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Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Review | 108 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£120
Avg. price in US: ~$150
Sensor size: 1/2.3"
Lens mount: N/A
Main camera pixel size: 1.34 µm
Weight: 291 g
Battery life (CIPA): 140 shots

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.4

Poor

3.9

Poor

8.8

Excellent

3.2
Professional photography
Score components:
25.0%
5.8
Sensor size
20.0%
5.6
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)
3.7
Travel
Score components:
35.0%
8.7
Weight
30.0%
1.0
Battery life (CIPA)
20.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
15.0%
1.0
GPS
7.0
Beginners
Score components:
30.0%
9.9
Price
20.0%
8.7
Weight
20.0%
10
AF tracking
20.0%
1.0
Battery life (CIPA)
10.0%
1.0
Touchscreen
3.6
Landscape photography
Score components:
30.0%
5.6
Main camera megapixels
25.0%
5.8
Sensor size
20.0%
1.3
Main camera pixel size
15.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
10.0%
1.0
RAW photo capture
6.4
Street photography
Score components:
30.0%
8.7
Weight
25.0%
8.0
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%
1.3
Main camera pixel size
20.0%
1.0
Eye detection AF (human)
15.0%
5.6
Main camera megapixels
10.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
3.7
Hiking
Score components:
30.0%
8.7
Weight
25.0%
1.0
Battery life (CIPA)
20.0%
2.8
Min operating temperature
15.0%
1.0
Sensor-shift stabilization
10.0%
1.0
GPS

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Verdict

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a budget-friendly compact superzoom featuring a 16.0-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor and a 16x optical zoom lens with a 28–448mm equivalent focal range. It offers a versatile shooting experience with full manual controls (P/A/S/M), a 3.0-inch LCD screen, and 720p HD video recording with stereo sound. Its main advantages include the powerful focal range with optical image stabilisation, ease of use for beginners, and the convenience of being powered by standard AA batteries. However, it suffers from slow performance with noticeable shutter lag, high image noise at ISO settings above 400, and a relatively low-resolution screen with poor viewing angles.

Technical Specifications of Canon PowerShot SX160 IS

Overall score

4.4

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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.

Sensor & Image

4.4

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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

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

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

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

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

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Photo Features

3.2

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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

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

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

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

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Video & Audio

3.8

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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

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

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

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

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

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Display & Design

5.1

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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

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

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

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

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Battery & Power

3.1

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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

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

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

Connectivity & Storage

2.6

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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

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

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

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Canon PowerShot SX160 IS vs the average camera

Why is Canon PowerShot SX160 IS better than the average camera?

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10x more popular
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS 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 SX160 IS is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
26.3% lighter
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is lighter than the average camera (291 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 SX160 IS is lighter than the average camera (291 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.291 g vs 395 g
10.2% higher user score
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a higher user score than the average camera (8.82 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 SX160 IS has a higher user score than the average camera (8.82 vs 8.000).8.82 vs 8
2.42x cheaper
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is cheaper than the average camera (£120 vs £290).
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is cheaper than the average camera (£120 vs £290).£120 vs £290
26.3% lighter
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is lighter than the average camera (291 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.

Display & Design

Why is Canon PowerShot SX160 IS worse than the average camera?

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No hot shoe
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
Smaller sensor
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
2 µm smaller main-camera pixels
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
Lacks HDR mode
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
4,800 lower max ISO
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a lower max ISO than the average camera (1,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
0.2 MP lower resolution on the main camera
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
1 older
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
September 2012
4.9 fps slower mechanical burst
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (0.8 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
No RAW photo capture
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
14 fewer AF points
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has fewer focus points than the average camera (9 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
0.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
640 px lower video resolution
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
16.7% lower video bitrate
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (25 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
190 shots shorter battery life
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has shorter battery life than the average camera (140 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
380 with Ni-MH AA.
Older HDMI version
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
Smaller sensor
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS 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 SX160 IS has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
4.9 fps slower mechanical burst
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (0.8 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 SX160 IS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (0.8 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.0.8 fps vs 5.7 fps
2 µm smaller main-camera pixels
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
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
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has a lower main camera pixel size than the average camera (1.3 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.1.34 µm vs 3.34 µm
Lacks HDR mode
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS 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 SX160 IS does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
No hot shoe
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS 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 SX160 IS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
190 shots shorter battery life
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has shorter battery life than the average camera (140 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
380 with Ni-MH AA.
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
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS has shorter battery life than the average camera (140 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.140 shots vs 330 shots
640 px lower video resolution
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
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
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS records lower-resolution video than the average camera (1,280 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.1280 px vs 1920 px
No RAW photo capture
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.
Importance: LOW
Canon PowerShot SX160 IS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.

Display & Design

Battery & Power

Connectivity & Storage

Graphic comparison of Canon PowerShot SX160 IS and

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Canon PowerShot SX160 IS?

Versatile 16x optical zoom range with effective image stabilisation
Full manual exposure controls (aperture, shutter speed, ISO) rarely found at this price point
Uses standard AA batteries which are convenient for travel and easy to replace
Intuitive design with large, well-labeled buttons and easy-to-use dial controls
Compact and lightweight build, making it highly portable for everyday use
Impressive macro performance and good daylight picture quality for a budget camera

What customers dislike about Canon PowerShot SX160 IS?

High battery consumption, especially with standard alkaline batteries (NiMH rechargeables recommended)
Significant image noise and drop in quality at ISO settings above 400
Slow performance including shutter lag and long recovery time between flash shots
Poor low-light autofocus and overall image clarity in dim environments
Low-resolution 3.0-inch LCD screen with limited viewing angles
Lack of an optical viewfinder and no provision for an external flash

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

20/11/2012

Canon Powershot SX160 IS Review - ePHOTOzine

The ePHOTOzine review positions the Canon PowerShot SX160 IS as a budget-friendly compact, highlighting its well-built, user-friendly design with full manual controls and a 16x optical zoom lens featuring image stabilization. Key pros include the easy-to-navigate menu, a dedicated pop-up flash button, and an accessible interface for quickly adjusting ISO, exposure, and self-timers....Read more

pocket-lint.com

16/04/2013

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS review - Pocket-lint

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is an affordable budget compact camera that stands out primarily for its wide-ranging 28-450mm equivalent zoom lens and optical image stabilization, which allows users to capture both wide landscapes and distant subjects. It is highly accessible for beginners, offering a full range of manual modes—including manual, aperture priority, shutter priority,...Read more

reviewcentralme.com

03/12/2013

Review: Canon PowerShot SX 160 IS - Review Central ME

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is an affordable superzoom digital camera priced at AED 499 that balances beginner-friendly features with advanced functionality. On the positive side, it features a 16-megapixel sensor, a powerful 16x optical zoom lens (28mm to 448mm equivalent), and reliable optical image stabilisation. Photographers can enjoy crisp macro shots, true-to-life color...Read more

annestravels.net

06/02/2016

Gear Review: Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Camera - Anne's Travels

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a user-friendly point-and-shoot camera that provides notable improvements over its predecessor, the SX150, making it an excellent choice for amateur photographers looking for high-quality imagery without the bulk of a DSLR. On the positive side, the camera boasts an expanded 16-megapixel resolution and a powerful 16x optical zoom with an image...Read more

firstpost.com

25/10/2012

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Review - Firstpost

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a 16-megapixel bridge camera designed for budget-conscious photographers looking for a middle ground between basic point-and-shoots and expensive travel compacts. Priced at an MRP of Rs 12,995, it stands out by offering full manual controls, semi-manual modes, and an upgraded 16x optical zoom lens (28–448 mm equivalent) that easily captures wide...Read more

chip.de

27/12/2012

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS (Digital Camera) Review

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a budget-friendly compact digital camera that offers a mix of beginner features and advanced manual controls for its price point. Its biggest highlight is a powerful 16x optical zoom lens with a built-in image stabiliser, which spans a focal range of 28mm to 448mm. The camera is highly praised for being very easy to use, featuring large physical...Read more

connect-living.de

15/01/2013

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS review (digitalkamera.de) | 21.08.2012 | Canon PowerShot SX160 IS specifications and review info (dkamera.de) | 01.12.2012 |...

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a compact megazoom camera that balances a broad focal range with user-friendly handling at an affordable price. Measuring 111 x 72 x 24 mm and weighing approximately 290 grams, its bulky build is justified by a versatile 16x zoom lens ranging from 28mm to 448mm (35mm equivalent). Key ergonomic advantages include deep-notched control dials, an...Read more

camerarace.com

21/06/2013

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS - Review and Specifications

The CameraRace review of the Canon PowerShot SX160 IS characterizes the bridge camera as a lightweight, compact, 291-gram device ideal for daily handling. While it features capable autofocus for tracking subjects and a fast shutter, it ultimately delivers a low 28/100 technical score. Significant drawbacks include poor image quality—ranking in the bottom 62% of its class—a lack of...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

21/08/2012

Canon PowerShot SX160 and SX500: big zooms are coming

The provided article from Les Numériques reviews the launch of two mid-range, budget-friendly compact cameras featuring significant zoom capabilities: the Canon PowerShot SX160 and the Canon PowerShot SX500. Both entry-level models are driven by a 16-megapixel CCD sensor and a Digic 4 processor, cap photo sensitivity at 1600 ISO, and support 720p HD video recording. They both...Read more

dailymotion.com

13/01/2014

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS review and hands-on

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is highlighted as a budget-friendly compact megazoom camera that offers excellent value for beginners, families, and travelers wanting more creative control. A major selling point is its versatile 16x optical zoom lens paired with optical image stabilization, allowing for flexible framing. Users benefit from a full selection of exposure options ranging...Read more

tomshw.it

21/11/2012

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS: Great photos in good light

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is evaluated as a budget-friendly, travel-friendly compact camera that updates its predecessor (the SX150 IS) by boosting the optical zoom from 12x to 16x (a 28-448 mm equivalent) and increasing the sensor resolution from 14.1 to 16 megapixels. On the positive side, the review highlights its highly accessible price point (launching at just under €200)...Read more

portablegear.nl

n.v.t.

Testing the Canon PowerShot SX160 IS

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a budget-friendly compact camera featuring a versatile 16x optical zoom, effective image stabilization, and full manual controls, making it ideal for beginners and travelers. Pros include its ergonomic handling, dedicated flash button, and the convenience of using AA batteries for power. Conversely, the camera suffers from significant image noise at...Read more

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