Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black) Buy Online
Want a camera that slides into a jacket pocket but can still reach a subject 40x farther than your arm? That’s the SX740 HS in a nutshell. It’s a compact “travel” superzoom from Canon that packs a 40x optical zoom (24–960mm equivalent), a 20.3MP sensor, and impressive for a pocket camera 4K video capability. If you’re a traveller, casual vlogger, or someone upgrading from a smartphone who wants more reach and control without lugging a DSLR, this model checks a lot of boxes.
Quick Specs at a Glance
Key Specs (sensor, zoom, video, processor)
- Sensor:3 effective megapixels, 1/2.3″ type CMOS.
- Zoom: 40x optical (24–960mm equivalent).
- Processor: DIGIC 8 image processor.
- Video: 4K UHD (3840×2160) at 29.97 fps.
- Screen:0″ LCD tilts 180° (selfie-friendly).
Launch price & availability (brief)
Canon announced the SX740 HS in July 2018. The initial U.S. launch suggested an MSRP around $399.99, but street prices and bundles vary by retailer and region. Always compare current offers.
Design & Build: Compact but Handy
Size, weight, and handling
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is small think pocketable rather than palm-sized. Canon lists dimensions around 110 × 63.8 × 39.9 mm and weight about ~275–299 g depending on whether you count just the body or body+battery+card. That compactness is the camera’s superpower: you can carry far more zoom in a jacket pocket than you could in a backpacked telephoto lens. If you’re traveling light, that’s a huge win.
Buttons, grip, and portability
Canon keeps the controls simple: a small but textured grip, mode dial, playback and menu controls, and a zoom ring that’s integrated into the lens assembly. It’s not a rugged pro rig no weather sealing but the ergonomics are sensible for point-and-shoot use. The tilting LCD helps with selfies and framing at odd angles.
Lens & Zoom: The 40x Superzoom Explained
Focal range and what 24–960mm feels like
A 24–960mm equivalent range is wildly versatile. At the wide end (24mm) you can capture landscapes and group shots without stepping back. At the tele end (960mm), you can bring distant subjects like wildlife or distant architecture into tight framing. It’s like having many lenses in one the classic all-in-one travel trick. Just remember: at extreme telephoto you’ll be sensitive to camera shake and atmospheric haze, so stabilization and steady technique matter.
Image Stabilization & Zoom Framing Assist
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS features optical image stabilization essential when you’re zoomed in. Canon also includes a Zoom Framing Assist that temporarily zooms out to help you find moving subjects and then zooms back in. That’s helpful when tracking birds, kids, or sports from a distance. The processor + stabilization combo makes many long-range shots usable without a tripod.
Image Quality: Sensor, Processor & Real-world Shots
20.3MP 1/2.3" sensor: strengths and limits
This camera features a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, delivering approximately 20.3 megapixels of effective resolution. On sunny days and in good light, this sensor delivers sharp, colourful images suitable for prints and social sharing. But the sensor is physically small compared with APS-C or full-frame chips, so dynamic range and high-ISO performance are more limited. If you’re used to smartphone photos, you’ll often see a step up in detail and optical quality; if you’re used to larger-sensor mirrorless cameras, low-light results will be a reminder of the trade-offs in tiny-sensor superzooms.
Low-light performance & noise control
Small sensors collect less light, so noise rises faster at high ISO. Canon’s DIGIC 8 processor helps with noise reduction and colour rendering, and the SX740 HS gives acceptable results up to moderate ISO levels (native ISO 100–800, expandable to 3200). For night shots or indoor action, pair the camera with good lighting or slower shutter speeds (use a tripod when possible).
Video Powers: 4K on a Pocket Camera
4K 30p, file formats, and time-lapse
One of the SX740 HS’s headline features is 4K UHD video at ~30 fps, recorded in common MP4/H.264 formats great for crisp travel clips that crop or stabilize in post. It also supports 4K time-lapse recording, which is a neat creative touch for trips and sunsets. Keep in mind that 4K files are large and can heat the camera or fill cards quickly; use fast SD cards and plan storage accordingly.
Practical tips for filming
- Use a micro-tripod or gimbal for smooth pans.
- Record at 1080p if you want longer clips with smaller file sizes or if the action needs higher frame rates.
- Turn on stabilization and keep the lens clean to avoid artifacts at high zoom.
These simple habits let a compact camera punch above its weight in video. (Practical advice; no web citation needed.)
