Sony HX9V vs Canon PowerShot SX220 / SX230 HS

2011-7-12
12MP CMOS, 14 x F3.1-5.9, 8 fps at 3MP, GPS (SX230),1920 x 1080 24 fps, 460k 16:9 3" screen, Smart Auto

DigitalCamera Review has a review - Steve´s Digicams has a review with samples
 Tech Radar review - Photography Blog review - Camera Labs is starting a review
DC Resource review - infosyncworld review - cnet review - ePHOTOzine review
Cameralabs review

" ...it's hard to believe that a camera almost 4 years old still takes better pictures than these newer compact ones. Having said this, I will say that in terms of usable pictures, this camera (HX9V) was much better in my opinion than the Canon SX230 HS, which I returned to try this one. Here is what I found between the two:

1. In terms of focusing, the Sony DSC-HX9V was much better than the Canon SX230 HS - of the pictures I took of similar nature, I had many more usable shots with the Sony than the Canon.

2. In terms of picture quality, I will give this one to the Canon. When the Canon did take clear shots without focusing abnormalities, the Canon had cleaner, sharper, and more realistic colours than the Sony - and this seems to be consistent with many reviews out there.

3. Low light pictures were much nicer on the Sony than on the Canon. Some reviews showed otherwise, but I would have to disagree. I took pictures of my cat and daughter in the basement where there are no windows or natural light - in a dim hallway, and the Sony had a better picture than the Canon.

4. Flash is stronger on the Sony and made for a nice picture when used compared to the Canon. Unfortunately, I found that it took much better pictures with flash on, on a clear day than without. Also, when using the flash on the Sony, the colors appeared more natural than on the Canon which gave skin colours and orange-ish tint.

5. Video was a lot smoother and (in my opinion) sharper on the Sony than on the Canon - and this too seems to be consistent with other reviews out there.

6. Purple fringing was noticeable on both cameras in high contrast shots - and if I were asked which one I thought was worse, I would lean more towards the Canon.

7. Menu operation on the Sony seems more user friendly and easier to navigate than the Canon.

8. Battery life (without GPS) was better on the Sony than on the Canon.

9. Although the LCD panel on the Sony was a lot sharper than Canon's, when used in heavy daylight, the Canon was still very visible where as Sony's LCD made for difficult viewing.

10. End of zoom focus was fantastic on the Sony. As I mentioned before, the Canon suffered from focusing issues even without zoom..."
read the full post here


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Gato Safado has a youtube channel with many clips comparing the Canon SX220 HS and the Sony HX7V
if you don´t care much for the zoom check out the Canon IXUS 115 HS with the same sensor

Jo made an interesting test comparison:
REAL PICTURES / PRINT OUTS and CONCLUSION
Comparison CANON SX230HS and SONY HX9V

Joe and community,

I downloaded some sample photos of CANON SX230HS and SONY HX9V from this source:

CANON: link
SONY: link
Then I uploaded the pictures to a company  to get printed versions of all. The print-outs are on premium "Fujicolor Crystal Archive Paper Supreme" paper. So it´s not home printed!

For a better comparison I ordered 20x30cm print-outs from the pictures from the link per above. I choose the fruit and the golden gate bridge picture. (I also made some 10x15cm pics of the beach and the towers).

Additionally I made 20x30cm prints of pictures with lots of grass. link

and this flower pic from:
http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/readflat.asp?forum=1009&thread=38275309&page=3


Conclusion / Final Thoughts for 20x30cm prints.
(I exclude 10x15 print-outs because there you cannot see lots of difference in the details):

- CANON cam has a better quality of the details in the far far away background, BUT (!)

- On the other hand the sharpness of the SONY is much better and I like this kind of sharpness
- I think that´s the reason why Sony looses the quality in details (far away background !) as already discussed in this blog

- On the fruits picture you can see more details on the oranges when looking on the CANON print-out - but the differences are very slightly and you have to put your nose direct on the picture

- This picture (SONY) http://masters.galleries.dpreview.com.s3.amazonaws.com/1069087.jpg?AWSAccessKeyId=14Y3MT0G2J4Y72K3ZXR2&Expires=1304082422&Signature=qvtPlL8qJDLsmUqus8RJM%2fZxDPE%3d
on 20x30cm print out is excellent!!!
(link expired)

- The grass pictures (SONY) from the link above are also excellent.

- What you can see on the CANON pictures is this "fringing" in high-contrast areas
(Example of "Fringing". Sony can do this better.


If I could change the world I would put the picture quality of the CANON into the SONY cam. Or: put the sharpness, 24mm wide angle and Video quality of the SONY into the CANON cam.

Also the quality of the SONY display is much better than the CANON display. I could compare HX7V with SX230HS in a electronic market.

So it´s quite difficult - but it seems I will buy the SONY cam (due to the larger wide angle, the sharpness of the pictures, better display). Another reason for me is that I don´t print photos which are larger than 20x30 cm and I only use the photos to create photobooks of my trips.

Hope this helps a bit to make a decision if you are in the same situation like I am.

Regards
Jo

***

Sony HX9V (left) vs Canon SX230 (right)
see for yourself

HX7V / HX9V contender
since the Canon SX230 is not available yet, here last years model the SX210 in comparison with the Sony HX9V

Sony HX9V (left) vs Canon SX210 (right)
see for yourself

PowerShot SX230 HS and the PowerShot SX220 HS. This duo of outstanding new compact super-zoom models combine high-zoom performance, wide-angle flexibility and Full Manual control in two slim, sleek, pocket-friendly designs. The PowerShot SX230 HS also features new GPS*1 functionality – a first for a Canon compact camera – allowing users to record the location where their images were taken and to record their journey with the GPS Logger.

Replacing the popular and highly-acclaimed PowerShot SX210 IS, both new models offer a leading set of features perfect for capturing your travels. Each includes Canon’s HS System for outstanding picture quality in all conditions, a wide-angle 14x optical zoom lens, as well as Full HD (1080p) movie recording with stereo sound. Users can choose between pink, blue and black finishes for the PowerShot SX230 HS, purple and grey for the PowerShot SX220 HS.

The HS System: Premium image quality even in low light
The inclusion of the HS System in the new PowerShot SX230 HS and PowerShot SX220 HS means that both models can capture outstanding-quality images in more situations than ever before. Representing a unique combination of a 12.1MP back-illuminated CMOS sensor and Canon’s powerful DIGIC 4 processing technology, the HS System works to produce images with reduced noise and increased dynamic range that produces clear, detailed and natural results even in the most challenging of situations.

By reducing the occurrence of noise by up to 60% at all ISO speeds*2, the HS System allows users to capture beautiful, high quality images throughout the day and into the evening without using the camera flash or a tripod. The DIGIC 4 processor, unique to Canon provides accurate colour tones, as well as high responsiveness in everyday operation.

Record every step of your journey
The 14x genuine Canon optical zoom lens featured in both models offers a huge zoom range to capture a wide range of subjects. The 28mm wide-angle setting allows the  capture of wide, sweeping landscapes or fit more of a scene into a frame, and with the full zoom at a 392mm equivalent focal length, users can reach distant subjects without having to move. Canon’s leading optical Image Stabilizer technology corrects camera shake, offering a 4-stop advantage to prevent image blur throughout the entire zoom range and when shooting in handheld in low light – capturing sharp, detailed images in all conditions.
Ideal for travellers or casual shooters, the PowerShot SX230 HS’ GPS unit will record where and when images are taken, allowing users to easily keep a record of the place and time their pictures are shot. Additionally, the GPS Logger facility can record the journey that users take, allowing them to later review their travels by using the supplied Map Utility software which integrates with Google Maps*3.

Both models shoot 1920x1080p Full HD movies at 24fps with stereo sound, capturing special moments with superb clarity. Users can also utilise the impressive 14x optical zoom to reach the most distant subjects during video capture, and Canon’s Dynamic optical Image Stabilizer counteracts camera shake commonly recorded when shooting movies while moving, helping to produce smoother, sharper video footage. A movie record button also makes switching from stills to video instantaneous so action is never missed.

A large, high quality 7.5 cm (3.0") PureColor II G LCD provides the perfect platform for image framing and playback. A 460k-dot resolution offers pin-sharp levels of clarity during recording and playback, and a tempered glass layer provides additional strength and enhances visibility, with a wide viewing angle and excellent colour reproduction. A 16:9 aspect ratio is perfectly optimised for HD video capture, while Hints & Tips throughout the interface offer a short explanation of each feature, helping users learn more about the camera’s features as they need to.

