Canon PowerShot SX10 IS to replace S5

The 10.0 megapixel Canon PowerShot SX10 IS is the latest ultrazoom camera to join Canon's PowerShot lineup.

Replacement to the manufacturer's long-running S5 IS, the SX10 IS consolidates Canon's PowerShot ultrazooms under the SX line, providing a full range of models to support the previously orphaned SX100 and SX110.

The big upgrade here is zoom range, launching Canon back to the front of the long-zoom pack with a 20x lens covering an equivalent 28-560mm. Optical image stabilization should help make the long end of that range that much more usable.

A 2.5 inch LCD with swing-and-swivel functionality makes it easier to get over-the-head or ground-level shots with the SX10. An electronic viewfinder provides additional shot composition options.

The SX10 also benefits from the key technological improvements afforded by DIGIC IV processing: better face detection that includes off-axis facial recognition, AF tracking, and improved speed generally. While it's not blazing fast, the SX10 advertises infinite continuous shooting speeds approach one frame per second at full resolution.

In an attempt to appeal to shooters of all skill levels, the SX10 features 24 shooting modes - supplementing its auto exposure options with the standard P/A/S/M manual exposure control modes. A hot shoe is also provided, allowing shooters to utilize Canon flashguns for a wider range of shot illumination options.

As with the S5, power for the SX10 continues to come from a quartet of AA batteries, making the camera easy to find power for on the fly (when traveling, for instance) at the expense of some performance and overall battery life.

The SX10 IS is scheduled for retail delivery in late October, with an initial MSRP of $399.99.

CMOS-equipped SX1 also on the way
Although it's not officially launching for the American market until a little later down the road, Canon's European and Asian arms also unveiled the nearly identical PowerShot SX1 IS this evening.

The SX1 differs from the SX10 primarily in its use of a CMOS image sensor - the first time such an imager has been employed in a PowerShot model. In addition to providing still captures, in another unique step for Canon's PowerShot line, the 1/2.3 inch, 10 megapixel sensor is also designed to capture full HD video at 1920x1080/30 fps.

We'll likely have to wait for an official US announcement to get detailed specs, availability, and pricing information for the SX1, but Canon's intentions as we understand them are to share most of the physical tech beyond the sensor between the two devices.

Canon PowerShot SX10 IS Specifications: