Canon PowerShot SX270 HS Review | 108 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price: ~£180
  • Sensor size: 1/2.3"
  • Lens mount: N/A
  • Main camera pixel size: 1.54 µm
  • Weight: 227 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 210 shots

Canon PowerShot SX270 HS review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

4.6

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%

4.2

Technical Score

10.0%

8.5

User score

Poor
4.2

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%

5.0

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.1

Photo Features

18.0%

4.6

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.4

Display & Design

8.0%

3.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.6

Connectivity & Storage

Poor
8.5

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%

7.9

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(82)
amazon
3.4
(31)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(82)
Amazon_logo.png
3.6
(17)
Amazon_logo.png
3.3
(8)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Excellent
  • 2.9
    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%

    1.0

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    1.0

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 4.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    9.4

    Weight

    30.0%

    1.5

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 7.2
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.6

    Price

    20.0%

    9.4

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    1.5

    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

  • 7.0
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.4

    Weight

    25.0%

    9.2

    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

  • 4.0
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.4

    Weight

    25.0%

    1.5

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    1.0

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • canon-powershot-sx270-hs
  • canon-powershot-sx270-hs
  • canon-powershot-sx270-hs
  • canon-powershot-sx270-hs
  • canon-powershot-sx270-hs
canon-powershot-sx270-hs
canon-powershot-sx270-hs
canon-powershot-sx270-hs
canon-powershot-sx270-hs
canon-powershot-sx270-hs

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is a versatile travel-zoom compact featuring a 12.1-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor paired with the DIGIC 6 image processor, which enhances low-light performance up to ISO 6400. Its standout feature is a 20x optical zoom lens with a 35mm equivalent focal length of 25–500mm, supported by an advanced 5-axis Intelligent Image Stabilisation system for steady shots. Main pros include its capability to record smooth Full HD 1080p video at 60fps, high-speed burst shooting up to 14fps, and full manual exposure controls (Av, Tv, M) for creative flexibility. However, notable cons include a relatively short battery life (rated at approximately 210–220 shots), the lack of built-in Wi-Fi and GPS found in its sibling model, and no support for RAW image files.

Technical Specifications of Canon PowerShot SX270 HS

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%

5.0

Sensor & Image

25.0%

3.1

Photo Features

18.0%

4.6

Video & Audio

14.0%

5.4

Display & Design

8.0%

3.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

2.6

Connectivity & Storage

4.2
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a technical score of 4.22 points, which is lower than 81.2% 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%

7.9

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(82)
amazon
3.4
(31)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.2
(82)
Amazon_logo.png
3.6
(17)
Amazon_logo.png
3.3
(8)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

8.5
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a user score of 8.5 points, which is higher than 69.5% 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 SX270 HS 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%

4.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.6

Price

6.1
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.1 points, which is lower than 58.7% 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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

6,400
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 6,400, which is higher than that of 37.3% of cameras and equal to that of 16.2% 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 SX270 HS 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

1
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has 1 focus points, fewer than the number offered by 95.4% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 4.6% 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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

1920 px
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% 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

35 Mbps
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a video bitrate of 35 Mbps which is higher than that of 53.8% of cameras and equal to that of 3.4% 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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

227 g
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS weighs 227 g which is lighter than 72.6% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.2% 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

106.4 mm
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a width of 106.4 mm which is narrower than 72.4% of cameras and equal to that of 0.1% 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

61.1 mm
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a height of 61.1 mm which is shorter than 75.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.1% 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

32.6 mm
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a thickness of 32.6 mm which is thinner than 72.7% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% 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

210 shots
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a CIPA-rated battery life of 210 shots, which is shorter than that of 86.9% of cameras and equal to that of 3.4% 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

1,000 mAh
Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a battery capacity of 1,000 mAh which is smaller than the batteries in 69.5% of cameras and equal to those in 2.4% of cameras.
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 SX270 HS has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
Show more

Canon PowerShot SX270 HS vs the average camera

  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
    What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
    When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
    Supports up to 240 fps high-speed video.
    What it is: The ability to record at high frame rates so motion can be played back more slowly than real time.
    When it matters: When you want to emphasize fast action, movement details, or dramatic moments in playback.

    Importance: LOW

    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • 42.5% lighter
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is lighter than the average camera (227 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 SX270 HS is lighter than the average camera (227 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.227 g vs 395 g
  • 10x more popular
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS is more popular than the average camera (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 12.8 mm shorter body
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is shorter than the average camera (61.1 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
    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

    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is shorter than the average camera (61.1 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.61.1 mm vs 73.9 mm
  • 6.3% higher user score
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a higher user score than the average camera (8.50 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 SX270 HS has a higher user score than the average camera (8.50 vs 8.000).8.5 vs 8
  • 13.5 mm narrower
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is narrower than the average camera (106.4 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 SX270 HS is narrower than the average camera (106.4 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.106.4 mm vs 119.9 mm
  • 13.4 mm thinner
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is thinner than the average camera (32.6 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 SX270 HS is thinner than the average camera (32.6 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.32.6 mm vs 46 mm
  • 42.5% lighter
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is lighter than the average camera (227 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 12.8 mm shorter body
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is shorter than the average camera (61.1 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 13.5 mm narrower
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is narrower than the average camera (106.4 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 13.4 mm thinner
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is thinner than the average camera (32.6 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • Uses a BSI sensor
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS uses a BSI sensor, the average camera does not. 34.8% of cameras use a BSI sensor.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • No hot shoe
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • Smaller sensor
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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.
  • 1.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (2.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
  • 22 fewer AF points
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has fewer focus points than the average camera (1 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • No RAW photo capture
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
  • 1.9 fps slower mechanical burst
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (3.8 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • 120 shots shorter battery life
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has shorter battery life than the average camera (210 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
  • 120 mAh smaller battery capacity
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a lower battery capacity than the average camera (1,000 mAh vs 1,120 mAh). The average camera has a battery capacity of 1,120 mAh.
  • Older HDMI version
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS uses HDMI 1.3, while the average camera uses HDMI 1.4.
  • Smaller sensor
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS 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
  • 1.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (2.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
    What it is: The official stabilization effectiveness rating measured under CIPA standards, usually expressed in stops.
    When it matters: When you compare how effective stabilization really is for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 5 stops