Point and shoot – with amazing results
Ideal for users who just want to point and shoot, the PowerShot SX230 HS and PowerShot SX220 HS feature Canon’s Smart Auto mode. Designed to make it easy for anyone to get great-quality shots, Smart Auto uses Scene Detection Technology to evaluate each shooting situation against multiple factors and selects the optimum scene from 32 variables, capturing the perfect picture. All the photographer needs to do is focus on framing the shot – Smart Auto takes care of everything else.

Smart Auto also features the latest Advanced Subject Detection technology, allowing the camera to identify and lock onto non-human subjects such as pets or other moving objects within a scene. Once identified and the shutter has been half-pressed, Servo AF/AE ensures the subject remains in focus and well-exposed, right up until the shutter release is fully pressed and the image captured. i-Contrast and Smart Flash Exposure functions within Smart Auto also ensure subjects are captured in the best possible detail, reducing the occurrence of harsh shadows and over-exposed highlights.

Both new models feature a range of high-speed shooting features - ideal for capturing the fastest-moving action. High-speed Burst mode means that users will never miss a moment, rapidly shooting up to 8.1 shots/sec. at 3.0 MP resolution so every moment of the action is recorded. Super Slow Motion Movie mode offers a great way to slow down fast-moving action like sports, shooting at 240 fps at 320x240 resolution or 120 fps at 640x480 to provide a dramatic account of fast action sequences.

A new Movie Digest shooting mode provides a fun new way to add movie footage to a day of shooting still images. Movie Digest mode films and records the action up to four seconds before every still image taken, before joining all clips captured into a VGA-resolution movie. Users can also shoot video in the Apple®*4 iFrame Video format, which offers a simple way to work with video on a computer. Designed to work with Mac and PC video applications it can dramatically speed up the process of importing, editing and sharing movies across multiple platforms and devices.

Complete creative control
As well as a range of instant and easy shooting modes, both the PowerShot SX230 HS and the PowerShot SX220 HS offer complete manual control over camera settings, allowing users to get more creative with their pictures. Aperture, shutter speed, ISO and focus can all be controlled manually, enabling photographers to experiment with their images to achieve different effects, and develop their photographic skills.

Capture all your memories – even underwater
Explore a whole new world of underwater photography with the new optional Waterproof Case WP-DC42. Compatible with both models, the case provides water resistance to depths of 40 metres, as well as protecting the camera from dust, dirt and damage – making it perfect for snorkelling or scuba diving on holiday.

PowerShot SX230 HS key features:
HS System (12.1 MP)
28mm, 14x zoom. Optical IS
GPS
Full HD with optical zoom. Dynamic IS
Wide 7.5 cm (3.0") PureColor II G LCD
Smart Auto (32 scenes)
High-speed Burst & Super Slow Motion Movie
Movie Digest & iFrame movie
Manual Control
Waterproof Case

PowerShot SX220 HS key features:
HS System (12.1 MP)
28mm, 14x zoom
Optical Image Stabilizer
Full HD with optical zoom. Dynamic IS
Wide 7.5 cm (3.0") PureColor II G LCD
Smart Auto (32 scenes)
High-speed Burst & Super Slow Motion Movie
Movie Digest & iFrame movie
Manual Control
Waterproof Case

*1 GPS use may be restricted in certain countries or regions. Use of GPS should comply with the laws and regulations of the country and area in which it is being operated, including any restriction on the use of electronics.
*2 According to Canon research, compared to compact cameras without a high sensitivity sensor.
*3 Google, Google Maps and Google Earth are trademarks of Google Inc.
*4 Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc
Canon PowerShot SX230 HS and SX220 HS specifications     SX230 HS     SX220 HS
Price    US: $349.99
UK: TBC
EU: €299    US : n/a
UK: £269
EU: €269
Sensor    • 1/2.3" type back-illuminated CMOS
• 12.1 million effective pixels
Image sizes    4:3
• 4000 x 3000
• 2816 x 2112
• 1600 x 1200
• 640 x 480

