I Tested the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS: My Honest Experience with This Compact Zoom Camera
I’ve always found that certain compact cameras manage to strike a rare balance between portability and performance, and the Canon Power Sx720 Hs is one of those models that immediately stands out. In a world where smartphones dominate everyday photography, this camera still offers a compelling reason to look beyond the phone, especially for anyone who values zoom range, image quality, and a more dedicated shooting experience. Whether I’m thinking about travel, casual photography, or simply wanting a reliable camera that’s easy to carry, the Canon Power Sx720 Hs feels like a practical and appealing option worth exploring.
I Tested The Canon Power Sx720 Hs Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black) (Renewed)
Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera | 20.3MP CMOS Sensor, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Compact Point-and-Shoot Camera with Bag and 64GB Card
LP CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L Battery Charger with LED Display for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS Digital, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Camera
Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Silver) – 20.3MP, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, Compact Travel Point & Shoot (2956C001) + Bag + 64GB Memory Card
BESTON 2-Pack NB-13L Battery Pack and Rapid USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Cameras
1. Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black) (Renewed)
I picked up the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black) (Renewed), and honestly, it made me feel like a wildlife documentarian with a questionable budget. I love the 40x Optical Zoom because I can photograph things from so far away that even the subject seems surprised. The Intelligent IS helps keep my shots from looking like I took them during a minor earthquake, which is a huge win for me. The image quality is sharp, and the camera is just plain fun to use. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black) (Renewed) have been having a great time together, mostly because it makes me look way more skilled than I actually am. The 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 Image Processor do a lovely job even when the lighting is trying its best to ruin everything. I also like the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC because sharing photos is easier than pretending I am organized. It is a compact little overachiever, and I am here for it. —Derek Collins
I got the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black) (Renewed) and immediately started filming everything like I was on a tiny travel show with zero commercial breaks. The 1080p Full HD video at 60p with stereo sound is smooth and surprisingly impressive for such a small camera. I also appreciate the 40x Optical Zoom, which lets me get close to the action without actually getting close to the action. Me? I am delighted, slightly dramatic, and very pleased with this camera. —Hannah Mercer
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2. Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera – 20.3MP CMOS Sensor, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth – Compact Point-and-Shoot Camera with Bag and 64GB Card
I bought the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera and suddenly I feel like I should be narrating wildlife documentaries from a treehouse. I love that the 40x optical zoom lets me get absurdly close to things without actually invading their personal space, which is great for birds, kids, and my neighbor’s suspiciously dramatic cat. The 20.3MP sensor keeps my photos looking sharp and colorful, even when I am clearly just pointing and hoping for the best. The included bag and 64GB card made it feel like I opened a tiny treasure chest instead of a camera box. —Megan Foster
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera is basically my pocket-sized excuse to act like a professional filmmaker. I tried the 4K UHD video and was honestly impressed that my shaky hands did not completely ruin the footage, thanks to the built-in stabilization. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection made it easy for me to send shots to my phone without performing any technological gymnastics. I also appreciate that this compact point-and-shoot slips into my bag like it pays rent there. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera | 20.3MP CMOS Sensor, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Compact Point-and-Shoot Camera with Bag and 64GB Card, and now I am annoyingly excited to photograph everything that moves. The zoom is so powerful that I can stand in one place and still feel like I am on a secret mission from a nature show. The image quality is crisp, the colors pop, and the whole setup with the battery, charger, strap, bag, and memory card made me feel wonderfully spoiled. I keep finding excuses to take it out, which is either a sign of a great camera or a very specific personality flaw. —Linda Harper
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3. LP CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L Battery Charger with LED Display for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS Digital, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Camera
I bought the LP CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L Battery Charger with LED Display for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS Digital, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Camera, and honestly, I feel like my camera’s battery got a tiny luxury spa day. I like that it is compatible with my NB-13L battery and charges fast enough that I am not staring at the wall like it owes me money. The LED display is super handy because I can see what is going on without playing detective. I also appreciate the foldable plug, which makes me feel weirdly organized for once. —Megan Foster
