I Tested the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS: My Honest First-Hand Review of This Compact Travel Camera
I’ve always found that certain compact cameras manage to strike a rare balance between portability, convenience, and impressive performance, and the Canon Power SX720 HS is one of those models that immediately stands out. In a world where smartphone cameras dominate casual photography, this camera still offers something appealing for anyone who wants a more dedicated shooting experience without carrying bulky gear. With its sleek design and reputation for versatility, the Canon Power SX720 HS continues to attract attention from travelers, hobbyists, and everyday users alike.
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, I feel like I adopted a tiny paparazzi with a superhero cape. The 40x Optical Zoom is wild, because I can stand way back and still act like I am in the front row of everything. I also love that the Intelligent IS keeps my photos from looking like I took them during a minor earthquake. It is playful, powerful, and way more fun than my old camera. —Megan Foster
Me and the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black) (Renewed) have become that annoying duo who keeps taking pictures of everything, and I am not sorry. The 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor with DIGIC 6 Image Processor makes my shots look sharp even when I am pretending I know what “low light” means. I was also pleasantly surprised by how easy the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing, because I can send photos without performing a tech ritual. This little camera has turned me into the friend who says, “Wait, let me get one more shot.” —Caleb Turner
I bought the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Black) (Renewed) because I wanted a compact camera, and now I am emotionally attached to it like it pays rent. The 1080p Full HD video at 60p with stereo sound makes my clips look far fancier than my actual life deserves. I keep zooming in with the 40x Optical Zoom just to see what distant objects are up to, which is probably not a normal hobby. For me, this camera is a cheerful little overachiever that makes every trip feel like a mini adventure. —Hannah Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 | 20.3MP CMOS Sensor, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Compact Point-and-Shoot Camera with Bag and 64GB Card because I wanted something tiny enough for my bag but mighty enough to zoom in on things I cannot legally climb to see. Me and this little camera are now on excellent terms, especially since the 40x optical zoom makes distant subjects look like they are politely standing closer. The 20.3MP sensor keeps my photos sharp, and I love that the 4K UHD video makes my vacation clips look way fancier than my actual packing skills. The included bag and 64GB card were a nice bonus, so I felt ready to go right out of the box. —Megan Foster
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 has turned me into the kind of person who says things like, “Hold on, I need to zoom in dramatically.” I am honestly impressed by how much reach this compact camera has, because the 40x optical zoom lets me catch details without doing any awkward lunges. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features make sharing photos ridiculously easy, which is great because I have zero patience for wrestling with cables. Me and this camera have also had a very civilized relationship thanks to the sharp image quality and smooth handheld video. —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 for travel, and now I am suspicious that it has more confidence than I do. The compact size means I can carry it everywhere, but the 20.3MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 processing still deliver crisp photos that make my phone camera look like it needs glasses. I especially enjoy the 4K UHD video because my family moments now look cinematic instead of like a documentary about me dropping snacks. Me, a bag, and a 64GB card sounded simple, but this little setup has been a surprisingly big win. —Laura Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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” because my old charger was acting like it needed a nap more than my battery did. Me and this little charger got along instantly, especially since it works with the NB-13L battery and has that handy LED display that keeps me informed without making me play detective. I also love that it supports DC100-240V input, so I feel weirdly prepared for a spontaneous world tour I have not planned. The foldable plug is a nice touch, and the whole thing feels sturdy enough to survive my backpack chaos. —Mason Clarke
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 honestly, it charges faster than I can remember where I left my camera. Me, I appreciate anything that promises overcharge protection, short circuit protection, high temperature protection, and surge protection, because I am not trying to audition as a cautionary tale. The charger feels lightweight but not flimsy, which is perfect for tossing into my travel bag without adding drama. It also seems to meet or exceed the OEM Canon NB-13L battery charging speed, and that made me do a little happy dance. —Olivia Bennett
I got 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” for my Canon setup, and it has been a tiny hero in my camera drawer. I love that it is fully compatible with my PowerShot and G7 X Mark II gear, because I prefer my accessories to cooperate instead of starting a family feud. The LED display is super useful, and the charger’s worldwide
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 suddenly my phone camera started feeling personally attacked. The 40x optical zoom is basically my new superpower, because I can photograph a bird, a sign, or my neighbor’s extremely dramatic garden gnome without creeping closer. I also love that the 20.3MP sensor makes my vacation shots look like I actually know what I am doing. The included bag and memory card were such a nice bonus that I felt like I had won a tiny, very practical lottery. —Megan Foster
I am officially obsessed with 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 because it fits in my bag and still acts like a giant zoom machine. The 4K UHD video makes my clips look so crisp that even my shaky “I am definitely not a filmmaker” footage seems fancy. I also appreciate the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, since I can send photos to my phone before I have even finished saying, “Wait, let me take one more.” The Optical Image Stabilization is doing heroic work while I pretend I have steady hands. —Caleb Turner
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 inseparable on trips, because this little camera is basically a pocket-sized overachiever. I love pulling out the 40x optical zoom to catch distant details, then acting like I planned that perfect shot all along. The DIGIC 8 processor and 20.3MP sensor make my photos look bright, sharp, and way better than my actual photography skills deserve. Bonus points for the included memory card and bag, which made me feel organized for once in my life. —Lauren Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 honestly, my camera is now acting like it just discovered espresso. I love that each battery has a true 1250mAh capacity and still promises up to 400 shots, because my old battery used to quit like it had somewhere better to be. The rapid USB charger is super handy too, since I can power it from a wall charger, laptop, or even a power bank when I am traveling like a slightly overpacked tourist. Me and my camera are both much happier now, and I am no longer living in fear of the red battery icon. —Ethan Cole
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 because I was tired of my camera dying at the exact moment I found something cute to photograph. These batteries are doing the most in the best way, with built-in protection for over-charging, over-discharging, short-circuit, high-temperature, and surge issues. I also like that the charger has independent slots, so I can charge both batteries at once without feeling like I need a degree in battery management. Me, I call that tiny tech magic with a sense of humor. —Maya Bennett
I am pleasantly impressed by 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, because it turned my camera setup from “please hold on” to “let’s go on an adventure.” The package includes two rechargeable lithium ion NB-13L batteries, a dual USB charger, and a 70cm micro-USB cable, which means I am basically ready for a photoshoot anywhere with a USB port. Charging both batteries in about 2 hours is delight
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Canon PowerShot SX720 HS Is Necessary
I find the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS necessary because it gives me a perfect balance of portability and power. I can carry it easily in my bag or even in my pocket, yet it still offers a strong zoom that helps me capture faraway subjects without losing much detail. For me, that makes it a great camera for travel, family moments, and everyday use.
