optically, the camera shines with...Read more

(Translated)Show original
P
priice.fr
N/A
Canon PowerShot A1200: Specifications, Price, and Discussion

The Canon PowerShot A1200 is a budget-friendly compact digital camera originally released in January 2011. It features a 12.1-megapixel 1/2.3" CCD sensor capable of shooting images up to 4000x3000 pixels, powered by a Digic 4 processor. Weighing 185 grams and measuring 63 x 98 x 31 mm, the camera is highly portable and follows standard compact dimensions. Its integrated lens offers...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
newwavepool.shop
N/A
Canon PowerShot A1200 Digital Camera - New Wave Pool

The Imaging Resource Review highlights the Canon PowerShot A1200 as a budget-friendly, highly capable entry-level point-and-shoot camera. A standout feature praised in contemporary analysis is its real-image optical zoom viewfinder, a rare and valuable addition for an inexpensive compact camera of its era that makes shooting in bright, direct sunlight effortless. The camera features...Read more

(Translated)Show original
R
reway.nl
26/03/2026
PowerShot A1200 Digital Compact Camera Review & Condition Check

The Canon PowerShot A1200 is a compact, user-friendly 12.1-megapixel digital camera designed for budget-conscious and casual photographers. Its standout advantage is the inclusion of an optical viewfinder, which allows for easy framing and image capture in bright sunlight where standard LCD screens typically wash out. Users also highly praise its portable, lightweight design, clear...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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