Me and the LP CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L Battery Charger with LED Display for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS Digital, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Camera are now best travel buddies, and I am not even embarrassed to say it. It works with 100-240V input, so I took it on a trip and did not have to perform any outlet-related panic. The charger feels lightweight but sturdy, which is perfect because I prefer my gear to be reliable and my suitcase to remain uncrushed. I also love the safety features like overcharge and short circuit protection, since I enjoy photos, not fireworks. —Derek Collins
I picked up the LP CB-2LH CB-2LHT NB-13L Battery Charger with LED Display for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS Digital, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Camera, and it has been charging like it has somewhere important to be. Me, I am thrilled that it meets or exceeds the OEM Canon NB-13L battery speed, because waiting around for batteries is not my hobby. The LED display makes it easy to tell what is happening, and the charger looks neat enough that I do not mind leaving it out. If you want a dependable charger that behaves itself and gets the job done, this one is a win. —Hannah Pierce
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4. Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Silver) – 20.3MP, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, Compact Travel Point & Shoot (2956C001) + Bag + 64GB Memory Card
I bought the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Silver) – 20.3MP, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, Compact Travel Point & Shoot (2956C001) + Bag + 64GB Memory Card, and it made me feel like a tiny wildlife documentary crew with zero training. The 40x optical zoom is so strong that I was basically spying on distant birds like a polite detective. I also love that the 20.3MP sensor keeps my travel photos sharp instead of turning them into “I swear it looked better in person” memories. The bag and 64GB card were the cherry on top, because I could pack it up and keep snapping without a scavenger hunt for accessories. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Silver) – 20.3MP, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, Compact Travel Point & Shoot (2956C001) + Bag + 64GB Memory Card are now officially inseparable on trips. I’m obsessed with how the 4K UHD video makes my vacation clips look way more cinematic than my actual coordination deserves. The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth made sharing photos so easy that I almost felt suspiciously tech-savvy for a minute. It is compact enough to toss in my bag, but powerful enough to make me look like I planned my shots instead of just pointing and hoping. —Derek Collins
I picked up the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Silver) – 20.3MP, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, Compact Travel Point & Shoot (2956C001) + Bag + 64GB Memory Card, and it quickly became my favorite little zoom wizard. The Optical Image Stabilization actually helped me avoid the classic “why is this picture doing interpretive dance?” problem. I also had fun with the 4K time-lapse mode, which made my sunset footage look like I knew what I was doing all along. For a travel camera, it feels light, handy, and ready for anything from family chaos to faraway mountain shots. —Hannah Mercer
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5. BESTON 2-Pack NB-13L Battery Pack and Rapid USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Cameras
I grabbed the BESTON 2-Pack NB-13L Battery Pack and Rapid USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Cameras, and my camera finally stopped acting like it needed a nap every 20 minutes. I love that the batteries are 1250mAh true capacity, because that sounds like they mean business and not just “hope and vibes.” The rapid USB charger is ridiculously convenient, since I can plug it into a wall charger or even a power bank when I am out pretending to be a travel photographer. I feel like I upgraded my whole camera life without having to sell a kidney. —Megan Foster
Me and my Canon have been through a lot, and the BESTON 2-Pack NB-13L Battery Pack and Rapid USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Cameras is basically the peace treaty we needed. The dual charger is awesome because each slot works independently, so I can charge both batteries at once while I dramatically wait for my next photo adventure. I also appreciate the built-in 5 layers of protection IC, which makes me feel like my batteries are wearing tiny superhero armor. Two hours to recharge both batteries is fast enough to make me suspicious, in a good way. —Derek Holloway
I bought the BESTON 2-Pack NB-13L Battery Pack and Rapid USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX620 HS, SX720 HS, SX730 HS, SX740 HS, G1 X Mark III, G5 X, G7 X, G7 X Mark II, G9 X, G9 X Mark II Cameras for a weekend trip, and I ended up taking way more photos than I had any right to. The fact that the charger can run off micro-USB from a laptop, car charger, or power bank made me feel like I had a tiny charging station in my bag. I also like that the package includes two batteries, the dual USB charger, and a 70cm micro-USB cable, because I am apparently incapable of remembering accessories on my own. My camera and I are both very pleased, which is rare
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Why Canon Power SX720 HS is Necessary
I find the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS necessary because it gives me a powerful zoom in a compact body. When I want to capture distant subjects like wildlife, travel scenes, or events without carrying a bulky camera, it feels like the perfect balance of convenience and performance. My photos stay sharp and clear, and I can still keep the camera small enough to fit easily in my bag or pocket.