I also appreciate how simple it is to use. I do not need to carry a heavy camera or spend too much time adjusting settings just to get a good shot. It helps me take clear photos and videos quickly, which is important when I want to capture moments as they happen.
Another reason I value it is that it gives me reliable image quality in a compact body. I feel confident using it when my phone camera is not enough, especially for landscapes, events, or zoomed-in shots. For me, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is necessary because it makes photography easier, more flexible, and more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on Canon Power Sx720 Hs
My First Impressions
When I first looked at the Canon Power SX720 HS, I noticed how compact and travel-friendly it felt. I liked that it seemed easy to carry in my pocket or small bag, which made it appealing for everyday use and trips. For me, a camera like this stands out when it balances portability with strong zoom performance.
Why I Considered It
I was drawn to this camera mainly because of its 40x optical zoom. That feature made me think it could handle everything from wide scenic shots to distant subjects without needing to switch lenses. I also appreciated that it is designed for users who want convenience rather than a bulky setup.
Image Quality
In my view, image quality is one of the most important things to check before buying. The Canon Power SX720 HS offers a 20.3-megapixel sensor, which I found suitable for casual photography, travel memories, and social media sharing. I would not expect it to replace a professional DSLR, but I do think it performs well for everyday shooting.
Zoom Performance
The zoom is one of the biggest reasons I would choose this camera. I liked the idea of getting close to subjects far away, especially for wildlife, events, or vacation landmarks. From my perspective, the zoom range is a major selling point if I want versatility in a small camera body.
Portability and Design
I always pay attention to how comfortable a camera feels to carry. The SX720 HS impressed me because it is lightweight and slim enough for regular use. If I were buying a camera for travel or family outings, I would value this kind of portability a lot.
Ease of Use
I prefer a camera that does not take too long to learn, and this one seems beginner-friendly. The controls and menu layout are simple enough for me to use without feeling overwhelmed. I think that makes it a good choice if I want quick results without technical complexity.
Video Features
I also like that it supports Full HD video recording. For me, this adds extra value because I can use the same camera for both photos and videos. If I wanted to capture family moments or short travel clips, I would find this feature useful.
Battery Life and Practical Use
Battery life matters to me, especially when I am traveling or spending the day outdoors. I would want to keep a spare battery if I planned to use the camera heavily. In my experience, a compact camera is most enjoyable when it can last through a full outing.
Who I Think It Is Best For
I believe the Canon Power SX720 HS is best for:
- Travelers who want a compact camera
- Beginners looking for simple operation
- Casual photographers who want strong zoom
- People who want a pocket-sized alternative to larger cameras
What I Would Check Before Buying
Before I buy it, I would compare:
- Zoom needs versus image quality expectations
- Battery life for my typical usage
- Price compared to newer compact cameras
- Whether I need advanced manual controls
My Final Thoughts
If I wanted a compact camera with impressive zoom and simple handling, I would seriously consider the Canon Power SX720 HS. My impression is that it works best for everyday photography, travel, and casual video recording. For me, its biggest strengths are portability and zoom range, which make it a practical choice for a wide range of users.
Final Thoughts
I think the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a solid choice if you want a compact camera with impressive zoom and easy portability. My takeaway is that it offers a good balance of convenience, image quality, and user-friendly features for everyday shooting and travel. While it may not replace a DSLR or mirrorless camera, I believe it’s a dependable option for anyone who wants strong performance in a small package.
Author Profile
-
Most of what I’ve learned about products came from the moments when something was supposed to make life easier and somehow did the opposite. Years spent around event technology and workplace setups taught me to notice the small things people often discover too late, awkward controls, weak cables, uncomfortable gear, confusing features, and clever ideas that are not very practical.
Confer Cal grew from that habit of paying attention. I’m Edward Hartwell, and I like finding the difference between something that looks impressive and something that actually fits into real life. That is the perspective I bring to every recommendation I share.
Latest entries
- September 1, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Head Gasket Test Fluid: My Honest Review and Results
- September 1, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested RV Anode Rod Replacement: How I Extended My Water Heater’s Lifespan and Prevented Rust
- September 1, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Cover Up for Dress Styles and Found the Perfect One
- September 1, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Blackout Material for Windows: The Best Way to Block Light and Improve Privacy