While Nikon was busy updating its pro line of DSLRs, Canon launched its obligatory annual update of point and shoot cameras at CES 2016, along with some new camcorders.
The new Canon PowerShot models include:
Canon PowerShot SX540 HS
- 20.3MP
- 50x zoom lens
- 1080/60p video
- WiFi + NFC connectivity
- Priced at $399
Canon PowerShot SX420 IS
- 20MP
- 42x zoom lens
- 720p video
- WiFi + NFC connectivity
- Priced at $299
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
- 20MP
- 12x zoom lens
- 1080/30p
- WiFi + NFC
- Priced at $209
Canon ELPH 190 IS
- 20MP
- 10x zoom lens
- 720p video
- WiFi + NFC
- Priced at $159
Canon ELPH 180
- 20MP
- 8x zoom lens
- 720p video
- Priced at $119
Canon VIXIA G40 Camcorder
On the camcorder side, Canon unveiled the VIXIA G40, which is probably the most exciting digital imaging tech from Canon at CES 2016.
The VIXIA G40 builds on the popular G-series line but remains a 1080p camera, while other manufacturers are providing comparable camcorders (both price and features) with 4K capture. Notably, it offers Wide DR gamma and Highlight Priority Mode for increased dynamic range and better control over highlights.
The G40 lens features a 20x optical zoom for a 26.8-576mm equivalent range. It records to dual SD card slots at up to 1080/60p frame rates. It also offers full manual exposure control.
The G40 also offers dual band WiFi, remote control over WiFi, LANC control and a 3.5″ OLED touchscreen. It retails for $1299 and is available here at B&H Photo.
Canon VIXIA Consumer Camcorder Updates
Canon also updated its more consumer-centric camcorders with the VIXIA HF R72, HF R70 and HF R700. These are direct replacements to the VIXIA HF R62, HF R60 and HF R600 models.
The R72 offers 32GB internal storage, while the R70 offers 16GB and the R700 is SD card-only.
The most noticeable difference will be the larger battery included with the camcorders, which will bring battery life up to around 3 hours (thanks to the inclusion of the larger BP-727 battery). But the cameras also feature improvement in dynamic range thanks to the inclusion of the Highlight Priority feature. All of these consumer models shoot up to 1080/60p resolution and feature a 57x zoom lens.
The Canon VIXIA HF R72, HF R70 and HF R700 are priced at $449, $399 and $299, respectively.
Yes, these are just product refreshes from Canon, but releasing cameras with 720P specs in 2016 at CES is embarrassing. What they fail to mention is that the SX420, ELPH 190 IS, and ELPH 180 are apparently only capable of 720 at 25P… you’ll need to step down to 640×480 to achieve 30P.
I understand these are not “video cameras” but even from a marketing perspective, how is this even acceptable?
I’m with you Brian.
Canon executes on balance sheets for so many cameras and leaves the soul out of them.