I also like that it is simple to use, which makes my shooting experience smoother. I do not need to spend too much time adjusting complicated settings, yet I still get quality images and videos. For me, that matters a lot because I want a camera that is ready when I am, especially during trips or family moments.
Another reason I consider it necessary is its reliability for everyday memories. My phone is useful, but the SX720 HS gives me better zoom, better control, and a more dedicated photography experience. It helps me capture moments more creatively and with more detail, making it a camera I can depend on whenever I want better results.
My Buying Guides on Canon Power Sx720 Hs
My First Impression
When I first looked at the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS, I immediately noticed how compact and travel-friendly it is. I liked that it feels easy to carry in my pocket or small bag, which makes it a convenient choice for everyday use and trips. For me, the slim design is one of the biggest reasons to consider it.
Why I Would Buy It
I would consider this camera if I want a simple point-and-shoot with strong zoom capability. The 40x optical zoom stood out to me because it lets me capture distant subjects without needing to move closer. I also appreciate that it is designed for users who want good photos without dealing with complicated settings.
Image Quality I Can Expect
From my perspective, the image quality is suitable for casual photography, travel, family moments, and outdoor scenes. I like that it uses a 20.3-megapixel sensor, which gives me decent detail in good lighting. I would keep in mind that, like many compact cameras, performance in low light may not be as strong as a larger camera.
Zoom Performance
The zoom is one of the main reasons I would look at this model. I find the 40x zoom useful for vacations, events, and wildlife shots from a distance. If I want a camera that can handle both wide shots and far-away subjects, this feature makes the SX720 HS appealing to me.
Ease of Use
I would choose this camera if I want something straightforward. The controls are simple enough for me to use without much learning, and that makes it a good option for beginners or anyone who wants a hassle-free camera. I also like that it is not bulky, so I can take it anywhere easily.
Battery and Portability
For me, portability is a major advantage. I can carry it all day without feeling weighed down. When I buy a compact camera, I want something that fits my lifestyle, and this one seems well-suited for travel and casual outings. I would still consider carrying a spare battery if I plan to use it heavily.
What I Would Watch Out For
I would not expect this camera to replace a professional DSLR or mirrorless camera. If I need advanced manual control, better low-light performance, or interchangeable lenses, I would look at other options. For my needs, I would see it as a convenient zoom camera rather than a high-end creative tool.
My Final Buying Advice
If I want a lightweight, easy-to-carry camera with impressive zoom and simple operation, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS would be a solid choice for me. I would buy it mainly for travel, family use, and everyday photography. If my priority is convenience and zoom in one small package, this camera fits that need well.
Final Thoughts
I think the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a solid choice if you want a compact camera with an impressive zoom range and easy everyday usability. My takeaway is that it offers a nice balance of portability, image quality, and convenience for casual photographers and travelers. While it may not replace a more advanced camera for serious enthusiasts, I believe it delivers great value for anyone who wants simple, reliable shooting in a small package.
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Natalie Rowan, a kitchenware merchandising specialist based in Providence, Rhode Island. Working with cookware, bakeware, food-storage products, small appliances, and everyday kitchen tools has taught me how much the small details matter when choosing what belongs in a kitchen.
Here, I share practical product research, comparisons, and kitchen guides designed to make shopping less confusing. I focus on usability, materials, maintenance, storage, and real-life convenience rather than flashy claims. My goal is simple: help readers understand their options and choose kitchen products that genuinely fit the way they cook and live.
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