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Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Point & Shoot Camera

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a 16MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with 720p video. Used copies start from $147.09 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Point & Shoot Camera

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Point & Shoot Camera

Used Canon PowerShot SX160 IS Listings on GearFocus

Camera OverviewCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a 16-megapixel point-and-shoot compact camera built around a 1/2.3-inch sensor and powered by Canon's DIGIC 4 image processor. It captures stills at a maximum resolution of 4608x3456 pixels and records HD video at 720p and 30fps, making it a capable everyday shooter for casual use. The ISO range runs from 100 to 1600, giving the camera flexibility across a variety of lighting conditions.

Optical image stabilization is built in, helping to reduce camera shake during handheld shooting. On the back, a 3.0-inch LCD with 230,000 dots of resolution serves as the primary framing and review tool — there is no viewfinder. Autofocus relies on contrast detection.

The camera stores images on SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards and connects to other devices via USB and HDMI output. One of the more practical aspects of this camera is its use of two standard AA batteries, giving users easy access to power replacements almost anywhere. The body measures 111 x 72.5 x 44.1 mm and weighs 291g, keeping it compact enough to slip into a bag without much thought.

There is no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or hot shoe.

Key FeaturesCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

16MP 1/2.3-Inch Sensor: Captures stills at up to 4608x3456 pixels, suitable for everyday photography and standard print sizes.

Optical Image Stabilization: Reduces camera shake during handheld shooting, helping produce sharper images in lower light or at longer focal lengths.

DIGIC 4 Image Processor: Canon's DIGIC 4 engine handles image processing and noise reduction across the ISO 100–1600 range.

AA Battery Power: Runs on two standard AA batteries, making replacement easy and practical when traveling without access to charging.

720p HD Video: Records HD video at 720p and 30fps for casual everyday video capture.

3.0-Inch LCD Display: A rear 3.0-inch LCD at 230,000 dots serves as the sole framing and image review tool — there is no optical viewfinder.

Camera SpecificationsCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

Canon PowerShot SX160 IS full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel
TypePoint and Shoot
Sensor1/2.3 inch
Resolution16MP
ProcessorDIGIC 4
ISO Range100 – 1600
AF SystemContrast Detection
Max Photo Resolution4608x3456
Burst Rate0.8 fps
Max Video Resolution720p
Max Frame Rate30fps
Image StabilizationOptical (OIS)

DescriptionCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

The Canon PowerShot SX160 IS is a 16MP compact point-and-shoot camera equipped with a 1/2.3-inch sensor and the DIGIC 4 image processor. It captures images at up to 4608x3456 pixels and records 720p video at 30fps. The built-in optical image stabilization (OIS) helps keep shots sharp during handheld use, while the ISO 100–1600 range provides workable sensitivity across different lighting situations.

The 3.0-inch, 230,000-dot LCD handles all framing duties, as there is no optical viewfinder. Autofocus is handled via contrast detection. The body is compact at 111 x 72.5 x 44.1 mm and weighs just 291g, making it easy to carry day to day.

Storage is handled by SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, and the camera connects to external devices via USB and HDMI output. Power comes from 2x AA batteries, rated at approximately 140 shots (CIPA). A built-in pop-up flash is included.

There is no hot shoe, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth.

ProsCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

  • 16MP resolution with 4608x3456 maximum image output from a 1/2.3-inch sensor
  • Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce blur during handheld shooting
  • Powered by 2x standard AA batteries — easy to source while traveling

ConsCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

  • No viewfinder — framing relies entirely on the 230,000-dot LCD
  • 720p video maximum resolution; no 1080p or higher recording available
  • Burst mode tops out at 0.8fps, limiting fast-action shooting

VideosCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

Canon SX 160 ISSimply Reviews

Resources & DownloadsCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

Frequently Asked QuestionsCanon PowerShot SX160 IS

What batteries does the Canon PowerShot SX160 IS use?+
The SX160 IS runs on two standard AA batteries. Canon rates battery life at approximately 140 shots per charge based on CIPA testing standards.
What is the maximum video resolution this camera can record?+
The SX160 IS records video at a maximum of 720p at 30fps. There are no higher resolution video modes available according to the specifications.
Does the SX160 IS have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for wireless connectivity?+
No — neither Wi-Fi nor Bluetooth is present on this camera. Connectivity options are limited to USB and HDMI output.
What memory cards are compatible with the SX160 IS?+
The camera accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC format memory cards, covering a wide range of capacities available on the market.
Does the camera have a viewfinder?+
No viewfinder is present on the SX160 IS. All framing and image review is done through the 3.0-inch, 230,000-dot LCD display on the rear of the camera.
What autofocus system does the SX160 IS use?+
The SX160 IS uses a contrast detection autofocus system. Eye tracking and subject tracking are not supported.

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