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Canon PowerShot SX100 IS Point & Shoot Camera

The Canon PowerShot SX100 IS is a 8MP 1/2.5 inch compact camera — with 480p video. Used copies start from $85 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Canon PowerShot SX100 IS Point & Shoot Camera

Canon PowerShot SX100 IS Point & Shoot Camera

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Camera OverviewCanon PowerShot SX100 IS

The Canon PowerShot SX100 IS is a point-and-shoot compact camera built around an 8MP sensor with a 1/2.5-inch type and Canon's DIGIC III image processor. The sensor delivers a maximum still resolution of 3264x2448 pixels, with an ISO range spanning 80 to 1600 for varying lighting conditions. Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps minimize the effects of camera shake during handheld shooting.

For focusing, the camera employs a Contrast Detection autofocus system with Face Detection AF, offering either 9-point AiAF or single-point center AF selection. The 2.5-inch fixed LCD with 172,000 dots serves as the primary composition and review tool, as no viewfinder is present. The SX100 IS features a built-in pop-up flash for low-light assistance, and supports burst shooting at 1.3 fps.

Video capture tops out at 480p, with frame rate options at 640x480 and 320x240 at 30 fps, plus 160x120 at 15 fps, all recorded in 8-bit color. Storage is handled via SD or SDHC cards. The camera runs on 2 x AA alkaline or NiMH batteries, with an approximate 240-shot battery life rated under CIPA standards using NiMH cells.

The body is constructed from plastic with metal accents, measures 111 x 71 x 46 mm, and weighs 245g.

Key FeaturesCanon PowerShot SX100 IS

8MP 1/2.5-Inch Sensor: Captures stills at up to 3264x2448 pixels, suitable for standard prints and everyday photography.

Optical Image Stabilization: Lens-based OIS reduces the effect of camera shake during handheld shooting in lower light or at longer focal lengths.

DIGIC III Processor: Canon's DIGIC III image processor handles noise reduction and image rendering for improved output quality.

Face Detection AF: Automatically identifies and focuses on faces in the frame, useful for portraits and group shots.

AA Battery Compatible: Runs on two standard AA alkaline or NiMH batteries, eliminating the need for a proprietary charger or battery pack.

ISO 80–1600 Range: Covers a range of lighting conditions from bright daylight to dimmer indoor environments.

Camera SpecificationsCanon PowerShot SX100 IS

Canon PowerShot SX100 IS full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel, Beginner-Friendly
TypePoint and Shoot
Sensor1/2.5 inch
Resolution8MP
ProcessorDIGIC III
ISO Range80 – 1600
AF SystemContrast Detection, Face Detection AF
AF Points9-point AiAF, 1-point AF (center)
Max Photo Resolution3264x2448
Burst Rate1.3 fps
Max Video Resolution480p
Max Frame Rate30fps

DescriptionCanon PowerShot SX100 IS

The Canon PowerShot SX100 IS centers on an 8MP sensor of the 1/2.5-inch type, processed by Canon's DIGIC III image processor for stills up to 3264x2448 pixels. An ISO range of 80–1600 helps manage exposure across different environments, while Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) works to keep shots sharp during handheld use. Autofocus is handled through Contrast Detection and Face Detection AF, with a choice of 9-point AiAF or single-point center AF.

The 2.5-inch fixed LCD at 172,000 dots is the sole framing interface — no viewfinder is included. A built-in pop-up flash provides supplemental lighting when needed. Burst shooting is available at 1.3 fps.

Video recording reaches a maximum of 480p at 30 fps, recorded in 8-bit depth. Storage uses SD and SDHC cards, and connectivity includes USB. The camera is powered by 2 x AA (alkaline or NiMH) batteries, rated for approximately 240 shots per CIPA standards with NiMH cells.

The plastic body with metal accents weighs 245g and measures 111 x 71 x 46 mm.

ProsCanon PowerShot SX100 IS

  • Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce camera shake in handheld shooting
  • ISO range of 80–1600 provides flexibility across a range of lighting situations
  • Face Detection AF alongside 9-point AiAF and center-point AF offers adaptable focusing options

ConsCanon PowerShot SX100 IS

  • No viewfinder — composition relies entirely on the 172,000-dot fixed LCD
  • Video maxes out at 480p resolution with no higher-resolution modes available
  • No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity for wireless image transfer

Resources & DownloadsCanon PowerShot SX100 IS

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked QuestionsCanon PowerShot SX100 IS

What batteries does the Canon PowerShot SX100 IS use?+
The camera is powered by 2 x AA batteries, compatible with both alkaline and NiMH types. Canon rates battery life at approximately 240 shots per charge under CIPA standard testing using AA NiMH batteries.
What memory cards are compatible with this camera?+
The SX100 IS accepts SD and SDHC memory cards, giving users a range of affordable and widely available storage options.
What is the maximum video resolution this camera can record?+
The highest video resolution available is 480p. Available modes include 640x480 at 30 fps, 320x240 at 30 fps, and 160x120 at 15 fps, all captured at 8-bit color depth.
Does the SX100 IS have a viewfinder?+
No, there is no viewfinder on this camera. All framing and image review is done through the 2.5-inch fixed LCD, which has a resolution of 172,000 dots.
What autofocus modes does the camera support?+
The SX100 IS uses Contrast Detection autofocus with Face Detection AF. Shooters can choose between 9-point AiAF for automatic subject selection or single-point AF locked to the center of the frame.
Is the Canon PowerShot SX100 IS weather sealed?+
No, the body has no weather sealing. It is constructed from plastic with metal accents and should be kept away from moisture, dust, and rain.

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