Canon PowerShot SX500 IS Point & Shoot Camera
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS is a 16MP 1/2.3 inch compact camera — with Full HD (1080p) video. Used copies start from $110 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS Point & Shoot Camera
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Camera Overview — Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
Key Features — Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
16MP 1/2.3-Inch Sensor: Captures 16 megapixels of detail on a compact 1/2.3-inch sensor, typical of travel-focused point-and-shoot cameras.
30x Optical Zoom Lens: Built-in 30x optical zoom lens covers a wide focal range, making it well suited for travel, wildlife, and events.
Optical Image Stabilization: Lens-based OIS reduces blur from camera shake during handheld shooting without the quality penalties of digital stabilization.
DIGIC 4 Image Processor: Canon's DIGIC 4 processor handles image rendering and noise reduction for consistent results across shooting modes.
ISO 80–1600 Range: Native sensitivity range allows shooting in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright daylight to dimmer indoor environments.
3.0-Inch LCD Display: A 461,000-dot, 3.0-inch LCD provides a clear view for composing shots and reviewing images in the field.
Camera Specifications — Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Travel, Sports |
| Type | Point and Shoot |
| Sensor | 1/2.3 inch |
| Resolution | 16MP |
| Processor | DIGIC 4 |
| ISO Range | 80 – 1600 |
| AF System | Contrast Detection |
| Max Photo Resolution | 4608x3456 |
| Burst Rate | 2.8 fps |
| Max Video Resolution | Full HD (1080p) |
| Max Frame Rate | 30fps |
| Video Color Profiles | sRGB |
Description — Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS is a point-and-shoot compact camera centered on a 16MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor driven by a DIGIC 4 image processor. Its native ISO sensitivity runs from 80 to 1600, covering everyday shooting scenarios. The camera features Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to counteract camera shake during handheld use.
Framing and playback happen on a 3.0-inch LCD with 461,000 dots of resolution — a clear, detailed panel for a camera of this size. Burst shooting reaches 2.8fps, and video can be captured at 24fps, 25fps, or 30fps in sRGB color. Storage is handled via SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, and the camera connects to external screens via Mini HDMI.
The body measures 104 × 69.5 × 80.2mm and weighs 342g, making it genuinely portable. Note that there is no Wi-Fi, no Bluetooth, and no weather sealing, so connectivity and environmental protection are considerations for buyers with those priorities.
Pros — Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
- ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) reduces camera shake without digital processing penalties
- ✓16MP resolution on a 1/2.3-inch sensor processed by the DIGIC 4 image processor
- ✓ISO range of 80–1600 provides usable sensitivity across varied lighting situations
Cons — Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
- ✗No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity limits wireless sharing and remote control options
- ✗No weather sealing, making the camera vulnerable to dust and moisture
- ✗Burst rate of 2.8fps is modest for capturing fast-moving subjects
Videos — Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
Canon PowerShot SX500 IS Review (Still Worth It?) | 50x Zoom Test + Thoughts — Philly Tech Check
Frequently Asked Questions — Canon PowerShot SX500 IS
Does the Canon PowerShot SX500 IS have image stabilization?+
Yes, the SX500 IS uses Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), as listed in the specifications. This is distinct from digital IS — it physically compensates for camera shake rather than applying software correction.
What memory cards are compatible with the SX500 IS?+
The camera accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, giving you a wide range of storage options from standard to high-capacity modern cards.
Can I connect the SX500 IS to a TV or monitor?+
Yes, the camera includes a Mini HDMI output for connecting to external displays. It also has USB connectivity, though there is no Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for wireless transfer.
What video frame rates does the SX500 IS support?+
The camera supports 24fps, 25fps, and 30fps video recording, with a maximum frame rate of 30fps. Video color output is in the sRGB color profile.
Is the Canon PowerShot SX500 IS weather sealed?+
No, the specifications confirm the weather sealing is listed as 'None,' so the camera should be kept away from rain, dust, and moisture during use.
How fast is the burst shooting mode on the SX500 IS?+
The SX500 IS supports burst mode at a maximum of 2.8 frames per second. This is adequate for casual shooting but may feel limiting when capturing fast-moving action.