Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Review

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Review posted 03/01/2013

Quick Take
Pros

  • Powerful 16x zoom lens
  • Wide 28mm angle
  • Full manual control
  • Many color effects in shooting mode
  • Color effects can be applied in playback
  • Macro AF can focus at 0.4 inch
  • Can take stills in movie mode
  • Dedicated movie button
  • Thumb wheel aids menu navigation
Cons
  • Mediocre performance in low light
  • Slow burst shooting
  • Flash is slow to charge
  • Autofocus could be faster
  • Low battery life
  • Low-resolution LCD
  • Narrow LCD viewing angle pointing downward
Bottom Line
The PowerShot SX160 IS makes big promises with its bricklike form and extensive manual controls. But its sluggish burst shooting, slow-charging flash and middling performance in low light makes even its moderate price seem too high. The features are fit for a serious shooter, but the performance is more on a par with casual snapshot-takers. But, with a price tag of only $179, it does offer a good value for the money spent.  Read more in our Full Conclusion.
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In August of 2012 Canon announced two new SX-series PowerShot cameras, both of which boast powerful Canon Zoom lenses. What we have here is the slightly more affordable SX160 IS, which features many of the same features as the SX500 IS, namely a 16-megapixel image sensor, HD video recording, a 3.0-inch LCD display, the DIGIC 4 image processor, enhanced AutoFocus over previous SX models, Intelligent Image Stabilization, and Smart AUTO mode; where the camera automatically selects the best camera settings based on shooting conditions.

However, where the SX500 IS has a 30x optical zoom, the SX160 IS features a 16x optical zoom lens; which in 35mm terms covers 28-448mm. All of this versatility is packed into a more compact shell that is still large enough to get your hands around, and sports a price tag of of about $180. If you think you need more zoom capabilities, the SX500 IS will set you back about a $80 more.

Canon PowerShot SX1610 IS Features:
  • 16x optical zoom (28-448mm)
  • 16-megapixel image sensor
  • 3.0-inch LCD display
  • DIGIC 4 image processor
  • HD Video Recording
  • Smart AUTO Mode
  • Intelligent Image Stabilization
  • Powered by AA Batteries
  • SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slot

Canon's PowerShot SX160 IS comes in either black or red, with a retail price of $179. See our Lowest Price button at the top right of this page to see the most current online pricing.

What's in the box?:

  • PowerShot SX160 IS Body (black shown)
  • 2 AA-size Alkaline Batteries
  • Wrist Strap WS-800
  • USB Interface Cable IFC-400PCU
  • Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM


Additional Product Views
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You can check out the price of this camera on Adorama by clicking here.

Visitors of Steves can visit the stores below for real-time pricing and availability. You can also find hot, soon to expire online offers on a variety of cameras and accessories at our very own Camera Deals page.

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Digital Camera- Red - 16MP, 16x, 720P, 3"
SellerPriceIn StockSeller Rating
Sears$299.99

1276 reviews
Kmart$199.99

557 reviews
Dell$169.99

1380 reviews
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