Canon PowerShot SX620 HS Review: A Compact Superzoom for Everyday Adventures

Introduction

For those who want more than a smartphone can offer, but less than the bulk of a DSLR or mirrorless, the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS lands in the sweet spot. This pocketable point-and-shoot is designed for anyone craving serious zoom without the weight and complexity of larger cameras.

But how does it actually perform for real-world users—travelers, families, and hobbyists alike? Let’s dive into this compact superzoom and see if it’s still a contender in 2025.

Key Features

• 25x Optical Zoom (25–625mm equivalent):
  Reach faraway subjects—wildlife, sports, cityscapes—without swapping lenses.
• 20.2MP CMOS Sensor:
  Delivers high-resolution images with vibrant color in good light.
• 1080p Full HD Video:
  Shoot smooth, stabilized videos on your next adventure or family outing.
• Built-in Wi-Fi & NFC:
  Transfer images to your phone in seconds—no cables needed.
• Ultra-Compact Design:
  At just 182g (0.4 lbs), it fits in your jacket or bag—perfect for travel or everyday carry.
• For full specifications and product details, visit:
  Canon’s Official Product Page

Design & Handling

The SX620 HS keeps things sleek and simple. Its minimalist plastic body is comfortable to hold, with a subtle textured grip for extra security. While it won’t win awards for toughness, it’s built for lightweight portability, not rugged abuse.

The rear 3-inch LCD is bright and sharp for reviewing photos and composing shots, but it’s fixed (not flip-out or touch-enabled) and there’s no viewfinder—a challenge in harsh sunlight. The control layout is intuitive, with a basic mode dial, simple menu system, and logical button placement.

Beginners will appreciate the lack of clutter; enthusiasts may miss the absence of manual exposure controls and RAW shooting.

Performance

Zoom & Image Quality

The 25x optical zoom is the standout feature here. At the wide end, photos are crisp and colors are true—great for landscapes, street scenes, and group photos. Zoom in, and you can fill the frame with distant details, whether that’s a bird in a tree or the top of a cathedral across the plaza.

However, image sharpness and color do start to suffer at maximum zoom, especially in low light. The lens aperture narrows to f/6.6 at full telephoto, so you’ll see more digital noise and some image softness—common at this size and price point. For best results, stick to daylight or well-lit scenes.

Low Light Performance

Low-light shooting is the Achilles’ heel of most compact zooms, and the SX620 HS is no exception. Keep ISO settings low (preferably below 800) to reduce graininess, and consider using the built-in flash for closer subjects.

Autofocus

Autofocus is quick and reliable in good lighting, snapping to focus on most subjects. In dim conditions or at full zoom, it can slow down or hunt for focus, so patience may be required if you’re chasing fast action.

Video

You’ll get decent 1080p Full HD video with built-in optical image stabilization—perfect for travel clips, family events, or vlogging basics. There’s no 4K video or microphone input, but for everyday memories, it gets the job done.

Battery Life

Expect about 250 shots per charge—enough for a day’s sightseeing or a casual weekend trip. If you’re shooting all day, pack a spare battery to be safe.

Pros & Cons

Pros:
✅ Massive zoom range in a truly compact body
✅ User-friendly controls for beginners
✅ Instant sharing via Wi-Fi and NFC
✅ Very affordable—often under $300

Cons:
❌ No touchscreen, no viewfinder
❌ Lacks RAW support and full manual controls
❌ Mediocre low-light performance
❌ Image softening at full zoom

Who Should Buy the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS?

The SX620 HS is an ideal fit for:

• Travelers: Wanting a no-fuss camera that’s lighter than a mirrorless but can still zoom way in on the action.
• Families: Perfect for vacations, school events, or anyone who needs more reach than a smartphone.
• Casual Shooters: Prioritizing portability and easy sharing over technical controls or pro-level results.

Alternatives to Consider

• Panasonic Lumix ZS70: Adds a viewfinder, touchscreen, and 4K video recording—great for more advanced users.
• Sony HX90V: Even bigger 30x zoom and a pop-up electronic viewfinder in a compact body.
• Modern Smartphones: Excel in low light and editing, but can’t compete with optical zoom for distant subjects.

Verdict

The Canon PowerShot SX620 HS is a fun, accessible superzoom that delivers big on reach and convenience for under $300. It’s not built for professional results or creative control, but it’s a fantastic travel companion, a reliable step-up from your phone, and a camera you’ll actually want to bring along. For bright days, family memories, and adventures close or far, it’s tough to beat at this price—just set your expectations accordingly for low light or fast-moving action.