@18inch wrote:
Hi people!
Im very hesitant between the G9X and SX720HS, is there a big difference in terms of image quality? is the 1" sensor on the g9x a big step up ? is the 40x on the SX720hs really the biggest advantage only?
thx
Those are two very different cameras, as you seem to have already noted the difference in optical zoom and image sensor size. I have not used, or owned, either of those cameras. I compare the specifications, and I feel the G9X is a better camera, and the list prices seem to suggest that just may be the case.
Generally, a larger image sensor is capable of collecting more light, which should result in more detailed images. Of course, the lens optics will be the ultimate determining factor in how sharp and detailed the final images can be. Because a larger sensor is physically capable of collecting more light, a larger sensor should perform better in low light conditions than a smaller sensor. Comparing the ISO specifications of the two cameras seem to confirm that the G9X is MUCH better in low light, such as indoors without a flash.
The much higher optical zoom ratio is another significant difference between the cameras. The G9X has a 35mm equivalent range of 28-80mm. The SX720 HS has a 35mm equivalent range of 24-960mm. The best lenses are arguably what are known as "prime" lenses, or lenses have a single, fixed focal length, which do not zoom. Prime lenses contain focusing elements that are optimized to precisely focus at one focal length.
When you introduce the concept of zooming, then the focusing elements are not optimized for one focal length, but rather compromised somewhat to operate over a range of focal lengths. As you might suspect, the wider the zoom range, the wider the range of compromises that must be made in the lens' focusing elements. As a general rule, once you get past 3-4x zoom ratio, then the compromises that must be made to achieve higher zoom ratio begin noticeably degrade image quality.
Niether of these cameras have interchangeable lenses. What you buy is what you get. I think the G9X is a great "street" lens, and would work well shooting indoors in less than ideal lighting conditions. I think the SX720 HS is a camera that tries to do it all, but does nothing exceptionally well. It is far less sensitive in low light situations. The higher zoom ratio will allow you to capture sports action closeups, and probably good shots of birds in trees, BUT only the under the best lighting conditions.
How well either camera can focus, I cannot say. I am more familiar with Canon EOS DSLR cameras, not the Powershot Series of cameras. With its' larger image sensor, I would suspect the G9X would focus better, in addition to having a lens that is likely to have better image quality. I would point out that the G9X is priced very close to the entry level EOS DSLR models, which have even larger sensors and even better lenses.
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