Canon PowerShot SX540 HS vs PowerShot SX70 HS Comparison

Optics

Video

Features

Storage & Battery

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS

Winner!

Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS

Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Price	× Canon PowerShot SX540 HS Deals As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.	× Canon PowerShot SX70 HS Deals As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
			Buy Now!
			Buy Now!
			Buy Now!
			Buy Now!
Brand	Canon	Canon
Model	PowerShot SX540 HS	PowerShot SX70 HS
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.	2016	2018
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.	January 05, 2016	September 20, 2018
Camera Type	Bridge	Bridge
Camera Size	mm" 120 x 82 x 92mm4.7 x 3.2 x 3.6" 120 x 82 x 92mm 4.7 x 3.2 x 3.6"	mm" 127 x 91 x 117mm5 x 3.6 x 4.6" 127 x 91 x 117mm 5 x 3.6 x 4.6"
Camera Weight	glb 442 g0.97 lb 442 g 0.97 lb	glb 608 g1.34 lb 608 g 1.34 lb

The Canon PowerShot SX540 HS comes out as the winner with a score of 52/100, while the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS trails behind with a score of 48. Both cameras are bridge type and share a similar launch price. The cameras also have comparable sizes, with the SX540 HS measuring 120 x 82 x 92mm and the SX70 HS at 127 x 91 x 117mm.

The winning SX540 HS is better due to its lighter weight of 442g, making it more portable and convenient for users. On the other hand, the SX70 HS has a more recent release year of 2018, providing it with potentially updated technology and features compared to the SX540 HS, which was released in 2016.

Taking all factors into account, the Canon PowerShot SX540 HS wins for its higher score, lighter weight, and lower price. However, the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS remains a viable option for those seeking a more recent model with potential advancements in technology.

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS vs PowerShot SX70 HS Overview and Optics

The Canon PowerShot SX540 HS edges out the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS in our optics comparison with a score of 51/100, while the SX70 HS achieves a score of 49/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, including 20 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, 1/2.3″ sensor size, and a fixed lens mount, which means the lenses cannot be changed.

The SX540 HS has a few advantages over the SX70 HS. It features a DIGIC 6 processor, image stabilization, and a 4:3 aspect ratio. The image stabilization contributes to better image quality in various shooting conditions, particularly in low light or when capturing fast-moving subjects. Its 4:3 aspect ratio is also more versatile for different types of photography.

On the other hand, the SX70 HS has a higher shooting speed of 10 compared to the SX540 HS’s 5.9, which may make it more suitable for capturing fast action scenes. Additionally, it has a more powerful Digic 8 processor and a higher DXOMARK score for the sensor at 58, indicating better overall image quality. However, the SX70 HS lacks image stabilization and has a 3:2 aspect ratio, which may be limiting for some photographers.

To sum up, the Canon PowerShot SX540 HS wins the optics comparison by a narrow margin, thanks to its image stabilization and versatile aspect ratio. However, the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS offers a faster shooting speed and better overall image quality with its more powerful processor and higher sensor score. Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the photographer.

Optics	Canon PowerShot SX540 HS	Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.	20 MP	20 MP
Image Resolution Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.	5184 x 3888 px	5184 x 3888 px
Sensor Type The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.	CMOS	CMOS
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.	6.17 x 4.55 mm	6.17 x 4.55 mm
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.	1/2.3”	1/2.3”
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.	5.9 fps	10 fps
Lens Mount The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.	Fixed	Fixed
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.	Digic 6	Digic 8
Aspect Ratio The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.	4:3	3:2
Minimum ISO (Native) Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.	80	100
Maximum ISO (Native) Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.	3,200	3,200
Minimum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.	80	100
Maximum ISO (Expanded) Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.	3200	3200
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.	15 s	15 s
Maximum Shutter Speed The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.	1/ 2000 s	1/ 2000 s
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.	0	9
In-body Stabilization In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder Type The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.	None	Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution	N/A	2,360,000 dots

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS vs PowerShot SX70 HS Video Performance

The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS outperforms the Canon PowerShot SX540 HS in video capabilities, scoring 91 out of 100, compared to the SX540 HS’s score of 56. Both cameras share some common video features, but the SX70 HS offers significant advantages in certain areas.