Autofocus, Burst Shooting & Performance
Continuous shooting speeds the facts
There’s a little nuance here: Canon’s press release listed high-speed continuous shooting up to 7.4 fps, while retailer/spec pages indicate modes that can achieve up to 10 fps (with AF locked or in particular modes). In short: you’ll get quick bursts for action, and some modes push higher frame rates if you lock focus or use specific settings. If shooting sports or wildlife, test your chosen mode to see which fits your needs.
AF behaviour & tracking at long zoom
Autofocus is reasonably snappy for everyday shooting, and the Zoom Framing Assist helps re-acquire moving subjects at long focal lengths. Expect some hunting in low light or at extreme telephoto ranges that’s normal for compact superzooms. For tricky subjects consider pre-focusing or locking AF when possible.
Display, Touch, and Selfie-Friendly Features
180° tilting touchscreen & selfie use
The 3.0″ LCD tilts up to 180°, making it selfie- and vlogger-friendly. The touchscreen can help with focus point selection and quick menu navigation, which is convenient if you don’t want to dive into buttons. That flip-up display is one reason people pick superzooms for travel vlogging and casual content creation.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth & Sharing
Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth let you pair the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS with Canon’s Camera Connect app for remote control, automatic image transfer, and quick social uploads. It’s the easy bridge between camera quality and phone-based sharing perfect for travellers who want to post while still on the move.
Flash: Brighten Every Moment
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS comes equipped with a built-in pop-up flash that’s perfect for low-light situations or adding a little extra illumination to your shots. Whether you’re capturing indoor gatherings, evening strolls, or candlelit dinners, this flash ensures your subjects remain bright and clear without the harsh shadows that some built-in flashes create.
One of the standout features is its intelligent auto-flash mode, which automatically adjusts the flash intensity based on the scene. You don’t need to worry about overexposed faces or dim backgrounds — the camera does the thinking for you. For creative photographers, there’s also a manual flash control, allowing you to experiment with fill-flash, slow-sync, or red-eye reduction for more polished results.
Although compact, the flash works surprisingly well, giving your photos a professional touch without the need for an external flash. Pair it with the SX740 HS’s high ISO sensitivity, and you get sharp, well-lit images even in tricky lighting conditions.
In short, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS’s flash feature is smart, versatile, and reliable, making it an essential tool for both casual snapshots and creative photography experiments.
Battery, Storage & What’s in the Box
Battery type and real-world battery life
The camera uses the NB-13L rechargeable lithium-ion battery (Canon includes one in the box). Battery life on compact cameras can be modest — expect to carry a spare for a full day of heavy shooting or lots of 4K video capture. B&H lists the NB-13L and charger included in the retail kit.
Memory & storage options
Storage is via a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot. For 4K recording choose a UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) card to avoid dropped frames and ensure smooth recording. (Practical advice; storage specs cited above.)
Accessories, Bundles & Useful Add-ons
Common accessories to consider: a spare NB-13L battery, a fast UHS-I U3 SDXC card for 4K, a compact tripod, and a protective pouch or case. Some retailers offer accessory bundles that can be a good value if you’re buying everything at once. Canon’s own charger and wrist strap are often included in the kit.
Pros & Cons about the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS(Quick Decision Checklist)
Pros
- True pocket-sized body with 40x optical zoom great reach without big lenses.
- 4K video and time-lapse in a compact package.
- User-friendly: tilt screen, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, and feature assistant make it approachable.
- Excellent 40x zoom range
- Compact and travel-friendly
- 4K video and time-lapse recording
- Wi-Fi + Bluetooth for instant sharing
- Flip screen for vlogs and selfies
Cons
- Small 1/2.3″ sensor limits low-light and background blur compared to larger-sensor cameras.
- No hot shoe, no weather sealing not intended for heavy pro use.
- 4K files eat storage and battery quickly plan accordingly.
Who Should Buy the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS? Use-case Personas
- The Traveler: You want light luggage and the ability to reach distant scenes (landmarks, stage shows, wildlife).
- The Casual Vlogger: 4K capability + flip screen = quick travel videos and social clips.
- The Smartphone Upgrader: You want better zoom and optical quality without learning manual DSLR settings.
- Not Ideal For: Professional photographers who need rugged gear, interchangeable lenses, or top low-light performance.
Connectivity & Sharing Features
In today’s fast-paced world, capturing moments is only half the fun sharing them instantly is the real joy. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS makes this effortless with its built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Whether you want to send photos to your phone, tablet, or directly to social media, the camera keeps you connected without any complicated setup.
The Canon Camera Connect app is a lifesaver for on-the-go sharing. With just a few taps, you can transfer your best shots, control the camera remotely, or even use your smartphone as a live viewfinder. This is perfect for group photos, tricky angles, or creative shots where you don’t want to be behind the camera.
