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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

Canon PowerShot SX1 IS Point & Shoot Camera

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Camera Overview — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS

The Canon PowerShot SX1 IS is a point-and-shoot camera built around a 10MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor paired with Canon's DIGIC IV image processor. It covers an ISO range of 80 to 1600, giving shooters reasonable flexibility across different lighting conditions. On the video side, the camera records up to 1080p at 30fps or 24fps in 8-bit color, with a Standard color profile available — a meaningful capability for a point-and-shoot of its era.

The autofocus system uses Contrast Detection and Face Detection AF across 9 focus points, with subject tracking also supported. Optical image stabilization is built in, handled directly through the lens optics rather than a digital crop or body-based system. The 2.8-inch fully articulated TFT LCD with 230,000 dots of resolution adds compositional flexibility, and an Electronic Viewfinder with 148,000 dots provides an alternative framing option.

A standard Canon hot shoe enables external flash use beyond the integrated pop-up flash. The camera accepts SD and SDHC media, outputs via Mini HDMI, and connects via USB. It runs on four AA batteries — either NiMH or alkaline — rated for approximately 340 or 230 shots respectively per CIPA standards.

The body measures 128 x 88 x 88 mm and weighs 615g, built from plastic and polycarbonate with metal elements.

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

Canon PowerShot SX1 IS full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel
TypePoint and Shoot
Sensor1/2.3 inch
Resolution10MP
ProcessorDIGIC IV
ISO Range80 – 1600
AF SystemContrast Detection, Face Detection AF
AF Points9 points
Max Photo Resolution3648x2736
Burst Rate4 fps
Max Video Resolution1080p
Max Frame Rate30fps

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

Resources & Downloads — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Canon PowerShot SX1 IS

What memory cards does the Canon PowerShot SX1 IS support?+
The SX1 IS accepts SD and SDHC cards. These are widely available formats, though the camera does not support the higher-capacity SDXC standard.
Can this camera record video, and at what quality?+
Yes — the SX1 IS records video at up to 1080p resolution, with frame rate options of 30fps and 24fps. Video is captured in 8-bit color using a Standard color profile.
What type of batteries does the SX1 IS use?+
The camera runs on four AA batteries, accepting either NiMH rechargeable or standard alkaline cells. Battery life is rated at approximately 340 shots on NiMH or 230 shots on alkaline batteries under CIPA test conditions.
Does the SX1 IS have image stabilization?+
Yes, it uses Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). The specifications confirm this is a true optical system — not a digital or in-body stabilization solution.
Is there a viewfinder on this camera?+
Yes, the SX1 IS includes an Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) with a resolution of 148,000 dots. Additionally, the 2.8-inch fully articulated LCD display can be used for framing shots.
Does the camera support external flash?+
Yes — in addition to a built-in pop-up flash, the SX1 IS features a standard Canon hot shoe that allows connection of compatible external flash units.

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