    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (2.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.2.5 stops vs 4 stops
  • Lacks HDR mode
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS does not support HDR mode, the average camera does. 55.1% of cameras include HDR mode.
  • No hot shoe
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS 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 SX270 HS does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
  • 1.8 µm smaller main-camera pixels
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS 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.
    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 SX270 HS 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.1.54 µm vs 3.34 µm
  • 120 shots shorter battery life
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has shorter battery life than the average camera (210 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.
    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 SX270 HS has shorter battery life than the average camera (210 shots vs 330 shots). The average camera delivers 330 shots per charge.210 shots vs 330 shots
  • 22 fewer AF points
    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has fewer focus points than the average camera (1 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 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

    Canon PowerShot SX270 HS has fewer focus points than the average camera (1 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.1 vs 23

Graphic comparison of Canon PowerShot SX270 HS and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Canon PowerShot SX270 HS?

  • Impressive 20x optical zoom (25-500mm equivalent) for its compact size
  • Compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable and 'pocketable'
  • Solid build quality with a sturdy mixture of metal and plastic
  • Fast startup, shutdown, and general operation speeds
  • Capable of Full HD (1080p) video recording at 60fps
  • Effective image stabilisation, especially useful when using the long zoom range
  • Instant flash charging and firing, improving usability for indoor shots

What customers dislike about Canon PowerShot SX270 HS?

  • Poor battery life, particularly when recording video or using the zoom extensively
  • Lack of RAW image capture capability, limiting post-processing options
  • Small maximum aperture (f/3.5-6.8) which limits performance in low-light conditions
  • No built-in Wi-Fi or GPS (unlike its sibling model, the SX280 HS)
  • Small 1/2.3-inch sensor can lead to lower image quality compared to modern smartphones or larger-sensor cameras
  • Fixed LCD screen lacks touch capability or tilt/articulation features
  • No built-in viewfinder, making it difficult to compose shots in bright sunlight

Expert reviews

E
ephotozine.com
18/12/2013

The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is a compact camera featuring a 20x optical zoom lens, a 12.1-megapixel sensor, and a DIGIC 6 processor that delivers very good image quality with 14 fps high-speed shooting and 60fps Full HD video. It serves as a lower-cost alternative to the SX280 HS, omitting built-in Wi-Fi and GPS for enhanced value. Pros highlighted include the impressive image...Read more

C
cameradecision.com
Not Stated

The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is a travel-focused compact camera featuring a 20x optical zoom (25-500mm), optical image stabilization, and the DIGIC 6 processor, which enables fast 14fps continuous shooting. It offers versatile, manual, and automatic shooting modes with good image quality in bright light, serving as a capable, portable option for travel photography. Conversely, the...Read more

C
chip.de
17/06/2013

The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is a compact 2013 travel-zoom camera that serves as a budget-friendly alternative to the SX280 HS. Priced around €290 (roughly €30 cheaper than its sibling), this 12-megapixel device strips away Wi-Fi connectivity and A-GPS functionality to offer a more economical price point. It features a powerful 20x optical zoom covering a 25–500mm equivalent focal...Read more

D
digitalkamera.de
05/08/2013

The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is identified as a fast, versatile travel camera featuring a powerful DIGIC 6 processor, strong performance, and extensive manual controls alongside reliable automatic modes. Its image quality is highly regarded for being clean and sharp up to ISO 400, producing quality prints up to A4 size. Conversely, the review notes significant limitations, including...Read more

C
camerarace.com
21/03/2013

The CameraRace review rates the Canon PowerShot SX270 HS as a highly portable, 233-gram bridge camera suitable for casual, street photography. Key advantages include a versatile lens with optical stabilization, a bright aperture at full zoom, and a fast shutter speed, ranking it in the top 40% of its class. However, the analysis highlights limitations, such as a low score for...Read more

C
clubic.com
28/06/2013

The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is a compact camera that stands out primarily due to its updated DIGIC 6 image processor, which provides a massive boost to the camera's speed and operational performance compared to its predecessor, the SX260 HS. This processor significantly slashes startup times, reduces the delay between shots to just 0.8 seconds, and enables lightning-fast autofocus...Read more

A
arnaud-dauphin.com
01/03/2025

The Canon PowerShot SX270 HS is a compact and lightweight digital camera released in 2013, designed to offer high-quality imagery and ease of transport for travel and family events. Priced at €239.00, it features a 12.1-megapixel resolution sensor, a powerful 20x optical zoom (complemented by a 4x digital zoom), and solid built-in image stabilisation that performs well in low light....Read more

Video reviews

Compare Canon PowerShot SX270 HS with

VS
VS

Compare