Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Point & Shoot Camera
The Canon PowerShot SX1 IS is a 10MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with 1080p video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Point & Shoot Camera
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Camera Overview — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
Key Features — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
10MP 1/2.3-Inch Sensor: Paired with Canon's DIGIC IV processor for reliable image processing across the ISO 80–1600 range.
1080p Video Recording: Records full HD video at up to 30fps, a notable capability for a point-and-shoot camera of this era.
Optical Image Stabilization: Lens-based OIS corrects for camera shake without a digital crop, preserving the full image frame.
Fully Articulated LCD: 2.8-inch TFT screen rotates and tilts to allow comfortable framing from high, low, or awkward angles.
Electronic Viewfinder: 148,000-dot EVF provides an alternative to the LCD for composing shots in bright outdoor conditions.
9-Point AF with Subject Tracking: Contrast Detection and Face Detection AF across 9 points, with subject tracking to follow moving subjects.
Camera Specifications — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel |
| Type | Point and Shoot |
| Sensor | 1/2.3 inch |
| Resolution | 10MP |
| Processor | DIGIC IV |
| ISO Range | 80 – 1600 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection, Face Detection AF |
| AF Points | 9 points |
| Max Photo Resolution | 3648x2736 |
| Burst Rate | 4 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | 1080p |
| Max Frame Rate | 30fps |
Description — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
The Canon PowerShot SX1 IS is a point-and-shoot camera equipped with a 10MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor and powered by Canon's DIGIC IV image processor. It shoots stills at a maximum resolution of 3648 x 2736 pixels, with a burst mode capable of 4 frames per second and a choice of color profiles including Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, and Custom. Video recording reaches 1080p at up to 30fps, with 24fps also available, captured in 8-bit depth.
The autofocus system combines Contrast Detection and Face Detection AF across 9 focus points, with subject tracking enabled. Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) is built in. The 2.8-inch fully articulated TFT LCD (230,000 dots) pairs with a 148,000-dot EVF for flexible shooting. ISO spans 80 to 1600.
Connectivity includes Mini HDMI output, USB, and a standard Canon hot shoe. Storage is via SD and SDHC cards. The body weighs 615g and measures 128 x 88 x 88 mm, constructed from plastic/polycarbonate with metal elements, with no weather sealing.
Pros — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
- ✓1080p video recording at 30fps and 24fps — capable video output for a point-and-shoot
- ✓Fully articulated 2.8-inch LCD makes shooting from unusual angles practical
- ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) provides real stabilization without a digital crop
Cons — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
- ✗ISO tops out at 1600, limiting options in very low light
- ✗No weather sealing — the body is not protected against moisture or dust
- ✗EVF resolution of only 148,000 dots is quite low for detailed framing
Videos — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS
Canon PowerShot SX1 IS review — Gordon Laing







