10 Best Canon PowerShot Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a compact camera designed for video creators and photography enthusiasts who want a portable yet capable device. It features a 1-inch, 20.1-megapixel stacked CMOS sensor paired with Canon’s DIGIC 8 processor, delivering sharp and detailed photos with good low-light performance thanks to its bright f/1.8-2.8 lens. The 4.2x optical zoom (24-100mm equivalent) lets you get closer to subjects without losing image quality, and optical image stabilization helps keep shots steady, which is especially useful when shooting handheld or zoomed in.

Video capabilities stand out here: you can shoot in 4K at 30 frames per second, or slow-motion Full HD at up to 120 fps, making it a strong choice for vloggers or content creators. The camera also supports live streaming as a webcam via USB or HDMI, adding to its versatility. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy sharing and remote control. The camera has a tilting 3-inch touchscreen LCD that makes framing shots from different angles comfortable. While the battery life isn’t exceptional — typical for compact cameras — it should be sufficient for casual shooting sessions. The included accessories, like a combination tripod grip and remote, memory card, and tripod, add value for video creators on the go.

One drawback is the relatively short video recording time per clip (about 22 minutes), which might require restarting recordings often during longer shoots. Also, it’s not weather-sealed, so it needs care in challenging outdoor conditions. At 16 ounces, it’s light and easy to carry, but some users expecting DSLR-level controls might find it limited in advanced manual settings. The G7 X Mark III is a suitable choice for users looking for a high-quality compact camera that excels in video and still photography, especially for vloggers and casual professionals who prioritize portability and image quality without a steep learning curve.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a compact camera designed for users who want a blend of ease of use and impressive performance, particularly in photography and videography. Its standout feature is the powerful 40x optical zoom, allowing you to capture distant subjects without losing detail, complemented by optical image stabilization for steady shots. The 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers good image quality, and the DIGIC 8 processor enhances performance, especially in low-light conditions. Plus, it supports 4K video recording, making it a solid choice for vlogging and capturing high-resolution videos.

Connectivity is another strong point, with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling easy sharing of your photos and videos directly to your smartphone or tablet. The camera's lightweight design (0.3 kg) makes it highly portable, ideal for travel.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the camera excels in zoom and video capabilities, it lacks advanced features such as a viewfinder, which can help compose shots in bright sunlight. The maximum ISO of 6400 is decent, but it may introduce noise in very low-light situations. Additionally, the battery life is average but could be limiting for those planning on extended shoots without access to charging. Lastly, some users might find the absence of manual controls a limiting factor, as it primarily caters to automatic shooting modes.

The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a compact camera offering a powerful 40x optical zoom, which is great for capturing distant subjects without losing detail. It uses a 1/2.3-inch 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, which delivers good image quality, especially in decent lighting, though it may struggle a bit in very low light compared to cameras with larger sensors. The built-in optical image stabilization helps reduce blur from shaky hands, making zoomed shots clearer. Video recording is strong, supporting smooth 1080p Full HD at 60 frames per second with stereo sound, suitable for everyday video capture. Connectivity features like built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make it easy to share your photos and videos wirelessly. The 3-inch LCD screen is bright and clear, aiding in framing shots well.

Battery life is decent for casual use, but heavy shooters might need extra batteries. The camera is lightweight and easy to carry, fitting well for travel or casual photography. One thing to note is that although the specs mention waterproofing as a special feature, this model is not truly water resistant, so care around water is necessary. Also, while it offers many shooting modes that help beginners and creative users alike, it doesn’t have a touchscreen or an electronic viewfinder, which some may miss.

This camera is well suited for users who want a versatile, easy-to-use zoom camera with good image quality and connectivity, without the complexity or bulk of larger cameras.