Canon PowerShot SD980 IS Point & Shoot Camera
The Canon SD980 IS is a 12.1MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with 720p video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Canon PowerShot SD980 IS Point & Shoot Camera
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Camera Overview — Canon SD980 IS
Key Features — Canon SD980 IS
12.1MP 1/2.3" Sensor: Captures stills at up to 4000x3000 pixels, delivering sufficient detail for prints and casual photography.
DIGIC 4 Processor: Canon's DIGIC 4 image processor handles noise reduction and image rendering for faster, more consistent results.
Optical Image Stabilization: Reduces blur caused by camera shake during handheld shooting, particularly useful in lower-light conditions.
3.0" Touchscreen LCD: Serves as both the primary viewfinder and control interface, with touch input for a camera of this era and size.
720p HD Video: Records video at up to 1280x720 at 30fps, suitable for casual everyday video capture.
ISO 80–1600 Range: Covers a broad spread of lighting conditions from bright daylight to dimmer indoor environments.
Camera Specifications — Canon SD980 IS
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel, Beginner-Friendly |
| Type | Point and Shoot |
| Sensor | 1/2.3 inch |
| Resolution | 12.1MP |
| Processor | DIGIC 4 |
| ISO Range | 80 – 1600 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection |
| AF Points | 9 |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4000x3000 |
| Burst Rate | 1.4 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 720p |
| Max Frame Rate | 30fps |
Description — Canon SD980 IS
The Canon PowerShot SD980 IS is a slim, pocketable point-and-shoot built for everyday use. Its 12.1MP sensor on a 1/2.3-inch imaging chip is processed by Canon's DIGIC 4 engine, producing stills at up to 4000x3000 pixels. The ISO range spans 80 to 1600, and the camera supports burst shooting at up to 1.4fps for capturing sequential moments. Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) helps keep shots sharp during handheld use.
Video recording reaches 720p at 30fps, suitable for casual clips. The 3.0-inch touchscreen LCD at 230,000 dots handles all framing and menu navigation — there is no optical viewfinder. Shooters can select from Standard, Vivid, Neutral, and Custom color profiles to tailor the look of their images.
Storage relies on SD and SDHC cards, and the NB-6L Lithium-Ion battery is rated for approximately 240 shots per charge. The plastic body measures 99.9 x 53.4 x 22.9 mm and weighs just 160g, making it one of the more travel-friendly options in its class.
Pros — Canon SD980 IS
- ✓12.1MP resolution on a 1/2.3-inch sensor delivers detailed stills at up to 4000x3000 pixels
- ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce blur from camera shake during handheld shooting
- ✓3.0-inch touchscreen LCD provides a large, touch-enabled interface for a camera of this size
Cons — Canon SD980 IS
- ✗No viewfinder — the 3.0-inch LCD is the only framing option
- ✗No weather sealing, limiting use in rain or dusty conditions
- ✗Maximum burst rate of 1.4fps is quite slow for action or fast-moving subjects








