When comparing camera’s the best way to declare a winner is to intensively test the two out. While build and specs give us an idea as to which camera will perform better in what scenario, testing them out is the best way to go about it, as you realize how each device handles, and how well the image quality stands against zoom.
Both cameras being looked at today were released in the autumn of 2012, and enthusiasts everywhere since then, have been going head to head over which is better. It’s a close call between the two, and both come armed.
One has a constant aperture of 2.8 throughout its entire zoom, and the other has a ridiculously large zoom of 50X. There are four main areas of comparison, Affordability, Built, Specs/Features, and Image Quality.
Affordability:
The Canon Power Shot SX50 costs $374 at its lowest, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ200 $424 at its lowest. As the two cameras compete for the same target audience, the Canon pulls ahead in this area, being the more affordable alternate.
Built:
The SX50 looks presentable, and is made out of a sturdy plastic casing. It has a functional grip, and a straight forward interface that beginners will appreciate, and new users will adapt to fast. Everything that should be easily accessible… is.
The FZ200 is slightly different. It feels… expensive. Panasonic has designed its camera to show off its true caliber. It feels more high-tech, featuring a clickable thumb wheel. The casing has a more refined finish and the handle grip is wrapped in rubber for more contact. The settings displayed are also for professional photographers, who’ll make use of the expert settings more often.
Specs/Features:
Panasonic was designed to wow. While the two cameras have similar overall specs, the FX200 has more features. Also, it’s fast. It has a super quick start up time, and features Panasonic Light Speed AF, for fast and accurate autofocus which allows you to capture all aspects of landscape and nature, particularly any involving rapid movement. What stands out about the Panasonic is, of course the f/2.8 constant aperture. Before it, all zoom cameras had variable apertures, so it’s the first of its kind.
In contrast, the SX50 holds up its own. The longest zoom before it was at 41.7X or 1000mm. So when Canon released its contender, they raised the bar to 50X. But the device isn’t all about the zoom, what’s fascinating is its image quality. The noise level is kept in check throughout the entire zoom, only getting slightly out of hand towards the end. In comparison the Panasonic fails to deliver such impeccable image quality, even with its fairly standard 24X zoom.
THE VERDICT:
Keeping in mind all the aspects discussed, the SX50, in my opinion is the clear winner, with the FX200 a very close runner up. The price, the enormous zoom and the image quality make the Canon a clear winner for me. It’s affordable, versatile, well equipped and good for beginners!
