What To Know
- The Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 are popular choices in the point-and-shoot category, each offering a blend of affordability and decent image quality.
- The Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 share a similar design philosophy, prioritizing portability and ease of use.
- The Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 are both affordable point-and-shoot cameras, offering a good balance of features and performance for their price.
Are you looking for a compact and easy-to-use camera for capturing everyday moments and travel adventures? The Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 are popular choices in the point-and-shoot category, each offering a blend of affordability and decent image quality. But which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the features, performance, and pros and cons of both cameras to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Features: A Closer Look
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 share a similar design philosophy, prioritizing portability and ease of use. Both cameras are lightweight and compact, making them ideal for slipping into a pocket or bag.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS:
- Design: The ELPH 170 IS boasts a classic point-and-shoot design with a sleek, rounded body. Its small size and lightweight construction make it incredibly portable.
- Features: It features a 20.2-megapixel CCD sensor, a 5x optical zoom lens (28-140mm equivalent), and a 2.7-inch LCD screen. The ELPH 170 IS also includes Canon’s Smart Auto mode for effortless shooting.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400:
- Design: The DSC-H400 adopts a more traditional camera shape with a prominent grip for a secure hold. It’s slightly larger than the ELPH 170 IS but still compact enough for travel.
- Features: It packs a 20.1-megapixel CCD sensor, a powerful 63x optical zoom lens (25-1575mm equivalent), and a 3-inch LCD screen. The DSC-H400 also boasts a variety of shooting modes, including a dedicated macro mode for close-up shots.
Image Quality: Capturing Memories
Both cameras aim to deliver decent image quality for everyday use, but there are some key differences in their performance.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS:
- Image Quality: The ELPH 170 IS produces images with good color accuracy and detail, especially in well-lit conditions. However, its small sensor can struggle with low-light performance and noise.
- Video: It can record videos in 720p HD at 30fps, which is sufficient for casual recording but lacks the resolution of newer models.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400:
- Image Quality: The DSC-H400 also delivers decent image quality, though it can sometimes exhibit more noise than the ELPH 170 IS in low light. Its powerful zoom lens allows for capturing distant subjects with impressive clarity.
- Video: The DSC-H400 can record videos in 1080p HD at 30fps, offering a higher resolution than the ELPH 170 IS.
Performance and Features: Beyond the Basics
While both cameras offer basic point-and-shoot features, the DSC-H400 stands out with its impressive zoom capabilities and additional shooting modes.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS:
- Performance: The ELPH 170 IS is known for its fast autofocus and responsiveness, making it ideal for capturing quick moments. However, its limited zoom range may restrict your photography options.
- Features: It features a variety of shooting modes, including scene modes, a panoramic mode, and a built-in flash.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400:
- Performance: The DSC-H400 boasts an incredible 63x optical zoom, allowing you to capture distant subjects with exceptional detail. However, its autofocus can be slower than the ELPH 170 IS, especially in low light.
- Features: In addition to a wide array of shooting modes, the DSC-H400 includes a built-in electronic viewfinder for easier composition, especially in bright sunlight.
Battery Life: Keeping the Power On
Both cameras offer decent battery life for casual use, but the DSC-H400 edges out with a slightly longer runtime.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS:
- Battery Life: The ELPH 170 IS offers an estimated battery life of approximately 200 shots per charge.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400:
- Battery Life: The DSC-H400 boasts a longer battery life, with an estimated 300 shots per charge.
Price and Value: Finding the Right Fit
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 are both affordable point-and-shoot cameras, offering a good balance of features and performance for their price.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS:
- Price: The ELPH 170 IS is generally available at a lower price point than the DSC-H400.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400:
- Price: The DSC-H400 is typically priced slightly higher than the ELPH 170 IS, reflecting its more advanced features, including the powerful zoom lens.
The Verdict: Your Perfect Point-and-Shoot Companion
So, which camera reigns supreme? The choice ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS:
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Fast autofocus
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Limited zoom range
- Average low-light performance
- 720p HD video recording
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400:
Pros:
- Powerful 63x optical zoom
- 1080p HD video recording
- Longer battery life
- Built-in electronic viewfinder
Cons:
- Larger and heavier than the ELPH 170 IS
- Slower autofocus in low light
- Higher price
In a nutshell, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS is a great option if you prioritize portability, affordability, and fast autofocus. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400, on the other hand, excels with its impressive zoom capabilities, longer battery life, and higher-resolution video recording.
What People Want to Know
Q1: Which camera is better for capturing landscapes?
A: The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 is better suited for capturing landscapes thanks to its powerful 63x optical zoom lens, allowing you to capture distant subjects with greater detail.
Q2: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: Both cameras struggle with low-light performance due to their small sensors. However, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS generally performs slightly better in low-light conditions.
Q3: Which camera is better for casual photography?
A: Both cameras are excellent choices for casual photography. The Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS is more compact and lightweight, while the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 offers more versatility with its powerful zoom lens.
Q4: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H400 offers better video recording capabilities with its 1080p HD resolution, compared to the Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS’s 720p HD resolution.
Q5: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are user-friendly and suitable for beginners. However, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 170 IS’s simpler design and intuitive interface might be slightly easier to navigate for first-time users.