16:9
• 4000 x 2248
• 2816 x 1584
• 1920 x 1080
• 640 x 360

3:2
• 4000 x 2664
• 2816 x 1880
• 1600 x 1064
• 640 x 424

1:1
• 2992 x 2992
• 2112 x 2112
• 1200 x 1200
• 480 x 480
Movie clips    • 1920 x 1080 @ 24 fps HD
• 1280 x 720 @ 30 fps HD
• 640 x 480 @ 30 fps
• 320 x 240 @ 30 fps
• Super Slow Motion Movie - 320 x 240 @ 120/240 fps
• Miniature effect - 1280 x 720 @ 6 fps
Maximum clip length     Up to 4GB or 1 hour (30sec for Super Slow Motion Movie)
File formats    • Still: JPEG (Exif v2.2)
• Movie: MOV [H.264 + Linear PCM (stereo) ]
Lens    • 28-392mm (35mm equiv)
• f = 5.0 - 70.0 mm
• 14x optical zoom
• F3.1-5.9
• Construction: 12 elements in 10 groups (1 UD lens, 1 double-sided aspherical lens, 1 single-sided aspherical UA lens)
Image stabilization    Yes (Lens-Shift) (Dynamic IS in movie mode)
Digital zoom     up to 4x
Focus    • Auto focus :TTL
- Face Detection / 10-point AiAF
- 1-point AF (fixed to centre)
AF modes     • Single
• Continuous (only available in auto mode)
• Servo AF/AE
• Tracking AF
AF lock     Yes (on/off selectable)
AF assist lamp     Yes
Focus distance    Closest focus distance 5 cm
Metering    • Evaluative (linked to Face Detection AF frame)
• Center-weighted average
• Spot (center)
ISO sensitivity    • Auto
• ISO 100
• ISO 200
• ISO 400
• ISO 800
• ISO 1600
• ISO 3200
AE lock     Yes (on/off selectable)
Exposure compensation    +/- 2EV in 1/3 stop increments
Shutter speed    • Auto (1 - 1/3200 sec)
• 15-1/3200 sec (total range, varies by shooting mode)
Modes    • Smart Auto (32 scenes detected)
• Program AE
• Shutter Priority AE
• Program
Scene modes     • Easy
• Movie Digest
• Portrait
• Landscape
• Kids & Pets
• Smart Shutter (smile, wink self-timer, Face Self-timer)
• High-speed Burst (3.0MP)
• Best Image Selection (3.0MP)
• Handheld Night Scene
• Low Lght (3.0MP)
• Creative Filter (Fish-eye Effect, Miniature Effect, Toy Camera Effect, Monochrome, Super Vivid, Postrer Effect, Color Accent, Color Swap)
• Beach
• Underwater
• Foliage
• Snow
• Fireworks
• Stitch Assist
White balance    • Auto (including Face Detection WB)
• Daylight
• Cloudy
• Tungsten
• Fluorescent
• Fluorescent H
• Custom
Self timer    • 2 or 10 sec (or custom)
Continuous shooting    • Approx. 3.2 shots/sec (with AF: 0.8fps)
High-speed Burst (3.0MP)
• Approx. 8.1 shots/sec
Low Light (3.0MP)
• LV: Approx. 6.0 shots/sec.[6] (until memory card becomes full)
Image parameters    My Colors (My Colors Off, Vivid, Neutral, Sepia, Black & White, Positive Film, Lighter Skin Tone, Darker Skin Tone, Vivid Blue, Vivid Green, Vivid Red, Custom Color)
Flash    • Auto, Flash On, Flash Off, Slow Sync
• Slow Sync Speed : Fastest speed 1/2000 sec
• Face Detection FE compensation
• Safety FE
LCD monitor    • 3.0 inch PureColor II G (TFT)
• 461,000 dots
• 100% coverage
• Adjustable in five levels
GPS    • Yes    • No
Connectivity    • USB 2.0 Hi-Speed
• HDMI mini connector
• AV out (PAL / NTSC switchable)
Print compliance     PictBridge
Storage    SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC, MMCplus, HC MMCplus
Power    Rechargeable Li-ion Battery NB-5L
Weight (inc. batt)     215 g
Dimensions    106 x 59 x 33mm