Both the SX540 HS and SX70 HS provide Full HD video resolution, with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080. However, the SX70 HS goes a step further, offering 4K video resolution and maximum dimensions of 3840 x 2160. This higher resolution results in sharper, more detailed video footage.

Another notable difference is the maximum video frame rate. The SX540 HS has a maximum frame rate of 60fps, while the SX70 HS doubles that number, reaching up to 120fps. This higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and greater flexibility in post-production, such as the ability to create slow-motion footage.

The SX70 HS also includes built-in time-lapse functionality, which the SX540 HS lacks. This feature enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional equipment or software.

The SX540 HS does not have any specific advantages in video capabilities over the SX70 HS. Its lower score reflects its inferior performance in this area.

Based on these differences, the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS is the clear winner in terms of video capabilities. Its 4K resolution, higher frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality make it a more versatile and capable camera for capturing high-quality video. The Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, while still providing Full HD video, falls short in comparison to the superior performance of the SX70 HS.

Video	Canon PowerShot SX540 HS	Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.	Full HD	4K
Max Video Dimensions Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.	1920 x 1080 px	3840 x 2160 px
Max Video Frame Rate How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.	60 p	120 p
Time-Lapse Built In A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video File Format Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.	MPEG-4, MOV	MPEG-4, MOV

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS vs PowerShot SX70 HS Features and Benefits

The Canon PowerShot SX540 HS and SX70 HS scores closely on features. Both cameras have a 3-inch screen, no GPS, and offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The SX540 HS benefits from a higher screen resolution of 461,000 dots, compared to the SX70 HS’s 922,000 dots. This difference leads to a clearer and more detailed display on the SX540 HS, making it easier to compose and review images.

Features	Canon PowerShot SX540 HS	Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External Flash External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather Sealing Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen Type	TFT LCD	TFT LCD
Touch Screen Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen Size	3"	3"
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.	461,000 dots	922,000 dots
Flip Screen A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live View Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Bluetooth Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS vs PowerShot SX70 HS Storage and Battery

The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS outperforms the Canon PowerShot SX540 HS in storage and battery with a score of 21/100 compared to the latter’s 13/100. Both cameras have a single memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Neither camera offers USB charging.

The SX70 HS has a clear advantage in battery life, providing 325 shots per charge, while the SX540 HS falls short with only 205 shots. This difference in battery life makes the SX70 HS a more reliable choice for extended shooting sessions. The SX540 HS, on the other hand, does not offer any notable benefits in storage and battery when compared to the SX70 HS.

Considering the significant difference in battery life, the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS proves to be the superior choice in terms of storage and battery performance. The Canon PowerShot SX540 HS, while still a capable camera, falls behind in this specific aspect.

Storage and Battery	Canon PowerShot SX540 HS	Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Memory Card	SD / SDHC / SDXC	SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type	NB-6LH	LP-E12
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.	205 shots	325 shots
USB Charging

DXOMARK Scores Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK	Canon PowerShot SX540 HS	Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score.		N/A
Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.'	20.3 bits	N/A
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.'	11.2 EVs	N/A
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better'	179	N/A

Scores	Canon PowerShot SX540 HS	Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS vs PowerShot SX70 HS – Our Verdict

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Canon PowerShot SX540 HS or the Canon PowerShot SX70 HS:

User Scores	Canon PowerShot SX540 HS	Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
B&H photo video	44 reviews Check it on B&H	48 reviews Check it on B&H

Spotted a mistake with these camera specs? Please let us know so we can update it!

Found a mistake?