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Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS Point & Shoot Camera

The Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS is a 10MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with SD (480p) video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS Point & Shoot Camera

Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS Point & Shoot Camera

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Camera Overview — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

The Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS is a compact point-and-shoot camera built around a 10MP sensor housed in a 1/2.3-inch format, powered by Canon's DIGIC III image processor. Designed for everyday shooters who value portability, the camera weighs just 155g and measures 95 x 57 x 27mm in a metal and plastic body — slim enough to slip into a pocket without much thought. The optical image stabilization system helps reduce camera shake during handheld shooting, while the 9-point contrast detection autofocus system with subject tracking keeps moving subjects sharp.

ISO sensitivity runs from 80 to 1600, giving the camera a reasonable working range in varied lighting conditions. The 2.5-inch TFT LCD display delivers 230,000 dots of resolution for composing and reviewing shots, and there's also an optical tunnel viewfinder for times when working in bright sunlight. A built-in flash covers Auto, On, Off, and Red-eye reduction modes.

Video capture is available at up to 30fps with color profile options including Standard, Sepia, and Black & White. Storage is handled via SD and SDHC cards, and the camera connects to a computer via USB. Battery life is rated at approximately 280 shots per charge using the NB-5L battery pack.

Key Features — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

10MP 1/2.3-Inch Sensor: Captures 10-megapixel images with Canon's DIGIC III processor handling noise reduction and image rendering.

Optical Image Stabilization: Lens-based OIS compensates for camera shake during handheld shooting, reducing blur in lower light conditions.

9-Point AF with Subject Tracking: Contrast detection autofocus across 9 points can lock onto and follow moving subjects through the frame.

Optical Tunnel Viewfinder: Provides an alternative to the LCD for composing shots in bright sunlight where screen visibility is reduced.

2.5-Inch TFT LCD Display: 230,000-dot screen for composing shots and reviewing images in a compact form factor.

ISO 80–1600 Range: Covers everyday outdoor shooting through moderately low-light indoor situations.

Camera Specifications — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel
TypePoint and Shoot
Sensor1/2.3 inch
Resolution10MP
ProcessorDIGIC III
ISO Range80 – 1600
AF SystemContrast Detection
AF Points9-point AF
Burst Rate1.4 fps
Max Video ResolutionSD (480p)
Max Frame Rate30fps
Bit Depth8-bit

Description — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

The Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS is a compact point-and-shoot camera built for casual everyday use. It features a 10MP sensor in a 1/2.3-inch format processed by Canon's DIGIC III image processor, with an ISO range of 80 to 1600 to handle varied lighting conditions. The Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) system helps keep shots sharp when shooting handheld.

Autofocus relies on contrast detection across 9 AF points with subject tracking, making it practical for capturing moving subjects. The 2.5-inch TFT LCD with 230,000 dots of resolution serves as the primary composing tool, backed up by an optical tunnel viewfinder. The camera body is constructed from metal and plastic, weighs 155g, and measures just 95 x 57 x 27mm, making it genuinely pocketable.

Storage uses SD and SDHC cards, connectivity is via USB, and the NB-5L battery is rated for approximately 280 shots per charge. Video records at up to 30fps in 8-bit color with frame rate options of 30fps and 15fps.

Pros — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

  • ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce blur from camera shake during handheld shooting
  • ✓9-point contrast detection AF with subject tracking keeps moving subjects in focus
  • ✓Lightweight at 155g with compact 95 x 57 x 27mm dimensions for easy portability

Cons — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

  • ✗No weather sealing, making it unsuitable for use in rain or dusty environments
  • ✗No hot shoe, limiting external flash or accessory mounting options
  • ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity for wireless image transfer

Videos — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

Canon PowerShot SD970 IS Review — CnetCameras

Resources & Downloads — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

Frequently Asked Questions — Canon Digital IXUS 970 IS

What type of image stabilization does the Canon IXUS 970 IS use?+
The camera uses Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). This is a lens-based system that physically compensates for camera shake. In-body and digital IS are both listed as inactive, meaning stabilization is handled optically.
What memory cards are compatible with this camera?+
The IXUS 970 IS accepts SD and SDHC cards. These are widely available and straightforward to source.
How long does the battery last per charge?+
Canon rates the NB-5L battery at approximately 280 shots per charge under CIPA standard testing conditions. Actual results will vary depending on usage patterns such as flash use and LCD brightness.
Can I connect this camera to a computer to transfer photos?+
Yes, the camera supports USB connectivity for wired file transfer. There is no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so wireless transfer is not available.
Does the camera have an autofocus system suitable for moving subjects?+
The IXUS 970 IS uses a 9-point contrast detection AF system with subject tracking enabled, which can follow moving subjects during shooting. Eye tracking is not supported.
What color profiles are available for photos and video?+
For photos, you can choose from Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, and Custom. Video recording offers a narrower selection of Standard, Sepia, and Black & White.

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