Canon PowerShot A720 IS - Expert Reviews

Review summary: Announced in August 2007, the Canon PowerShot A720 IS is the third model in Canon's economic A-series to offer optical image stabilization. The A720 IS, the successor to last year's A710 IS, has some of the same specifications, including a 6x optical ...

Verdict: There are a few sore spots for the point-and-shoot, however. At ISO 1600, the A720's highest sensitivity setting, noise is unreasonably high and dynamic range is low, which results in speckled images with limited tonal range. This setting is better ...

Review summary: We evaluate a camera's image quality using a series of scientific tests. The PowerShot A720 IS is one in a series of Canon cameras this year that take great-looking images. Our tests show the Canon A720 IS has extremely accurate color reproduction, ...

Verdict: An optically stabilized lens, face detection, and strong performance, combined with good handling and a logical layout, make it easy to take nice-looking images with the A720 IS. Priced at less than $250, this PowerShot model offers proof that a ...

Review summary: Canon launched the PowerShot A720 IS with optical image stabilization in August 2007 as a full-featured camera at an economic price. The PowerShot A720 IS is the third model in Canon's entry-level A-series with image stabilization. In addition to ...

Pros: - Easy handing with ergonomic hand grip - Optical Image Stabilization included in a budget camera - 6x optical zoom lens and option to buy accessory lens converters for extended zoom - Plenty of manual control - Fantastic color accuracy - White ...

Cons: - Bulky body design - High noise levels, especially at 800 and 1600 ISO - Poor dynamic range above 80 ISO - Annoying Playback mode switch - Out-of-date, ugly menu system - Slow burst rate - Limited built-in editing functions

Verdict: With its 6x optical zoom with optical image stabilization, updated face detection system, and abundance of manual functions, the Canon PowerShot A720 IS makes a strong case for new point-and-shooters.

Review summary: If you are not looking for an ultra-compact the A720 IS could live up to your expectations with its nice images, stabilization, and 6x zoom. Only the absence of a wide angle may be cause for hesitation.

Review summary: The Canon Powershot A720 IS came onto the scene late this summer to replace its popular predecessor, the A710 IS.

Pros: Excellent image quality ; Has an optical viewfinder ; Stabilized, 6x optical zoom lens ; Good battery life with high capacity rechargeables

Cons: Poor flash cycle time ; Low pixel count in LCD (115K) ; Plastic construction doesn't inspire confidence in durability ; High ISO shots are noisy (which is pretty typical in this class) ; Low light performance not great

Verdict: The Canon Powershot A720 IS provides excellent images and excellent features for an equally excellent price.  Image quality is top notch as far as compact point and shoots go.  The inclusion of a 6x optical zoom, with image stabilization, is a great ...