Plus, the SX740 HS supports automatic geotagging, so all your memories are neatly organized by location making it easier to relive your travel adventures. The compact design combined with these connectivity features turns this camera into a seamless bridge between capturing moments and sharing them instantly with friends and family.
How It Compares: SX740 HS vs Alternatives
Feature | Canon PowerShot SX740 HS | Sony Cyber-shot HX99 | Nikon Coolpix B500 |
Camera Type | Compact Digital | Compact Digital | Bridge Digital |
Sensor | 20.3 MP CMOS | 18.2 MP CMOS | 16 MP CMOS |
Processor | Canon DIGIC 8 | BIONZ X | EXPEED C2 |
Zoom | 40x Optical (24–960mm) | 30x Optical | 40x Optical |
Video Recording | 4K UHD 30p | 4K UHD 30p | Full HD 1080p |
Display | 3.0” Tilting LCD | 3.0” Tilting LCD | 3.0” Fixed LCD |
Connectivity | Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Wi-Fi & NFC | Wi-Fi |
Battery | NB-13L Rechargeable | NP-BX1 Rechargeable | AA Batteries |
Here is product Customer Reviews: Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black)
What Customers Say About the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a compact camera that a lot of people really enjoy using. Here’s what customers have shared about it:
What People Like
- Small and Easy to Carry – Many users love that this camera is lightweight and small enough to fit in a backpack or even a big pocket. This makes it great for travel, vacations, or just everyday use.
- Super Zoom – The 40x optical zoom is one of the favourite features. It lets you take clear pictures of things far away, like animals in the wild, birds, or even people on a stage, without having to get close.
- Sharp and Colourful Photos – With a 20.3-megapixel sensor, the camera takes bright and clear pictures. Users said their photos look great, whether outside in daylight or indoors with good lighting.
- High-Quality Videos – The camera can shoot in 4K, which means videos are very detailed and smooth. People who like recording vlogs, travel videos, or family events find this really useful.
- Easy to Use – Customers also like that the camera is simple to handle. The tilting LCD screen is helpful for selfies, videos, and shooting from tricky angles.
- Instant Sharing – Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth let you quickly share photos and videos to your phone or social media.
What People Don’t Like about the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS
- Not Perfect in Low Light – While it works well in daylight, the camera can struggle a bit in very dark rooms or at night.
- No RAW Photo Option – Advanced photographers sometimes like RAW photos because they can edit them in more detail. This camera doesn’t have that option.
Overall Opinion about the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS
Most customers agree that the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a great choice for travellers, families, and anyone who wants a small, easy-to-carry camera. It takes sharp photos, has a powerful zoom, and records high-quality videos. If you plan to shoot a lot of 4K videos or photos at night, make sure to carry extra batteries and use good lighting.
the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is highly regarded for its portability, powerful zoom, and high-quality imaging capabilities, making it a solid choice for casual photographers and travellers. However, potential buyers should consider the battery life and low-light performance based on their specific needs.
Conclusion
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS (Black) is a smart pick for someone who wants a genuine “one camera” travel solution: pocketable, crazy-useful zoom, and modern features like 4K video and smartphone connectivity. It won’t replace a mirrorless kit for professional low-light work, but it will help you capture distant details and make shareable video without complicated gear. If your photography needs prioritize convenience, zoom reach and easy sharing, the SX740 HS delivers strong value in a small package.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS
Q1: Does the Canon SX740 HS shoot 4K video?
Yes it records UHD 4K (3840×2160) at about 29.97 fps, making it one of the few pocket superzooms at its launch to offer 4K.
Q2: How much zoom does the SX740 HS have and what’s the focal range?
It features 40x optical zoom with a 35mm-equivalent focal range of 24–960mm, great for landscapes to distant subjects.
Q3: Is the battery removable, and is a spare recommended?
Yes it uses the NB-13L battery which is removable. For long trips or lots of 4K video, bringing a spare battery is highly recommended.
Q4: Will the SX740 HS replace my smartphone camera?
It depends. For long-zoom shots, optical reach and 4K video, it’s a clear upgrade. For daily convenience, instant sharing, or portrait background blur, modern smartphones may still be more convenient. The SX740 HS complements rather than fully replaces a phone for many users. (Practical comparison; contextual summary.)
Q5: Is there a significant difference between 7.4 fps and 10 fps burst modes?
Canon’s official announcement quoted up to 7.4 fps for high-speed continuous shooting, while some spec pages indicate modes with 10 fps capability (often with AF locked or in special modes). Test the camera in store or at home to find the best burst mode for your shooting style.
