For the upcoming 2014 CP+ camera show in Japan, Canon is announcing several new models in the PowerShot lineup. We’ve already reported on the G1 X Mark II, the flagship PowerShot model, but there are also updates to the compact ELPH-series, long-zoom SX-series, and rugged D-series.
PowerShot ELPH 150 IS, ELPH 140 IS, ELPH 135
There are three new budget point-and-shoots in the ELPH series. Canon says the ELPH series will take over as Canon’s entry-level point-and-shoot cameras, eventually phasing out the A-series. Both the A- and ELPH-series cameras have equalized in price and features, so it makes sense for Canon to eliminate one; the sexier-looking ELPH, which consists of low- to midrange models, will stay.
With the three new models, don’t expect anything mind-blowing. All three utilize a CCD sensor, Digic 4+ image processor, and automatic/scene shooting modes. These are real entry-level models where price is most likely the most attractive feature. Your smartphone could very well do just as good of a job as these cameras, but there is still an audience for simple point-and-shoot cameras like these. Unfortunately, for the price, there’s no Wi-Fi, and because they use CCD sensors, video capture is only up to 720p.
The 20-megapixel ELPH 150 IS has a 10x optical zoom with Intelligent IS optical image stabilization, which uses eight various modes of shake reduction. It has a 2.7-inch LCD (230k dots), and will sell for $150 this month. It comes in blue, red, silver, and black.
The 16-megapixel ELPH 140 IS is nearly identical to the 150 in specs, except it has lower resolution and an 8x optical zoom. This camera will also hit shelves this month at $130, and comes in gray and red.
The 16-megapixel ELPH 135 also has an 8x optical zoom, but it uses digital image stabilization instead. You can find this camera for sale this month, at $120, and it comes in black, silver, red, and purple.
PowerShot SX700 HS
The compact PowerShot SX700 HS is an upgrade to the SX600 HS, which was only just announced at CES in January. There are some improvements in the new model: It now uses a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor with the newer Digic 6 image processor, and a longer 30x zoom, 25mm wide-angle lens (with Zoom Framing Assist for tracking you subject when you reframe long-zoom shots). The 3-inch LCD is also brighter at 920k dots, and movie capture is up to 1080/60p. Just like its predecessor, there’s Wi-Fi and NFC for both image sharing and remote operation.
The SX700 has a similar form-factor as the SX600, but there are some cosmetic differences, such as the button layout on the back and a new mode dial. The flash design is also different.
The camera comes in black or red, and will cost $350 when it goes on sale in March.
PowerShot D30
Succeeding the D20 (a DT Recommended camera), the D30 is Canon’s latest rugged camera. The company isn’t a huge player in this sector, but D-series is good underwater performer. Waterproof down to 82 feet, Canon is calling it the world’s deepest. It’s freeze proof down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and can withstand heat of up to 104 degrees F, plus it’s shockproof up to 6.5 feet. A Sunlight LCD mode helps to reduce glare when used in the water or on dry land. The D30 uses a 12.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and Digic 4 image processor, and there’s built-in GPS for geotagging purposes – same as the D20. Whereas the D20 has a unique, curvy design, the D30 has a more generic rectangular form-factor.
The D30 goes on sale in April for $330, and comes only in blue.
